Diplomacy — The Mastermind
The Playbook / Diplomacy
TIER 1 · STRATEGY · COMMUNICATIONS-BASED

Diplomacy

You are securing favorable terms through interaction, not force. Two Tactics live under this Strategy: Negotiation and Leverage.

THE OBJECTIVE

Discuss Favorable Terms

"Give me that which I want, and you shall have this which you want, is the meaning of every such offer." — Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nations, Book I, Ch. II

The self-interest of the party you're engaging is the best bargaining chip you have. Never approach by explaining your own need — state the other side's gain instead.

TACTIC — NEGOTIATION

Terms of a Direct Exchange

Price, timing, and the structure of a deal. Three plays.

TACTIC — LEVERAGE

Maneuvering People and Opinion

Renamed from "Influence" to resolve a naming collision with existing site content. No direct exchange of goods or price — this tactic works on people and belief instead. Two plays.

Full Strategy mechanics and the Tactics reference live in the Playbook.