I see the potential, but keep the tactical layer tightly defined—clear objectives, limited resources, a turn‑based feel. Let the empathy choices be rewards or constraints that affect those tactics, so the logic still drives the play but emotions modulate the payoff. That way the game stays strategic yet emotionally resonant.

Sounds solid—keep the options binary so the decision matrix stays clean. A single cost and one clear payoff per choice eliminates ambiguity. That way the player can calculate quickly whether to spend the energy for a tactical bonus or to block. If the “Tough Stare” uses a resource that’s limited, players will weigh that against future needs, reinforcing the strategic rhythm. The emotional touch will feel like an extra layer of tactical choice without drowning the logic core. Good approach.