Metafilter Hate Machine June 18, 2014 3:31 PM Subscribe
This is the metatalk thread for the MeFi Diplomacy game "Metafilter1"(on playdiplomacy.com) spawned by the recent Grantland boardgames thread.
To enable maximum kibitzing, I would like to encourage all PUBLIC game related communications to take place in this thread. PRIVATE communications, of course, can still take place through in-game channels. Robocop is bleeding has offered himself up as unofficial reporter/biographer/historian for the game, so we'll see where he takes that.
I will try to post periodic links to up-to-date maps in this thread, but you can also watch the game by signing up at playdiplomacy.
I'm setting up a Wordpress blog here, but if folks think this sort of thing works better in this thread, that's fine too (assuming the thread stays open for the duration?). Just let me know!
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:37 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:37 PM on June 18, 2014
I'm not sure why you wouldn't want to use MefightClub as a homebase/discussionzone for this (especially since MeTa threads do eventually autoclose), but I just wanted to make sure you're aware that you are more than welcome to do so!
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 3:48 PM on June 18, 2014 [6 favorites]
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 3:48 PM on June 18, 2014 [6 favorites]
That could work too - assuming I can figure out how to join the game as an observer in the first place.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:50 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:50 PM on June 18, 2014
Stav: superaware! Maybe moving over there midgame will make sense. For now I'm just excited that this thread has triggered a successful game launch, when I was unable to fill up a full roster last time I posted an MFC thread on the subject.
posted by 256 at 3:51 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by 256 at 3:51 PM on June 18, 2014
*sharpens knives and practices menacing glare in the mirror*
posted by mudpuppie at 3:54 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 3:54 PM on June 18, 2014
(By the way, if anyone wants to play Warlight for strategery practice, MeMail me and let's start up a game.)
posted by mudpuppie at 3:57 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 3:57 PM on June 18, 2014
*hides knives, smiles innocently* (I am barring.gaffner in the game)
posted by zyxwvut at 3:58 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 3:58 PM on June 18, 2014
Ah, so it looks like the the game needs to be active before us rubberneckers can get our peepers on it.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 4:10 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by robocop is bleeding at 4:10 PM on June 18, 2014
We're just waiting on one player to confirm..... Not naming any names....
Think_Long
posted by 256 at 4:12 PM on June 18, 2014
Think_Long
posted by 256 at 4:12 PM on June 18, 2014
I am barring.gaffner in the game
In the same spirit, I'm Papa_Azucar over there.
or am i?
posted by COBRA! at 4:12 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
In the same spirit, I'm Papa_Azucar over there.
or am i?
posted by COBRA! at 4:12 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
In this brief window before the game begins, I would just like to say that Russia is always a huge threat from the beginning and I would never dream of allying with them. I will form a temporary alliance with any and all other players to eliminate Russia as quickly as possible.
Unless I am Russia, in which case: I'm sure we can work things out peacefully.
posted by 256 at 4:23 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
Unless I am Russia, in which case: I'm sure we can work things out peacefully.
posted by 256 at 4:23 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
COBRA! - I want to make sure the quotes are properly attributed in the 'bleeding' papers.
posted by zyxwvut at 4:26 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 4:26 PM on June 18, 2014
I would never dream of allying with them.
And so the bullshitting begins!
posted by mudpuppie at 4:29 PM on June 18, 2014 [3 favorites]
And so the bullshitting begins!
posted by mudpuppie at 4:29 PM on June 18, 2014 [3 favorites]
So, who are Leuconoe and SerCorbray? Is SerCorbray Corb?
posted by COBRA! at 4:33 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 4:33 PM on June 18, 2014
Yes, COBRA! I think you're right with that, and I'm thinking Maecenas is Leuconoe
posted by zyxwvut at 4:55 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by zyxwvut at 4:55 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
So, this is clearly the game to watch here, but if you want a second option, we've got game #84108 going as well. We don't have anything fancy like an official historian or blog or anything, but if you want to see this noob get schooled on what this game is all about, you could drop by. Our game will move MUCH faster, with orders closing every 24 hours rather than every 3 days.
(Basically, 256 has the World Cup match going, I've got an elementary school soccer game. Both fun, but their own thing.)
posted by jbickers at 5:26 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
(Basically, 256 has the World Cup match going, I've got an elementary school soccer game. Both fun, but their own thing.)
posted by jbickers at 5:26 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
Stav: superaware! Maybe moving over there midgame will make sense. For now I'm just excited that this thread has triggered a successful game launch, when I was unable to fill up a full roster last time I posted an MFC thread on the subject.
All good. MFC tends to be more about the bein' friendly and gettin' along and stuff, so Evil Backstabbery (even in the service of fun) isn't perhaps a perfect cultural fit there (although we have had a few Diplomacy games in the past, I seem to recall).
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 5:26 PM on June 18, 2014
All good. MFC tends to be more about the bein' friendly and gettin' along and stuff, so Evil Backstabbery (even in the service of fun) isn't perhaps a perfect cultural fit there (although we have had a few Diplomacy games in the past, I seem to recall).
posted by stavrosthewonderchicken at 5:26 PM on June 18, 2014
Hmm. I really should re-read the rules of this silly gave before I start playing.
posted by octothorpe at 5:48 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 5:48 PM on June 18, 2014
While we wait, and for amusement's sake, here (in reverse order) is my contribution to the public announcements from the last game I played online:
RUSSIA (Spring 1908, Oct 03 2012 02:00 (GMT))
GENERAL 257 FOUND DEAD AT NOVGOROD ARMORY
ST. PETERSBURG - As the final bastions of the once great People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate fell this month to barbarian hordes from the South, North and West, the ultimate holdout of General 257 was the source of much speculation.
Today, the General's body was found slumped in an antique Prussian chair in the Auxiliary Command Centre of the Novgorod Armory. The chair had been a favoured possession of the general's late brother, the beloved Chairman 256.
The coroner on the scene issued a statement that, although it was impossible to be certain, the cause of death appeared to be "hating the Austrians so hard that his brain exploded."
-30-
RUSSIA (Fall 1905, Sep 12 2012 21:11 (GMT))
CHAIRMAN 256 ASSASSINATED, GENERAL 257 ASSUMES PRIAPIC LEADERSHIP
Moscow - Following weeks of rumours and speculation, the Chairman's office released a statement this morning revealing that the Sevastopol-class battleship Justified Annoyance, which was conveying Chairman 256 from Kiel to Constantinople last month, was sunk in Mid-Atlantic waters. All 2,400 men on board, including the beloved Chairman, are confirmed dead.
"There is no doubt that this was a Franco-Kellnerinian military action targeted at assassinating my brother," said General 257 of the People's Russian Forces. "My thoughts are with those thousands of patriotic families whose worlds have been shattered by this cowardly attack. My own family's pain at losing our patriarch in his prime is a wound of unsoundable depth, but we have not time to grieve. Mother Russia is under siege from traitors on all sides, we must now show our true strength.
"If we are to honour the memory of the greatest leader the Protectorate has known," the General continues, "we will best do so by answering the call to arms, each man, woman, and child, and seeing that every enemy of our proud nation finds their way to an unmarked grave."
The General sombrely assumed interim leadership of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate this afternoon and immediately issued his first directive, compelling every man and childless woman between the ages of 16 and 60 to report to the nearest office of the People's Russian Forces for assessment before the month is out.
A service to honour Chairman 256 will be held in the People's Hall in Moscow on October 3rd. A memorial in the Chairman's native Warsaw is planned as soon as the Austrian terrorism in that region is quelled.
-30-
RUSSIA (Fall 1904, Sep 02 2012 17:47 (GMT))
CLIPPING FROM BERLIN FREE PRESS
CHAIRMAN 256 HONOURS MEMORY OF PRESIDENT GOAT, LOOKS TO FUTURE
BERLIN - The PRIAPic Chairman was in Kiel yesterday unveiling the newly restored monument to the late President Goat.
"He was a dear friend for many decades," Chairman 256 said, "and a worthy adversary to the end."
The monument, which was erected by the Caprican Works Department in 1899, was damaged during the recent conflict. PRIAPic troops have been working day and night these last three months to restore it to pristine condition. There have been some changes from the original design, however. The aqua pinstripes of the President's favoured suit have instead been rendered in a more muted Prussian Blue. The Chairman was overheard referring to the prior colouration as 'tacky.' Further, the rose quartz encrustings on the Goat's horns have been replaced with ruby and black onyx to commemorate the President's death at his own hand in Kiel.
The Chairman did spare a few words to remind the Caprican people that PRIAPic forces were only in Germany to keep the peace in the face of the aggression that had marked the later years of President Goat's regime. He layed out a timeline for a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Caprican territory as early as 1907. This process could be substantially speeded, he said, if other European nations would consent to a joint conservatorship of Germany until new elections could be arranged. However, in light of the recent belligerence and grandstanding from the French despoilers in the Low Countries, such a peaceable arrangement seems unlikely.
"We will stay as long as we must to ensure a strong and independent Caprican Republic," Chairman 256 concluded. "Even if doing so limits the number of troops available to crush the traitorous Austrian insect."
An official declaration of war with Austria was issued earlier this week.
Shortly after the ceremony wrapped up, the Chairman boarded a military vessel bound for Constantinople where he is to attend to coronation of the new Turkish Sultan. Sources close to the PRIAPic leadership have reported that Chairman 256 has personally pledged that the Austrian warmongering will not be allowed to threaten Ottoman sovereignty.
-30-
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 19:14 (GMT))
Then it is war.
-Chairman 256
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 17:55 (GMT))
CLIPPING FROM MOSCOW FREE PRESS
MOSCOW - Sources indicate that a high-ranking clerk within the People's Chairman's Office has been sacked after referring to the People's Protectorate as the People's Republic.
"We are most certainly not a Republic," Chairman 256 was heard to say. After a moment, he added: "Not that there's anything wrong with that."
-30-
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 17:50 (GMT))
DIRECT TO ALL EUROPEAN LEADERS
The situation of the Prussian peoples, and their ongoing mistreatment under the Caprican hoof, has become intolerable.
Comrades within Denmark had informed the People's Human Rights Commission of proud Prussians being pressed into indentured servitude at President Goat's vacation home in Copenhagen. After careful followup, these shocking allegations were found to be true, requiring immediate action by Priapic Forces to liberated those so enslaved. To prevent further such abuses, PRIAPic forces will be repatriating Prussia as early as this autumn.
I regret the need for such unilateral action and hasten to make clear that the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Republic does not consider itself at war with any state, lease of all the noble Caprican Republic. I hope that President Goat will understand the necessity of this isolated incident and, further, that he will open an inquiry into human rights abuses within his nation.
-Chairman 256 of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate
RUSSIA (Fall 1901, Aug 09 2012 19:29 (GMT))
[Clipping from the Moscow Free Press]
SEVASTOPOL - Multiple sources confirm that a lengthy undercover operation by the People's Internal Police has exposed an extensive bootlegging operation based on the recently liberated Zminyi Island. The ringleaders of this operation have been apprehended, and are expected to be sentenced to the labour camps of Irkutsk. It is rumoured that the several hundred cases of seized wine and vodka, some of it very fine, are to accompany our humble Chairman 256 to Athens in the spring where they will presented as a wedding gift to Princess Saroula of Greece and Prince Guillaume of Italy.
Leaked information gleaned from the bootleggers' books indicate that the single largest customer for their wares was the Ottoman naval base in Ankara. The Chairman has issued a public apology for any moral harm caused by PRIAPic libations finding their way into the noble Ottoman Empire, where they are proscribed by religion and law. A statement from the People's Foreign Affairs Bureau further indicated that intelligence had shown that the entire crew of the Ottoman fleet were very deep in their cups when they set out from harbour. For this reason, and this reason alone, their occupation of the demilitarized waters of the Black Sea are not being interpreted as an act of war.
Contacts within the People's Fleet have indicated that the ships stationed in Rumania are preparing to escort the Ottoman fleet to shore in the neutral harbour of Bulgaria, where the crew will face appropriate disciplinary action.
-30-
(with files from Reuters and the Bucharest Journal)
RUSSIA (Spring 1901, Aug 04 2012 01:35 (GMT))
Greetings Comrades.
It was a great honour to sit amongst you at the Great European Peace Council of 1900. As you know, the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate is not a warlike nation. We seek only to repatriate the lost PRIAPismic people within our greater historical borders.
As you know, the so-called nations of Norway, Sweden, Rumania, and Prussia are traditionally PRIAPismic, and that fact is still reflected in their culture and language. It is my dearest hope that they can be returned to the fold.
The Caprican flag is, of course, currently flying over Prussia. Out of respect for Herr Goat, I assure you that no military move upon Prussia will be made. I do hope, however, that a peaceful arrangement can be made to return the Prussian people home.
As for Sweden, Norway, and Rumania: the barbarians and vulgar warlords that have occupied and subjugated these sacred lands are less than human. All that I ask is that your noble selves do not interfere as we exterminate them.
Yours in service,
Chairman 256 of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate
posted by 256 at 5:50 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
RUSSIA (Spring 1908, Oct 03 2012 02:00 (GMT))
GENERAL 257 FOUND DEAD AT NOVGOROD ARMORY
ST. PETERSBURG - As the final bastions of the once great People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate fell this month to barbarian hordes from the South, North and West, the ultimate holdout of General 257 was the source of much speculation.
Today, the General's body was found slumped in an antique Prussian chair in the Auxiliary Command Centre of the Novgorod Armory. The chair had been a favoured possession of the general's late brother, the beloved Chairman 256.
The coroner on the scene issued a statement that, although it was impossible to be certain, the cause of death appeared to be "hating the Austrians so hard that his brain exploded."
-30-
RUSSIA (Fall 1905, Sep 12 2012 21:11 (GMT))
CHAIRMAN 256 ASSASSINATED, GENERAL 257 ASSUMES PRIAPIC LEADERSHIP
Moscow - Following weeks of rumours and speculation, the Chairman's office released a statement this morning revealing that the Sevastopol-class battleship Justified Annoyance, which was conveying Chairman 256 from Kiel to Constantinople last month, was sunk in Mid-Atlantic waters. All 2,400 men on board, including the beloved Chairman, are confirmed dead.
