The combination of these aspects put the Moo series above and made it more addictive over decades then Civ, Galactiv Civs, Space Empires etc. I can play MoO 1 & 2 all the time, and have played it many more times then anyother strategy game. I think the Elemental devs and we customers should all closely examine the AI/diplomatic dynamics of those 2 games very closely, for they have reached the Holy Grail of 4x4s like no other games. I dont know what level this AL diplomatic personality is developed for Elemental, but I think if the devs concentrate on this aspect they can make one of the best if not the best 4x4 ever made.
It is the player's connection to, immersion not on a FPS level, but on a world building level that makes a game more then its component parts. If one adds a great dynamic world and AI/diplomatics with personality to smooth and efficient mechanic systems, then you have achieved the apex of game design. Quite a few 4x4s have achievd good to great mechanics, but almost all failed mostly on the personality side- Space Empires 4&5, Civilization was so so, Galactic Civs, etc.
The very best are Master of Orion 1 & 2, followed by Master of Magic- a combo of Master of Magic with MoOs trading partnerships, alliances, cyclical wars, espionage cold wars etc. would be an amazing ame indeed.
This is why MoO system is so great: Faction grudges, alliances and cyclical wars were implemented amazingly well in Master of Orion 1 & 2. You were able to form trading partnerships both economic and technological, alliances and go to war several times both by "cold war" espionage and hot war over hundreds of years. This built up a sense of charm and personality to the game and the various factions as the player developed a desire to face the bitter rival even across several games.
Additionally the aspect of voting for a diplomatic victory on the Galactic council built a competitive rivalry that could break down even more even between friends and alliances.
And the invasion by the Antaerans forced cooperation amongst friends and allies alike as necessity as the only means of victory against an outsid force.
The combination of these aspects put the Moo series above and made it more addictive over decades then Civ, Galactiv Civs, Space Empires etc.
Elemental should build up some major personality and prolific friendships and anatagonists to connect the players more deeply in the game.
