: Slow down the replay during an invasion. Check if your military is training effectively or if your trap corridors are actually stopping enemies [2, 30]. 2. "Small Fortress" (v0.50+) Optimization Guide

: Aim for at least 2 squads with staggered training schedules so someone is always on guard [2].

: Look for "idlers." If you see a large number of dwarves standing still, it usually means your work orders or stockpile configurations are inefficient [30].

: Ensure you have a consistent stockpile of alcohol and a protected source of clean water within the first year [3].

: Give every dwarf a private room with a chest and cabinet to keep them happy [22].

: Build a legendary dining hall early; it's the primary way to manage stress in a growing population [1]. Defense & Safety :

To watch your replay and find areas for improvement, follow these steps often recommended by expert players [32]:

: For smaller maps, verticality is key. Use a central 5x5 stairwell with a wall in a cross form (+) to reduce Line of Sight (LOS) checks, which helps maintain high FPS [7]. Sustainable Industries :