"There is no doubt that this was a Franco-Kellnerinian military action targeted at assassinating my brother," said General 257 of the People's Russian Forces. "My thoughts are with those thousands of patriotic families whose worlds have been shattered by this cowardly attack. My own family's pain at losing our patriarch in his prime is a wound of unsoundable depth, but we have not time to grieve. Mother Russia is under siege from traitors on all sides, we must now show our true strength.
"If we are to honour the memory of the greatest leader the Protectorate has known," the General continues, "we will best do so by answering the call to arms, each man, woman, and child, and seeing that every enemy of our proud nation finds their way to an unmarked grave."
The General sombrely assumed interim leadership of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate this afternoon and immediately issued his first directive, compelling every man and childless woman between the ages of 16 and 60 to report to the nearest office of the People's Russian Forces for assessment before the month is out.
A service to honour Chairman 256 will be held in the People's Hall in Moscow on October 3rd. A memorial in the Chairman's native Warsaw is planned as soon as the Austrian terrorism in that region is quelled.
-30-
RUSSIA (Fall 1904, Sep 02 2012 17:47 (GMT))
CLIPPING FROM BERLIN FREE PRESS
CHAIRMAN 256 HONOURS MEMORY OF PRESIDENT GOAT, LOOKS TO FUTURE
BERLIN - The PRIAPic Chairman was in Kiel yesterday unveiling the newly restored monument to the late President Goat.
"He was a dear friend for many decades," Chairman 256 said, "and a worthy adversary to the end."
The monument, which was erected by the Caprican Works Department in 1899, was damaged during the recent conflict. PRIAPic troops have been working day and night these last three months to restore it to pristine condition. There have been some changes from the original design, however. The aqua pinstripes of the President's favoured suit have instead been rendered in a more muted Prussian Blue. The Chairman was overheard referring to the prior colouration as 'tacky.' Further, the rose quartz encrustings on the Goat's horns have been replaced with ruby and black onyx to commemorate the President's death at his own hand in Kiel.
The Chairman did spare a few words to remind the Caprican people that PRIAPic forces were only in Germany to keep the peace in the face of the aggression that had marked the later years of President Goat's regime. He layed out a timeline for a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Caprican territory as early as 1907. This process could be substantially speeded, he said, if other European nations would consent to a joint conservatorship of Germany until new elections could be arranged. However, in light of the recent belligerence and grandstanding from the French despoilers in the Low Countries, such a peaceable arrangement seems unlikely.
"We will stay as long as we must to ensure a strong and independent Caprican Republic," Chairman 256 concluded. "Even if doing so limits the number of troops available to crush the traitorous Austrian insect."
An official declaration of war with Austria was issued earlier this week.
Shortly after the ceremony wrapped up, the Chairman boarded a military vessel bound for Constantinople where he is to attend to coronation of the new Turkish Sultan. Sources close to the PRIAPic leadership have reported that Chairman 256 has personally pledged that the Austrian warmongering will not be allowed to threaten Ottoman sovereignty.
-30-
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 19:14 (GMT))
Then it is war.
-Chairman 256
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 17:55 (GMT))
CLIPPING FROM MOSCOW FREE PRESS
MOSCOW - Sources indicate that a high-ranking clerk within the People's Chairman's Office has been sacked after referring to the People's Protectorate as the People's Republic.
"We are most certainly not a Republic," Chairman 256 was heard to say. After a moment, he added: "Not that there's anything wrong with that."
-30-
RUSSIA (Spring 1902, Aug 13 2012 17:50 (GMT))
DIRECT TO ALL EUROPEAN LEADERS
The situation of the Prussian peoples, and their ongoing mistreatment under the Caprican hoof, has become intolerable.
Comrades within Denmark had informed the People's Human Rights Commission of proud Prussians being pressed into indentured servitude at President Goat's vacation home in Copenhagen. After careful followup, these shocking allegations were found to be true, requiring immediate action by Priapic Forces to liberated those so enslaved. To prevent further such abuses, PRIAPic forces will be repatriating Prussia as early as this autumn.
I regret the need for such unilateral action and hasten to make clear that the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Republic does not consider itself at war with any state, lease of all the noble Caprican Republic. I hope that President Goat will understand the necessity of this isolated incident and, further, that he will open an inquiry into human rights abuses within his nation.
-Chairman 256 of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate
RUSSIA (Fall 1901, Aug 09 2012 19:29 (GMT))
[Clipping from the Moscow Free Press]
SEVASTOPOL - Multiple sources confirm that a lengthy undercover operation by the People's Internal Police has exposed an extensive bootlegging operation based on the recently liberated Zminyi Island. The ringleaders of this operation have been apprehended, and are expected to be sentenced to the labour camps of Irkutsk. It is rumoured that the several hundred cases of seized wine and vodka, some of it very fine, are to accompany our humble Chairman 256 to Athens in the spring where they will presented as a wedding gift to Princess Saroula of Greece and Prince Guillaume of Italy.
Leaked information gleaned from the bootleggers' books indicate that the single largest customer for their wares was the Ottoman naval base in Ankara. The Chairman has issued a public apology for any moral harm caused by PRIAPic libations finding their way into the noble Ottoman Empire, where they are proscribed by religion and law. A statement from the People's Foreign Affairs Bureau further indicated that intelligence had shown that the entire crew of the Ottoman fleet were very deep in their cups when they set out from harbour. For this reason, and this reason alone, their occupation of the demilitarized waters of the Black Sea are not being interpreted as an act of war.
Contacts within the People's Fleet have indicated that the ships stationed in Rumania are preparing to escort the Ottoman fleet to shore in the neutral harbour of Bulgaria, where the crew will face appropriate disciplinary action.
-30-
(with files from Reuters and the Bucharest Journal)
RUSSIA (Spring 1901, Aug 04 2012 01:35 (GMT))
Greetings Comrades.
It was a great honour to sit amongst you at the Great European Peace Council of 1900. As you know, the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate is not a warlike nation. We seek only to repatriate the lost PRIAPismic people within our greater historical borders.
As you know, the so-called nations of Norway, Sweden, Rumania, and Prussia are traditionally PRIAPismic, and that fact is still reflected in their culture and language. It is my dearest hope that they can be returned to the fold.
The Caprican flag is, of course, currently flying over Prussia. Out of respect for Herr Goat, I assure you that no military move upon Prussia will be made. I do hope, however, that a peaceful arrangement can be made to return the Prussian people home.
As for Sweden, Norway, and Rumania: the barbarians and vulgar warlords that have occupied and subjugated these sacred lands are less than human. All that I ask is that your noble selves do not interfere as we exterminate them.
Yours in service,
Chairman 256 of the People's Russian Independent Autonomous Protectorate
posted by 256 at 5:50 PM on June 18, 2014 [4 favorites]
Now I kind of want to get a game of Diplo going where everybody is forced to write and play in character as one or another senior staff member of the NCC 1701-D.
posted by cortex (staff) at 6:12 PM on June 18, 2014 [11 favorites]
posted by cortex (staff) at 6:12 PM on June 18, 2014 [11 favorites]
Ha. Dibs on Whiny Laforge!
Hey, that remind me: Is Larp Trek still going?
Yes, it is! I have about 100 entries to catch up on...
posted by 256 at 6:15 PM on June 18, 2014
Hey, that remind me: Is Larp Trek still going?
Yes, it is! I have about 100 entries to catch up on...
posted by 256 at 6:15 PM on June 18, 2014
> Unless I am Russia, in which case: I'm sure we can work things out peacefully.
> posted by 256
Good lord, Valdimir Putin has a MeFi account.
posted by benito.strauss at 6:34 PM on June 18, 2014 [3 favorites]
> posted by 256
Good lord, Valdimir Putin has a MeFi account.
posted by benito.strauss at 6:34 PM on June 18, 2014 [3 favorites]
And we're live. England signing on!
Note, there is now also a thread on MFC as a parallel public forum and a safeguard against the eventual closing of this MeTa.
posted by 256 at 6:59 PM on June 18, 2014
Note, there is now also a thread on MFC as a parallel public forum and a safeguard against the eventual closing of this MeTa.
posted by 256 at 6:59 PM on June 18, 2014
Wait a minute . . I'm Russia! FUCK
posted by Think_Long at 7:02 PM on June 18, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by Think_Long at 7:02 PM on June 18, 2014 [2 favorites]
Now would probably be a good time to link to Diplomacy Archive, which is a great resource for both rules and strategy.
posted by 256 at 7:10 PM on June 18, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 7:10 PM on June 18, 2014 [2 favorites]
LONDON, 1899: Prime Minister Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, is defeated 3 consecutive times at the noble game of chess by a clockwork automaton known as Device 256. Recognizing that chess is a perfect simulation of war and international diplomacy, the Prime Minister and Queen Victoria decide to cede full executive power to the automaton. It's designer, Count Gurgleblax, is named regent and quoted as saying "well, this is awkward."
posted by 256 at 7:27 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by 256 at 7:27 PM on June 18, 2014
Shucks! Already full. I flip my table at you!
Actually, I've got a helluva lot going on right now so perhaps it is best to just watch. Have fun, everybody!
posted by Elly Vortex at 8:05 PM on June 18, 2014
Actually, I've got a helluva lot going on right now so perhaps it is best to just watch. Have fun, everybody!
posted by Elly Vortex at 8:05 PM on June 18, 2014
Ooo, I still get shivers when I think about my previous MeFiLomacy experience; if this becomes a more regular thing, put me down for it.
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 9:01 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by Alvy Ampersand at 9:01 PM on June 18, 2014
er, the "second option" is the same game. Would love to be involved in a second game if folks are interested!
posted by threeants at 9:31 PM on June 18, 2014
posted by threeants at 9:31 PM on June 18, 2014
Now I kind of want to get a game of Diplo going where everybody is forced to write and play in character as one or another senior staff member of the NCC 1701-D.
If truly played in character, the game would end with civilized good faith negotiation and a seven way draw.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:43 PM on June 18, 2014 [7 favorites]
If truly played in character, the game would end with civilized good faith negotiation and a seven way draw.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:43 PM on June 18, 2014 [7 favorites]
If truly played in character, the game would end with civilized good faith negotiation and a seven way draw.
You've been to metatalk before right?
posted by RolandOfEld at 9:54 PM on June 18, 2014
You've been to metatalk before right?
posted by RolandOfEld at 9:54 PM on June 18, 2014
I'll volunteer as a replacement player in the event that someone should drop out of one of the games. Memail me if you need me.
I want to say something about opening strategy to people who are new to the game and playing Austria. Austria is the Game of Thrones country - you win or die. Surrounded, Austria is often eliminated very, very quickly, but if you can survive the opening you're in a very strong position. My favorite country to play. So, here's two bits of opening theory to get you through the first year.
If you don't know who to trust (hint: you don't) I strongly recommend The Southern Hedgehog Opening. F(Tri)-Ven, A(Vie)-Gal, A(Bud)-Ser. It's your best defense against early sneak attacks. Option - tell your opponents those will be your moves in advance (truthfully). Telling them your plan makes it look less like an attack (which it isn't) and more like a little border policing. The goal is to signal that attacking you will not be as profitable as other options because you're not going down easy; you're not going to look like a good alliance partner to anybody if they can see the vultures circling.
Second tip for an Austrian player: talk to Italy about the Lepanto Opening.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 11:29 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
I want to say something about opening strategy to people who are new to the game and playing Austria. Austria is the Game of Thrones country - you win or die. Surrounded, Austria is often eliminated very, very quickly, but if you can survive the opening you're in a very strong position. My favorite country to play. So, here's two bits of opening theory to get you through the first year.
If you don't know who to trust (hint: you don't) I strongly recommend The Southern Hedgehog Opening. F(Tri)-Ven, A(Vie)-Gal, A(Bud)-Ser. It's your best defense against early sneak attacks. Option - tell your opponents those will be your moves in advance (truthfully). Telling them your plan makes it look less like an attack (which it isn't) and more like a little border policing. The goal is to signal that attacking you will not be as profitable as other options because you're not going down easy; you're not going to look like a good alliance partner to anybody if they can see the vultures circling.
Second tip for an Austrian player: talk to Italy about the Lepanto Opening.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 11:29 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]
Coolio. Now watching both games, will set up the conceit of the newsite.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:44 AM on June 19, 2014
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:44 AM on June 19, 2014
Is there a way to get an RSS feed of that wordpress blog?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:43 AM on June 19, 2014
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:43 AM on June 19, 2014
Ah, sorry you just stick /feed/ on the end.
SOLVED!
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:46 AM on June 19, 2014
SOLVED!
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:46 AM on June 19, 2014
A couple of notes for the players:
1. You enter moves by clicking on the unit, choosing the move-type, and then clicking on your destination. You can check your moves by clicking the "Orders" dropdown. Note that it is possible to enter illegal moves, which will then fail. This is a feature, not a bug. For example, you might tell an opponent that you are going to convoy an army from Edinburgh to the Norway via your fleet in the North Sea. You might then enter an illegal move order for your army from Edingburgh to the North Sea, rather than from Edinburgh to Norway. Once moves are revealed, you can pretend that you didn't understand how convoys work, rather than admitting that you never had any intention of going to Norway. All this to say, just because the game accepts your order, doesn't mean it's legal. Double check!
2. Every turn, there will be multiple days available to make your moves. When the deadline comes, all entered moves will be processed and all units without moves entered will hold. You have the option of finalizing your moves early. If all players finalize their moves before the deadline, moves will be processed and the next turn will begin immediately. Especially considering finalizing your orders early on retreat and build phases where there are usually very few choices available to you.
posted by 256 at 5:07 AM on June 19, 2014
1. You enter moves by clicking on the unit, choosing the move-type, and then clicking on your destination. You can check your moves by clicking the "Orders" dropdown. Note that it is possible to enter illegal moves, which will then fail. This is a feature, not a bug. For example, you might tell an opponent that you are going to convoy an army from Edinburgh to the Norway via your fleet in the North Sea. You might then enter an illegal move order for your army from Edingburgh to the North Sea, rather than from Edinburgh to Norway. Once moves are revealed, you can pretend that you didn't understand how convoys work, rather than admitting that you never had any intention of going to Norway. All this to say, just because the game accepts your order, doesn't mean it's legal. Double check!
