Simone Lawson
Risk is a strategy board game of diplomacy, conflict, and conquest for two to six players. The standard version is played on a board depicting a political map of the world, divided into 42 territories, which are grouped into six continents. Turns rotate among players who control armies of playing pieces with which they attempt to capture territories from other players, with results determined by dice rolls. While there are no mechanics directly related to diplomacy, players may form and dissolve alliances during the game. This involves complex, shifting alliances, backstabbing, and negotiated two or three-way wins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of players | 2-6 |
| Focus | Diplomacy, conflict, and conquest |
| Setting | Global |
| Board | Political map of the world, divided into 42 territories and 6 continents |
| Gameplay | Players take turns to capture territories, form alliances, and eliminate opponents |
| Victory condition | Occupy every territory on the board |
| Length | Several hours to multiple days |
| Equipment | Board, tokens/armies, deck of Risk cards |
| Mechanics | Dice rolls, card collection and trading, negotiation |
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What You'll Learn
Trading resources and negotiating non-aggression pacts
In Risk, players can trade resources such as food, oil, and army production during the Trade steps. These trades can be specified as units or a fraction of total production. For example, a surrendering player can offer territory, army reductions, oil and food stockpiles, and promise future food, oil, and/or army production payments to the victorious players in return for a non-aggression pact. This is known as a unilateral non-aggression pact, where the surrendering player quits any alliance and makes a pact with their previous allies. Conditional non-aggression pacts are another option, where players agree to trade resources at a negotiated exchange rate. It's important to note that players must meet their promised trades, or the "shorted" players can choose to terminate the non-aggression pact.
Negotiating non-aggression pacts can also involve the use of Vassal States. When a player becomes your Vassal state, either through conquest or peaceful surrender, you gain control over their capital and any other capital icons they have acquired. As the leader, you can force your Vassal States to give you territories or form pacts with you, such as "Cease Fire", "Open Borders", and "Battle Assistant". The leader player also gains special pacts like "Country Bonuses" and "Takeover Assist". To form a Vassal State, you must control all adjacent territories of the player's capital and move at least one unit into the captured capital.
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Using diplomacy as a form of attack
Diplomacy is a key aspect of the classic board game Risk, and it can be used as a form of attack. While the game is centred on conflict between players, with the aim of global domination, players must ally with others and place their trust in them to gain support for taking over territories. This creates complex and ever-shifting alliances throughout the game, with opportunities for backstabbing and negotiated wins.
Additionally, Risk allows for a negotiation phase where players can freely discuss strategies and plans, either publicly or in secret. This provides an opportunity for players to use diplomacy as a strategic tool. For example, players could propose peace treaties or trades that benefit both parties, forcing another player to perform an action favourable to their game plan. This strategy requires careful consideration of the interests of other players and how they can be leveraged to one's advantage.
It is important to note that while diplomacy can be a powerful tool, it may not always yield the desired results. As such, players should be prepared to adapt their strategies accordingly and be cautious of potential backstabbing or broken agreements.
In conclusion, diplomacy in Risk can be a nuanced and powerful tool when used strategically. By trading resources, negotiating non-aggression pacts, and leveraging the interests of other players, one can use diplomacy as a form of attack to gain an advantage in the game. However, players should remain cautious and adaptable, as alliances can be fragile and easily broken.
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Encouraging diplomacy without explicitly adding it to the game
While Risk is a classic board game, it can be argued that it is starting to show its age. One way to breathe new life into the game is by encouraging diplomacy without explicitly adding it to the game. Here are some ways to do this:
Firstly, consider whether diplomacy should be directly handled by the game mechanics or if it should emerge through negotiation between players. Some players may prefer to have more freedom in their negotiations, while others may prefer the structure provided by specific rules. For example, players could be given resources that other players want, and they can decide whether to use these resources for negotiation or for their own benefit. This type of emergent diplomacy allows players to form their own strategies and can lead to a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.
