The Total war series is exactly what I hoped computer wargames would always achieve. Huge strategy map, excellent AI (especially on highest difficulty... strewth!), and a really satisfying tactical environment, where decent command decisions make a real difference & foolish ones are punished by disaster.
Still playing 'Rome' years after it's debut, not sure I'd advise anyone to bother with the 'Alexander' expansion though as it's an absolute bugger and doesn't really allow for any strategic or long-term planning (or even just noodling about).
I'm now hoping for Hearts of Iron to gain a 'Total war' aspect where the
really crucial battles can be fought at the tactical level. I think I'd stop going to bed altogether then
.
Cheers,
Adam.