2. Every turn, there will be multiple days available to make your moves. When the deadline comes, all entered moves will be processed and all units without moves entered will hold. You have the option of finalizing your moves early. If all players finalize their moves before the deadline, moves will be processed and the next turn will begin immediately. Especially considering finalizing your orders early on retreat and build phases where there are usually very few choices available to you.
posted by 256 at 5:07 AM on June 19, 2014
ENGLAND -256
ITALY - mudpuppie
GERMANY – Leuconoe (mefi: ???)
RUSSIA - Think_Long
FRANCE - COBRA!
TURKEY - zyxwvut
AUSTRIA – SerCorbray (mefi: corb?)
posted by 256 at 5:17 AM on June 19, 2014
ITALY - mudpuppie
GERMANY – Leuconoe (mefi: ???)
RUSSIA - Think_Long
FRANCE - COBRA!
TURKEY - zyxwvut
AUSTRIA – SerCorbray (mefi: corb?)
posted by 256 at 5:17 AM on June 19, 2014
(oh and also note that you can still change your orders after finalizing them if anything changes. Doing so will un-finalize them though.)
posted by 256 at 6:14 AM on June 19, 2014
posted by 256 at 6:14 AM on June 19, 2014
Game 84108 (24 Hour Stabby People):
ENG - Etrigan
ITA - easterner (MeFi username ?)
GER - Rock Steady
RUS - octothorpe
FRA - orzechod (MeFi username ?)
TUR - Jonathan Livengood
AUS - jbickers
posted by Rock Steady at 7:26 AM on June 19, 2014
ENG - Etrigan
ITA - easterner (MeFi username ?)
GER - Rock Steady
RUS - octothorpe
FRA - orzechod (MeFi username ?)
TUR - Jonathan Livengood
AUS - jbickers
posted by Rock Steady at 7:26 AM on June 19, 2014
Think_Long: "Wait a minute . . I'm Russia! FUCK"
до свидания, приятель.
posted by boo_radley at 7:52 AM on June 19, 2014
до свидания, приятель.
posted by boo_radley at 7:52 AM on June 19, 2014
I can't believe I missed this again. If any of y'all are still speaking to each other after this, I would very much like to play a round of this for once in my life.
posted by Diablevert at 8:27 AM on June 19, 2014
posted by Diablevert at 8:27 AM on June 19, 2014
I can't believe I missed this again. If any of y'all are still speaking to each other after this, I would very much like to play a round of this for once in my life.
I've gotten memails from several people still interested in playing, so if one of you wants to start game 3 as it were, I bet it would fill up pretty quickly.
posted by jbickers at 8:29 AM on June 19, 2014
I've gotten memails from several people still interested in playing, so if one of you wants to start game 3 as it were, I bet it would fill up pretty quickly.
posted by jbickers at 8:29 AM on June 19, 2014
>FRA - orzechod (MeFi username ?)
hi there! *waves*
posted by xbonesgt at 8:34 AM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
hi there! *waves*
posted by xbonesgt at 8:34 AM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Now I kind of want to get a game of Diplo going where everybody is forced to write and play in character as one or another senior staff member of the NCC 1701-D.
If truly played in character, the game would end with civilized good faith negotiation and a seven way draw.
Data would take a solo before the opening credits and then spend the rest of the episode's B-plot trying to figure out why everyone is mad at him for living up to the theoretical point of the game.
posted by Etrigan at 10:37 AM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
If truly played in character, the game would end with civilized good faith negotiation and a seven way draw.
Data would take a solo before the opening credits and then spend the rest of the episode's B-plot trying to figure out why everyone is mad at him for living up to the theoretical point of the game.
posted by Etrigan at 10:37 AM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
So as people get a sense of their fair minded, wise leader who only wants to see the best for Europe, drop me a line via MeMail with the deets. Any press releases or blind items are welcome (confidentiality guaranteed). I don't want to distract from these, ah, delicate stages. And if you're not interested in the rp aspect, that's fine too!
posted by robocop is bleeding at 12:00 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 12:00 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
How long do these games take? I have a 2-week vacation in the woods in the middle of august
posted by rebent at 1:27 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by rebent at 1:27 PM on June 19, 2014
Man, this 3 days between turns is going to be torture.
posted by mudpuppie at 2:55 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 2:55 PM on June 19, 2014
I think if we all finalize our moves, they happen and the clock resets. I think.
posted by COBRA! at 3:02 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 3:02 PM on June 19, 2014
I think if we all finalize our moves, they happen and the clock resets. I think.
That's correct.
(And my moves are finalized.)
posted by 256 at 3:10 PM on June 19, 2014
That's correct.
(And my moves are finalized.)
posted by 256 at 3:10 PM on June 19, 2014
or are they
posted by COBRA! at 3:29 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by COBRA! at 3:29 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
I don't get it . . . I'm pre-revolutionary Russia, where are my trainloads of sacrificial peasants to throw willy-nilly at my enemies on the continent?
And my orders are finalized, so I can't be blamed this time.
posted by Think_Long at 4:33 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
And my orders are finalized, so I can't be blamed this time.
posted by Think_Long at 4:33 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
You can be blamed. For not answering my friendly welcome message.
posted by 256 at 4:35 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by 256 at 4:35 PM on June 19, 2014
Well, he answered mine, so there. :p
(Or did he?)
posted by mudpuppie at 4:54 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
(Or did he?)
posted by mudpuppie at 4:54 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Is this when I get to start hating people?
posted by mudpuppie at 5:33 PM on June 19, 2014 [4 favorites]
posted by mudpuppie at 5:33 PM on June 19, 2014 [4 favorites]
The picture 256 links to can be found in the Order History tab, under the appropriate season. It makes a clearer picture of the game to see how the moves resolved.
posted by zyxwvut at 5:33 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 5:33 PM on June 19, 2014
Wow, that is a goddam mess. As it should be. Somehow both my regret and my relief at not being in the game have intensified.
posted by cortex (staff) at 5:50 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by cortex (staff) at 5:50 PM on June 19, 2014
I really like the visualization these maps offer. Commentary will go up in the AM, so please don't confirm your next retributions/moves yet!
As always, please feel free to send statements to the press! If you want me to quote you verbatim, use Quote in the subject and I'll copy and paste (and then 'Daisy' may offer some snide commentary).
posted by robocop is bleeding at 5:59 PM on June 19, 2014
As always, please feel free to send statements to the press! If you want me to quote you verbatim, use Quote in the subject and I'll copy and paste (and then 'Daisy' may offer some snide commentary).
posted by robocop is bleeding at 5:59 PM on June 19, 2014
Wow, that is a goddam mess.
I think it's beautiful. *sniff*
posted by mudpuppie at 6:04 PM on June 19, 2014
I think it's beautiful. *sniff*
posted by mudpuppie at 6:04 PM on June 19, 2014
I think we're just saying the same thing with different word, mudpuppie. It's glorious in a way that only F1901 can be. So many words. Should have sent a poet. Etc.
posted by cortex (staff) at 6:07 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by cortex (staff) at 6:07 PM on June 19, 2014
We'll agree on 'hot mess' then?
posted by mudpuppie at 6:26 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by mudpuppie at 6:26 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
Diablevert, I'd be interested to play if you wanted to get a game up and running!
posted by threeants at 6:50 PM on June 19, 2014
posted by threeants at 6:50 PM on June 19, 2014
Heh, well damn the seasons change and it's 'Diplomacy on Metafilter' time once again!
Although like Cortex I must admit to being conflicted about missing a seat in the game; it's really probably for the best that I just observe this time around.
posted by Arandia at 8:43 PM on June 19, 2014
Although like Cortex I must admit to being conflicted about missing a seat in the game; it's really probably for the best that I just observe this time around.
posted by Arandia at 8:43 PM on June 19, 2014
To the observers, I can confirm that there are shenanigans afoot!
(Or are there??)
This form of Diplomacy joke won't get old for me for a while now, so's you know.
posted by mudpuppie at 8:46 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
(Or are there??)
This form of Diplomacy joke won't get old for me for a while now, so's you know.
posted by mudpuppie at 8:46 PM on June 19, 2014 [1 favorite]
GUYS. apparently our games had the option to use SHARKS AND DINOSAURS instead of sailboats and cannons and we didn't take it. I for one am completely in favor of starting over.
posted by xbonesgt at 8:55 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by xbonesgt at 8:55 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
I mean seriously think of how fucking awesome convoys would look
posted by xbonesgt at 8:57 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by xbonesgt at 8:57 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
Can I request that the prize for whomever(s) win(s) this game/these games is an original Cortex song(s)?
posted by mudpuppie at 9:15 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by mudpuppie at 9:15 PM on June 19, 2014 [2 favorites]
One turn in and I'm having a lot of fun with this. This may change.
posted by octothorpe at 7:46 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 7:46 AM on June 20, 2014
I am too, though I'm kicking myself for forgetting that all turns happened simultaneously and actually bouncing /myself/. Writing something now! The best part is all the interactions with everyone.
posted by corb at 8:22 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by corb at 8:22 AM on June 20, 2014
Bouncing yourself actually happens a fair bit. Your moves from Vienna to Budapest and Budapest to Rumania were basically sound and would have worked perfectly if Russia hadn't gone for Rumania as well.
In fact, it can be beneficial to intentionally set up situations where, if one army bounces, the rest bounce as well, essentially creating an "if invasion successful, do X, else do Y chain for the rest of your forces."
Now, your attempt to catapult a ship from Trieste to Athens, on the other hand....
posted by 256 at 8:30 AM on June 20, 2014 [4 favorites]
In fact, it can be beneficial to intentionally set up situations where, if one army bounces, the rest bounce as well, essentially creating an "if invasion successful, do X, else do Y chain for the rest of your forces."
Now, your attempt to catapult a ship from Trieste to Athens, on the other hand....
posted by 256 at 8:30 AM on June 20, 2014 [4 favorites]
Hey, here's a question unrelated to the Metafilter game(s). I took over as Russia in another game that's further along than ours. Russia seems to have fallen on hard times and is nearly kaput. Moscow is occupied by another player. If I manage to drive that player out of Moscow and occupy it until fall of that year, do I get to build another unit? Or, since it's in my home country (but even though I don't currently have control of it), is a build not rewarded?
posted by mudpuppie at 8:32 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 8:32 AM on June 20, 2014
mudpuppie - you may have as many units as you have supply centers.
posted by zyxwvut at 8:33 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 8:33 AM on June 20, 2014
Builds are awarded whenever you have more centers that current armies. You can only build in your home regions, however (so it's possible to have, say, 10 centers, 7 armies, and still not get to build if you have lost control of all your home centers).
So in this case, yes, if you take Moscow back, you will get a build, as long as you don't lose another center in the process (or don't already have more armies than centers).
posted by 256 at 8:34 AM on June 20, 2014
So in this case, yes, if you take Moscow back, you will get a build, as long as you don't lose another center in the process (or don't already have more armies than centers).
posted by 256 at 8:34 AM on June 20, 2014
Commenting here to get Recent Activity.
posted by Celsius1414 at 8:43 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by Celsius1414 at 8:43 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Thanks for the info. Planning a march on Moscow, if those wily Germans don't screw me. (Again, not in the Metafilter game! Don't hold it against me!)
posted by mudpuppie at 8:51 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 8:51 AM on June 20, 2014
Entry up!
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:50 AM on June 20, 2014 [5 favorites]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 9:50 AM on June 20, 2014 [5 favorites]
You would also be prevented from building new units if at the end of the fall turn you were occupying all of your home supply centers.
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 9:57 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 9:57 AM on June 20, 2014
BEST. Robocop is bleeding, I really appreciate these, they make the game even more amazing.
posted by corb at 10:28 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by corb at 10:28 AM on June 20, 2014
Austria: Putting the FUN in dysfunction.
posted by mudpuppie at 10:33 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by mudpuppie at 10:33 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Austria understands that Victor Emmanuel is new to his throne, and the young man is still grieving for the deaths of his parents.
posted by corb at 10:59 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 10:59 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Hey, c'mon, we've all suffered the misfortune of a licentious lieutenant in the ranks.
posted by Maecenas at 11:26 AM on June 20, 2014
posted by Maecenas at 11:26 AM on June 20, 2014
A little disappointed y'all didn't take advantage of the sharks/dinos option.
posted by craven_morhead at 11:30 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by craven_morhead at 11:30 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Oh man. That bit about the Austrians flapping their arms caused an involuntary chucklefest which may have drawn a few confused stares.
posted by 256 at 11:45 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by 256 at 11:45 AM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
So, England has finalized her orders.
And, as many people have expressed interest but no one has stepped up, I have gone ahead and started another game, though I will only take part if it is necessary to fill out the 7.
Game Name: Metafilter3
Game Number: 84336
Game Password: thegrey
posted by 256 at 12:18 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
And, as many people have expressed interest but no one has stepped up, I have gone ahead and started another game, though I will only take part if it is necessary to fill out the 7.
Game Name: Metafilter3
Game Number: 84336
Game Password: thegrey
posted by 256 at 12:18 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Sweet. I'm in. Which 6 others of you all can I form firm, unshakable alliances with?
posted by Westringia F. at 12:49 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by Westringia F. at 12:49 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Me! And my very strong friends!
please don't hurt me
posted by craven_morhead at 12:50 PM on June 20, 2014
please don't hurt me
posted by craven_morhead at 12:50 PM on June 20, 2014
he thought he'd gotten out of the game for good
but the game ... hadn't gotten out of him
which is to say: I'm in
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 2:06 PM on June 20, 2014 [3 favorites]
but the game ... hadn't gotten out of him
which is to say: I'm in
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 2:06 PM on June 20, 2014 [3 favorites]
If you need an extra besides 256 (who's already offered), let me know!
posted by mudpuppie at 2:21 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 2:21 PM on June 20, 2014
I have to admit, despite my misgivings about this game, part of me is tempted to join in and get trounced by the good people of Metafilter. Who would never betray anyone.
