Imagine a very very small scenario. Not necessarily small in dimensions, but simple. I'm talking about scenario minimalism. It's tough to describe ... but I can say, pretty definitely, that it would be without a wide variety of units, trigger tricks, or eye candy. Not that these things are bad -- they are simply unnecessary. An example would be a simple challenge I long ago created for myself (since lost): on one end of a tiny island I placed 16 archers and a single siege ram, for Player 1; on the other side I placed 16 spearmen and two watch towers behind a stone wall and gate, all belonging to Player 2. The setup was simple while the user was left to consider a carful strategy, being overpowered; for example, one might hide four archers in the ram to defend it from spearmen as it knocked out the wall. That being the only example I can offer, I'm not convinced I can get convey the concept to anyone else. I think the main idea is to let the user carefully imagine strategy before fighting.
Put otherwise, I'm trying to create a scenario with the following goals in mind:
- There must not be a wide variety of terrain over one map.
- There must not be a wide variety of units over one map.
- There must not be villagers (read: no resources).
- There must be a single military focus.
- Wouldn't bother with dialogue, either.
"Allowed" features include:
- A powerful unit leading others
- Recruiting of units (as opposed to creation)
- Upgrading of units (not too minimalistic but invokes strategy in spending or something)
- Trigger emphasis placed on buildings or areas (like a farm that feeds your troops and makes them stronger)
I felt that I should present this idea simply to be imbibed by fellow designers. I'm not looking for any particular feedback, but enouragement, examples, and further ideas would be appreciated.