Game Speed and Map Size

[dalamb]

@Um: why do you say the number of relationships is factorial? Normally I'd think that it's just the number of ordered pairs, which is n(n-1). Does A's relationship with B affect his relationship with C? I guess vassalhood might count, but since vassals can't have vassals this should be at most n(n-1)(n-2).

 

[Um the Muse]

Yeah, it would. Don't forget about worst enemy status and if an AI is at war with somebody else, it isn't plotting to fight you, among other considerations. Good catch, though! I didn't really think my answer all the way through

 

[dalamb]

I can only think of a few 3-step relationships (some of which you already listed or alluded to):

1. B is at war with C so won't start one with A
2. B has worst enemy C so is unhappy when A trades with C (or takes C as a vassal).
3. C vassalizes to B while at war with A (so B is now at war with A).
4. When A has weak vassal B it affects something about C's view of A's power -- it seems like it ought to be "more vassals means more power" but I vaguely recall something about averaging power.
5. A bribes B to war with C which causes C to lower its opinion of A.