I agree to some extent, but I don't think it really brings the game down. From your statement I take it you don't either. I always felt there was a lot more medieval mood to medieval 1 than 2. Especially the music, the sounds, the fact that every unit had a more or less noble leader, and the interface decorations. Actually I even like the old strategic map better but that's another point I guess, and one which not that many will agree upon perhaps.

In line with the original poster, I liked the double bridge battles as well as the more aggressive AI. The region-specific units are sorely missed!