Well said, Gregoshi. I agree totally. A lot of people seem to think this game is a perfect historical recreation; it's not, nor was it intended to be. They have had to strike a balance between historical accuracy, playability, and fun. Having to deal with the Senate to accomplish everything would be frustrating in the extreme.

Oh, and Ptah, I think you've forgotten one small detail: the Senate directs you to capture Syracuse on the first turn of the game, and if Carthage doesn't attack you first, they will direct you to capture Lilybaeum right after you capture Syracuse.