Diplomacy is Not an Option
" Engaging medieval fantasy strategy with city-building and tower defense but steep difficulty curve "
Diplomacy is Not an Option Review
Diplomacy is Not an Option is a challenging real-time strategy game blending city-building, tower defense, and survival mechanics. Players manage resources, build defenses, and command armies to repel massive waves of enemies in a darkly humorous medieval setting. The game stands out for its large-scale battles, strategic depth, and a unique tone mixing grim themes with tongue-in-cheek humor.
Many players praise its engaging gameplay, replayability through campaign and endless modes, and satisfying combat mechanics. However, the steep difficulty curve, occasional unclear mechanics, and slow-paced cutscenes can frustrate some. Resource balancing and unit variety receive mixed feedback, with some units underused. Despite minor bugs and UI quirks, the game offers a solid RTS experience, especially for fans of the genre seeking a punishing, tactical challenge. It is recommended particularly when purchased on sale due to its price and difficulty.
Highlights
Players commend the game's large-scale, intense battles and strategic resource management. The blend of city-building with tactical combat creates a compelling gameplay loop. The game's dark humor and unique tone add charm and personality. Graphics are described as stylized and clear, supporting visual clarity during chaotic fights. The campaign's randomized maps and mission variety enhance replayability. Quality-of-life features like pausing and unit grouping improve playability. The soundtrack complements the atmosphere, and magical abilities add tactical depth.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the steep and sometimes punishing difficulty, even on easier modes, which can lead to frustration. The slow, unskippable or lengthy cutscenes disrupt pacing. Some players find resource management opaque, with unclear consumption rates and limited feedback. Unit balance issues leave many troops underused. The AI can be overwhelming due to constant multi-directional attacks. Camera and control schemes lack customization and can be annoying. Occasional bugs and UI clutter during large battles reduce usability. Lastly, the game's price is considered high relative to content depth.
Pros
- • Engaging blend of city-building and tower defense mechanics.
- • Large-scale battles with satisfying combat and defense planning.
- • Dark humor adds unique charm and personality to the game.
- • Randomized maps and mission variety enhance replayability.
- • Stylized graphics maintain clarity during chaotic fights.
- • Quality-of-life features like pausing and unit grouping.
- • Campaign and endless modes offer long-term gameplay.
Cons
- • Steep difficulty curve can be frustrating even on easiest modes.
- • Slow and sometimes unskippable cutscenes disrupt pacing.
- • Resource management lacks clear feedback and transparency.
- • Many units are underpowered and rarely used in practice.
- • AI attacks from multiple directions overwhelm defenses.
- • Camera controls are unintuitive and lack customization.
- • UI can feel cramped and cluttered during large battles.
Rating Criteria
Diplomacy is Not an Option is a strategy game set in a medieval fantasy world. Build your town and defenses, raise huge armies and fight against massive hordes of enemies. How long can you survive?
