two things, firstly I certainly didnt want to ditch the strategy part of the game, and i fuly agree that the tactical part doesnt get half as interesting when in a cstom battle as in a campaign game. I just pointed out that the strategic bit first came into being as some kind of aftertought, and has since been lacking in comparison with other grand strategy games( Europa Universalis for one).

secondly, what use is "getofmyland" or any other diplomatic option for that matter, if the AI stays as irrational as it is.( havent tried 1.2, might make a difference.)

actuallt i think the game would be better if the AI was set up firstly for self preservation, then for reaching cetain faction-specific territorial goals, and treated the player much like any other AI controlled faction.