Meaning: The quote by Fred Davis, a well-known figure in the board gaming community, touches upon an important aspect of game design, specifically within the context of the game Diplomacy. Diplomacy is a strategic board game that simulates the political and military dynamics of Europe before World War I. The game revolves around players representing different countries and vying for control of supply centers to expand their influence and ultimately achieve victory. The quote highlights the significance of avoiding the placement of two home supply centers adjacent to each other within the game's design.

In Diplomacy, each player begins the game with a set of home supply centers that form the foundation of their power and influence. These supply centers serve as the source of a player's military units and are essential for their expansion and dominance on the game board. The concept of not having two home supply centers touching each other is a crucial design principle that aims to foster strategic depth and balance within the gameplay.

When analyzing this quote, it's important to understand the rationale behind this design principle. By ensuring that home supply centers are not adjacent to each other, the game's designers aim to prevent an imbalance of power and potential early-game conflicts between neighboring players. This design choice encourages players to explore various strategic options and diplomatic maneuvers rather than engaging in immediate confrontations with nearby rivals.

Furthermore, the absence of adjacent home supply centers promotes a more dynamic and fluid gameplay experience. Players are compelled to navigate the diplomatic landscape carefully, form alliances, and negotiate with other nations to secure their position and expand their influence across the map. This design principle aligns with the core theme of Diplomacy, which emphasizes negotiation, betrayal, and the intricate web of alliances and rivalries that defined European politics during the time period in which the game is set.

From a game balance perspective, the avoidance of adjacent home supply centers also contributes to a more equitable starting position for all players. This design choice mitigates the potential for certain nations to have an inherent advantage or disadvantage based solely on their initial placement on the game board. As a result, the game's strategic depth is enhanced, and players are encouraged to explore diverse tactics and diplomatic strategies to overcome challenges and outmaneuver their opponents.

In the context of game design, Fred Davis's quote serves as a valuable insight into the thoughtful considerations that go into creating a balanced and engaging gameplay experience. It underscores the importance of careful design choices that not only align with the thematic elements of the game but also contribute to a rich and immersive player experience.

In conclusion, the quote by Fred Davis encapsulates the significance of thoughtful game design principles within the context of Diplomacy. By advocating for the avoidance of adjacent home supply centers, the quote highlights the commitment to fostering strategic depth, balanced gameplay, and immersive diplomatic interactions. This design principle exemplifies the impact of thoughtful and intentional game design choices in creating a compelling and enriching gaming experience for players.