(or would they?)
posted by nubs at 2:47 PM on June 20, 2014
(or would they?)
posted by nubs at 2:47 PM on June 20, 2014
Soooooo tempted to join! But I haven't played Diplomacy since...well, I don't think my short pre-teen career counts, so technically I've never played. So for now I watch.
posted by Celsius1414 at 3:05 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Celsius1414 at 3:05 PM on June 20, 2014
Please join if you want to! I haven't played in a few years, and I was terrible then
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:10 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:10 PM on June 20, 2014
And I've never played! Am probably terrible now.
posted by craven_morhead at 3:11 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by craven_morhead at 3:11 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
like, to the point of its raising my already never-low anxiety to such a point that I quit midway through two separate games
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:11 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:11 PM on June 20, 2014
My problem is that the game just made me incredibly uncomfortable; to be having all these conversations with people knowing that I was about to either betray them or they were about to betray me - it was really, really hard on me. The idea of "party" games like Werewolf or Mafia make me uncomfortable for similar reasons - its the lying and the deceiving.
But that was face to face and with people I saw every day/every week. Online might be different. And I'm also older and maybe better about keeping the game separate from personal stuff.
posted by nubs at 3:15 PM on June 20, 2014
But that was face to face and with people I saw every day/every week. Online might be different. And I'm also older and maybe better about keeping the game separate from personal stuff.
posted by nubs at 3:15 PM on June 20, 2014
OK, I joined. I think I was the last one in.
I'll probably be given Italy, which I am given to understand sucks.
posted by nubs at 3:18 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
I'll probably be given Italy, which I am given to understand sucks.
posted by nubs at 3:18 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
The waiting is the hardest part.
(I encourage you all to get THAT song preemptively and firmly stuck in your head. Otherwise, when the game starts, it'll be this instead. Oh yes, trust me on this one.)
posted by mudpuppie at 3:22 PM on June 20, 2014
(I encourage you all to get THAT song preemptively and firmly stuck in your head. Otherwise, when the game starts, it'll be this instead. Oh yes, trust me on this one.)
posted by mudpuppie at 3:22 PM on June 20, 2014
Drat - tried to join Metafilter3 - no room
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:24 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:24 PM on June 20, 2014
I'll probably be given Italy, which I am given to understand sucks.
The game is reasonably well balanced. Yes, looking at large numbers of games by experienced players, Italy is the least likely to win. And, probably, it is the weakest if you tried to play the game as a straight tactics game with no politics or diplomacy. But those factors are rendered essentially irrelevant in the greater scheme of things, especially among newish players.
posted by 256 at 4:24 PM on June 20, 2014
The game is reasonably well balanced. Yes, looking at large numbers of games by experienced players, Italy is the least likely to win. And, probably, it is the weakest if you tried to play the game as a straight tactics game with no politics or diplomacy. But those factors are rendered essentially irrelevant in the greater scheme of things, especially among newish players.
posted by 256 at 4:24 PM on June 20, 2014
Drat - tried to join Metafilter3 - no room
Heh. It's starting to look like we have enough interested players to form a veritable league.
posted by 256 at 4:25 PM on June 20, 2014 [2 favorites]
Heh. It's starting to look like we have enough interested players to form a veritable league.
posted by 256 at 4:25 PM on June 20, 2014 [2 favorites]
I'm starting up a Metafilter4 game. There seems to be demand. Suggestions as to how long the deadlines should be?
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:27 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:27 PM on June 20, 2014
Still waiting for 2 confirmations on Metafilter3.
I'm going to be heading out in about an hour or so, will that affect playability?
posted by divabat at 4:31 PM on June 20, 2014
I'm going to be heading out in about an hour or so, will that affect playability?
posted by divabat at 4:31 PM on June 20, 2014
ok, so I've been drinking all evening and I've already signed u p to a new storium game, so yeah, why not! MeFi 4 let's do this. Do you have a game number?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:33 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:33 PM on June 20, 2014
Suggestions as to how long the deadlines should be?
I can tell you that the 3-day one is making me a nervous wreck. I'd go with 2 days.
posted by mudpuppie at 4:36 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
I can tell you that the 3-day one is making me a nervous wreck. I'd go with 2 days.
posted by mudpuppie at 4:36 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
I think we have 3 days to put our orders in divabat, so I think we're ok. Have a family dinner myself, so I probably won't be checking in until later tonight.
posted by nubs at 4:36 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by nubs at 4:36 PM on June 20, 2014
When I search for Metafilter I only get 84113, not games 2 or 3 (or 4). Any idea why/
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:41 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:41 PM on June 20, 2014
Yes, divabat, once a game fills with 7 players then they each have to confirm which begins the timer and attributes the countries randomly. So as long as you have confirmed, you will have whatever time period the game is set to for your first move (and it might actually be double for the first move) once all players have confirmed.
And if it is not too late to say so, justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow, I agree with mudpuppie in saying 3 days is too long.
posted by zyxwvut at 4:41 PM on June 20, 2014
And if it is not too late to say so, justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow, I agree with mudpuppie in saying 3 days is too long.
posted by zyxwvut at 4:41 PM on June 20, 2014
Just this guy, are you searching under Join Game or Watch Game?
posted by zyxwvut at 4:42 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 4:42 PM on June 20, 2014
Uh, active game. I don't see a watch game tab
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:44 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:44 PM on June 20, 2014
Well you don't have any active games yet, since you haven't joined any. Do you have a Join Game option? Maybe the creator can post the game number for easier access for people...
posted by zyxwvut at 4:47 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 4:47 PM on June 20, 2014
Go to the Games tab, then go to the Active Games link within that tab, on the right. I suspect you're only coming up with the one game because it searches specific words, rather than letters within words, so that "metafilter" and "metafilter2" register as completely different.
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 4:51 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 4:51 PM on June 20, 2014
OK so,
84108 = MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1
84113 = Metafilter1
84336 = Metafilter3 (not yet active but not joinable)
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:53 PM on June 20, 2014
84108 = MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1
84113 = Metafilter1
84336 = Metafilter3 (not yet active but not joinable)
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:53 PM on June 20, 2014
Metafilter3 is waiting on 2 confirmations.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:05 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:05 PM on June 20, 2014
...and now we've got a fourth game starting up!
Our units on the board will be T-Rexes and Sharks. Our game is the best game.
Game Name: Metafilter4
Game Number: 84360
Game Password: thegrey
Countries are randomly selected - no downside to be the last person to join.
Order phase deadline: 3 days
Retreat phase deadline: 2 days
Build phase deadline: 3 days
Less than three days and there's not much time for back-and-forth negotiation. I made the retreat deadline shorter because there aren't usually negotiations to be done then.
6 players needed - here we go...
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 5:26 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Our units on the board will be T-Rexes and Sharks. Our game is the best game.
Game Name: Metafilter4
Game Number: 84360
Game Password: thegrey
Countries are randomly selected - no downside to be the last person to join.
Order phase deadline: 3 days
Retreat phase deadline: 2 days
Build phase deadline: 3 days
Less than three days and there's not much time for back-and-forth negotiation. I made the retreat deadline shorter because there aren't usually negotiations to be done then.
6 players needed - here we go...
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 5:26 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Oh man, fuck Howard Cosell. We've got a Robocop.
Things are heating up, commentary-wise!
posted by mudpuppie at 5:32 PM on June 20, 2014
Things are heating up, commentary-wise!
posted by mudpuppie at 5:32 PM on June 20, 2014
Ha ha! I'll bet the kaiser gave the bleeding rag that last quote himself just to keep us all guessing.
posted by zyxwvut at 5:35 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by zyxwvut at 5:35 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
metafilter3 - Westringia F. and cjlauer, please confirm if you're free
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:39 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:39 PM on June 20, 2014
This is the best thing ever and is going to turn me into a raving addict.
posted by corb at 6:30 PM on June 20, 2014
posted by corb at 6:30 PM on June 20, 2014
I completely agree, corb, and the next turn can't come quick enough. Of course, that stab in the back will come all too fast. But the atmosphere of metafilter and the bleeding rag are really raising this game to the next level!
Also, you can tell me, did you tell the bleeding rag about the Germans being traitors?
posted by zyxwvut at 6:39 PM on June 20, 2014
Also, you can tell me, did you tell the bleeding rag about the Germans being traitors?
posted by zyxwvut at 6:39 PM on June 20, 2014
Okay, because I admit that I have a compulsive personality, I've created yet another, faster-paced game for anyone who wants to play. (You can play up to three with a free account.)
Game Name: Metafilter: The Reckoning
Game Number: 84371
Game Password: metafilter
24-hour order period, with a 12-hour period for builds and retreats.
Come hither, my pretties.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:44 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Game Name: Metafilter: The Reckoning
Game Number: 84371
Game Password: metafilter
24-hour order period, with a 12-hour period for builds and retreats.
Come hither, my pretties.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:44 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
I know, seriously. Never have so few fought so hard to be screwed over by so many.
posted by corb at 6:54 PM on June 20, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by corb at 6:54 PM on June 20, 2014 [2 favorites]
This is an unconscionable slur against my character, and I'm deeply offended. Fie on you, brigand! Don't hide behind the press, accuse me in public!
posted by Maecenas at 9:44 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by Maecenas at 9:44 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
I'm relishing the long turn times. More time for people to second guess their allegiances an engage in desperate diplomacy before moving.
That said, England's moves are still finalized.
posted by 256 at 11:38 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
That said, England's moves are still finalized.
posted by 256 at 11:38 PM on June 20, 2014 [1 favorite]
Would it be too metagamey to go back and retroactively favorite every post my opponents have ever made in order to convince them that I am a good guy?
posted by 256 at 11:41 PM on June 20, 2014 [3 favorites]
posted by 256 at 11:41 PM on June 20, 2014 [3 favorites]
I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I AM DOING RAAAAAA
posted by divabat at 1:30 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by divabat at 1:30 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
Metafilter3 begins!
TURKEY: ChurchHatesTucker
RUSSIA: nubs
GERMANY: cjlauer
ENGLAND: Westringia F.
FRANCE: Rustic Etruscan
ITALY: divabat
AUSTRIA: craven_morhead
Good luck to all!
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:37 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
TURKEY: ChurchHatesTucker
RUSSIA: nubs
GERMANY: cjlauer
ENGLAND: Westringia F.
FRANCE: Rustic Etruscan
ITALY: divabat
AUSTRIA: craven_morhead
Good luck to all!
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 3:37 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
I'm a little disappointed: I like the idea of playing Italy, not only because it's a real wild card of a country, but also because it would have fit my screen name better.
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:13 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:13 AM on June 21, 2014
I have joined both metafilter4 and Metafilter: The Reckoning, but both need a couple more players.
posted by Diablevert at 5:41 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by Diablevert at 5:41 AM on June 21, 2014
TURKEY: ChurchHatesTucker
RUSSIA: nubs
GERMANY: cjlauer
ENGLAND: Westringia F.
FRANCE: Rustic Etruscan
ITALY: divabat
AUSTRIA: craven_morhead
Good luck to all!
Indeed! Let us find our solutions through peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding.
posted by nubs at 7:09 AM on June 21, 2014
RUSSIA: nubs
GERMANY: cjlauer
ENGLAND: Westringia F.
FRANCE: Rustic Etruscan
ITALY: divabat
AUSTRIA: craven_morhead
Good luck to all!
Indeed! Let us find our solutions through peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding.
posted by nubs at 7:09 AM on June 21, 2014
Doings are afoot.
Yay for doings! Things about that:
1. I like that everybody got a build, because I'm a positivist carebear sucker about multiplayer games and 1901 is really the only year in Diplomacy where that philosophy can succeed, and then even then sometimes it doesn't. I don't know if I've ever seen someone actually lose the game in 1901 (though I think it would be mechanically possible for Austria to do so), but I've certainly seen plenty of no-builds and a handful of actual net losses and nobody likes that.
2. Italy has gained one supply center and zero friends. This is why it is tough to play Italy; other than sailing off to Tunisia, there's really nothing you can do that's not at least contentious (even without having to contend with flying boats, Greece is going to be at least a point of discussion with Austria and Turkey both) if not outright invasive (Marseilles, Trieste). Good luck!
3. It looks like the Atlantic might get kind of weird kind of soon. Bloody navys.
4. KEEP SWEDEN INDEPENDENT
posted by cortex (staff) at 7:28 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Yay for doings! Things about that:
1. I like that everybody got a build, because I'm a positivist carebear sucker about multiplayer games and 1901 is really the only year in Diplomacy where that philosophy can succeed, and then even then sometimes it doesn't. I don't know if I've ever seen someone actually lose the game in 1901 (though I think it would be mechanically possible for Austria to do so), but I've certainly seen plenty of no-builds and a handful of actual net losses and nobody likes that.
2. Italy has gained one supply center and zero friends. This is why it is tough to play Italy; other than sailing off to Tunisia, there's really nothing you can do that's not at least contentious (even without having to contend with flying boats, Greece is going to be at least a point of discussion with Austria and Turkey both) if not outright invasive (Marseilles, Trieste). Good luck!
3. It looks like the Atlantic might get kind of weird kind of soon. Bloody navys.
4. KEEP SWEDEN INDEPENDENT
posted by cortex (staff) at 7:28 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
I was just gonna cortex's #4 sounded suspiciously Frenchish and lo and behold... who has favorited his comment?
posted by zyxwvut at 7:56 AM on June 21, 2014 [3 favorites]
posted by zyxwvut at 7:56 AM on June 21, 2014 [3 favorites]
I can already see how, later in the game, the diplomatic apparatus must turn into a system for delivering sick burns.
posted by COBRA! at 7:59 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 7:59 AM on June 21, 2014
(Seriously, is there a For Dummies guide anywhere? I read the instructions but am not sure how strategy works.)
posted by divabat at 8:10 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by divabat at 8:10 AM on June 21, 2014
3. It looks like the Atlantic might get kind of weird kind of soon. Bloody naves.
It's a traditional start in Diplomacy when France and England bounce off the English Channel.
posted by eriko at 8:39 AM on June 21, 2014
It's a traditional start in Diplomacy when France and England bounce off the English Channel.
posted by eriko at 8:39 AM on June 21, 2014
divabat: There's a New Player Guide here, a collection of common openings here, and an archive of articles on strategy here. (Note: Some of the stuff in there manages to be sexist as hell, particularly Richard Sharp's book.) Hope this helps!
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 8:44 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 8:44 AM on June 21, 2014
Would any experienced Diplomats (256 excluded) be willing to field a question over MeMail?
posted by Maecenas at 8:51 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by Maecenas at 8:51 AM on June 21, 2014
I'm a little disappointed: I like the idea of playing Italy, not only because it's a real wild card of a country, but also because it would have fit my screen name better.
