Early May 1943
Russia
North - Germans again his Velikie Luki. Considerable casualties on both sides.
Center - Germans attack the 13 Mechanized corps and take heavy casualties. The also attack an army near Smolensk.
South - Germans are resupplying there damaged panzers while the Russians do the same due to heavy rains.
UK / US
Plans continue to be made.
Germany
No bomber as the units rest up for the Spring
Battle of the Atlantic
2 more Uboats are sunk. Swordfish from the HMS Courageous and Ark Royal find the Deutchland and sink it, and cripple its destroyer escort.
Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late May 1943
Russia
North - Clear and quiet
Center - Clear and quiet
South - Clear and quiet.
Both sides appear to be waiting for the other to make the first move as they monitor armor movements around the lines
US / UK
Clear and quiet
Germany
Skies are quiet.
Polesti is hit by US bombers but the new antiaircraft takes a heavy toll. Over 200 bombers are lost.
Italy
Rain
Battle of the Atlantic
Clear and quiet.
Russia
North - Clear and quiet
Center - Clear and quiet
South - Clear and quiet.
Both sides appear to be waiting for the other to make the first move as they monitor armor movements around the lines
US / UK
Clear and quiet
Germany
Skies are quiet.
Polesti is hit by US bombers but the new antiaircraft takes a heavy toll. Over 200 bombers are lost.
Italy
Rain
Battle of the Atlantic
Clear and quiet.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early June 1943
Russia - North. Russian special forces, Cossacks head to sea with escorts...but they are intercepted by the Scharnhorst that sinks the Murat and air sinks a few transports...but the Cossacks are able to land in Germany just south of Bremerhaven. They are there to work with the UK and test German defenses. They move in and find that Kiel is lightly defended and immediately radio head quarters that reports this to the UK Prime Minister.
The Russian Cossacks then move south and capture a German oil field.
Armies around Velikie Luki attack a German corps and drive it back...they call in armor that overrun the unit and move 80 miles behind German lines. It is not likely that they will be able to hold the position but the advance needs to start.
Center - Russian forces await German redeployment
South - Awaiting the correct opportunity.
UK / US
Germany
UK special forces receive the go from Russia. They land in Denmark and disarm the mine fields guarding Kiel. Then the WDF Armor corps and a UK corps land...smashing through the Kiel defenses with heavy bombardment from both sea and air.
With another landing completely surround Hamburg. The Royal Navy move over a dozen ships into the area in support of the landings.
Battle of the Atlantic
Has quieted and may be over.
Russia - North. Russian special forces, Cossacks head to sea with escorts...but they are intercepted by the Scharnhorst that sinks the Murat and air sinks a few transports...but the Cossacks are able to land in Germany just south of Bremerhaven. They are there to work with the UK and test German defenses. They move in and find that Kiel is lightly defended and immediately radio head quarters that reports this to the UK Prime Minister.
The Russian Cossacks then move south and capture a German oil field.
Armies around Velikie Luki attack a German corps and drive it back...they call in armor that overrun the unit and move 80 miles behind German lines. It is not likely that they will be able to hold the position but the advance needs to start.
Center - Russian forces await German redeployment
South - Awaiting the correct opportunity.
UK / US
Germany
UK special forces receive the go from Russia. They land in Denmark and disarm the mine fields guarding Kiel. Then the WDF Armor corps and a UK corps land...smashing through the Kiel defenses with heavy bombardment from both sea and air.
With another landing completely surround Hamburg. The Royal Navy move over a dozen ships into the area in support of the landings.
Battle of the Atlantic
Has quieted and may be over.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late June 1943
Russia
North - With their mission a complete success, the last ride of the Cossacks begins.
German forces attack an armor unit keeping a mech in supply 80 miles into German territory. 3 German corps smash into the armor and 3 times it repels the attacks causing heavy losses...but as the infantry part, German panzers roll in and the unit now low on supplies retreats, and the Russian mech is surrounded. Russian forces call in an army, and some armor and through everything they can against the Germany infantry cutting the supply lines and drive it back...the 28th mech is able to get back to friendly lines.
Center - German units begin railing out as UK and US forces land in Germany...Russian units wait for the correct moment.
South - Ditto
UK / US
Germany
UK and US armor pour into Germany...along with air and infantry. The WDF with all its success drives up to Copenhagen and overruns the Germans defending there. Massive amounts of supplies start pouring into the country. Other units dash into Hamburg which is now in UK control.
German armor rails in from Russia...fresh from resting...US and UK air attempt to disrupt and pay the heaviest air cost of the war...
Battle of the Atlantic
The two Uboats and the surface ship the Admiral Hipper with escorts make what may be their final run into the Atlantic...one Uboat is sunk.
Russia
North - With their mission a complete success, the last ride of the Cossacks begins.
German forces attack an armor unit keeping a mech in supply 80 miles into German territory. 3 German corps smash into the armor and 3 times it repels the attacks causing heavy losses...but as the infantry part, German panzers roll in and the unit now low on supplies retreats, and the Russian mech is surrounded. Russian forces call in an army, and some armor and through everything they can against the Germany infantry cutting the supply lines and drive it back...the 28th mech is able to get back to friendly lines.
Center - German units begin railing out as UK and US forces land in Germany...Russian units wait for the correct moment.
South - Ditto
UK / US
Germany
UK and US armor pour into Germany...along with air and infantry. The WDF with all its success drives up to Copenhagen and overruns the Germans defending there. Massive amounts of supplies start pouring into the country. Other units dash into Hamburg which is now in UK control.
