Wow, I absolutely love everything about this. I also suck at it. But the themes, the art, the vaguely surreal apocalyptic mood reminiscent of Lovecraft's Dream Cycle, the backstories that remind me of Hollow Press' works and how you vie for influence and control are all absolutely fantastic. If back in the day there had been a GB cart that's tailor made for me and my tastes this would be that.
I'm just sometimes at a loss what to do so I end up spreading my influence everywhere to not that much avail. And when I look at my opponent they have influence over various towns and/or has destroyed the map, and are dominating me while my capital isn't even very established at all. Then again, I can tell I'm learning to manage my influence, and the more the gameplay clicks the more fun it gets. Somewhat fast-paced, and I wish that owned towns were more clearly indicated due to how hectic it can get but the gameplay is so awesome I kept coming back.
All in all, a brilliant entry, just one that takes a little time to understand.