The problem with the faction list is, as with previous suggestions and other related mods, that the action is set around oone or two very concentrated areas. I admit that 'England' 'Yugoslavia' and 'Germany' do get a look in but without proper balance and dynamics, for the most part the game is based around the Mediterrenean and Italy as its heart. Scandinavia and Russia as well as the more eastern areas are completed left out.

I think the idea of rebels and dynasties as the playable factions is one good solution to all the arguing about faction slots that seems inevitable these days. The suggested fations are rather good in themselves, however the basic need for the TW game to enable the player to relive the rivalries of ancient kingdoms cannot be justly represented by grey rebel opponents, specific factions should be playable in specific areas to represent the empires of those areas. To have rebels represent a huge and powerful empire is frankly not fun. To be able to gain a coat of arms and power over a region or kingdom when that kingdom only existed as a grey faction is hardly what the TW engine is made for.

Unless you find a way to make your grey factions/rebels/minor factions a little more dynamic and interesting to meet on the campaign map (since they are unplayable) then this extraordinary and excellent mod will fall short of its aim.