German armor rails in from Russia...fresh from resting...US and UK air attempt to disrupt and pay the heaviest air cost of the war...
Battle of the Atlantic
The two Uboats and the surface ship the Admiral Hipper with escorts make what may be their final run into the Atlantic...one Uboat is sunk.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Once again I've been schooled by stjeand; I didn't think it was possible to mount an effective attack in the Kiel region, so it's the only place I left defended with divisions. This was clearly a mistake on my part and now that I see it, I'm kicking myself. He was able to pick up 3 9-factor ports there and will be impossible to dislodge, and even if I'm able to contain him there it means opening up the Baltic to the Allies and of course cutting my Northern ore supply route. It is the beginning of the end for the Axis. 
This has been a fun (although stressful) game. I've never been able to play this far as the Axis before, because my opponents usually quit, so this is opening up a part of the game I don't have any experience with. I would definitely have done a lot differently in retrospect. Hopefully I can provide stjeand with a challenge and hold out as long as possible.
This has been a fun (although stressful) game. I've never been able to play this far as the Axis before, because my opponents usually quit, so this is opening up a part of the game I don't have any experience with. I would definitely have done a lot differently in retrospect. Hopefully I can provide stjeand with a challenge and hold out as long as possible.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early July 1943
Russia
North - The last ride of the Cossacks concludes...they did their job and will be remember.
Russian forces overrun a division next to the city of Novgorod though the division puts up one hell of a fight.
Further south Russian units are awaiting the go...probe a German corps.
Center - Russian forces move up to the German lines.
South - Russian forces await the order.
UK / US
Germany
Strong German armor pour into the Hamburg area. They wipe out the Cossacks and a UK division that was not able to return to their lines. They shatter a corps attempting to hold Hamburg and drive another unit back. UK and US forces respond and decimate a German Panzer corps with a massive air bombardment. They move in heavier armor this time. 1st US Mechanized and the UK WDF, well seasoned, moves into Hamburg. German forces will be able to drive him out but it will be costly.
With German forces busy around Hamburg the US 4th armored corps, UK South Wales and UK 6th airborne land around Brest. The initial estimates were badly mistaken. There is a full German corps well dug in. They call in all the air that the can and the entire US and UK carrier fleets of 10 carriers to smash the German position. After days of fierce fighting the Germans hold and the US and UK forces are exhausted...they have to call in the UK 8th corps which overruns the unit and moves into Brest.
Battle of the Atlantic
No battles today...few German ships and Uboats remain...
Russia
North - The last ride of the Cossacks concludes...they did their job and will be remember.
Russian forces overrun a division next to the city of Novgorod though the division puts up one hell of a fight.
Further south Russian units are awaiting the go...probe a German corps.
Center - Russian forces move up to the German lines.
South - Russian forces await the order.
UK / US
Germany
Strong German armor pour into the Hamburg area. They wipe out the Cossacks and a UK division that was not able to return to their lines. They shatter a corps attempting to hold Hamburg and drive another unit back. UK and US forces respond and decimate a German Panzer corps with a massive air bombardment. They move in heavier armor this time. 1st US Mechanized and the UK WDF, well seasoned, moves into Hamburg. German forces will be able to drive him out but it will be costly.
With German forces busy around Hamburg the US 4th armored corps, UK South Wales and UK 6th airborne land around Brest. The initial estimates were badly mistaken. There is a full German corps well dug in. They call in all the air that the can and the entire US and UK carrier fleets of 10 carriers to smash the German position. After days of fierce fighting the Germans hold and the US and UK forces are exhausted...they have to call in the UK 8th corps which overruns the unit and moves into Brest.
Battle of the Atlantic
No battles today...few German ships and Uboats remain...
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Lol, you attack Brest just as I pulled a full strength armor corps out of there, otherwise I may have driven you off the beaches. Of course, that's the plan - Germany can't defend everywhere, so you hit when the defenses are thinned. I expect to see massive attacks on the Eastern front soon. Very stressful opening my turns these days.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late July 1943
Russia
North - Units moving about...waiting for the Germans to hopefully pull back a few units.
Center - Russian armor, equip with T34/85s and SU100s attack a German panzer and take massive losses. But wear the unit down. Another attack by Mogilev yields better results, but units are unable to breach the river line.
South - Russia launches a massive attack, overrunning a German corps and driving back another as well as a weakened armor. But losses were 4x what the German losses are, if not higher. Hundreds of tanks and well over 250,000 men are lost.
UK / US
Bombers hammer German lines all over in an attempt to slow the attacks by Hamburg. US 4th armored corp is shattered in a single attack, without a fight. The US 1st Mechanized though holds its ground inflicting considerable losses to German armor.
US and UK units around Brest drive a German division out of Lorient and dig in but they are weak from their landings. They call in the US 1st armored corps to shore up their defenses as well and hammer from air 2 German SS Panzer units that have railed in to defend against a breakthrough into France. Ships move in ready to support any attacks that may come.
US bombers take heavy losses bombing Ploesti again but with all the German armor it is possible fuel may become an issue if they can continue bombing and German attacks continue.
Battle of the Atlantic
Quiet. Suspect that fuel may become an issue so they are staying in port, though not much is left of them.
- I wish Russian units were not so terrible. They seem inept at any and every attack. Had a 5:1 and took 2x the losses. Not even sure HOW that is possible. Lost every 1:1 attack by 4x. Broke even overall in 2/3/4:1 attacks...Honestly only won a two battles out of 20...horrendous odds.
