^ Yikes... such a high sacrifice is not at all worth it IMO.
Surprisingly, I'm thrilled with nearly every piece of info here! I especially look forward to the 1.5 patch if diplomacy will be dramatically improved upon. I've been mostly happy with the DLC released so far, and new ones like a "loot pack" sound wonderful (of course, as long as they are priced well for their value).
In addition to what's planned, I'm most interested in DLC that adds new features to the game, both large and small. Adding collision-detection to some objects so bolt spells and arrows don't go through all walls, hills, and other obstacles would be a huge plus.
Large features like adding full-out dungeons, incorporating naval units/buildings, bringing back a vastly-improved version of the dynasty system etc. etc. would all be mind-blowingly wonderful IMO. And while a lack of multiplayer may be a bummer for some, it doesn't matter to me any -- I've always preferred to play this type of game (4x or any turn-based strategy) single player. Nor do I think the announcement should be any surprise to those who frequent these forums.
The only thing I wasn't thrilled with hearing was about the possibility of a "complete" edition of sorts down the line, perhaps with all or most of the released DLC. While it makes sense to have something like this to sell/appeal to new players coming into the game late, I dislike being someone who supported the game all along by purchasing DLC seperately, only to see it all released as a much cheaper package at a later date. Always feels like a slap in the face to those who supported the game all along.
One last (long) point I'd like to mention while discussing DLC/expansion possibilities. A huge feature I've recently started thinking about since a conversaion with a friend whom I've introduced to LH: Far more interactivity with cities. The way we envisioned it, would be introducing a non-turned based mode where you can enter settlements/cities via 3rd person the moment they are constructed. This would dramatically overhaul the sim aspect of city building (in addition to housing and general city planning, you'd be able to add many minor aesthetic features), add another deep layer of strategy to the game, while also drastically enhancing immersion. Here you can walk about town, see anything that is being currently constructed, see townspeople talking (with small text boxes dynamically popping up around you) about their lives, what they think of the sovereign, rival factions etc. Quests may be given to you by townspeople while you guide your sovereign around town.
You can give champions jobs/occupations around town that corespond to their class, like make a Warrior a full-time trainer of army units in town, or a blacksmith that improves and unlocks new weapons. And you can visit these champions in their places of employment to see how they're doing, while making use of their services. You can constuct your own customizable palace both from an aesthetics point of view, and for strategic/defensive purposes. Battles can occur while walking about town. You may encounter an assassin from rival factions. If there is high unrest, you could encounter townspeople picking a fight with you. You can also enter rival cities in full detail when they're friendly, or when you invade them.
This is only scratching the surface what of we discussed, but before I make a bigger wall of text, anyone feel free to let me know what you think of this idea (you're to be commended for sticking with me this far regardless). It may be too big for DLC, and perhaps better suited for an expansion/future Elemental title.
I don't have any good names off-hand for expansions or sequels. But some of the names mentioned remind me of Street Fighter titles:
Super Elemental II: TURBO
Legendary Heroes: Champion Edition -- That one kinda makes sense!