I liked to think of this game as Action-Chess.
You had the obvious Light and Dark stereotypes on each side to represent the opposite positions. However, each unit had its own unique attacks and abilities.
It was the fact that even a lowly Knight (Pawn equivalent) could stand a chance against the second tier evils like the Banshee (Rook Equivalent?) by fighting for the square they both landed on. It was so addictive, i even feel like playing it now!
9/10