As a dedicated strategy gamer and fan of medieval fantasy, I was eager to dive into Diplomacy is Not an Option, a strategy game from Door 407 released on October 4, 2024. While it has some promising features, it doesn’t fully deliver.
A comparison that often comes up is They Are Billions, a standout in the horde-survival strategy genre. While Diplomacy is Not an Option brings some unique elements, it struggles to match TaBs in execution.
Gameplay – Where Strategy Meets Chaos
The game challenges you to build a town, manage resources, and assemble an army to fend off relentless enemy waves. However, it seems unsure of its direction. It tries to blend Total War-style micromanagement with large-scale battles but doesn’t fully succeed at either.
Resource management also feels unbalanced. The fast-paced gameplay often turns into a frantic race to gather supplies rather than a thoughtful survival strategy. While the urgency adds challenge, it can be overwhelming, leaving little time to appreciate the satisfaction of well-built defenses.
Your true objective is to create an impenetrable base before the enemy arrives. However, enemy pathfinding is too predictable—most just march in a straight line toward your walls. While the tension remains, the lack of dynamic enemy behavior limits strategic depth.
Visuals and Sound – A Mixed Bag
The medieval fantasy setting is visually appealing, with detailed character models and well-designed environments. However, the story and cutscenes tend to drag, feeling more like obstacles than enhancements. The sound design does its job but isn’t particularly memorable.
Challenge vs. Replayability
The game is undoubtedly challenging, but replay value is lacking. The lengthy campaign can feel more exhausting than rewarding, especially in the late game, where strategic options become limited. Adding more variety could improve long-term appeal.
Final Verdict
With the right improvements, Diplomacy is Not an Option could evolve into a great horde-survival strategy game. While it delivers thrilling moments, especially when preparing for massive battles, it struggles to stand out against games like They Are Billions or Total War.
Right now, it feels like an unpolished gem—full of potential but in need of refinement. I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars. With better balance and identity, it could become a must-play.