Russia
North - Units moving about...waiting for the Germans to hopefully pull back a few units.
Center - Russian armor, equip with T34/85s and SU100s attack a German panzer and take massive losses. But wear the unit down. Another attack by Mogilev yields better results, but units are unable to breach the river line.
South - Russia launches a massive attack, overrunning a German corps and driving back another as well as a weakened armor. But losses were 4x what the German losses are, if not higher. Hundreds of tanks and well over 250,000 men are lost.
UK / US
Bombers hammer German lines all over in an attempt to slow the attacks by Hamburg. US 4th armored corp is shattered in a single attack, without a fight. The US 1st Mechanized though holds its ground inflicting considerable losses to German armor.
US and UK units around Brest drive a German division out of Lorient and dig in but they are weak from their landings. They call in the US 1st armored corps to shore up their defenses as well and hammer from air 2 German SS Panzer units that have railed in to defend against a breakthrough into France. Ships move in ready to support any attacks that may come.
US bombers take heavy losses bombing Ploesti again but with all the German armor it is possible fuel may become an issue if they can continue bombing and German attacks continue.
Battle of the Atlantic
Quiet. Suspect that fuel may become an issue so they are staying in port, though not much is left of them.
- I wish Russian units were not so terrible. They seem inept at any and every attack. Had a 5:1 and took 2x the losses. Not even sure HOW that is possible. Lost every 1:1 attack by 4x. Broke even overall in 2/3/4:1 attacks...Honestly only won a two battles out of 20...horrendous odds.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
End July 1943
Russia
North - Russian forces amphibiously invade behind German lines just South of Leningrad and launch a massive attack against the German 33rd Corps. Being attacked from both sides and bombarded by US battleships completely surprises the general and he orders a withdrawal. This allows hundreds of tanks to poor through the coastline behind German lines.
Center - Russians are still recovering from their last attempt but decide to launch an attack by Mogilev since the 1st Siberians can see a mere German division on the other side of the river. The mere audacity thinking that the line could not be breached is to much to take. The Siberians throw themselves again and again against the unit, but it holds...worn down a the Russian 5th tank corp rolls through the river and drives them back, gaining a river crossing.
When the 5th Tank crossed they ended up overrunning Erwin Von Rommel's HQ and he was killed.
South - Russian forces shift and move up to the German lines readying for the next operation.
US / UK
The WDF, 8th and 10th armored corps hold Hamburg...though opposite them sit hundreds of German tanks. They call in massive air strikes on the German lines and wait for orders.
By Brest the US 4th and 2nd armor, along with the British South Wales corp drive a German corps back...expanding their territory. But now they are up against 2 SS armored corps...so the task is now exponentially more difficult. They call in heavy air raids against the units to keep them busy.
Battle of the Atlantic
It is believed that the last Uboat has made an appearance and was sunk on its way to the UK shipping lanes. The Admiral Hipper has made a run for deeper waters and is believed to be making a dash for Argentina. US ships move to intercept though are far from finding her.
US, UK and Russian ships and subs begin Operation NoMOre....and hit the German shipping lanes in the Baltic. Time for payback.
Russia
North - Russian forces amphibiously invade behind German lines just South of Leningrad and launch a massive attack against the German 33rd Corps. Being attacked from both sides and bombarded by US battleships completely surprises the general and he orders a withdrawal. This allows hundreds of tanks to poor through the coastline behind German lines.
Center - Russians are still recovering from their last attempt but decide to launch an attack by Mogilev since the 1st Siberians can see a mere German division on the other side of the river. The mere audacity thinking that the line could not be breached is to much to take. The Siberians throw themselves again and again against the unit, but it holds...worn down a the Russian 5th tank corp rolls through the river and drives them back, gaining a river crossing.
When the 5th Tank crossed they ended up overrunning Erwin Von Rommel's HQ and he was killed.
South - Russian forces shift and move up to the German lines readying for the next operation.
US / UK
The WDF, 8th and 10th armored corps hold Hamburg...though opposite them sit hundreds of German tanks. They call in massive air strikes on the German lines and wait for orders.
By Brest the US 4th and 2nd armor, along with the British South Wales corp drive a German corps back...expanding their territory. But now they are up against 2 SS armored corps...so the task is now exponentially more difficult. They call in heavy air raids against the units to keep them busy.
Battle of the Atlantic
It is believed that the last Uboat has made an appearance and was sunk on its way to the UK shipping lanes. The Admiral Hipper has made a run for deeper waters and is believed to be making a dash for Argentina. US ships move to intercept though are far from finding her.
US, UK and Russian ships and subs begin Operation NoMOre....and hit the German shipping lanes in the Baltic. Time for payback.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early August 1943
Russia
North - Germans are in full retreat. The Russians give chase but are not able to make any attacks..
Center - Russians hammer a few infantry corps.
South - Germans smash a Russian Mech...Other Russian units are resupplying for the next run at the Germans.
UK / US
UK armor at Hamburg attack German mechanized corps...considerable casualties on both side.
Heavy air bombardment should help.
Brest area little happens other than heavy bombing of German units.
US bombers attack Ploesti again and pay a heavy price.
Italy
US invade Caligari and fail to take it. Air support arrives to late assist the attack...So US armor and Infantry are stuck on the beach.
