Freedom of Choice: Unlike the standard setup, where chance plays a role in your initial placement, the alternate version empowers you to fully decide which territories you want to claim. At the start of the game, you are given a set number of points to spend. This allocation of points is crucial as it determines the types of territories you can select for your strategy. You can choose either random territories or specific territories based on your points. This choice empowers you to shape your starting position and overall game plan.