What Is Simulation Depth?

Understand the difference between Standard and Premium simulation depth, what each includes, and when to use each tier.

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Understanding Simulation Depth

Standard Depth (48 Countries)

Standard depth includes the 48 countries that drive the vast majority of global geopolitical dynamics:

  • All P5 nuclear powers (US, Russia, China, UK, France)
  • All NATO members and major alliance partners
  • Regional powers (India, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, etc.)
  • Key resource producers and chokepoint controllers
  • Rising powers and strategic pivots

Best for: Most scenarios involving major powers, alliances, trade wars, military conflicts, and resource competition.

Credit cost: Lower per step.

Premium Depth (195 Countries)

Premium extends coverage to all 195 states, adding:

  • Small island nations and microstates
  • Landlocked developing countries
  • States with collectively significant regional roles

Best for: Scenarios centered on smaller states, comprehensive regional analysis (Pacific Islands, Central Africa, Caribbean), or when you need full global cascading coverage.

Credit cost: Higher per step.

Choosing the Right Depth

For most scenarios — a Taiwan Strait crisis, NATO-Russia tensions, Middle East conflict, trade war — Standard depth includes every relevant actor. Choose Premium only when your specific scenario requires countries not in the core 48.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to commonly asked questions about our platform

  • What is Standard depth?

    Standard depth simulates 48 major countries that drive global geopolitical dynamics — all great powers, regional pivots, nuclear states, and key resource producers.

  • What is Premium depth?

    Premium depth extends the simulation to all 195 internationally recognized states, including smaller nations not covered in Standard.

  • Which should I choose?

    Start with Standard. It covers all major powers and is sufficient for 90%+ of scenarios. Use Premium only when your scenario specifically involves countries outside the core 48.

  • Does Premium cost more credits?

    Yes. Premium steps cost more credits due to the increased AI processing required for comprehensive global analysis.