The UK is the most difficult Allied country to play. They are concerned about Europe, Asia and Africa. The proper use of the UK air is critical, as is the balance between Africa and Europe/Asia.
The US is relatively easy to play, once you coordinate naval movements…but that can be a challenge for newbies.
The Russkies are the second most difficult country to play in a longer game. However, in most games, if you can get him to abide by a standard opening move, then he will have 2-4 turns of mostly conservative defence. He can learn alot by simply watching the UK/US naval movements and the UK use of air to support him in Asia.
So, for a newbie…teach him an opening or two and then let him play Russia.
On the Axis side, let him play Japan. Japan is one of the easiest countries for a newbie to play because you start with a lot, and it is pretty hard NOT to do fairly decent in the first few turns and expand. Plus he will have lots of fun moving all the pieces. :smile: The Axis may not win, but at least he will expand some and learn the fundamentals.
Generally, it is easier to learn the Axis than the Allies…simply because there is much less direct coordination between the players. You don’t have to worry about coordinating naval movements or covering ground forces with the other’s air…at least, not nearly as much as the Allies.
So my first choice with a newbie is always Japan. Less coordination, more time, and less chance of critical errors smoking him early.
SUD
