Developer Diary | Opposition Iran

Generals! It’s Synth here, good to see you again! I hope you’re ready for our latest report in Graveyard of Empires! Last time we explored the historical events that took place in Iran during World War 2, as well as the potential alt history that lay within a strong Iranian Empire. This time, we take a look at what the opposition had to say in regards to the Pahlavi Dynasty. Buckle up soldiers, we’re going to be exploring the Democratic, Communist and Fascist paths and see what kind of alternate history awaits us.

From what we saw in history, Iran maintained its monarchy all the way through to the 1970s, but as with all nations, it was never a cut and dry case. In the 20th century, ideology took a forefront in modern politics, and Iran was no stranger to concepts such as communism and fascism. Today, we are going to explore a few what if scenarios, in which the Shah was faced with a strong enough opposition to change the trajectory of Iran on the world stage. Without further ado, let’s hop right in!

(A disclaimer: there may be some placeholder art for the time being)

Is being a King of Kings not your cup of tea? Well, we have a wide selection of ideology for you!

Taking power is not so simple. You must build your opposition first.

Before we dive into any specific branch, you must first establish your national front. Doing so will unlock a decision in which you can decide where to place your ‘headquarters’ should a civil war break out (And let me be real with you folks, it probably will). This will make that state your capital when you decide to go to war with the Shah, giving you a good foothold for your new government.

This will allow you to then take some more decisions through the next focuses, which will help you to lower support for the Shah and establish opposition groups in various states that will join you on the onset of a civil war.

From this point, you must then decide which ideology you want to use to spearhead Iran into the future.

Rallying behind Mosaddegh

I love democracy, I love the Republic…

Have you heard the tale of Mohammad Mosaddegh? He was a prominent Iranian politician, author and lawyer. To this day, he remains one of the most popular figures in Iranian history. In the context of Graveyard of Empires, Mosaddegh is the man who will spearhead our democratic movement in Iran. As the democratic Iranian player, you will have the choice of either restoring and maintaining constitutional limits on the Shah, allowing him to serve as a figurehead, or instead work towards a republic, which will inevitably result in the Shah’s deposition. Whilst forcing an abdication will result in a civil war no matter what, if you are able to garner enough democratic support, you should be able to avoid conflict and quietly become a full democracy if you instead decide to enforce a constitutional monarchy.

I’m sure the Shah won’t mind…

Oh yeah, he probably will mind…

At this point, you are now a democracy, and it is time to open up free elections and decide who you want to lead your nation. You will have three options, each with their own perks: Mohammad Mosaddegh, Mohammad Ali Foroughi, and Abol Ghasem Kashani.

If you choose to follow a constitutional monarchy, there will also be an option to