Q: I have been trying to figure out a decent and effective counter for the Germans to deal with an aggressive Russian player that decides on going into Eastern Europe the first turn. Any ideas would be extremely helpful -- especially plans built on the idea that the majority of German air power is going to have to be used to send the Royal Navy to the bottom. -- Mike M.

A: In most games Germany One is the most difficult turn. Keeping that in mind, I would also say that part of my answer would depend on how successful Russia was in their endeavors against Eastern Europe and in the Baltic sea zone.

The Aggressive Approach

As you stated, kill the British navy! Use all available land units to destroy the Russian aggressors in Eastern Europe. This should equal 9 infantry and 7 armor (plus the AA from Southern Europe during the non-combat phase of your turn). The German survivors in Eastern Europe should be enough to deter Russia's probable 16 infantry and 2 fighters in Karelia.

On the Western Front, the Luftwaffe has no better place to land than Western Europe. In conclusion I would probably build at least 4 infantry in round one, to make sure I have something cheap to add to Western Europe and Eastern Europe the following turn.

The Conservative Approach

Once again, kill the British Navy and land the planes in France. Use as little German armor as possible to reclaim Eastern Europe. I may use the infantry from Germany, Southern Europe, and Ukraine along with 1 armor and/or possibly 1 fighter for offensive punch. Remember, the armor in Ukraine are not trapped. If I am successful in re-capturing Eastern Europe, I could blitz them back to Germany during the Non-Combat phase of my turn. Finally, I would probably build 9 infantry and 1 armor. This should be enough to recapture Eastern Europe the following turn and hold it with a considerable cheap force.

I hope this helps. If someone else has any further ideas, please pass them along.

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