Battle of the Atlantic
The Admiral Hipper continues to make a run to Argentina.
Operation NoMOre is in full effect. US and UK naval units sink 700 tons of shipping carrying precious ore to Germany.
Russia
North - Germans are in full retreat. The Russians give chase but are not able to make any attacks..
Center - Russians hammer a few infantry corps.
South - Germans smash a Russian Mech...Other Russian units are resupplying for the next run at the Germans.
UK / US
UK armor at Hamburg attack German mechanized corps...considerable casualties on both side.
Heavy air bombardment should help.
Brest area little happens other than heavy bombing of German units.
US bombers attack Ploesti again and pay a heavy price.
Italy
US invade Caligari and fail to take it. Air support arrives to late assist the attack...So US armor and Infantry are stuck on the beach.
Battle of the Atlantic
The Admiral Hipper continues to make a run to Argentina.
Operation NoMOre is in full effect. US and UK naval units sink 700 tons of shipping carrying precious ore to Germany.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late August 1943
Russia
North - Russian probing of the German lines. A few infantry units are beaten back.
Center - More probing of the lines and infantry is beaten...
South - Russian launch a major attack and overrun the XIX Panzer...the first but not the last.
Extensive casualties on both sides.
UK / US
Hamburg area is still holding...both sides are resupplying though US / UK forces keep bringing in fresh units.
Brest area a panzer is crippled and driven back...
Italy
The US mistake is getting more and move costly...the Italians sink 2 DD and 1 CA...US forces are stuck on the beach...they are calling in reinforcements to hopefully make a break. Fighters move in...as to heavy naval vessals. They also recall the B17s that were bombing Ploesti.
Battle of the Baltic
More German merchants pay the price.
Russia
North - Russian probing of the German lines. A few infantry units are beaten back.
Center - More probing of the lines and infantry is beaten...
South - Russian launch a major attack and overrun the XIX Panzer...the first but not the last.
Extensive casualties on both sides.
UK / US
Hamburg area is still holding...both sides are resupplying though US / UK forces keep bringing in fresh units.
Brest area a panzer is crippled and driven back...
Italy
The US mistake is getting more and move costly...the Italians sink 2 DD and 1 CA...US forces are stuck on the beach...they are calling in reinforcements to hopefully make a break. Fighters move in...as to heavy naval vessals. They also recall the B17s that were bombing Ploesti.
Battle of the Baltic
More German merchants pay the price.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early September 1943
Russia
North - Rain. Wait what rain?
Center - Rain
South - Russian units hit a German corp...casualties are one-sided as they almost always are.
US / UK
Germany - US and UK armor along with bombers hammer an Italian mountain corps and it retreats...with more air and naval units fail to dislodge a German mechanized unit, though casualties are high for it.
Brest area turns into a killing ground for tanks...Heavy air strikes from both land and sea along with naval bombardment smash both armored units and they retreat which allows the US / UK units to advance...then they land a UK corps and paradrop special forced behind and drive a division away...they are ready to link up with the Brest units and with that they will capture a few more ports hopefully next turn before the rains arrive.
Italy
The US invasion has gone from worse to terrible. US battleships arrive in an attempt to help break the city. Italian naval units surround so US air have to sink a Sub in order to even get naval guns within range...though it was all for naught. The US land another corps with hopes that maybe they can break the unit but it is not likely. Sadly it appears to be a one-way mission for these forces.
US
Washington DC...Sirens reign as a few thousand German troops land and march into Washington. They are able to advance on the capital and raise their flag but only for a day...US National Guard forces pour out of training facilities and the German unit surrenders with minimal resistance. The US National Guard now activated starts boarding transports and head for Europe...ready for a fight.
-RAIN in Russia in September...normally a backbreaker for Germany but this time Russia. Oh how the tables have turned. Hopefully next turn the Brest area will breakout...with the two Panzers smashed and troops in front and behind, not sure they will risk trying to hold. Now there are few troops between the US and Paris / France...I suspect the Germans will have to pull out heavily from Russsia / Italy to shore up their defenses though luckily they will have the rains and snow coming to save them from a really bad moment.
Italy still looks like a HUGE trap...a dozen or more German troops are all over...though could be divisions now...and I know some are but just 1 corps in a city will stop everything. Not sure that nut can be cracked though with more than 6 US corps now enroute from the US...that could change.
Russian manpower is still a disaster...winter will be enjoyed so that they can make hopefully small casualty attacks and gather up manpower and HOPEFULLY get their airforce ready for a full on push.
UK overall is good...though oil is getting tight. US is now sending oil that they do not need there.
No idea how Italian and German oil is doing...they are flying planes nearly every turn and they eat up oil...plus all the attacks on their armor and their attacks back...though rare at this time since I suspect they are trying to conserve oil.
I suspect this winter will be a heavy Industrial bombarding season...the German airforce, though I have not checked have to be weakening...as well as be worn down...heavy bombers and the new P51 mustangs are likely to cause major issues since they can now hit almost anywhere in Germany.
UK and US manpower are good...suspect German is good and will be fine with their bonus on 1/1/44...but then it will start to get busy.
US has been sending as much production they can...
I have learned a lot with the Allies as I rarely play them and never this long...
I still believe that something is hard coded making the Russian units take 3x the casualties.
Any attack that is less than 5 to 1 odds the Russians take 4 to 5x the casualties that the Germans, UK or US take.
It is clearly not luck and I will never believe it is.
