The Seven States
Seven kingdoms contending for supremacy in ancient China's Warring States period (475–221 BC). Each state embodies a distinct philosophical tradition and strategic doctrine.
Qin Qín
Ruthless efficiency, institutional strength, expansionist. Rewards military merit, punishes dissent. Centralized bureaucracy eliminates feudal aristocracy.
Han Hán
The experimental test bed. Historically the weakest and first to fall. In the simulation, Han's agent uses King Wen sequence-informed learning instead of conventional ML. The question: can ancient optimization patterns overcome extreme geopolitical disadvantage?
Zhao Zhào
Strong cavalry tradition, aggressive defense, tactical excellence. Known for the Hufu cavalry reform. Brave but sometimes strategically reckless — the disaster at Changping exemplifies tactical talent undermined by political misjudgment.
Wei Wèi
Early hegemon that declined through strategic overextension. Strong bureaucratic tradition. Economically sophisticated but gradually squeezed between Qin and Qi. A cautionary tale of power squandered.
Yan Yān
Cautious, northern frontier state, late mover. Ancient lineage but often passive. Capable of dramatic action when provoked (Yue Yi's campaign against Qi) but struggles with sustained strategic initiative.
Chu Chǔ
Vast territory, decentralized governance, culturally distinct from northern states. Unpredictable and patient. Rich shamanic tradition. Capable of immense power but hampered by feudal aristocratic factions that resist centralization.
Qi Qí
Intellectual powerhouse, economic giant, diplomatic heavyweight. Qi's Jixia Academy attracted thinkers from every school. Wealthiest state through salt and fish monopolies. Capable of brilliant diplomacy but prone to complacency after periods of success.