The Hero's Path

Different people play in different ways; some might optimize their route, while others skip turns. Some play without taking any losses, while others don't mind losing a few units. It would be interesting to try something new. But, for example, when I watch a walkthrough of "The Beginning of the End," I see the same problem: the main part of the gameplay is about making crazy rushes. They are faster than 2 Paladins versus 10 Ents, but such maps don't really value "tanky" units. For example, Knights and Minotaurs are useless because of the almost inevitable losses in their ranks.

As for the mages, I agree; the Elf is cute, but I have a feeling that without Phoenix and Mind Control, I'll be struggling in the 4th city.