My review of FW 1:

[Jinix the Elder]

I am glad I just read this post because I too am looking for more of the same (RPG/strategy games) when you mentioned the timer that put me off completely.
I cannot enjoy ANY game that has countdown clock running against me. Possibly good during one or two quests in a game where you must do something within a time frame but the whole game - no!

I like to play at my speed not the designers.
Time limits - having to play according to a realtime timetable is what ruins my enjoyment of the Stronghold/Crusader series - the only saving grace there is an editor to make your own games.

I prefer to plan at my speed and enjoy the scenery as I play.

I hate clocks, timetables, schedules and countdowns in real life and I certainly don't want to be told by a game that I can't play/win unless I do so at the designers speed choice. At the least the game should have the option of playing without a timer going.

Of course, on the other hand for some players this adds to their joy of playing so it's good that it's available for them - just not for me!

Jinix the Elder

One man's poison ivy is another man's spinach.
George Ade