Disclaimer

When it comes to strategy, there is no step by step guide for securing absolute victory in A&A. Although I have read many articles that make such radical claims I cannot offer the same grand promises here.

The Cornerstone of Victory

No matter what strategy you employ, Europe can not be ignored. Before Russia makes her first purchase, Europe already accounts for 29 Infantry, 12 Armor, 7 Fighters, 1 Bomber, 5 Anti-Aircraft Guns, 4 Industrial Complexes and 2 Capitals. This does not include Great Britain nor any of the nearby navies. Simply put, if you lose early in Europe, you will probably lose the game.

Karelia

The shortest path for the Germans to Moscow is through Karelia. Through personal experience, I have found it very difficult to give up Karelia early in the game and still obtain victory. Whoever controls Karelia can attack Eastern Europe, Ukraine and Caucasus. This shift in income is very difficult to overcome, especially for the Russians. The Allies should attempt to hold Karelia at all costs. And as long as capturing Karelia does not overextend German resources, this is a prize the Germans should definately seek to gain control over.

Two Strategic Bombings Run Do Not Equal Victory

Sometimes the best winning strategy it to avoid using a losing strategy. Here's a flawed strategy I have seen used several times to the demise of the Allies.

Setting the Trap. During turn one, the Russians abandon Karelia. They move all but 1 infantry from Karelia, including the AA. The Allied hope is that Germans will bite on the bait and take Karelia. If the Germans do bite then the Allies are free to bomb Karelia twice without fear of an AA attack. This grand plan will on average do $6 to $7 worth of damage to the German economy.

Counting the Costs. Since the AA has moved from Karelia, what prevents the Germans from performing their own bombing run on Karelia? On average they could do $3 to $4 damage to the Communist treasury. If the Germans choose to take Karelia, they will also gain an extra $3 for the land value. The odds are that the financial results will end up about equal. However, giving up Karelia costs more than just a few IPCs. Without a strong Russian Karelia, the Germans are free to fortify any part of Europe they desire. Finally, re-taking and holding Karelia may be no easy task for the following reasons:

1) The Japanese could possibly send 2 fighters to help defend Karelia in turn 1.
2) If the Russians only build infantry in turn 1 they weaken the ability to counter-attack the Germans. If they build armor, then they weaken their ability to defend Karelia.
3) The Russians cannot place purchased units directly into Karelia, if they do not own Karelia at the beginning of their turn.
4) The Russian fighters can not land in Karelia on the turn the Russians re-take Karelia.
5) After turn 1, the German air force will generally not be used to destroy the Allied navy and therefore will be available to Karelia if need be.

Final Thoughts

In many games Karelia tends to be the centerpiece of Europe's conflict. However, there are other battles in Europe that must be fought (or avoided as the case may be). Topics we are considering: The German Teeter-Totter, More ICs in Europe, and Using the Tag-Team Approach. If you have any further ideas or if you would like to rip the above article to shreds, please drops us a note... I would be more than happy to post other view points.

Good Day Warriors!
Bozorq

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