Civilization series should learn a lot from it.
1st. No LAN.
2nd Lack of diplomacy, no need of allies (Civilization V isnot better either)
3rd Technology too random.
4th need some adjustment on AI so it can be more chalenging.
But oh boy how much better is this game on strategy part. Limiting buildings, resources have a huge impact, spell mix things up.
Finally I dont have to build every building in the city, units only when is a lack in the 1st category, and only the best one available. U have to look very carefull at your economy (gold, food, mana)
I can't say to much about tactics because even on impossible I didnt have to much trouble beating the AI. I dont say that the AI is stupid (aka Civ V) but here u can have so much fine tuning on economy- military part that even a decent AI w/o a good adv dont stand a chance.
Maybe when they will come out with the LAN patch.