- The article describes a simulation called PeaceGame organized by the US Institute of Peace and Foreign Policy that brought together 45 experts to role-play diplomatic efforts to resolve the Syrian civil war. - Experts represented groups like the US, Assad regime in Syria, Salafi militants, and Syrian civil society to game out scenarios and highlight interests that often get lost in policy discussions. - The simulation suggested that Assad would only compromise if he loses support from allies like Russia, Iran and Hezbollah, but others in his government may push him out to save themselves if that happens.