http://pc.ign.com/articles/733/733412p1.html
Yes, there is no battle map.
Yes, the graphics are outdated.
Yes, the map is limited to North America and Europe...
...But for those that feel the Total War series favors gameplay over realism and find themselves ultimately auto-resolving battles, this may be the game for you.
I'll await post-release reviews before I begin critizing and/or praising this game