I think Level 1 and 2 lengths should be increased, specifically in tank research, ground attack weapons research and heavy bombers. 0-1 should increase an additional 50% for each level. So instead of going to 100% you would go to 150% I'm not a fan of seeing German tanks at level 3 in 1941. They are overpowered and historically inaccurate. If level 3 is designed simulate the Mark 3 or 4, then Russia needs a corresponding research buff. In fact it would make sense to me to only allow level 3 for all sides starting at the end of 1942, which is when we started to see at least for Germany our panther and tiger tanks.
Second, I think the research breakthrough needs to be lowered or removed completely. Its great when you get it, especially in certain research areas however too many of them and it can create balance issues. Such as Russia at the end of 1943 at 50% to level 4 tanks, while Germany is sitting at level 4 since the start of 1943.(yes two research units have been invested since Jan 1940.)
If the breakthrough research was removed, I would suggest that each level of research invest results in 3% gain per turn, which will increase with each level of spy/intel developed for a total of 6% per turn increasing to 12% per turn with full Spy/intell developed with the following that each each Spy/Intel developed reduces your opponents research by 1% with a cap or no lower than 3% for each research invested. This would allow the allies to have a technology advantage for the end game if they wanted to go that route while still allowing the Axis player different options to research while at the same time, preventing random technology to defeat superior strategy. *I am aware spy/intell currently provides the 1% bonus and 1% decrease)
P.S. Love this game
