Rockastar, I got the hardcore ending on the first try. I think it's because I started a war to help decrease unhappiness pretty early on with the "natural enemy state." After bankrolling 200 budget following early diplomatic investments, could pretty much do whatever I wanted. Lots of cultural exchange to increase happiness, plus the nuke plant.
Reviews for "Create the Police State"
A neo-liberal state is already a police state.
For a game about a "liberal democracy" it sure plays out a lot like Russia or North Korea, countries not known for either liberalism or democracy. It's still a fun simulator if you can ignore the political commentary and requires planning for things to work out your way.
I really enjoyed being a dictator for exchange. Has anyone managed to get the hardcore ending though?
This is pretty good but also quite challenging. Great job!