Test summary from TripleA, engine version: 1.8.0.3, time: 23:19:43

Test summary from TripleA, engine version: 1.8.0.3, time: 23:18:59

Testing

I am just wondering if anyone invests in weapons developement? Which powers they choose to invest with, gradually one or two dice at a time, or all at once? Anyone bother at all outside of messing around after you clearly have the advantage?

Thats why I prefer a G3 DOW. Gives time to prepare for a solid steady march towards Moscow but enables you to take it before America can finish off the Japs. This however leaves one with less money for the western front than the slow but steady masacre of Soviets that you seem to be taking about.

Stalingradski - Helpful tips indeed! I admit I havent considered a naval defense for Germany like you are suggesting. And the idea certainly sparks some thought! Thank you for that!

As Germany I usually never buy any navy except for a first turn or 2 sealion feint, subs, and maybe a destroyer to remove of the rather annoying Russian subs. (Until Moscow falls at least) Though the ability to defend W. Germany, Denmark, and Norway through a single navy is a very appealing thought. The major problem I see with this however is that because of how long it takes for Moscow to fall the Allies can abuse and eliminate Japan, and secure Cairo by the time Moscow falls. Thus Germany stands alone (Italy being of little help at this stage) against the Allies. Yes, it has Russia under its control, and many IPC because of it. But I dont see it being able to take Cairo before the Allies overpower the German navy and start the invasion of France/Italy.

I am looking for a couple new ideas to spice up my next game concerning the defense of Europe. (Both axis and allies) Trying to get some new ideas on how to defend it and how to crack it. Usually when defending it with Germany I keep counter attacking forces in France and W. Germany to counter any landings in normandy, denmark, S. France, and Belgium/holland. I send troops to assist in Italys defense of Italy + Greece, and usually defend Norway with a couple transports in the baltic to add reinforcements or to take it back. I find tons of aircraft to be especially useful since they can counter attack anywhere and also threaten the allies fleets.

What about you guys?

I think that most players will agree with me when I say that in a game between 2 players of even skill levels, even luck, and no Operation Sealion, that Moscow will fall to Germany. A skilled Soviet player will be able to delay and make it difficult but in the end their demise depends on Germany and the other Allied powers.

So in the end, when Germany has amassed its troops to take Moscow, and it is the last Soviet turn what do you guys do? I see 2 options:
A. fortify Moscow as much as possible and take as many of those damn Germans out as you can.
or
B. Retreat and cause problems elsewhere (India, Egypt, China)

If you retreat the Germans will most likely be forced to follow. Yes you give up your capitol for free, but those troops can reinforce/be reinforced by other powers in other strategic and important locations.

True, it all depends on your preference and the strategy and skill of the opposition.

On the other hand I think that anything before J2/G2 is to rushed. Doesnt give you enough time to properly position and strengthen yourself for a long solid campaign of war.