I have only seen the Germans lose 10% maybe 20% of their 2:1 odds attacks. The Russians lose 80%+ of their 2:1 odds attacks and with 4X the casualties that the Germans take. Russians have even lost 50% of 4:1 and 5:1 attacks. Never had that happen with any other country.
Russia
North - Rain. Wait what rain?
Center - Rain
South - Russian units hit a German corp...casualties are one-sided as they almost always are.
US / UK
Germany - US and UK armor along with bombers hammer an Italian mountain corps and it retreats...with more air and naval units fail to dislodge a German mechanized unit, though casualties are high for it.
Brest area turns into a killing ground for tanks...Heavy air strikes from both land and sea along with naval bombardment smash both armored units and they retreat which allows the US / UK units to advance...then they land a UK corps and paradrop special forced behind and drive a division away...they are ready to link up with the Brest units and with that they will capture a few more ports hopefully next turn before the rains arrive.
Italy
The US invasion has gone from worse to terrible. US battleships arrive in an attempt to help break the city. Italian naval units surround so US air have to sink a Sub in order to even get naval guns within range...though it was all for naught. The US land another corps with hopes that maybe they can break the unit but it is not likely. Sadly it appears to be a one-way mission for these forces.
US
Washington DC...Sirens reign as a few thousand German troops land and march into Washington. They are able to advance on the capital and raise their flag but only for a day...US National Guard forces pour out of training facilities and the German unit surrenders with minimal resistance. The US National Guard now activated starts boarding transports and head for Europe...ready for a fight.
-RAIN in Russia in September...normally a backbreaker for Germany but this time Russia. Oh how the tables have turned. Hopefully next turn the Brest area will breakout...with the two Panzers smashed and troops in front and behind, not sure they will risk trying to hold. Now there are few troops between the US and Paris / France...I suspect the Germans will have to pull out heavily from Russsia / Italy to shore up their defenses though luckily they will have the rains and snow coming to save them from a really bad moment.
Italy still looks like a HUGE trap...a dozen or more German troops are all over...though could be divisions now...and I know some are but just 1 corps in a city will stop everything. Not sure that nut can be cracked though with more than 6 US corps now enroute from the US...that could change.
Russian manpower is still a disaster...winter will be enjoyed so that they can make hopefully small casualty attacks and gather up manpower and HOPEFULLY get their airforce ready for a full on push.
UK overall is good...though oil is getting tight. US is now sending oil that they do not need there.
No idea how Italian and German oil is doing...they are flying planes nearly every turn and they eat up oil...plus all the attacks on their armor and their attacks back...though rare at this time since I suspect they are trying to conserve oil.
I suspect this winter will be a heavy Industrial bombarding season...the German airforce, though I have not checked have to be weakening...as well as be worn down...heavy bombers and the new P51 mustangs are likely to cause major issues since they can now hit almost anywhere in Germany.
UK and US manpower are good...suspect German is good and will be fine with their bonus on 1/1/44...but then it will start to get busy.
US has been sending as much production they can...
I have learned a lot with the Allies as I rarely play them and never this long...
I still believe that something is hard coded making the Russian units take 3x the casualties.
Any attack that is less than 5 to 1 odds the Russians take 4 to 5x the casualties that the Germans, UK or US take.
It is clearly not luck and I will never believe it is.
I have only seen the Germans lose 10% maybe 20% of their 2:1 odds attacks. The Russians lose 80%+ of their 2:1 odds attacks and with 4X the casualties that the Germans take. Russians have even lost 50% of 4:1 and 5:1 attacks. Never had that happen with any other country.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Yeah, the attack into Washington DC was more a Doolittle raid than a real attack, but it was disappointing to see them knocked out in a single attack, lol.
Germany is about to break. I don't see any way to hold it together any more. Luckly the rains are coming but I needed them here one turn earlier. :/ I'm guessing I can last through the winter, but next summer I'm likely doomed.
I have no idea how to retreat through France without Germany getting routed either. The few times I got this far as the Allies, I gave them a real mauling as they retreated.
Germany is about to break. I don't see any way to hold it together any more. Luckly the rains are coming but I needed them here one turn earlier. :/ I'm guessing I can last through the winter, but next summer I'm likely doomed.
I have no idea how to retreat through France without Germany getting routed either. The few times I got this far as the Allies, I gave them a real mauling as they retreated.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late September 1943
Russia
North - Artillery explodes all along the front as over 200,000 Russian troops and thousands of tanks assault the German lines. Tens of thousands of casualties. The Russians make minimal progress but the lines are starting to waver.
Center - Over 4000 tanks and 150,000 men rip into the front lines of the Germans smashing through and encircling a huge German group including multiple tanks corps. Losses on both sides are staggering.
South - Another huge attack, makes minimal progress but significant casualties on both sides.
Germany -
US and UK forces are digging in as their minimal progress was lost when the WDF was driven back. Heavy resistance is still in the area.
France -
There is a small break through as another port is taken and the 2 German and US armored units in the area decimate each other. The US and UK though are able to connect up their paratroopers that were behind enemy lines.
Italy -
The Italians just keep shipping in fresh troops and the US is not able to break them. It looks as though the units there will be lost in time...though air does sink 2 Italian battleships and a sub...as well as the RAF rips Italian bombers apart.
- This was the biggest attack I have ever had...if I remember casualties are 250 for the Germans and about 275 for the Allies...German and Italian air took a huge beating...It think the Axis lost over 70 air while the Allies lost 40...
