[sector24]

I feel exactly the same way that you do about every aspect of the game. $55 is a lot to pay for this game, but at the same time if you're the type of person that enjoys hardcore TBS games then it is definitely worth it. If graphics are what appeal to you, then this game should be about $19.99. Your mind is definitely rewarded more than your eyes.

The most important thing to learn is how to run your nation with a minimal amount of tedium. The automation in this game is lacking compared to other games, so learning how to deploy research centers and recruit in an efficient manner is just as important as knowing what the best spells are and what the magic path boosting items are. If you can't sort out the best way to search for magic sites and give battle order then you'll quickly get tired of the game.

The battle orders are the same in the full version. I find them severely limiting too, and when you're not using thugs and SCs, it barely makes any difference what orders you give to your standard troops.

Having bought the game, I'd definitely buy it again. But the game is very multiplayer oriented, so if you don't have any plans to play with a friend or try one of the public games here on the forums, it has a smaller shelf life. You sound like the kind of person that can make a logical decision as to whether this game is "worth it" or not to you, basically the full version grants you 45ish new nations, full research trees and the ability to play a game from start to finish. It's a lot of content, but if you're frustrated with the fundamentals, the full version won't address those issues.