Hi guys,
I'm probably just dreaming out loud here, but here's my suggestion:
Allow players to schedule weekly (or twice weekly) strategus 'test' battles
1) Schedule the test battle via c-rpg.net, picking map and troop counts (within reasonable constraints)
2) Advertise the battle on the forum to get people to sign up
3) When enough people apply, the battle is 'locked in'
4) Play the battle on EU3 like normal strategus battles
You could allow the AI to control the rosters or let players apply for commander, not sure which would be best.
This would allow for regular (weekly or twice-weekly), player managed strategus battles, even when strategus is down due to developement. Also,
i think these battles could be more fun than regular strategus, because you can control troop count and map choice, ensuring good, balanced fights every time (at least, that's the idea).
You'd need to set constraints though. Maybe a maximum of two battles per week and a minimum amount of required players... something like that.
What do you think? Is this viable? Is it worth the dev's time?