IF rain comes...this will be REALLY bad for the Germans. It will be unlikely they will be able to free their stuck units. Clear means the Russians will likely lose 3 maybe 4 armor / mech corps...which will be huge.
RAIN DANCE TIME....
Heavy rain would even be better.
Russia
North - Artillery explodes all along the front as over 200,000 Russian troops and thousands of tanks assault the German lines. Tens of thousands of casualties. The Russians make minimal progress but the lines are starting to waver.
Center - Over 4000 tanks and 150,000 men rip into the front lines of the Germans smashing through and encircling a huge German group including multiple tanks corps. Losses on both sides are staggering.
South - Another huge attack, makes minimal progress but significant casualties on both sides.
Germany -
US and UK forces are digging in as their minimal progress was lost when the WDF was driven back. Heavy resistance is still in the area.
France -
There is a small break through as another port is taken and the 2 German and US armored units in the area decimate each other. The US and UK though are able to connect up their paratroopers that were behind enemy lines.
Italy -
The Italians just keep shipping in fresh troops and the US is not able to break them. It looks as though the units there will be lost in time...though air does sink 2 Italian battleships and a sub...as well as the RAF rips Italian bombers apart.
- This was the biggest attack I have ever had...if I remember casualties are 250 for the Germans and about 275 for the Allies...German and Italian air took a huge beating...It think the Axis lost over 70 air while the Allies lost 40...
IF rain comes...this will be REALLY bad for the Germans. It will be unlikely they will be able to free their stuck units. Clear means the Russians will likely lose 3 maybe 4 armor / mech corps...which will be huge.
RAIN DANCE TIME....
Heavy rain would even be better.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early October 1943
Russia
North - Odd clear weather causes major issues for the Russians. An army is lost and 6 corps are cut off from Russian lines.
A huge breakthrough occurs in the north as Germans move South to break out the German forces...Massive casualties...this time in the German favor. Russians lose over 350,000 men to 250,000 Germans...The Russians use the clear weather as a last resort to hammer the German forces.
If clear weather persists this could set back the Russians for 2 years due to the losses that will occur.
Center - Russians make multiple attacks here cutting off some Germans and destroying other...massive casualties
South - Clear in the north and the Russians hit where they can...take heavy losses but make some progress.
Germany - Rain slows all battles here.
France - Rain makes battle difficult but they must push. US and UK forces launch everything they have at Saint Nazaire and take the city with heavy casualties. This allows more units to arrive to help with the continued attacks.
Italy - The 1st US corps surrenders...with no support there was little they could do. Others await their fate as the US National Guard make their way to the area.
- The weather absolutely hammered me...if it stays clear I am concerned that the Russians could lose 20% or more of their army and that will end the war for them. The weather has been a perfect storm for the Allies...if the weather does not go to heavy rain or at least rain...it may be horrific for the Russians.
Manpower is nearing complete exhaustion...not sure how the Germans are...but losses have been staggering. I think the Russians have lost over 600 or so strength points over the last few turns...
Russia
North - Odd clear weather causes major issues for the Russians. An army is lost and 6 corps are cut off from Russian lines.
A huge breakthrough occurs in the north as Germans move South to break out the German forces...Massive casualties...this time in the German favor. Russians lose over 350,000 men to 250,000 Germans...The Russians use the clear weather as a last resort to hammer the German forces.
If clear weather persists this could set back the Russians for 2 years due to the losses that will occur.
Center - Russians make multiple attacks here cutting off some Germans and destroying other...massive casualties
South - Clear in the north and the Russians hit where they can...take heavy losses but make some progress.
Germany - Rain slows all battles here.
France - Rain makes battle difficult but they must push. US and UK forces launch everything they have at Saint Nazaire and take the city with heavy casualties. This allows more units to arrive to help with the continued attacks.
Italy - The 1st US corps surrenders...with no support there was little they could do. Others await their fate as the US National Guard make their way to the area.
- The weather absolutely hammered me...if it stays clear I am concerned that the Russians could lose 20% or more of their army and that will end the war for them. The weather has been a perfect storm for the Allies...if the weather does not go to heavy rain or at least rain...it may be horrific for the Russians.
Manpower is nearing complete exhaustion...not sure how the Germans are...but losses have been staggering. I think the Russians have lost over 600 or so strength points over the last few turns...
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Allied Summary
Russia
They are in a good position for the winter IF it will ever come. They came close to cutting off the entire German Northern Army but just were a few movement points short. BUT if bad weather comes it could be an issue.
In the Center the Russian army has enveloped Minsk. In the pocket a German armor and HQ...not sure of the General but if it is Manstein it could be a big win to take him out.
The South Russia is barely moving. Even with thin German lines Russian attacks take horrific losses so it is difficult to make headway.
Russian production is good...the airforce is at about 50%... planning to completely revamp this winter. Manpower is abysmal. I think it is in the 30% range...
The fall of Finland has been helpful. Frees up maybe 5 armies...though not a crazy high number.
But the weather keeps breaking the advance...really odd luck.
UK
Troops and units are all in good shape. Oil is running a bit low but with winter coming that should change. Less attacks so less use. But still need to sink the entire German merchant marine fleet. That will take a couple months I suspect. That will cost the Germans 25 per turn.
US
They did finally lose their first unit and it was the 1st armored corps, due to me completely forgetting to put an air unit on full support. Only if. It will overall cost the US 3 corps but with the German invasion of Washington they got 5 in return so...fair trade.
