Colonial Diplomacy
- Designer Peter Hawes
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co
- Illustration Kurt Miller
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Colonial Diplomacy, you control a colonial power vying for influence and territories in the Far East. You move land and sea units to hold, conquer, or defend adjacent areas. The game combines area movement and area majority mechanics with heavy negotiation and simultaneous action selection. Players secretly plan orders that are executed simultaneously, making diplomacy and bluffing essential.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced strategy and diplomacy players aged 12 and up who enjoy long, complex sessions with up to seven participants. It is a medium to heavy strategy game lasting around 240 minutes, requiring patience and negotiation skills. Prior experience with negotiation games like Diplomacy is beneficial but not mandatory.
How It Works
Each player commands land and sea units that move between areas using area movement. In each round, players simultaneously choose actions such as holding, moving, or supporting other units. Area majority determines control of regions. Player elimination is possible when units are lost. Success depends heavily on forming alliances and deception.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Peter Hawes, Colonial Diplomacy is a reimplementation of the classic Diplomacy with a colonial Far East theme. It won the 1995 Origins Award for Best Pre-20th Century Board Game. Its blend of simultaneous action selection, area majority, and negotiation distinguishes it among war and diplomacy games.
Awards
- 1995 Origins Awards Best Pre-20th Century Board Game — Winner
Pro
- High negotiation and bluffing elements
- Simultaneous action selection adds tension
- Origins Award winner 1995
- Strategic depth via area majority mechanics
Contra
- Very long playtime (~240 minutes)
- Complex with a steep learning curve
- Not suitable for families with younger children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the colonial Far East shortly after the Napoleonic era. Players represent European colonial powers like France, Britain, and Holland competing for influence and territory.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus early on building alliances and mastering basic movement and control mechanics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Colonial Diplomacy is designed for 2 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Gameplay lasts about 240 minutes, around four hours including setup and negotiation.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy or negotiation games like Diplomacy is helpful but not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Colonial Diplomacy is a thematic spin-off of Diplomacy with a colonial setting, emphasizing simultaneous action and area majority mechanics.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for older players aged 12+ and not typical family entertainment.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of simultaneous action selection and area majority/influence mechanics is central and defines the strategic gameplay.
Fazit
Colonial Diplomacy is recommended for fans of deep negotiation and strategy games with lengthy playtime. Players with patience and diplomatic skill will find rewarding gameplay.
