Wed May 27, 2015 2:28 am
You can actually make a complete game of just decision-making, even during peace-time on a 2-week basis. Larger countries would require more micro-managing than smaller ones. There are a ton of problems affecting nations, even in peace-time that require allocating scarce resources with both positive and negative consequences (many of which are unintended, and therefore lend itself to gaming possibilities). If a birth rate is high in a rural area, this would cause endemic poverty in that area, therefore unrest. Or maybe flight to a nearby larger urban community, which would result in higher unemployment, causing unrest in that city, or urban renewal (building industry or services to keep up with the population). This one instance of high birth rate may cause political decisions to spawn (increasing taxes for government services, lowering taxes to increase private business, colonization of undeveloped areas, clamor for political reform/rights). Of course, I digress, but I would like to see more card opportunities germane to the time period and nations (a few more playable nations, btw: Spain, Brasil, Mexico, Persia?) The Ottoman's were a terrific addition (did a few years until the British and French kept sidelined in Crimean War, then became frustrated, but will pick up that game next when I finish the USA, which I just picked up my old game - now in October 1861, Richmond is encircled, just took Vicksburg and Atlanta and marching on New Orleans.
Yes, simplifying it like TEAW (which I love) would create more sales, but at what price? This is a gem of a game that begs for keeping its core alive while increasing realism gradually. The newest engine improvements are great and I for one have not been bothered by the processing time (even in its original form) because of the complexity of processing involved. I also love the idea of living through a time period with a nation and implementing choices, both during peace and war. And in traditional AGEOD fashion, not having to "game" the game and run roughshod over the entire world, which just lessens my fun (sorry Europa Universalis, Victoria 2 and Hearts of Iron IV (soon, I hope). Games like TEAW are great for just wargaming, but PON goes FAR BEYOND just wargaming, you are simulating a realistic nation through a tumultuous time period of war, technological advances, colonization, unparalleled governmental changes, among others). To expect this to be done in two seconds is unrealistic. I'm sure there is a compromise that the potential developers will grapple with (judging from what I've seen on this forum, there is no doubt that the developers have poured out their hearts and minds to improve this incredibly fascinating game). We who love this game can offer suggestions for improvements and let the developers do what they do best. I, for one, expect to be playing this game for many, many more years, even if no changes are added. But will also gobble up any new DLC's and let Steam take care of my updates (technologically, I can barely tie my shoelaces!).