Full hydro steering sucks, especially in a desert rig meant to go fast. Simplicity doesn't really have an advantage here, full hydro is much simpler than a well designed assist system, yet the assist will kick the full hydros ass in feel, accuracy, and even power. I love my assist, and won't go full hydro, and am always looking for innovative ways to make a better steering system. I like the Genright twisted pitman arm design that allows for more suspension droop without binding the drag link. I'm most likely going to incorporate that into my next steering setup.
Think outside the box like you are......