Hey Paolo…as you requested,
End Game Player Commentary (Germany 13 centers)
This was the first Diplomacy game I have played in a while and only the second time I have ever played online. Our GM was very helpful in getting me (as a relative newbie) acclimated to the game. He clarified rules and referred me to specific section when I had questions. His direction coupled with his timely return of results made the game very enjoyable.

The two season system took a little getting used to. It allows for a very fast pace to the game, which I liked. But it can lead to some very convoluted planning…Especially during the fall turns when move orders, retreats and builds must all be anticipated at once. This system really forced me to think into the future. It was like playing chess and having to write three moves out in advance. Very tricky!

Then there’s my fellow players: I guess it is common for folks to drop out of these games, and that is too bad. The game would have ended much differently had Austria remained in the game. But on the positive side…I have to say I really admired how Tom/France stuck it out all the way. Sitting with one center for several game years, he kept in the game when others might have just bailed out. Tom…Even though you were a thorn in my Spain, I appreciated you staying in the game. And of course I have to congratulate Drew on the solo win…blah blah blah…I should never have let you in my back yard. Like I mentioned before…It wasn’t your units taking over the Austria centers that killed me, but the ones that had my guys pinned in place that finally forced my surrender. Great game guys, I look forward to playing with you again sometime…and maybe I’ll try to GM a game in the future. Till then…I’ll just sit here and sharpen my knives.