Vae Victis does a good job of improving on the somewhat broken EU:Rome, and adds considerable depth and enjoyment
Vae Victis dramatically improves the interface while adding even more depth to the faction management and backstabbing politics that make EUR such a joy, and squashes more than a few bugs while its at it. With the most recent patch(2.1), and the unofficial 2.14b fan made hotfix, the game is in great working order and quite unique among Paradox Interactive's pantheon of strategy games.
There are still a few issues with too frequent civil wars and barbarian invasions, but overall the game is stable and mostly bug free. The backdoor politics modeled in this game to such amazing depths are the true selling point for this game, and even Crusader Kings fails to offer such intriguing dynasty management.
Despite the (deservedly)mediocre reception that EU: Rome received at launch, those who have stuck with have been able to enjoy one of the most unique and intriguing Paradox titles to date, and it has been well worth the wait.
If you haven't yet, give this game a chance. You wont be disappointed!