Point 1: PC games were still new then, so the most advanced options like those found in C&C, try having 2 separate armies, and then command all tanks to an area.
Point 2: It's briefing, do this, do that, hey also. Yeah, briefing isn''t supposed to be creative also, Objectives, do this, can't let this... same thing, not basic, normal.
Point 3: Old, duh and background, well, just irrelevant and it's good enough, just play. And by irrelevant, your last point.