War of attrition (game)

War of Attrition in game design refers to a specific type of gameplay strategy focused on depleting an opponent's resources over a prolonged period rather than achieving a decisive victory through direct confrontation. This strategy often involves a slower pace, emphasizing resource management, and a gradual erosion of the opponent's capabilities.

Characteristics

• Slow Pace: War of attrition games typically unfold over an extended period, emphasizing careful planning and sustained effort over rapid, aggressive maneuvers.
• Resource Management: Efficient resource gathering and allocation are crucial. Players must carefully manage their resources to outlast their opponent.
• Defensive Focus: While offensive actions may occur, the primary focus is often on maintaining one's own strength and gradually wearing down the enemy's capabilities.
• Endurance: Success in a war of attrition depends on a player's ability to persevere and withstand prolonged pressure.
• Indirect Confrontation: Direct conflict might be infrequent or minimized, with the focus instead on controlling resources, disrupting supply lines, or employing attrition tactics such as attrition warfare.

Examples in Different Game Genres

While the term "war of attrition" might not be explicitly used in game design documents, the core concept manifests in various game genres:

• Real-Time Strategy (RTS): Players might focus on building a strong economy and slowly expanding their base, gradually overwhelming their opponent through superior numbers and resources.
• Grand Strategy: Games in this genre often feature protracted conflicts where attrition plays a significant role, focusing on economic strength, logistical management, and manpower.
• 4X Games: (Explore, Expand, Exploit, Exterminate) The "Exterminate" aspect can be achieved through a war of attrition, slowly wearing down an opponent's civilization through prolonged conflict.
• Card Games: Some card games can incorporate attrition strategies where the player focuses on depleting their opponent's hand or health points over several turns.

Variations and Considerations

The effectiveness of a war of attrition strategy varies depending on the specific game mechanics and context. Some games might inherently favor aggressive strategies, making a war of attrition difficult to implement successfully. Moreover, a player employing this strategy risks being caught off guard by a sudden, decisive attack from their opponent.

See Also

• Resource Management
• Strategic Planning
• Economic Warfare
• Attrition Warfare (Military Strategy)