I am part of the way through the third Samnite War scenario, and having a great time. Tough choices, but very enjoyable, and a great deal of worry of what will happen when and if the Etruscans and Gauls enter the war. But like the Romans, I must just deal with it. It is quite an experience to play Rome when it is small, only controls part of Italy, and has very limited resources. Yet the legions of the Republic are still quite formidable, even when you have only four of them. I am trying to finish the Samnites before the others join the party, had some success, but it is taking all my resources to deal with them. And the Gauls and Etruscans are waiting on the border...
I highly recommend this game, and I have not even tried the First Punic War or Pyrrhus scenarios yet.
Very enjoyable game, and worth every penny, and more.