I find it curious few chose the magic scale as the most powerful. Although i also voted for order, having +1 magic seems nearly essential to be competitive in most games because it totally changes the cost effectiveness of researchers. Take 3-Drain (-2 research), for example, and Tien Chi is virtually crippled, as it's non-capital mages are cheap, low MR point guys.
If i had to take 3-Drain with 3-Order, or vice versa, there's no doubt i'd choose the magic over the money. Of course, since you choose the scales, you can have your cake AND eat it, since you're the one who baked it!
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