Does the tariff function work?

[Daeromont]

An interesting plot might be to start all players as 'subjugated' either voluntarily as part of an empire as Major Houses within that empire; or, as subjugated peoples shackled by an evil overlord. The players could either try to regain freedom for their people, or perhaps establish their own independent empire, etc, within a specific period of time. Of course, there would be 'imperial bases' everywhere, making this quite difficult. Food for thought.