Diplomacy and Intelligence

[jstivers]

How important is diplomacy and intelligence in the game? Does the player have much control over these 2 aspects (ie. spending more or less to develop them?) Is it worth paying to develop them?

[jstivers]

Nobody has an opinion on this? Just wanted some info before I buy.

[Ironclad]

One thing I like about diplomacy is that it doesn't cost that much to try and influence minor countries. 50 points per chit and you have 5 chits in total that can be used. A successful influence uses up one chit which allows you to buy a replacement. The larger countries cost more 125/150 points per chit (I think) and major powers committed to the other side can only be delayed in reaching the 100% level (not swung to your side)when a country goes to war - although preparations for war often kick in at 85/90% level. Taking the Axis as the example Finland, Spain and Turkey are key nations to influence. If the Finns go to the allied side - it means their entry into the war is delayed dependent on Axis success. Competing diplomacy can still lose you influence even when spending money, and that can force you to invest even if you don't want to. For example, I had decided in one game not to worry about Turkish diplomacy as my Axis armies ploughed through the Soviet Union and was poised to enter Persia but after a succession of turnly announcements of Allied successful diplomacy with Turkey - plus 10/15% each time I realised the Turks were above 80% allied and reluctantly used Italy's entire resource balance to buy 5 chits at 250 points to try and halt or reverse their commitmentm.

Spying and Intelligence is a research option. I think it may help with randon spotting but its function identified in the tooltip is to give you a bonus to achieving other research functions (its competitive so if each side is spending on this , the greater spender will slow down his opponent). The real gem for me of this is that using it - gives one an opportunity of research breakthroughs which enables a level to be achieved from 45% upwards instead of having to wait for the normal 100% maximum target for that level.

Great game and one that I'd highly recommend for purchase. Enjoy.

[xwormwood]

Both topics are very important in multiplayer games, and in single player games, too. While playing the AI check the diplo % values and counter the AIs efforts.
All in all diplo is important. For the Axis: make sure that Sweden stays on your side, and you have the option ot influence Spain and Turkey (Norway too, if you don't invade or use the DE).
Intelligence is very important, at least in my eyes. While ahead, you will slow down your opponents tech advances.
But there is no easy answer to your question, it all depends on your own idea how to play the game, and where to go ahead.

[jstivers]

Thanks guys. That's what I was hoping to hear.