Why is it such a big problem, when you could just develop the other city...
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And what is it in the rules that you hate? And remember, the rules are the same for everyone, so if you get a benefit, we get it as well. I can't change the rules so you can beat me, everyone have to be equal for the game to be fun.
About the oil drills, I don't think they should give more than 1 resource. Rushing for all the sea bases with no cities on the land would make the game very unrealistic. I think they should rather be strategical bases you develop if you need the strategical advantage, and leave out otherwise.