I support the no-chat solution. I don't think it should be a change to the game, just an option (i.e. some chat-free tables). It wouldn't eliminate alliances either, only make them less overt, and less set in stone. http://aplayr.com/kdice/kdice/ideas/there%20should%20be%20tables%20for%20anonymous%20playing%2C%20and%20without%20a%20chat.%20this%20would%20keep%20out%20all%20long-term%20sympathies%20and%20make%20the%20games%20more%20dynamic%20%28less%20bantering%29.%20maybe%20even%20keep%20a%20seperate%20ranking%20for%20it./

Sorry about that essay-length link.

My suggestion isn't intended stop the formation of alliances.

This is a great idea, I was going to post it myself. The games become much too boring when people make alliances just so they can get second or third place. I really like the idea of only awarding points for first place - the games would end up being much longer but I think it would be a lot more fun.