[xpe]

I heard some seasoned folks at a Diplomacy group describe that media coverage... IIRC, they considered it to miss much of the spirit of the game. I think ongoing people who enjoy it have a special ability to value the game dynamics without taking it personally.

[LanceH]

Step one: Don't think of your opponent as people.

[xpe]

This is a great statement. You are probably joking and serious at the same time.

At the same time, I think your quip demonstrates something I'm trying to get across. I've seen some people miss an opportunity to learn from games like Diplomacy. They bring in their personal expectations of how things should work. For example, they may want friends IRL to cut them a break in the game.

I find Diplomacy interesting because you have to light up all of your brain: assessment, strategy, tactics, and communication. Playing Diplomacy is cognitively demanding. One's ability to do well is a blend of hard power (what shows on the board) and soft power (how well you can persuade).