I don't really like it. If you didn't know, STW was like that - iron in certain provinces meant you could improve weapons etc - and it just frustrated me. At the time we're playing in MTW II I think trade was definitly universal enough for access to any of those anywhere. At most prices should change.

I'd like to see a fair few resources, it was somewhat interesting. :D But only really the special stuff, like marble, olive oil or wild animals. Just wood seems too common to me?