Game Announcement: Ambition & Empire

AMBITION & EMPIRE: A Diplomacy variant by Jeff S. Kase 
([email protected]) and Baron M. Powell ([email protected]) 

Compared to wars of later times, those of the 18th century were usually not 
destructive and were rarely conclusive.  Battles were not fought to destroy 
enemy forces, but to outmaneuver them and gain a position of strength from which 
to negotiate.  The Seven Years War was different.  Pitting Austria, France, 
Russia, Saxony, Spain, and Sweden against Britain, Hanover, and Prussia, it was, 
in short, a world war that was much bloodier and more destructive than other 
wars had been.  In 1763 the last of the war-weary powers, their resources 
spent in the long struggle, laid down their arms and signed another treaty 
establishing yet another balance of power.

So begins Ambition & Empire, a Diplomacy variant created by Jeff and Baron.  
Set in Europe in 1763, the title of the game pays tribute to the 
empire-building, war-and-conquest philosophy held by the great leaders of the day, a 
remarkable cast of historical figures that included Frederick the Great of Prussia, 
Maria Theresa of Austria, and Catherine the Great of Russia. 

The game sets ten players against each other, each representing one of the 
Major Powers of Europe: Austria, Britain, Denmark & Norway, France, Poland & 
Saxony, Prussia, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey.  In addition to the ten 
Major Powers, there is also a host of "minor powers," non-player neutral SCs 
representing the smaller states of Europe, such as Portugal, Switzerland, and 
the Netherlands. 

The rules mimic standard Diplomacy for the most part.  However, Ambition & 
Empire permits players to use "Diplomacy Points" to influence the minor powers 
(the "pawns" of Europe).  Each minor power starts with a unit that does nothing 
but hold in place unless the unit has been influenced by a Major Power using 
its Diplomacy Points. The idea here is to foster more diplomacy between 
players because, unlike orders that are published in the adjudication, the use of 
Diplomacy Points - which can be used both offensively and defensively - is kept 
secret. 

A great deal of research, attention to detail, and vigorous playtesting has 
been devoted to creating a balanced game that possesses the "feel" of the 
period.  The end result to date is an original gameboard representing a map of 
Europe in 1763 (a copy of which is attached) and a very comprehensive set of 
rules.  These rules provide summaries for each Major Power to give players 
historical background and a flavor for the time.  [And yes, for those who might 
wonder, even Poland & Saxony has a chance, as witnessed by its solo in one game]

Overwhelmingly, those players who participated in earlier contests agreed 
that each game was an enjoyable experience.  Now we are looking forward to 
another game start.  Baron is going to GM.  Turns will follow the schedule below:
    o Spring Moves: Tuesday
    o Summer Retreats: Thursday
    o Fall Moves: Tuesday
    o Winter Retreats/Adjustments: Thursday
    o Spring Moves: Tuesday (and the cycle continues)

The game is scheduled to begin on 15 August.  We currently need just one more 
player to complete the table. If you are interested AND a committed Diplomacy 
player (i.e., one who finishes what he/she starts), send Baron a note at 
[email protected].  He will provide you with the variant rules, house rules, and 
some additional information on the variant.

We would also welcome those who might be curious to observe the game once it 
gets started.  A small black & white version of the map will be provided each 
turn to make it easy to follow along.

Happy Stabbing!

Jeff & Baron



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