Hidden Outcomes.
The Leader must read the Dilemma Card – and does not reveal the Possible Outcomes. Only a Leader may view the card.
Phase 2 of a round is skipped (Don’t place the Outcome Tokens on the Balance) as only the Leader may look at the Possible Outcomes listed.
Anyone taking the Leader Token during the Vote of the Council, may also take the card to see Possible Outcomes.
Paying for information.
After the reading of a Dilemma Card, During Discussion, or During Vote of the Council Phase – Players may pay one Coin to the current Leader to have one Possible Outcome revealed. The Leader must choose one Possible Outcome to reveal, and places an Outcome Token onto the Balance.
Players may choose to continue paying one coin for one Possible Outcome until there are no more Possible Outcomes available.
Leader Discretion.
The Leader may also share any Possible Outcomes with the group without receiving a Coin.
(This information is not placed on the Balance)
However, they may also lie about Possible Outcomes when payment is not involved.
Purpose of the Variant.
Attempting to deduce the outcomes of a Dilemma is thrilling. Players may have very different opinions on the Outcomes, and when the Dilemma Outcomes are eventually revealed, there is usually a moment of joy for some, and regret for others.
The Game is elevated by players attempting to outwit each other by being better at predicting the outcomes of Dilemmas.
Players may even attempt to convince other players using a dishonest alternate theory in order to sway voting in their favor.
(eg A player assumes that Welfare will be positively affected (which they need) and that Morale won’t be affected. They also think that another player needs positive Morale – so gives that other player reasons why Morale might be affected positively, just to get them voting on side.)
This change generates more intrigue, and shifting of power.
The Hidden Outcomes imply that the Dilemma, and any insightful information is brought directly to a Leader. Others on the Council must exert power or wealth to be privy to detailed information gathered by the council advisors.
It gives Coins more use.
Players attempt to become Leader more frequently to gather important information – especially regarding Stickers.
Leader becomes a very important position to get ahead in Hidden Agendas, and to receive more Coins.
Players may gain reputations as being Leaders that are Honest or Deceitful.
Players vote less based on Sticker Outcomes.