This has been a very interesting thread. I've not been one to really delve into the mechanics of the game in order to discern what units are better than others. Further, I've never worried myself with balance or considered the game a failure if some factions were stronger than others. (not a Online player can you tell?)

In fact, I'm more likely to conquer the map using English Spear Militia (which I can retrain quickly and garrison in a captured city for free), Longbowmen, and Mailed Knights than any other units. My whole style has been less finesse on the battlefield and more finesse on the campaign map. Eliminate the enemies strongpoints while they are weakest and then close in for the rest of the cities. If a field battle occurs I do well to end it quickly as these troops don't stand up well against more professional armies. Of course it's rare to find quality armies in M2:TW. ;)

That said, I will have to re-visit my strategies now. I've never had much luck with Halbs or pikemen, but after reading this I will have to look at them again.