Rustic Gaul doesn't have the same ring to it.
posted by Rock Steady at 8:54 AM on June 21, 2014
Rustic Gaul doesn't have the same ring to it.
posted by Rock Steady at 8:54 AM on June 21, 2014
From the New player guide:
Italy is also often a hard country to play for new players
o_O
posted by divabat at 9:04 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
Italy is also often a hard country to play for new players
o_O
posted by divabat at 9:04 AM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
A lot of us are newbies in this game. It'll be fun! Hope to hear from you soon!
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 9:22 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 9:22 AM on June 21, 2014
As am I (unless you count 1 partial game from like twenty years ago) - so Metafilter 3 appears to be the newbie game.
posted by nubs at 9:28 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by nubs at 9:28 AM on June 21, 2014
I could field game mechanics questions. Memail me.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:49 AM on June 21, 2014
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:49 AM on June 21, 2014
Metafilter4 is filling up fast. 3 spots left.
Game Name: Metafilter4
Game Number: 84360
Game Password: thegrey
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 10:07 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Game Name: Metafilter4
Game Number: 84360
Game Password: thegrey
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 10:07 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Italy has gained one supply center and zero friends.
YOU DON'T KNOW THAT
posted by mudpuppie at 11:47 AM on June 21, 2014 [3 favorites]
YOU DON'T KNOW THAT
posted by mudpuppie at 11:47 AM on June 21, 2014 [3 favorites]
NO ONE IN TUNIS LIKES YOU
posted by cortex (staff) at 11:55 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by cortex (staff) at 11:55 AM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Hey, I brought them a case of cheap wine and a whole shipping container full of Andrea Bocelli CDs. They like me just fine.
posted by mudpuppie at 12:28 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 12:28 PM on June 21, 2014
Yeah, but I think that goodwill got burned away with the "Carthage? More Like Fartage!" t-shirts.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 12:30 PM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 12:30 PM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
The dadaist movement appears to have started a decade and a half early in Earth-84113.
posted by COBRA! at 1:02 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 1:02 PM on June 21, 2014
I'm signed up for Metafilter4. Name of Enlighten. First time playing, be gentle.
posted by Gratishades at 3:45 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by Gratishades at 3:45 PM on June 21, 2014
Metafilter4 is now full. To everybody playing: check your email. You need to confirm with the server that you are playing. Once everyone has confirmed we can get started.
This is a very long metatalk thread entirely dedicated to mutual hatred which has been happy and friendly. I'm confused and afraid.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:03 PM on June 21, 2014
This is a very long metatalk thread entirely dedicated to mutual hatred which has been happy and friendly. I'm confused and afraid.
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 4:03 PM on June 21, 2014
Ah, the waiting. Was I too aggressive? Do they think I declared war on them? Did my friendly overtures to everyone actually seal my doom? Or are certain unnamed people just busy with piffling non-Diplomacy pursuits
WHO KNOWS
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 4:07 PM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
WHO KNOWS
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 4:07 PM on June 21, 2014 [1 favorite]
This is a very long metatalk thread entirely dedicated to mutual hatred which has been happy and friendly. I'm confused and afraid.
Just wait until 1910, when women start parading for suffrage in the streets of NYC. Then it will become the Metatalk you know and love.
posted by mudpuppie at 4:07 PM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Just wait until 1910, when women start parading for suffrage in the streets of NYC. Then it will become the Metatalk you know and love.
posted by mudpuppie at 4:07 PM on June 21, 2014 [2 favorites]
Hey, we need three more to join Metafilter: The Reckoning (84371). Please join if you're of a mind to! Doesn't matter if you're playing in other games.
posted by mudpuppie at 5:02 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 5:02 PM on June 21, 2014
I can't imagine having two games going simultaneously. One is full of enough of questions and secrecy.
posted by nubs at 7:03 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by nubs at 7:03 PM on June 21, 2014
Yeah, I'm a little tempted to hop in another, because I'm enjoying the first so much, but I think I'd go insane. And my wife would definitely think I was insane.
posted by COBRA! at 7:20 PM on June 21, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 7:20 PM on June 21, 2014
I just wanted to say how much I absolutely love that robocop's wordpress has entirely superceded the regular public press for our game. It is beyond perfect.
posted by 256 at 3:30 AM on June 22, 2014
posted by 256 at 3:30 AM on June 22, 2014
Hello.
I am in MeFi4 playing England
Who is who in that game?
ENGLAND = ME
Germany = Gratishades
who else?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:03 AM on June 22, 2014
I am in MeFi4 playing England
Who is who in that game?
ENGLAND = ME
Germany = Gratishades
who else?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 4:03 AM on June 22, 2014
I am Austria in MeFi 4
posted by Diablevert at 6:30 AM on June 22, 2014
posted by Diablevert at 6:30 AM on June 22, 2014
Turkey = the Sultan = picard = justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow = me
I now have too many pseudonyms
Germany = Gratishades
Italy = Maecenas
Turkey =justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow
Austria = Diablevert
England = Just this guy, y'know
?
?
To the nations of Europe:
It is vital that we set aside our petty differences and unite against out common enemy: the sun. Since the dawn of time it has been mankind's dream to blot out the sun. It is a fusion weapon of immense power which even now bombards our planet with deadly radiation. Our shields (known as the ozone layer) are at 48%. Now it has increased its attack on the Northern hemisphere to maximum power.
Yours in entirely unrealistic hope of peace in our time,
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:51 AM on June 22, 2014
I now have too many pseudonyms
Germany = Gratishades
Italy = Maecenas
Turkey =justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow
Austria = Diablevert
England = Just this guy, y'know
?
?
To the nations of Europe:
It is vital that we set aside our petty differences and unite against out common enemy: the sun. Since the dawn of time it has been mankind's dream to blot out the sun. It is a fusion weapon of immense power which even now bombards our planet with deadly radiation. Our shields (known as the ozone layer) are at 48%. Now it has increased its attack on the Northern hemisphere to maximum power.
Yours in entirely unrealistic hope of peace in our time,
posted by justsomebodythatyouusedtoknow at 9:51 AM on June 22, 2014
> Or are certain unnamed people just busy with piffling non-Diplomacy pursuits
Returning to this game as an adult, I come to find that it's as much about juggling priorities as it is about juggling allegiances. One can't just spurn one'sjob family MetaFilter addiction.
Not that it precludes those other explanations, of course!
But I keep wanting you to be Italy, Rustic Etruscan. WHY ARE YOU NOT ITALY
posted by Westringia F. at 11:36 AM on June 22, 2014
Returning to this game as an adult, I come to find that it's as much about juggling priorities as it is about juggling allegiances. One can't just spurn one's
Not that it precludes those other explanations, of course!
But I keep wanting you to be Italy, Rustic Etruscan. WHY ARE YOU NOT ITALY
posted by Westringia F. at 11:36 AM on June 22, 2014
Hello all you Diplomats, I have come to realize that I have gotten overly excited by all the intrigue, and have over-extended myself by joining a second game. It has only just begun and the initial exchanges are only now coming in...so if you take over for me now you will have full control from the very beginning. There is still more than one full day to submit initial moves.
MeMail me to take part in Metafilter: The Reckoning
posted by zyxwvut at 12:03 PM on June 22, 2014
MeMail me to take part in Metafilter: The Reckoning
posted by zyxwvut at 12:03 PM on June 22, 2014
Actually how do people take over? I just realised that I may not be able to commit wholheheartedly to this either.
The first orders are out on my end but they're basic 101 stuff. You'll play Italy. This is for Metafilter3.
posted by divabat at 12:17 PM on June 22, 2014
The first orders are out on my end but they're basic 101 stuff. You'll play Italy. This is for Metafilter3.
posted by divabat at 12:17 PM on June 22, 2014
If I remember right, takeovers are a real pain in the butt in playdiplomacy's system, but since we're all coming from another forum, some kind of UserID/password exchange may be doable. But it's been a while since I used playdiplomacy. I could be wrong.
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 12:45 PM on June 22, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 12:45 PM on June 22, 2014
In the Active Games tab, under each game there is a Name a Substitute that I expect will do the job - it just asks for the username of the sub.
posted by zyxwvut at 12:48 PM on June 22, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 12:48 PM on June 22, 2014
Can I just say that, as the token island nation, I'm not thrilled with the fact that everyone is building navies....
posted by 256 at 6:04 PM on June 22, 2014
posted by 256 at 6:04 PM on June 22, 2014
Ah, goodo.
MefiMail if you'd like Italy - things are getting interesting already!
(I'm out travelling on Wednesday for a while, hence me not wanting to keep the rest of the team waiting for me to catch up!)
posted by divabat at 7:57 PM on June 22, 2014
MefiMail if you'd like Italy - things are getting interesting already!
(I'm out travelling on Wednesday for a while, hence me not wanting to keep the rest of the team waiting for me to catch up!)
posted by divabat at 7:57 PM on June 22, 2014
I am Russia/zoltan2357 in Metafilter4, and a noob. I'm looking at the messages etc. now and will figure out what the hell I'm doing tomorrow afternoon.
posted by mpc at 9:42 PM on June 22, 2014
posted by mpc at 9:42 PM on June 22, 2014
Don't worry, 256, I doubt Turkey's fleet could make it to your island before the game ends.
posted by zyxwvut at 3:40 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 3:40 AM on June 23, 2014
Can I just say that, as the token island nation, I'm not thrilled with the fact that everyone is building navies....
posted by 256
If it makes you feel any better, my navy looks like this.
posted by COBRA! at 5:31 AM on June 23, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by 256
If it makes you feel any better, my navy looks like this.
posted by COBRA! at 5:31 AM on June 23, 2014 [2 favorites]
I am generously abstaining from additional navies. As a sign of affection for England, clearly.
posted by corb at 6:00 AM on June 23, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 6:00 AM on June 23, 2014 [1 favorite]
I am confused about the reckoning game --- it says orders every 24 hours, but it started on Sunday morning and there's somehow 12 hours left?
posted by Diablevert at 8:03 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by Diablevert at 8:03 AM on June 23, 2014
The first round is twice the normal time.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 8:08 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 8:08 AM on June 23, 2014
Two hours to go on MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1 and people haven't put in their orders yet. Not sure if I should send out a Public Press or if that would be being a busy-body.
posted by octothorpe at 10:57 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 10:57 AM on June 23, 2014
Sometimes I think people are furiously negotiating. I know it feels like stuff is always flying towards the end.
posted by corb at 10:59 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by corb at 10:59 AM on June 23, 2014
No one is negotiating with me. Oh crap, that means they're all ganging up against me.
posted by octothorpe at 11:01 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 11:01 AM on June 23, 2014
Two hours to go on MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1 and people haven't put in their orders yet. Not sure if I should send out a Public Press or if that would be being a busy-body.
I was thinking about doing the same thing.
Dumb noob question: Is it the case that, once everybody finalizes their orders, the turn happens then automatically? Or does it wait until the time runs out?
posted by jbickers at 11:02 AM on June 23, 2014
I was thinking about doing the same thing.
Dumb noob question: Is it the case that, once everybody finalizes their orders, the turn happens then automatically? Or does it wait until the time runs out?
posted by jbickers at 11:02 AM on June 23, 2014
Dumb noob question: Is it the case that, once everybody finalizes their orders, the turn happens then automatically? Or does it wait until the time runs out?
That's a setting you choose when you create the game. The default is to process all moves immediately if everyone finalizes.
posted by 256 at 11:04 AM on June 23, 2014
That's a setting you choose when you create the game. The default is to process all moves immediately if everyone finalizes.
posted by 256 at 11:04 AM on June 23, 2014
From the playdiplomacy FAQ:
What does the Finalize Orders line on the orders tab do?posted by octothorpe at 11:05 AM on June 23, 2014
Clicking this just tells the game that you are ready to proceed to the next turn. If everyone has agreed to proceed, then when the final player clicks Finalize the game will immediately progress to the next turn even if the deadline has not yet passed. If you click Finalize and the game does not progress because not everyone has voted to continue, then you can always UnFinalize by simply entering a new order for a unit. This immediately unfinalizes you, and when you are ready again you can now hit Finalize again.
Sometimes that means you should negotiate with them. I may have forgot to initiate communications with a specific country and now it's possible they may not be talking to me.
posted by corb at 11:06 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by corb at 11:06 AM on June 23, 2014
No one is negotiating with me. Oh crap, that means they're all ganging up against me.
I was thinking the same thing...
posted by xbonesgt at 11:35 AM on June 23, 2014
I was thinking the same thing...
posted by xbonesgt at 11:35 AM on June 23, 2014
Just, uh, a heads-up about "finalization." If you're the last person to finalize, the game will take some time to process the move. In that time, you can still see the map. And give orders to units. And if you give those units new orders, they will take those new orders without resetting the "finalize" switch. And you might be sad.
posted by Maecenas at 11:49 AM on June 23, 2014
posted by Maecenas at 11:49 AM on June 23, 2014
Oh, I know.
And you know that I know.
And I know that you know that I know.
But do you know that I know that you know that I know?
And if so, do I know that you know that I know that you know that I know?
No.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:57 AM on June 23, 2014
And you know that I know.
And I know that you know that I know.
But do you know that I know that you know that I know?
And if so, do I know that you know that I know that you know that I know?
No.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:57 AM on June 23, 2014
Under the sea it snows up, and the rain is dry as bone. I know. I know…
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 12:09 PM on June 23, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 12:09 PM on June 23, 2014 [1 favorite]
Is there a way to see who has finalized orders and who has not?
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 4:12 PM on June 23, 2014
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 4:12 PM on June 23, 2014
Is there a way to see who has finalized orders and who has not?
No. You can ask though...
posted by 256 at 4:45 PM on June 23, 2014
No. You can ask though...
posted by 256 at 4:45 PM on June 23, 2014
No. You can ask though...
That's a good joke you told just there. ;)
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 4:55 PM on June 23, 2014 [2 favorites]
That's a good joke you told just there. ;)
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 4:55 PM on June 23, 2014 [2 favorites]
Must be some intense negotiations going on in MF3...
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:34 PM on June 23, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:34 PM on June 23, 2014
Not necessarily. divabat, are we still waiting on a new Italy?
