Test Four: Lines in the Sand

The Fourth Test pushed the game into more defined and dangerous territory. For the first time, nations could be removed from the world stage; and two faced such a fate in this game. Action limits forced players to make hard decisions, while increasingly refined conflict mechanics allowed those decisions to have more permanent consequences. The game's tone shifted towards high-stakes strategy, as alliances hardened and conflicts turned lethal. Most memorably, the first elimiation came just days into the game, when a nation who had neglected to build a military of any kind was forced into unconditional and immediate surrender upon being invaded. From that moment on, it was clear: survival was no longer a guarantee.

Key Details of Game Four

Outcome: Test concluded; escalation successful, elimination viable.