A slightly flawed gem
I have to say, I found this game a lot of fun, but there are a lot of improvements that could move this game to the next level and make it fantastic. The idea was there, the execution was quite lacking though.
First of all, people find this too hard? I followed the links to the other site so I could make a custom character (which I recommend). I played the game twice both times opting for the Far East Empire. The first time I reached level 39 but couldn't conquer the final town (I could take out anyone, and I would get VERY close, but one of the ninjas would eventually decide to unleash that huge damage move doing 7000+ damage... not exactly easy to survive). The second time I took two of the best skills (auras) you will find - Banshee Cry and Unholy Cry. I managed to get to level 29 within 30 minutes of game play, and take over the final city in the Far East Empire. Which then allows you to purchase Shogun Ghosts, which I didn't realise were the most powerful units in the game - no wonder it was so tough to take over the town! The tactic? Stock up on healing potions, and sit back and spam Banshee Cry/Unholy Cry, having healing as your 3rd aura also helps, and just keep healing. You will wipe out armies in seconds. Warning: After this point the game becomes ridiculously easy.
OK, so I found an easy way to win the game, regardless I think you can level up very quickly and easily and while this is fun, the game becomes very easily very quickly.
The second issue is money.
This has been mentioned several times... and well after the first battle you have, you already gain plenty of cash. Weapons should cost a LOT more, or you should get a LOT less cash from battles (and to start with). Getting 5000 for clearing out rogues, or delivering things is laughable when you consider how much you get from battles. It kind of makes quests useless (except for the fact that clearing rogues = easiest way to level up).
I would also like to not see a cap on the skills at level 5, this would allow greater customising of your character. And some of the passive skills should be more powerful in my opinion. +5 HP per skill level seems rather... well useless, especially late game (which as mentioned takes only 30 minutes to get to).
A good effort, but there's a lot of balance fixes you need if you're ever to make a new version.