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Suggestion Idea: Optional decks
Specifics: The defalt deck is fine, but maybe there is some additional game play in variants. For example, four colors, and a set of four to turn in. Of course there would be lesser turn in values for combinations. (This would particularly suit escalation games, as it would draw out the escalation. Yes, this is what most players enjoy about it, but those who avoid the current form might give it another try.) Or perhaps a deck of cards, played out like poker. Various hands are worth a 'pay off' in armies. When you have five cards, you 'discard' one at the start of your turn if you don't want to turn in Queen high nothing, for 4 armies.
I'm sure there are other possibilities out there...
Why it is needed: Variety is the spice of life.