Slitherine

They add yet another dimension to the game (they do remind me somewhat of the AGEv2 strategy cards).

I am not sure that I will explain this well, but here goes. One of things, I like about FOGE is that it is truly multi-dimensional. And you have cross dimension interactions.

Now, it could be argued that EU4 has way more dimensions, but that is not true in the sense in which I define them. A dimension is perhaps trade. In FOGE it is less trivial and spreadsheet-like thus allowing for more enjoyment and immersion.

In EU4, you have the same dimension, but a million malus and plus factors which will impact the behavior of the trade dimension. BUT EU4 is not giving the player 30 trade dimensions. You are getting 1 trade dimension with 30 factors. FOGE is giving you one trade dimension with just a few factors. PDS has taken this approach through the years that the more factors the richer the experience becomes. I would argue exactly the opposite. As factors increase, players lose immersion and are driven deeper into min/max gaming and detached, disengagement.

I think FOGE has a well thought out number of dimensions and has avoided factor proliferation as a means of creating artificial richness which ultimately fails.

Pocus, I hope you understood me. Very well done!

In PDS games a +3% modifier constitutes 'regional flavour'. It's that kind of thinking that sank I:R.

Will the AI get and employ regional decisions as well?

yes they do use decisions, for example in the Persia DLC, the Athenian AI likes to settle colonies along the Illyrian coast.

I believe I have understood you indeed. I try to refrain adding only numerical modifiers, they can go only that far in giving flavors. Adding extra minor mechanisms takes more time but add more flavor.