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 6:39 PM on June 23, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 6:39 PM on June 23, 2014
I finalised my first set of orders - still haven't heard from a new Italy though.
posted by divabat at 6:46 PM on June 23, 2014
posted by divabat at 6:46 PM on June 23, 2014
If a newbie can be tolerated I will play or take over. Mefimail me if there is a spot?
posted by bystander at 12:48 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by bystander at 12:48 AM on June 24, 2014
Most are newbies, so other newbies are very tolerated.
posted by craven_morhead at 7:20 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by craven_morhead at 7:20 AM on June 24, 2014
bystander: I'm me-mailing you in regards to Metafilter: the Reckoning.
posted by zyxwvut at 7:25 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 7:25 AM on June 24, 2014
Somebody woke up on the wrong side of the English Channel!
posted by zyxwvut at 9:07 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by zyxwvut at 9:07 AM on June 24, 2014
Hey, I have dumb noob question about orders that I need a hand with --- preferably from someone not playing either the MeFi4 or Reckoning games? If one of y'all could memail me and help me out with exactly how I'm being a dumbass, I'd appreciate it.
posted by Diablevert at 9:08 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by Diablevert at 9:08 AM on June 24, 2014
If by "wrong side" you mean "nowhere near" then possibly.
posted by divabat at 9:46 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by divabat at 9:46 AM on June 24, 2014
Can you have multiple units in a territory? I'm looking at Venice there.
Also, the map seems glitchy. The North Sea support for the Channel doesn't show up.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 11:36 AM on June 24, 2014
Also, the map seems glitchy. The North Sea support for the Channel doesn't show up.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 11:36 AM on June 24, 2014
Can you have multiple units in a territory? I'm looking at Venice there.
No, A Tyrolia supported A Marseilles - Piedmont, so A Marseilles dislodged A Piedmont. A Piedmont has been moved over to the side to indicate this, so it only looks like it's now in Venice. You can never have more than one unit in a space.
That said, could there be a fleet on the north coast of Spain and a fleet on the south coast, or does a fleet on one coast prevent another fleet docking on the other?
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 11:39 AM on June 24, 2014
No, A Tyrolia supported A Marseilles - Piedmont, so A Marseilles dislodged A Piedmont. A Piedmont has been moved over to the side to indicate this, so it only looks like it's now in Venice. You can never have more than one unit in a space.
That said, could there be a fleet on the north coast of Spain and a fleet on the south coast, or does a fleet on one coast prevent another fleet docking on the other?
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 11:39 AM on June 24, 2014
I guess support is not being illustrated because France's Picardy support into the Channel is also not illustrated. Whereas land units' support are being illustrated.
As for Venice, that is a retreating unit which will have to be moved now. So, no, you cannot have multiple units in a territory.
posted by zyxwvut at 11:42 AM on June 24, 2014
As for Venice, that is a retreating unit which will have to be moved now. So, no, you cannot have multiple units in a territory.
posted by zyxwvut at 11:42 AM on June 24, 2014
At what point in this game can I stop pretending to know what the fuck I am doing?
don't read this, my enemies
posted by Think_Long at 11:47 AM on June 24, 2014 [2 favorites]
don't read this, my enemies
posted by Think_Long at 11:47 AM on June 24, 2014 [2 favorites]
Ah, only successful support is shown on the map. Got it.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 11:48 AM on June 24, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 11:48 AM on June 24, 2014
Oh and note that (I think...) in build and retreat phases, you need to finalize your orders even if you have no builds or retreats.
posted by 256 at 12:16 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by 256 at 12:16 PM on June 24, 2014
Shit's getting surreal over there.
posted by COBRA! at 12:18 PM on June 24, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by COBRA! at 12:18 PM on June 24, 2014 [1 favorite]
Rustic, my understanding is that the North/South coasts don't allow more than 1 fleet to occupy a country -- instead, they only prevent the fleet from crossing the country overland.
posted by craven_morhead at 1:00 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by craven_morhead at 1:00 PM on June 24, 2014
That's correct, craven. A fleet in a country without marked coasts can move to any sea or coastal region bordering the country, regarding of which side they entered from. A fleet in a country with marked coasts can only move to regions adjacent to the coast they are on.
So for example, a fleet can enter Norway from the Barents Sea and then go straight from there to Sweden. But a fleet that enters St. Petersburg from the Barents Sea cannot go from there to Finland, because that borders only the south coast.
And yes, only one unit can ever be in a country at the same time.
posted by 256 at 1:38 PM on June 24, 2014
So for example, a fleet can enter Norway from the Barents Sea and then go straight from there to Sweden. But a fleet that enters St. Petersburg from the Barents Sea cannot go from there to Finland, because that borders only the south coast.
And yes, only one unit can ever be in a country at the same time.
posted by 256 at 1:38 PM on June 24, 2014
It Begins!
posted by craven_morhead at 4:07 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by craven_morhead at 4:07 PM on June 24, 2014
I have messaged divabat.
Prepare yourselves...
So that means there is a vacant slot for another player with zyxwvut.
posted by bystander at 4:08 PM on June 24, 2014
Prepare yourselves...
So that means there is a vacant slot for another player with zyxwvut.
posted by bystander at 4:08 PM on June 24, 2014
That will be good timing bystander; our first move just went through.
posted by nubs at 4:51 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by nubs at 4:51 PM on June 24, 2014
also, welcome!
posted by craven_morhead at 4:54 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by craven_morhead at 4:54 PM on June 24, 2014
Oh yes, welcome. We are having a wonderfully peaceful game!
hides knife behind back
posted by nubs at 5:00 PM on June 24, 2014
hides knife behind back
posted by nubs at 5:00 PM on June 24, 2014
Welcome the European Co-Prosperity Sphere, bystander.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:08 PM on June 24, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:08 PM on June 24, 2014
Can you have multiple units in a territory? I'm looking at Venice there.
What you're seeing in Venice is a 5'3" mudpuppie with a fallen comrade slung over her shoulder, attempting to carry him southward. It's slow-going.
posted by mudpuppie at 7:04 PM on June 24, 2014 [2 favorites]
What you're seeing in Venice is a 5'3" mudpuppie with a fallen comrade slung over her shoulder, attempting to carry him southward. It's slow-going.
posted by mudpuppie at 7:04 PM on June 24, 2014 [2 favorites]
Ugh. This game is eating my brain.
posted by octothorpe at 4:43 AM on June 25, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 4:43 AM on June 25, 2014
Second year and I've already been double-crossed.
posted by octothorpe at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 1:00 PM on June 25, 2014
Second year and I've already been double-crossed.
Why so late?
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:05 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
Why so late?
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:05 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
I'm having a really hard time getting my brain wrapped around how this game works. I'm sure it will click with me over time, but after a few moves, it seems like the kind of game that will never end, just endlessly taking and retaking territories. If anyone has links to any particularly well-written entry-level essays on strategery and the basics, I sure would appreciate them.
posted by jbickers at 1:26 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by jbickers at 1:26 PM on June 25, 2014
octothorpe: Second year and I've already been double-crossed.
Hey, sorry about that, man, but I can't let a Russia-Turkey alliance go unchallenged.
posted by Rock Steady at 2:01 PM on June 25, 2014
Hey, sorry about that, man, but I can't let a Russia-Turkey alliance go unchallenged.
posted by Rock Steady at 2:01 PM on June 25, 2014
I'm thoroughly enjoying watching how the MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1 game is playing out. (Probably because I'm not playing in it.)
posted by mudpuppie at 2:24 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 2:24 PM on June 25, 2014
I'm sure it will click with me over time, but after a few moves, it seems like the kind of game that will never end, just endlessly taking and retaking territories.
I had that feeling too, but after Spring of 1905, you can start petitioning for a draw.
posted by mudpuppie at 2:26 PM on June 25, 2014
I had that feeling too, but after Spring of 1905, you can start petitioning for a draw.
posted by mudpuppie at 2:26 PM on June 25, 2014
I'm thoroughly enjoying watching how the MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1 game is playing out. (Probably because I'm not playing in it.)
Indeed! It's especially interesting because they are in the same early phase as us, but their map looks so different.
posted by 256 at 2:34 PM on June 25, 2014
Indeed! It's especially interesting because they are in the same early phase as us, but their map looks so different.
posted by 256 at 2:34 PM on June 25, 2014
Well, someone just got smacked in the face with a glove.
posted by mudpuppie at 3:10 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 3:10 PM on June 25, 2014
I imagine the French Premiere playing eenie-meanie-miney-moi trying to predict which of Portugal, Spain, or Brest to protect.
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:19 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by robocop is bleeding at 3:19 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
You give him far too much credit. Premiere Azucar is in a lengthy absinthe fugue, and Field Marshal Pille is still occupied with the bowel difficulties of his hounds. Some corporal will probably wind up making the deployment decisions.
posted by COBRA! at 4:06 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by COBRA! at 4:06 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
So basically, for those who will be setting up camps in French territory, watch out for dog shit.
posted by mudpuppie at 4:15 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 4:15 PM on June 25, 2014
Yeah, but that's a given even in peacetime. Dog shit and big packs of Juggalos.
posted by COBRA! at 4:21 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by COBRA! at 4:21 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
Dog shit and big packs of Juggalos.
Um, England is now reconsidering her plans...
posted by 256 at 4:23 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
Um, England is now reconsidering her plans...
posted by 256 at 4:23 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
Look, man, no one said that running a state based on the principle of "letting it all hang out" was going to be a pretty thing.
posted by COBRA! at 4:25 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by COBRA! at 4:25 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
MF3 is getting to the end of the first year, any explanation for how builds work (or how combat works, I still don't get why this didn't result in a retreat to Sevastpool, for example.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 7:10 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 7:10 PM on June 25, 2014
… would be appreciated. That is all.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 7:11 PM on June 25, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 7:11 PM on June 25, 2014
It did, you have to look at the next phase. Retreats aren't automatic.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:20 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by the man of twists and turns at 7:20 PM on June 25, 2014 [1 favorite]
Yeah the display makes it look like that fleet was destroyed, but the flames just mean it was beat and needs to retreat or disband. It retreated to sev. the next turn (though I had the option to disband it if I wanted).
posted by Think_Long at 7:29 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by Think_Long at 7:29 PM on June 25, 2014 [2 favorites]
I'm beginning to think all of us in MF3 could use an experienced coach. Or at least to read the flippin' rule book again, because that would've kept me from looking like an ignoramus in an exchange this evening.
People will now decide to take me out because I am apparently the stupid one at the table.
posted by nubs at 9:52 PM on June 25, 2014
People will now decide to take me out because I am apparently the stupid one at the table.
posted by nubs at 9:52 PM on June 25, 2014
Even though I've played a bunch of times, I could have benefited from a closer review of the rules. I totally fucked up my retreat since I forgot that you couldn't retreat to any space that had had another piece in it during the same turn. That might have cost me the game, we'll see.
posted by octothorpe at 3:43 AM on June 26, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 3:43 AM on June 26, 2014
Yeah, shit is definitely getting real in Metafilter 1. War, war, everywhere!
posted by corb at 3:50 AM on June 26, 2014
posted by corb at 3:50 AM on June 26, 2014
Germany is content to just drink beer and eat wurst in our little corner.
posted by Maecenas at 7:25 AM on June 26, 2014
posted by Maecenas at 7:25 AM on June 26, 2014
I'm not sure I like this everyone-ganging-up-on-France thing going on in Metafilter1...
posted by xbonesgt at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2014
posted by xbonesgt at 12:35 PM on June 26, 2014
Could be worse. Could be mauled by a Pit Bull...
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 12:39 PM on June 26, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 12:39 PM on June 26, 2014 [1 favorite]
Metafilter1? What? Say nothing of the kind. Austria embraces France into its bosom, in the kind of happy alliance hitherto unseen except in "Diplomats Exposed" magazines.
posted by corb at 12:40 PM on June 26, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 12:40 PM on June 26, 2014 [1 favorite]
I'm not sure I like this everyone-ganging-up-on-France thing going on in Metafilter1...
Seriously? More like everyone-gang-up-on-Italy.
posted by mudpuppie at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2014
Seriously? More like everyone-gang-up-on-Italy.
posted by mudpuppie at 12:51 PM on June 26, 2014
Gangs are built on trust. Any coordination in this game should be seen as the occasional alignment of the winds of paranoia.
posted by Think_Long at 1:07 PM on June 26, 2014
posted by Think_Long at 1:07 PM on June 26, 2014
So, another stupid noob question ... evidently if, during retreat, you bounce into a space with another player's unit, your unit gets destroyed?
Dangit. I thought it would let me bounce it again. Crap.
posted by jbickers at 1:14 PM on June 26, 2014
Dangit. I thought it would let me bounce it again. Crap.
posted by jbickers at 1:14 PM on June 26, 2014
If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, ganging up upon is the second.
posted by COBRA! at 1:18 PM on June 26, 2014
posted by COBRA! at 1:18 PM on June 26, 2014
Speaking of winds of paranoia, I'm starting to worry that there's a whole lot of diplomacy going on that I'm not party to. I finalized my orders like 24 hours ago.
posted by 256 at 2:23 PM on June 26, 2014
posted by 256 at 2:23 PM on June 26, 2014
I'm relishing the long turn times. More time for people to second guess their allegiances an engage in desperate diplomacy before moving.
posted by 256 at 11:38 PM on June 20
How things change, right?
posted by mudpuppie at 2:39 PM on June 26, 2014 [4 favorites]
posted by 256 at 11:38 PM on June 20
How things change, right?
posted by mudpuppie at 2:39 PM on June 26, 2014 [4 favorites]
So as folks in MeFi3 know, I was down for a couple days after a pretty awful run-in with a dog that mauled my leg. I'm slowly getting back to things now, and I just want to say how fully awesome it is to sit down at the computer to play Diplomacy with MeFites after a very ouchy day replete with OMG-so-far-behind-on-work anxiety. Admittedly my baseline was kinda low, but I don't think a game of Diplomacy has ever lifted a player's spirits more! And this is not faint praise (MetaFilterDiplomacy: better than a dog bite) -- I'm really sort of overwhelmingly happy. Hooray for MetaDiplomats!
