Quote Originally Posted by econ21
All the best Lordz!

Just had a look at the Arcane Legions screenshots and it looks rather like Total War battles:

http://www.slitherine.com/arcanelegions/

I think the Lordz should be able to use that engine to provide serious competition to CA. My only advice would be try to get a decent strategic layer. Its combining the superlative battles with the hook of a meaty campaign that really makes TW shine, IMO. Just doing historical battles alone will probably remain a niche market.
I second everything that has been said here! I would suggest making the campaign a huge part of the game.