I love playing the English, although I have played other factions they mostly lose interest but I am sick of starting in England. Well, I packed up EVERYTHING and shipped out to Jerusalem. Well, after cheating just for some starter cash AND NOTHING REALLY EXTRA, I have made the middle east my home and am fighting a two front war. I almost lost my home twice because I gave all of Homeland England to the Papacy and the Turks love to hit me when I'm not ready. Well, I finished off the Egyptians and as soon as I do, the Mongols invade and I am totally screwed unless I pull a rabbit out of my A##. This is the best game that I have ever played and I wouldn't quit for any reason. Also, I pretty much own the Papacy because with my constant Priest making to keep everything on an even level and keeping my alliances to the Western world my relations is always on Reliable. Calling Crusades has been a huge help because when I am about to be attacked, I just ask for one (I always get it because my relations with the pope have always)

Try it, its fun and you won't have to worry about the Papacy too much.