And now we return from the shmoopy to your regularly-scheduled war & deception.
posted by Westringia F. at 7:53 PM on June 26, 2014 [2 favorites]
And now we return from the shmoopy to your regularly-scheduled war & deception.
posted by Westringia F. at 7:53 PM on June 26, 2014 [2 favorites]
It's good to have you back, Westringia! With divabat's substitution, cjlauer's upcoming long weekend, and your being attacked by a dog, negotiations this week have been weird and unstable. But I hope that changes after this weekend!
This early stage where no one quiiiiite knows what's up with each other is really fun and much less stressful than I'd remembered.
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 8:02 PM on June 26, 2014
This early stage where no one quiiiiite knows what's up with each other is really fun and much less stressful than I'd remembered.
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 8:02 PM on June 26, 2014
So sorry to hear about the leg, Westringia F. How awful!
posted by mudpuppie at 8:10 PM on June 26, 2014
posted by mudpuppie at 8:10 PM on June 26, 2014
Me, too, Westringia... sorry to hear about the bite, glad you're enjoying the game.
And: huh. Huh!
posted by COBRA! at 8:16 PM on June 26, 2014
And: huh. Huh!
posted by COBRA! at 8:16 PM on June 26, 2014
I was delaying finalizing waiting on another country to answer me for about a day or two. Finally went ahead anyway. Not sure if them delaying is a clever ploy.
posted by corb at 3:48 AM on June 27, 2014
posted by corb at 3:48 AM on June 27, 2014
FRANCE HOW COULD YOU.
posted by corb at 3:50 AM on June 27, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by corb at 3:50 AM on June 27, 2014 [1 favorite]
...also yep, totally a ploy. :) (she says, logging in and finding everything on fire)
posted by corb at 3:52 AM on June 27, 2014
posted by corb at 3:52 AM on June 27, 2014
Wow, sorry to hear that Westringia F. Get well, and take it easy -- sounds like a game of Diplomacy with some Mefites is a decent distraction, and either way a good way to spend your time right now. Hang in there!
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane (staff) at 5:50 AM on June 27, 2014
posted by goodnewsfortheinsane (staff) at 5:50 AM on June 27, 2014
I totally suck at this game. I managed to screw up once by trusting someone and then later by not trusting someone.
posted by octothorpe at 7:14 AM on June 27, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 7:14 AM on June 27, 2014
By the way who are France or Russia in Metafilter4?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 8:42 AM on June 27, 2014
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 8:42 AM on June 27, 2014
I have another non-Metafilter game going (two, actually; more on the second in a minute**) where I'm playing Austria. Germany and I have had a decent relationship from the beginning, and they said they were thinking of trying to take Italy, so I let them move into Tyrolia. The next two days were spent waiting for spring to turn to fall. I talked to Italy and we agreed on non-aggression, and they told me that they weren't allied with France, so they'd help me take Turkey. Then I hear from Germany that Italy is in fact allied with France, and Italy was asking Germany to help them take my fleet in Trieste. Two days of back and forth followed. I'm trusting Germany all along, while still trying to make a deal with Italy (even telling them that Germany and I were working together). And Italy finally says, okay, sure, I'll help you with Turkey. And then, 30 minutes before the deadline to finalize moves, I get a frantic message from Germany saying ABORT! ABORT! Italy was planning to fight for Trieste, and they thought Germany was going to support them, so Germany was telling me that I absolutely had to try for Venice. I'm like, "but I'm not sure that's true, and I really don't want to piss the Italians off right now, because then I'd have both Italy and Turkey going after me." And Germany's like, "No, seriously, if you don't move for Venice, you'll be s.o.l." And so now it's like 15 minutes before orders are due and I have no idea what to do, so I message Italy again and say "Hey, I hear you're going for Trieste. True?" And I don't get a response back, and it's like 5 minutes before moves are due, so I'm like Fuck it, to Venice it is. I hope Germany isn't just messing with me. And by the way, note to self, this would be a really great way to mess with someone in the future.
Germany and I were messaging each other when the clock was down to two minutes, and I'm like "Dude, I just drank a half bottle of wine during all this." And Germany's like, "I know -- my palms are sweating." And the clock ticks down to 0 and you know what happens? Have you seen this? The game, like, literally disappears from the site when the phases change. And it was completely inaccessible for a full 10 (agonizing) minutes.
It turned out that Germany was telling the truth and Italy was full of shit, and now Italy's been forced to retreat and is apparently teaming up with the Turks to come after me and Germany is headed off to Russia and can't help and my god is this game stressful.
The Metafilter games have been fun. Nail-biting sometimes, but fun. Playing with strangers is a whole different mindfuck, though.
And 256, sorry. Had to game, you know?
** The other non-Metafilter game is really interesting. It's on the bigger Versailles map (more countries), it's an anonymous game, and every player plays two countries -- one of the normal three-army ones, and a smaller country with only one army. So you may be making a deal with a three-army Britain, for example, against a one-army Sweden, but Britain and Sweden are actually the same player, so hello, you didn't expect THAT did you. It's interesting in a whole different way.
posted by mudpuppie at 9:13 AM on June 27, 2014 [3 favorites]
Germany and I were messaging each other when the clock was down to two minutes, and I'm like "Dude, I just drank a half bottle of wine during all this." And Germany's like, "I know -- my palms are sweating." And the clock ticks down to 0 and you know what happens? Have you seen this? The game, like, literally disappears from the site when the phases change. And it was completely inaccessible for a full 10 (agonizing) minutes.
It turned out that Germany was telling the truth and Italy was full of shit, and now Italy's been forced to retreat and is apparently teaming up with the Turks to come after me and Germany is headed off to Russia and can't help and my god is this game stressful.
The Metafilter games have been fun. Nail-biting sometimes, but fun. Playing with strangers is a whole different mindfuck, though.
And 256, sorry. Had to game, you know?
** The other non-Metafilter game is really interesting. It's on the bigger Versailles map (more countries), it's an anonymous game, and every player plays two countries -- one of the normal three-army ones, and a smaller country with only one army. So you may be making a deal with a three-army Britain, for example, against a one-army Sweden, but Britain and Sweden are actually the same player, so hello, you didn't expect THAT did you. It's interesting in a whole different way.
posted by mudpuppie at 9:13 AM on June 27, 2014 [3 favorites]
Fans of Diplomacy will probably be pretty excited about this: World of Goo creator Ron Carmel and Amazing Alex designer Noel Llopis have teamed up to create iOS & Android multiplayer diplomacy game Subterfuge, coming sometime in the fall.
Subterfuge "plays out in real-time over the course of a week or more. Players check in a few times each day to assess their situation, issue or modify orders, and engage their fellow players in diplomacy and subterfuge. Neither strategy nor diplomacy alone will earn you victory, so plan ahead, coordinate with others, and carefully consider the consequences of your actions!"
To my eye, it's Diplomacy's gameplay with Frozen Synapse's interface, which...okay, let me just catch my breath for a second. An introductory gameplay video can be found here.
posted by Ian A.T. at 10:09 AM on June 27, 2014 [3 favorites]
Subterfuge "plays out in real-time over the course of a week or more. Players check in a few times each day to assess their situation, issue or modify orders, and engage their fellow players in diplomacy and subterfuge. Neither strategy nor diplomacy alone will earn you victory, so plan ahead, coordinate with others, and carefully consider the consequences of your actions!"
To my eye, it's Diplomacy's gameplay with Frozen Synapse's interface, which...okay, let me just catch my breath for a second. An introductory gameplay video can be found here.
posted by Ian A.T. at 10:09 AM on June 27, 2014 [3 favorites]
I totally suck at this game. I managed to screw up once by trusting someone and then later by not trusting someone.
Man, tell me about it, but in reverse. I was riding on top of the world, flush with alliances, and then they all came crumbling down.
posted by corb at 10:40 AM on June 27, 2014
Man, tell me about it, but in reverse. I was riding on top of the world, flush with alliances, and then they all came crumbling down.
posted by corb at 10:40 AM on June 27, 2014
You've heard the poker aphorism that if you can't tell who the sucker is at the table, it's you? The Diplomacy version is that even if you can tell who the sucker is, it's still you.
posted by Etrigan at 3:15 PM on June 27, 2014 [4 favorites]
posted by Etrigan at 3:15 PM on June 27, 2014 [4 favorites]
And I say that as someone who's played more than 100 games and has felt "in control" throughout exactly one of them.
posted by Etrigan at 3:41 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by Etrigan at 3:41 PM on June 27, 2014
Don't apologize mudpuppie. That was perfect. I didn't see it coming in at all
posted by 256 at 3:43 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by 256 at 3:43 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
Metafilter 3 has gone to turn processing. Expecting knives.
posted by nubs at 3:48 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by nubs at 3:48 PM on June 27, 2014
This game has me feeling like the dude in the old west saloon who has mean cowboys shooting at his feet and yelling, "dance, rummy! Dance!"
posted by COBRA! at 4:29 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by COBRA! at 4:29 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
KNIVES OUT
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:43 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:43 PM on June 27, 2014
Dayum. MeFi3 just got real.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:44 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 5:44 PM on June 27, 2014
Oh, man, that fallen dinosaur icon...
posted by Etrigan at 6:04 PM on June 27, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by Etrigan at 6:04 PM on June 27, 2014 [1 favorite]
Is there a way to 'pin' a game that you just want to watch? I'd like to keep track of the other MeFi games, for example, without entering the number/name each time.
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:24 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:24 PM on June 27, 2014
Church, you can search for a game's name (although the search function seems to miss "Metafilter" 85% of the time) and then click on 'watch game.'
There's a 'watched games' tab next to your 'active games' tab.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:40 PM on June 27, 2014
There's a 'watched games' tab next to your 'active games' tab.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:40 PM on June 27, 2014
Yeah, I see that but just get "no watched games." I don't see where to enter a game to watch. Is that a premium thing?
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:43 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:43 PM on June 27, 2014
Try this:
1) In the Games tab, click on 'active games.'
2) In the search field, enter "metafilter" and click search.
3) All four games should come up. There should be two buttons next to each -- Watch Game and View Game.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:47 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
1) In the Games tab, click on 'active games.'
2) In the search field, enter "metafilter" and click search.
3) All four games should come up. There should be two buttons next to each -- Watch Game and View Game.
posted by mudpuppie at 6:47 PM on June 27, 2014 [2 favorites]
Oh, shit. That's counter-intuitive. You would think the option to watch a game would be at the game level.
Thanks, mudpuppie!
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:54 PM on June 27, 2014
Thanks, mudpuppie!
posted by ChurchHatesTucker at 6:54 PM on June 27, 2014
The freaky double-blind game I'm in is called Hall of Mirrors, if anyone wants to take a look at it.
It's giving me agita.
posted by mudpuppie at 7:09 PM on June 27, 2014
It's giving me agita.
posted by mudpuppie at 7:09 PM on June 27, 2014
Oh yeah, we'refightingnow...
posted by craven_morhead at 8:28 PM on June 27, 2014
posted by craven_morhead at 8:28 PM on June 27, 2014
Metafilter: The Reckoning -- is a parallel universe where the forefathers of Hitler and Mussolini were shown the future and what their progeny would do to the world so together they formed a suicide pact. Those two countries are now leaderless and ripe for the picking by whoever can get past the armies still, uselessly, following the final orders they were given.
posted by zyxwvut at 5:28 AM on June 28, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by zyxwvut at 5:28 AM on June 28, 2014 [1 favorite]
Though I do wonder - is it normal that the awesome missives slow as the game moves on? Or is that just a casualty of the hard slogs?
posted by corb at 8:36 AM on June 30, 2014
posted by corb at 8:36 AM on June 30, 2014
Very normal, for a couple of reasons. First, it's exhausting, and like anything else, people's enthusiasm for it will likely wane. Second, people start censoring themselves because they don't want to give anything away, even by omission.
posted by Etrigan at 9:42 AM on June 30, 2014
posted by Etrigan at 9:42 AM on June 30, 2014
Hey, by the way, I had a shirt made just for playing Diplomacy.
posted by COBRA! at 11:27 AM on June 30, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by COBRA! at 11:27 AM on June 30, 2014 [1 favorite]
Ugh! Hey, sorry guys in Metafilter: the Reckoning! It wouldn't let me do my destroy from my phone and then autosurrendered as a result of not making a move.
Future ideas: phases of less than two days are maybe not best for a game like Diplomacy.
posted by corb at 1:32 PM on June 30, 2014
Future ideas: phases of less than two days are maybe not best for a game like Diplomacy.
posted by corb at 1:32 PM on June 30, 2014
Future ideas: phases of less than two days are maybe not best for a game like Diplomacy.
Actually, over in game one, I kinda wish we had a much shorter turn length. Is it considered bad form to take to public press and ask people to go ahead and finalize their turns sooner rather than later, in the interest of a game moving faster?
posted by jbickers at 1:57 PM on June 30, 2014
Actually, over in game one, I kinda wish we had a much shorter turn length. Is it considered bad form to take to public press and ask people to go ahead and finalize their turns sooner rather than later, in the interest of a game moving faster?
posted by jbickers at 1:57 PM on June 30, 2014
Is it considered bad form to take to public press and ask people to go ahead and finalize their turns sooner rather than later
Yes. For a few reasons:
1 -- You (theoretically) agreed to the turn lengths when you started the game.
B -- It may feel like you're trying to divine whether someone is still negotiating with someone else (which is a shade meta-gamey).
3 -- People may have specific times of day that they're able to play and genuinely haven't had the opportunity to do everything they want to do yet.
posted by Etrigan at 2:27 PM on June 30, 2014 [1 favorite]
Yes. For a few reasons:
1 -- You (theoretically) agreed to the turn lengths when you started the game.
B -- It may feel like you're trying to divine whether someone is still negotiating with someone else (which is a shade meta-gamey).
3 -- People may have specific times of day that they're able to play and genuinely haven't had the opportunity to do everything they want to do yet.
posted by Etrigan at 2:27 PM on June 30, 2014 [1 favorite]
Is it considered bad form to take to public press and ask people to go ahead and finalize their turns sooner rather than later.
