If something like this is implemented, could it be optional for lower skill levels? It sounds like a major game element that may take time to learn how to deal with.

This may also be a good idea for any major part of any game like the GC series that has a lot of major parts.

One of the things I find overwhelming about a game I am new to is how to use (exploit?) the many differing mechanics of the game. While I am not advocating a "tutorial" (I have found these to be much too brief and incomplete to learn any more than the bare rudiments of a game) I think switches at lower skill levels that would allow newbies to practice some of the more difficult aspects of a complex game in isolation from the other aspects would be a big aid in learning the game. If GC3 was the first to do something like this, I think it would most certainly increase the fan base quickly,

Please note that I am not talking about turning on or off victory conditions. Those are at a much higher level than I am thinking about.

Wow. Trying to think of examples of what I am trying to get at is driving me bonkers. Does anyone else feel that some mid-level game learning assistance would be useful and have any ideas of what it might look like?

Thought provoking post DARCA.

Anyway, this is an interesting idea. Paul has said they have big plans for espionage, which is why it won't be in the base game. I'd be interested to know what they are thinking. I completely agree that espionage is often too passive, and usually doesn't pay off for the resources required. I like the idea of having your spies working toward specific goals rather than a generic "espionage level."