Germany
With the UK / US in firm control of Hamburg...though not set in stone for the Germans to take it back it will cost an insane amount and there are a lot of armored / mech units there ready for a counter attack on both sides. Though the Germans have had to shift in infantry so they can get armor in other locations.
France
US / UK have a firm hold of the Brest area and keep slowly expanding. Sadly there is no level 9 port but at least the US / UK can leave their air units in the UK to help. All the coastline is great for naval support.
Will have to capture a few more big ports and then be able to roll in some armor and that will create issues beyond just the infantry. I expect Cherbourg to fall before years end...but it may last. With the massive amounts of air...I don't think it can hold even though it will only be attacked by a single unit...Just bomb it...blockade it...and then attack...but that will be another month I believe.
Italy
For the moment I have left them be...though continue to watch and wait. There are mass numbers of German units there. The issue will be that they have to leave soon as Russian starts to break lines...and when that happens it will be time to pounce, but no rush. Their units are so poor that US / UK / Russian armor push through them like they are not there...kind of like German units push through everything.
Oddities and issues.
-Weather has been punishing to the Allies. 4 turns that have hosed them. A clear turn in October 2 years in a row.
Rain in September during counter attacks...and clear in April when Germans started advancing again. So far nothing has worked out in that regard for the Alllies.
-CVs are FAR to powerful against land units. They are 5x better than a land air attacking. Not sure why...but when you have 5 of them you can drop a unit to nearly 50% of its strength with 10 attacks.
-The ports around Kiel are completely broken for the Allies. Then can't be used other than for supply. Both Kiel ports and Bremerhaven allow supply but units can't move in or out of them. Really odd.
-The issue with Russian losses being 3x higher than any other country clearly has to be hard coded...though I am starting to see that it may have to be that way. IF the Russians did not lose so many troops then they would likely roll over the Germans. I guess losing 90% of the 2:1 attacks whereas Germany and the US/UK win 90% is okay. Just feels really strange.
-FIX UK WEATHER. 1941 the UK had at least 3 full months of snow. That is 3x the average. It cripples their air units. I don't understand why coastal hexes get snow much if at all...it is way under 30 days that they would.
Okay....
Now back to your regularly scheduled program.
Russia
They are in a good position for the winter IF it will ever come. They came close to cutting off the entire German Northern Army but just were a few movement points short. BUT if bad weather comes it could be an issue.
In the Center the Russian army has enveloped Minsk. In the pocket a German armor and HQ...not sure of the General but if it is Manstein it could be a big win to take him out.
The South Russia is barely moving. Even with thin German lines Russian attacks take horrific losses so it is difficult to make headway.
Russian production is good...the airforce is at about 50%... planning to completely revamp this winter. Manpower is abysmal. I think it is in the 30% range...
The fall of Finland has been helpful. Frees up maybe 5 armies...though not a crazy high number.
But the weather keeps breaking the advance...really odd luck.
UK
Troops and units are all in good shape. Oil is running a bit low but with winter coming that should change. Less attacks so less use. But still need to sink the entire German merchant marine fleet. That will take a couple months I suspect. That will cost the Germans 25 per turn.
US
They did finally lose their first unit and it was the 1st armored corps, due to me completely forgetting to put an air unit on full support. Only if. It will overall cost the US 3 corps but with the German invasion of Washington they got 5 in return so...fair trade.
Germany
With the UK / US in firm control of Hamburg...though not set in stone for the Germans to take it back it will cost an insane amount and there are a lot of armored / mech units there ready for a counter attack on both sides. Though the Germans have had to shift in infantry so they can get armor in other locations.
France
US / UK have a firm hold of the Brest area and keep slowly expanding. Sadly there is no level 9 port but at least the US / UK can leave their air units in the UK to help. All the coastline is great for naval support.
Will have to capture a few more big ports and then be able to roll in some armor and that will create issues beyond just the infantry. I expect Cherbourg to fall before years end...but it may last. With the massive amounts of air...I don't think it can hold even though it will only be attacked by a single unit...Just bomb it...blockade it...and then attack...but that will be another month I believe.
Italy
For the moment I have left them be...though continue to watch and wait. There are mass numbers of German units there. The issue will be that they have to leave soon as Russian starts to break lines...and when that happens it will be time to pounce, but no rush. Their units are so poor that US / UK / Russian armor push through them like they are not there...kind of like German units push through everything.
Oddities and issues.
-Weather has been punishing to the Allies. 4 turns that have hosed them. A clear turn in October 2 years in a row.
Rain in September during counter attacks...and clear in April when Germans started advancing again. So far nothing has worked out in that regard for the Alllies.
-CVs are FAR to powerful against land units. They are 5x better than a land air attacking. Not sure why...but when you have 5 of them you can drop a unit to nearly 50% of its strength with 10 attacks.
-The ports around Kiel are completely broken for the Allies. Then can't be used other than for supply. Both Kiel ports and Bremerhaven allow supply but units can't move in or out of them. Really odd.
-The issue with Russian losses being 3x higher than any other country clearly has to be hard coded...though I am starting to see that it may have to be that way. IF the Russians did not lose so many troops then they would likely roll over the Germans. I guess losing 90% of the 2:1 attacks whereas Germany and the US/UK win 90% is okay. Just feels really strange.
-FIX UK WEATHER. 1941 the UK had at least 3 full months of snow. That is 3x the average. It cripples their air units. I don't understand why coastal hexes get snow much if at all...it is way under 30 days that they would.
