So far in my group we’ve just closed the Dardelles and things have balanced out pretty well.  It takes off some pressure on Russia and they can help out some other fronts.  Didn’t like the bomber optional rule.  AA getting to fire at the fighters doesn’t make sense.  Only played 5 games though, but enjoyed them all.
We play with NOs and Tech, and luck has definitely played a part, but we like it like that.