tips

[gollum]

Hello jedi121212, and welcome to the org;
the controls are indeed harder to get use to, but actually more efficient once you get use to them imho.

Generally speaking STW/MTW have a slower pace and less overpowered units - the cavalry for example is not the all conquering juggernaut as in RTW/M2. You need to use them for their tactical strength that is speed, charge and the ability to cover large distances faster without getting too tired.
Remember that in STW units cannot be ordered out of a melee once engaged while in MTW they can.

Similarly, missiles are less effective (read overpowered) than in RTW but more effective than M2. Mounted missiles are notably different in that they dont shoot on the hoof; this sounds like a gamebreaker and unrealistic, however you may eventually find out that it is actually not; rather its very good for the gameplay as it takes some practice and skill to play with them unlike RTW/M2 that mounted missiles are king without requiring any skill whatsoever.

As for tips, start by taking a look in the complete TW unit guide (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=31444); its a good piece of work for begginer to intermediate level. It explains the basic unit types and their basic functions as well as a unit per unit analysis. Bear in mind that the guide is not exhaustive or infallible by any means; rather its a very good introduction for the uninitiated.

Dont hesitate to post any further questions that you have here and the main hall and have fun! These are really good games.