CAUTION: This game is addictive. That label should appear on every Rome:Total War CD. I ordered this game a few weeks ago after reading all the great responses it received. I placed the bar unusually and unfairly high; but the game has exceeded my expectations. Imagine starting a game as a Roman general with a rather small army in Italy. Then, you slowly and steadily expand with limitless expectations. You manage every aspect of your empire (cities, armies, diplomacy, etc.), even who your family members are to wed. The game is designed for freelance players (for thus of us who have ever asked the question 'why must I do what the game wants me to do?'). The added bonus in RTW is the battle scene, where cunning strategy and genius step to the plate. Graphics are awesome, sound is exceptional, gameplay is remarkable. However, expect your personal life to be temporarily put on hold once this game ends up in your possession, which in my mind is the mark of a truly excellent game.