I apologize if this idea has already been expressed. I recommend considering the following:

• Modify tactical combat to allow defender to counter-strike before dying. Current tactical combat can be easy if one focuses on gaining the first killing blow without worrying about the counter stroke.
• Add ability called "First Strike"
  • Based on Magic: The Gathering, grant Soverigns, heroes, and some unit types (hint: mounted), the ability to strike without a counter-attack. This would expand versatility and give mounted units an advantage beyond just movement.
  • Normal units, even when attacking first, would now have to worry about the counter-strike before their opponent dies.

I think this would be valuable to increasing tactical combat complexity and enjoyment. I love Magic: The Gathering (and the potential of Elemental) and think this would go a long way to bringing the depth of that card came into the visual representation of Elemental tactical combat.

Just and idea. Thanks for listening.