Another way to encourage diplomacy is through trading. By allowing players to trade resources during their turn, they may be incentivized to negotiate non-aggression pacts or resource-sharing agreements. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players must balance their own interests with the potential benefits of forming alliances.
Additionally, you could consider implementing a "diplomacy as attack" mechanic, where players can choose to play an "attack" or "negotiate" card. If both players choose to negotiate, they must work together to reach a peace deal, with consequences for failure. This adds an element of cooperation and negotiation to the game, encouraging players to communicate and form temporary alliances.
It is important to note that while these suggestions can enhance the game, they may not work for everyone. Some players may prefer the traditional mechanics of Risk, and any modifications should be discussed and agreed upon by all players beforehand. Ultimately, the goal is to create a gameplay experience that is enjoyable and engaging for all participants.
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Forming and dissolving alliances
Alliances can be a powerful tool in achieving this goal. By forming alliances, players can combine their resources, share information, and coordinate their attacks against common enemies. This can lead to a stronger position on the board and an increased chance of victory. For example, players may negotiate a non-aggression pact, agreeing not to attack each other's territories, or they may even work together to take down a particularly strong opponent.
However, alliances in Risk are not set in stone. As the game progresses, players may find it advantageous to dissolve their current alliances and form new ones. This could be due to shifting power dynamics, new opportunities for expansion, or simply a change in strategy. Dissolving an alliance can be a risky move, as it may lead to retaliation from former allies or leave a player vulnerable to attack.
The ability to adapt one's alliances is an important skill in Risk. Players must constantly evaluate their position, assess the strengths and weaknesses of their allies and enemies, and make strategic decisions accordingly. Forming and dissolving alliances in a timely and effective manner can be the key to victory.
Ultimately, the diplomacy of Risk revolves around negotiation and deal-making. Players must use their communication and persuasion skills to form beneficial alliances, while also being ready to act in their own self-interest when necessary. This dynamic and unpredictable aspect of the game adds to its complexity and appeal.
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Using modifier cards to gain a diplomacy advantage
Using modifier cards is a great way to gain a diplomacy advantage in the board game Risk. Diplomacy is a key part of the game, as it involves forming and dissolving alliances with other players. Trading and negotiating are essential to this process, and modifier cards can be used to great effect.
One way to use modifier cards is to offer them as part of a trade or negotiation. For example, if you have a card that another player wants, you can offer it to them in exchange for something you want, such as resources or a non-aggression pact. This can help to strengthen your position in the game and improve your relationship with another player, which can be beneficial if you need to call on them for assistance later on.
Another way to use modifier cards to your advantage is to hold onto them until the right moment. For example, if you are about to attack another player or be attacked, playing a modifier card at the right time can give you an edge. This could be a card that increases your army's strength or one that weakens your opponent's position. Playing these cards at the right time can turn the tide of battle in your favour.
In addition, some modifier cards may allow you to move your troops more freely around the map. For example, the "Open Borders" card allows players to use other players' territories for chaining, giving you more options for manoeuvring your troops. This can be especially useful if you are trying to surround an opponent or reach a specific territory.
Modifier cards can also be used to gain an advantage when forming alliances. For instance, if you have a card that another player wants, you can offer it to them as a sign of good faith when negotiating an alliance. This can help to strengthen the bond between you and make your alliance more powerful.
Finally, modifier cards can be used to protect your own interests. For example, if you have a card that allows you to fortify a territory, you can play it when another player attacks to improve your chances of defending successfully. This can help you hold onto key territories and maintain your position in the game.
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Frequently asked questions
The main objective of the game is to occupy every territory on the board and eliminate other players.
If a single player controls at least 18 of the 34 Supply Centers in the game, they win.
Players control armies of playing pieces with which they attempt to capture territories from other players, with results determined by dice rolls. Players may form and dissolve alliances during the course of the game.
The only way to expand your resources is to take them from someone else.
Diplomacy can be handled by the game mechanics or through negotiation between players. Players may form and dissolve alliances during the game.
