However there are huge steps backwards as well:
No random map generator
Cities produce less monster types
You must choose which type of monsters to produce at upper levels
Heroes of one type are all the same.
Game play is much slower.
The expansions out are all about the maps and campaigns not monsters and new features.
The patch from release to current version is bigger than the original program.

In short they have latched on to a give them the basics, add a few map expansions, add a few feature expansions and then release the whole package. I am just waiting for the release with the map generator and all the features added. I think if we got everyone to do this they might just release a finished product to start with. I ,for one, would have rather paid $$ for all the features III shadows of death offered in IV than buying them at $$ peicemeal for two years.

Now if they wanted ideas for expansions things like:
Modual monsters (add wings, xtra hp's, ranged attack)
City revolts
Chaos map that changes every turn
Many new artifacts
Castle walls must be built around each expansion (if your city is attacked non walled expansions are destroyed.
Armies that stay in place 2 turns may build a temporary citadel
Resource market purchases change going rates for resources
Monster upkeep costs

Now if you put two of any of those in an expansion I might buy it. For now I'll wait till I get new features.