Not by me.
posted by craven_morhead at 4:15 PM on June 30, 2014
Not by me.
posted by craven_morhead at 4:15 PM on June 30, 2014
Is it considered bad form to take to public press and ask people to go ahead and finalize their turns sooner rather than later
I would say that for reason B that Etrigan gives, doing such things should be encouraged. ;)
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 12:38 AM on July 1, 2014
I would say that for reason B that Etrigan gives, doing such things should be encouraged. ;)
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 12:38 AM on July 1, 2014
Damn. Once you realized that you're doomed, your will to keep playing really evaporates. I'm finding it hard to even look at the board without wincing.
posted by octothorpe at 5:25 AM on July 1, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by octothorpe at 5:25 AM on July 1, 2014 [2 favorites]
Octo, you can take some solace in the fact that one unit can still have a pretty significant impact on one corner of the board. So though you may not be able to seize a solo win, you can still spite your enemies.
posted by craven_morhead at 7:24 AM on July 1, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by craven_morhead at 7:24 AM on July 1, 2014 [1 favorite]
I just loaded a weather map and was momentarily confused that there were no little shark fleet symbols in Lake Michigan.
Please help.
posted by Westringia F. at 9:45 PM on July 1, 2014 [4 favorites]
Please help.
posted by Westringia F. at 9:45 PM on July 1, 2014 [4 favorites]
motion to make this the soundtrack to every orders season after 1901
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 6:12 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 6:12 AM on July 2, 2014
Rustic Etruscan: motion to make this the soundtrack to every orders season after 1901
Thought for sure that was going to link to The Benny Hill Theme.
posted by Rock Steady at 7:30 AM on July 2, 2014
Thought for sure that was going to link to The Benny Hill Theme.
posted by Rock Steady at 7:30 AM on July 2, 2014
motion to make this yt the soundtrack to every orders season after 1901
Diplomacy is enough on its own; no need to add Nomic to the mix...
posted by nubs at 8:06 AM on July 2, 2014 [1 favorite]
Oh my Glob. What if you added a round of Nomic-style rule changes every year to Diplomacy? You could call it the "League of Nations" variant. Motion to make fleets twice as strong as armies. Motion to allow armies to move two spaces. Motion to declare Silesia off limits to all pieces. Motion to create a tunnel from St. Petersburg to Spain. Motion to drain the ocean, turning all sea spaces to land spaces, disbanding all fleets. I think I'm drooling.
posted by Rock Steady at 8:32 AM on July 2, 2014 [3 favorites]
posted by Rock Steady at 8:32 AM on July 2, 2014 [3 favorites]
That would almost certainly need a human adjudicator?
I would volunteer for the role of human adjudicator in Dipnomicy if we can find an appropriate platform to play it on.
I'll have a look around this evening to see if I can find a way to run it.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 8:41 AM on July 2, 2014
I would volunteer for the role of human adjudicator in Dipnomicy if we can find an appropriate platform to play it on.
I'll have a look around this evening to see if I can find a way to run it.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 8:41 AM on July 2, 2014
I would play the shit out of Diplomic, yes.
posted by cortex (staff) at 8:42 AM on July 2, 2014 [2 favorites]
posted by cortex (staff) at 8:42 AM on July 2, 2014 [2 favorites]
The base idea sounds awesome; I guess I'm still such a Diplomacy noob that the thought of adding another round for discussion and voting and intrigue just sounds exhausting...
posted by nubs at 10:19 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by nubs at 10:19 AM on July 2, 2014
But I'm enough of a game nerd to wonder if each nation would be able to propose a motion each year? Would that be manageable? Because that's essentially 7 nations voting on 7 different proposals each year. Or do some nations get to propose on even years, others on odd years?
Yeah, it would need a human moderator, because the proposals would get out of hand fast.
I wouldn't play this, but I could see watching it once or twice and then moderating it. Or at least moderating the proposal round; I still suck at the base Diplomacy rules.
posted by nubs at 10:24 AM on July 2, 2014 [1 favorite]
Yeah, it would need a human moderator, because the proposals would get out of hand fast.
I wouldn't play this, but I could see watching it once or twice and then moderating it. Or at least moderating the proposal round; I still suck at the base Diplomacy rules.
posted by nubs at 10:24 AM on July 2, 2014 [1 favorite]
I think you would just have a "Winter 1901 Voting" turn and people could promulgate as many proposals as they want within the time limits of that turn. You'd need another nation to second the motion before a vote would be required ("Motion: Remove the requirement that motions be seconded before a vote is required.") and you would probably want to have a quorum such that a seconded motion requires a certain number of affirmative votes before it passes ("Motion: That a quorum be 1 affirmative vote."). I'm pretty sure you'd have to run it "manually" as I don't think there are any Internet Diplo Judges that allow for rule changes mid-game, much less that would allow for the potential wacky rules that could be implemented ("Motion: Create a new type of unit called 'Intercontinental Ballistic Missile" with the following characteristics...").
posted by Rock Steady at 10:47 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by Rock Steady at 10:47 AM on July 2, 2014
Yeah, human adjudication of the modified rulesets seems like a given, to say nothing of administrating the actual proposal-and-voting process itself. I think it would probably be a glorious mess, which is half my interest.
posted by cortex (staff) at 10:49 AM on July 2, 2014 [1 favorite]
posted by cortex (staff) at 10:49 AM on July 2, 2014 [1 favorite]
I would like to witness this glorious mess. If it happens in person, could someone video it?
posted by nubs at 11:00 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by nubs at 11:00 AM on July 2, 2014
I think it could be done just fine over email, and would probably be easier to arrange that way. I also think that stepping away from some of the more formal aspects of traditional Nomic rulesets in favor of something lighter with a benevolent dictatorial structure would move things along a lot faster than trying to literally run both a full-fledge nomic and a diplo game inside it, if we're talking pragmatics here, which maybe we should because good lord, good lord, yes.
posted by cortex (staff) at 11:07 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by cortex (staff) at 11:07 AM on July 2, 2014
I am actively researching rulesets and platforms right now.
If I can pull together something feasible who wants in?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 11:23 AM on July 2, 2014
If I can pull together something feasible who wants in?
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 11:23 AM on July 2, 2014
I'd probably give it a try.
posted by Rock Steady at 11:41 AM on July 2, 2014
posted by Rock Steady at 11:41 AM on July 2, 2014
I've found a few diplomacy boards that I can use to show game state, but these day's they're generally a bit too smart and do adjudication for you, which obviously I don't want.
I've also set up a forum for reporting board state and negotiating rules.
It's at
http://metadipnomicy.forumotion.co.uk/
it's basic but it has poll capabilities and so on. So it might work.
Worth a try anyway.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 1:13 PM on July 2, 2014
I've also set up a forum for reporting board state and negotiating rules.
It's at
http://metadipnomicy.forumotion.co.uk/
it's basic but it has poll capabilities and so on. So it might work.
Worth a try anyway.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 1:13 PM on July 2, 2014
Yeah, I think I'd be interested.
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 7:31 PM on July 2, 2014
posted by Jonathan Livengood at 7:31 PM on July 2, 2014
Ok, for those interested, sign up for the forum above.
Have a look at the initial rules and we can perhaps rewrite them a bit to make for smoother play before we start.
I have sorted out software to generate board state.
Once we have 7 players I will allocate countries randomly and give you an address to submit orders to.
I'm expecting it to run quite slowly, and it might all just fall apart.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 3:48 AM on July 3, 2014
Have a look at the initial rules and we can perhaps rewrite them a bit to make for smoother play before we start.
I have sorted out software to generate board state.
Once we have 7 players I will allocate countries randomly and give you an address to submit orders to.
I'm expecting it to run quite slowly, and it might all just fall apart.
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 3:48 AM on July 3, 2014
Oh shit we have 7 minutes left in Metafilter1 and someone needs to finalize orders!
posted by corb at 3:53 AM on July 3, 2014
posted by corb at 3:53 AM on July 3, 2014
Christ that was me, sorry, this phase got away from me. Looks like I lucked out though.
That's right everybody, keep ignoring the giant crippled blue thing on the right side of the map. Just look away.
posted by Think_Long at 5:31 AM on July 3, 2014
That's right everybody, keep ignoring the giant crippled blue thing on the right side of the map. Just look away.
posted by Think_Long at 5:31 AM on July 3, 2014
Hah, Russia's not quite dead yet!
posted by octothorpe at 12:07 PM on July 4, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 12:07 PM on July 4, 2014
Let me warn you, my friends.
For some of you, the joy of playing Diplomacy will make you think, 'You know, I should really start up another Crusader Kings II game, dust it off, try it out again."
LEARN FROM ME. RESIST THE TEMPTATION.
...it's like getting some crack in the crack to make a sideline out of your crack.
posted by corb at 8:52 PM on July 4, 2014 [2 favorites]
For some of you, the joy of playing Diplomacy will make you think, 'You know, I should really start up another Crusader Kings II game, dust it off, try it out again."
LEARN FROM ME. RESIST THE TEMPTATION.
...it's like getting some crack in the crack to make a sideline out of your crack.
posted by corb at 8:52 PM on July 4, 2014 [2 favorites]
metafilter3: nubs (Russia), are you still playing?
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:31 PM on July 8, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:31 PM on July 8, 2014
If anyone is still reading this thread, Metafilter3 will need a new substitute soon — I'm leaving on a long vacation for a week and a half next Wednesday, and I won't have regular internet access. MeMail me if interested in playing as France in 1904. Thanks!
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:19 AM on July 18, 2014
posted by Rustic Etruscan at 5:19 AM on July 18, 2014
Well, that's that for MeFi Diplomacy 2014 round 1; congrats to England.
posted by octothorpe at 11:24 AM on July 18, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 11:24 AM on July 18, 2014
I will confess to being thrice lucky: Russia's mistaken retreat in 1902, Germany trusting me in 1903, and that retreat into Tuscany in the last Spring.
I've reached out to robocop is bleeding to see whether he wants my post-mortem or the totality of my messages, as I promised over on the Blue. If not, I'll post it here -- unless there's a 30-day limit on MeTa posts? In which case this thing will close in a few hours.
But well played, all. It wasn't until the last couple of years that I thought I could actually pull a solo.
posted by Etrigan at 11:51 AM on July 18, 2014
I've reached out to robocop is bleeding to see whether he wants my post-mortem or the totality of my messages, as I promised over on the Blue. If not, I'll post it here -- unless there's a 30-day limit on MeTa posts? In which case this thing will close in a few hours.
But well played, all. It wasn't until the last couple of years that I thought I could actually pull a solo.
posted by Etrigan at 11:51 AM on July 18, 2014
I'd be happy to write my AAR as well.
ITALY
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:56 AM on July 18, 2014
ITALY
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:56 AM on July 18, 2014
I managed to miss a few turns in the last week due to family commitments but I was probably doomed by then anyway.
posted by octothorpe at 12:25 PM on July 18, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 12:25 PM on July 18, 2014
I have indeed started round two, but gonna wait a few hours before posting the password in case anybody in the game that just ended wants a rematch.
posted by jbickers at 12:46 PM on July 18, 2014
posted by jbickers at 12:46 PM on July 18, 2014
Yeah, I'd be up for another.
posted by octothorpe at 1:37 PM on July 18, 2014
posted by octothorpe at 1:37 PM on July 18, 2014
Not me, too busy.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:40 PM on July 18, 2014
posted by the man of twists and turns at 1:40 PM on July 18, 2014
Has anyone on this website ever actually seen a chicken?
Anyway, my AAR
ITALY: THE ITALIANING
I like to play as Italy. I never choose it, but seem to get it a lot in a random draw. I like the position - nobody's friend, nobody's enemy. I have one natural development, Tunis, and then complete lack of opportunity.
Or rather, complete freedom.
Italy is the least-winning power, haveing the worst record for solos. This is, I think, due to the proximity to Austria.
Your armies and ours, your ships, and ours, in such close proximity! Wars have begun that way, Mr. Ambassador! And then France, Germany, Russia and Turkey carve pieces off both of us, and we both die. Not good.
PRIORITY ONE: Peace With Austria, which means DMZ Adr and Tyr. Done.
A weak Italy is a target.
PRIORITY TWO: Find new centers.
Austria is out. Turkey is far, and Austria and Russia aren't taking my hints as to killing the Sultan. That leaves France. And England is proposing a deal ...
So, we carve up France. And Germany dithers, and all of a sudden England has grabbed what I thought would be German shares. Whoops. Now England reassures me he has no intentions to cross Gibraltar - this is when I knew you were thinking of turning the corner on the line - and I'm looking for more pieces. So - stab Austria. And convince Russia and Austria to fight the Turk for me, give me some time to get my fleets in order.
Austria is surprisingly unruffled. I guess you expected it? I thought I could turn that into a springboard to move into Gre and Eas, but Turkey is doing too well. Then England takes Mar, as expected, and that retreat into Tus ... and its over.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 3:13 PM on July 18, 2014
Anyway, my AAR
ITALY: THE ITALIANING
I like to play as Italy. I never choose it, but seem to get it a lot in a random draw. I like the position - nobody's friend, nobody's enemy. I have one natural development, Tunis, and then complete lack of opportunity.
Or rather, complete freedom.
Italy is the least-winning power, haveing the worst record for solos. This is, I think, due to the proximity to Austria.
Your armies and ours, your ships, and ours, in such close proximity! Wars have begun that way, Mr. Ambassador! And then France, Germany, Russia and Turkey carve pieces off both of us, and we both die. Not good.
PRIORITY ONE: Peace With Austria, which means DMZ Adr and Tyr. Done.
A weak Italy is a target.
PRIORITY TWO: Find new centers.
Austria is out. Turkey is far, and Austria and Russia aren't taking my hints as to killing the Sultan. That leaves France. And England is proposing a deal ...
So, we carve up France. And Germany dithers, and all of a sudden England has grabbed what I thought would be German shares. Whoops. Now England reassures me he has no intentions to cross Gibraltar - this is when I knew you were thinking of turning the corner on the line - and I'm looking for more pieces. So - stab Austria. And convince Russia and Austria to fight the Turk for me, give me some time to get my fleets in order.
Austria is surprisingly unruffled. I guess you expected it? I thought I could turn that into a springboard to move into Gre and Eas, but Turkey is doing too well. Then England takes Mar, as expected, and that retreat into Tus ... and its over.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 3:13 PM on July 18, 2014
You are not logged in, either login or create an account to post comments
I promise this will serve as a sign of my general competency going forward in this game.
posted by 256 at 3:36 PM on June 18, 2014 [1 favorite]