I am definitely among those that are quite happy with the latest update. I am glad to see that the consensus is leaning to towards being happy with it as well. Whereas before it felt like there were only a handful of winning options to play the game (specific OP characters, fierce/overwhelming talismans, etc.)... now there are many more options that are viable. The ability for us to choose which character combinations to use for each unique situation that we might face has become a fantastic part of the gameplay - as opposed to mindlessly grinding with the same OP army over and over (if you were lucky enough to be blessed by such characters). There really is no question that this has become a much better game, and it may even become increasingly clear to us in the weeks that follow.
Great job so far - to all the people that have been working hard behind the scenes.