SUZERAIN might be your best introduction to Buddhist practice: much like the Tibetan monk who meticulously arranges countless grains of sand into a colorful mandala over several days, then sweeps it away as a symbol of impermanence — so too will you gradually shape your vision of an unwavering Sordland or Rizia through meaningful acts of leadership, only to be bum-rushed and backstabbed on turn 9 by a military coup.

All is transient, and SUZERAIN ensures you acknowledge it — whether through the sudden repercussions of your commands; the (atrocious) save system it offers; or even the in-game writings of martyred Malenyevist poets: "Our only strength is the will to survive, knowing that we will perish, knowing nothing more absolute."

Though its crooked core mechanics turn SUZERAIN into a seriously ruthless, souls-like visual novel, the sheer love poured into its story, characters, and world-building easily makes it one of my favorite findings of the year. Highly recommended. Also — ♥♥♥♥ you, Smolak.