Some People like things Dumbed Down/Simplified. I don't. Not perfect but hardly a "fail"

User Rating: 8.5 | Total War: Rome II PC
Oh Total War series. How I adore you. Let me count the ways...

1. In an era of most major releases being forced into the "FPS" genre. The Total War series has never really made a transition and kept it the way it should be.
2. They don't get simpler with each new version/release...they get more advanced.
3. They actually LISTEN to the REAL fans. The upgrading of armor for existing units is FINALLY implemented. No more do you have to reenlist a new group instead of re outfitting them.
4. Your units can now have a regimental history and they have real army names.
5. It reminds you if you need to upgrade someone or if there is a pressing event or missing tech advance to set.
6. The Total War series has never been for casual gamers. If you don't like games that can take you DAYS to finish then this isn't the one for you. Not insulting but moreover stating. Angry Birds isn't for me. Total War is.
7. Siege Warfare now feels more EPIC.
8. It never gets dumbed down (and yes games get dumbed down these days) but gets more layers.
9. I LOVE the new region edict addition. Allowing greater benefit if an entire region (Northern Italy, British Isle. etc...) is controlled.
10. So many factions (Major and Minor)

But sometimes you really don't please me dear Total War series.

1. The learning curve is steep. Many newcomers to the series will find it tricky to get used to.
2. Although I don't like a game "dumbed down" I would like a better "learning mode" for those who don't want to get ALL aspects of the game at once. It should not be considered the normal level of difficulty...but for newer players who need to have the layers of complexity added bit by bit.
3. As much as I love the "more layers" it gets a shade overwhelming at times.
4. The graphics...a little subpar on occasion. Hardly bad. Just a bit "muted".