Okay....
Now back to your regularly scheduled program.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Does this mean the US gets those for free when invaded? If so, I had no idea. That would make that a bit of a disaster. I was thinking you just anticipated me and built them. Huh.stjeand wrote: ↑Sat Nov 11, 2023 3:33 pm They did finally lose their first unit and it was the 1st armored corps, due to me completely forgetting to put an air unit on full support. Only if. It will overall cost the US 3 corps but with the German invasion of Washington they got 5 in return so...fair trade.
I'm learning so much this game; It's completely updated my play style. Very frustrating to see Russia send armor corps right through the lines, completely cut off, and me not being able to take advantage of that - But I think seeing when Germany is stretched supper thin is part of being a good player, and knowing when you can make that work for you.
Weather has definitely been weird, but I don't see it as being to my advantage clearly. There are these weird turns where I get to push through with clear weather, but then the soviets counter in clear, surround my unit and the next turn I have bad weather and need to attempt a breakout. I never really noticed the advantage of going second during the weather turn until now, but that only comes into play when the weather is wonky and it's impossible to predict.
The CV attack thing is something I'll need to try. I generally don't use them for that, but you've been able to break through full strength armored units and I'm guessing that's how. I honestly haven't figured out how you've been doing that.
And, yes, the Russian losses tend to be on the high side, although I don't think it's hardcoded. As it is, they tend to get better after taking losses because their reinforcements come in at 50% experience, so I don't usually worry about the losses much. However, when you look at the loss statistics, you're still causing a good 50% more losses to me than what you're taking, so I think it may be more your perception that reality. In most of my games I lose 2x what the Germans do and still do more than fine with the Russians. I still claim they are overpowered.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late October 1943
Russa
North - Snow. German fall back a little so that they do not get completely cut off. Russians follow but there is a cut off armored unit that they try to free but that is unlikly.
Center - Snow. Russians try to keep the Germans cut off but do not have the movement or power.
South - Rain. Germans falls back a small bit and Russians follow with minimal attacks.
US / UK
Germany - Snow halts all operations other than oil production bombing.
France - Snow halts all operations.
Battle of the Atlantic
Completed.
Russa
North - Snow. German fall back a little so that they do not get completely cut off. Russians follow but there is a cut off armored unit that they try to free but that is unlikly.
Center - Snow. Russians try to keep the Germans cut off but do not have the movement or power.
South - Rain. Germans falls back a small bit and Russians follow with minimal attacks.
US / UK
Germany - Snow halts all operations other than oil production bombing.
France - Snow halts all operations.
Battle of the Atlantic
Completed.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early November 1943
Russia
North - Clear turn allows the Germans to march out of Russia when they were almost cutoff. In the process they overrun the Russian 1st Guard tank. A German division is overrun and a corps is able to withstand a half dozen attacks even win a 5:1 attack and hold Tallinn.
Center - Clear turn again allows the Germans to retreat, where once there could have been a massive cut, but they walk away.
South - Snow...Russians can only move forward and probe some lines.
The Russian advance is running out of steam and supply. Most units are at 50% supply and 70% strength and there are no men to be found in the country.
UK / US
US and UK forces heavily attack a German mechanized, heavily damaging the unit with heavy casualties on both sides.
UK and US forces attack Cherborg with air, land an sea...the German corp there finally surrenders.
Italy
Another US corps surrenders...
Otherwise little is happening.
Russia
North - Clear turn allows the Germans to march out of Russia when they were almost cutoff. In the process they overrun the Russian 1st Guard tank. A German division is overrun and a corps is able to withstand a half dozen attacks even win a 5:1 attack and hold Tallinn.
Center - Clear turn again allows the Germans to retreat, where once there could have been a massive cut, but they walk away.
South - Snow...Russians can only move forward and probe some lines.
The Russian advance is running out of steam and supply. Most units are at 50% supply and 70% strength and there are no men to be found in the country.
UK / US
US and UK forces heavily attack a German mechanized, heavily damaging the unit with heavy casualties on both sides.
UK and US forces attack Cherborg with air, land an sea...the German corp there finally surrenders.
Italy
Another US corps surrenders...
Otherwise little is happening.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
I think you are misreading the combat logs.kklemmick wrote: ↑Sun Nov 12, 2023 1:53 am And, yes, the Russian losses tend to be on the high side, although I don't think it's hardcoded. As it is, they tend to get better after taking losses because their reinforcements come in at 50% experience, so I don't usually worry about the losses much. However, when you look at the loss statistics, you're still causing a good 50% more losses to me than what you're taking, so I think it may be more your perception that reality. In most of my games I lose 2x what the Germans do and still do more than fine with the Russians. I still claim they are overpowered.
Russians always take 2x to 3x the losses on 90% of the attacks even 3 and 4 to 1 attacks.
I just had a 5:1 and lost 2 killed 0 against a unit that had been attacked 6 times so had to be at 10% efficiency.
The only reason it looks the other way is the Russians have more units so they can take 2x the losses.
But now with manpower in the 30%s...they are pretty much done until it recovers. There are no 50% reinforcements or any reinforcements for that matter.
Have to turn off all repairs and wait.
The US / UK are overall in great shape...though the UK is at 40% oil due to the Royal navy...
OH and yes when you invade the US they get a massive influx of troops. I did it once and will never again. I even landed I think 4 divisions taking tons ore resources...but then get wiped out.
It is just free troops for the US.