Certainly the AI handled the risk map better than the RTW/M2 version, but I must say I couldn't go back to MTW because of the battles.

I've gotten used to seeing my guys with extensive detail from really up close fighting it out with my enemies...
I much prefer the Risk style too, but I find RTW much easier to play, the Tech Tree, General traits, Unit hierarchy, and yes pretty Romans, etc.

On a different note, I'm convinced the next TW has to have female Generals in it. And a Faction called Spammia.