All,
I just finished reading the article, have a try on it,
many valid feedback brought up.
http://www.pcgamer.com/2010/12/20/patched-an-honest-second-look-at-elemental-war-of-magic/
The good things
Issue: Cookie-cutter cities
Status: Fixed
Issue: Unclear user interface
Status: Much better
Issue: Boring magic
Status: Better
The bad ones..
Issue: Boring world
Status: Not addressed
Issue: Weak strategic AI
Status: Slightly better
Issue: Pointless tactical battles
Status: Slightly better