I've actually been playing the preview version of Imperium Romanum for quite some time, so long that it delayed getting this article finished until the demo was released. Anyway, take a look at my preview and maybe try out the demo if it interests you enough.

Gameplay has also remained pretty much the same with the addition of some small tweaks such as currency and crime; poor families may well become criminals which seem to tie up your Praetorians in Benny Hill style chases around your city when they should be doing things like putting out fires and quelling riots. Rich families can also be a source of money if you're a bit short, declaring them enemies of Rome and appropriating their funds definitely appeals to my evil side.