Early July 1941
Russia
Modest Russian losses but the Germans are finally on the outskirts of Riga with a fresh armored unit and a breakthough at Minsk have raised concern in the localized area. Russian forces report minimal reinforcements arriving so another call goes out for every abled body man or woman to defend the motherland.
A large force of German armor sit in the south. Russian HQ reports that they believe tey are tired and require a little rest and refit before they make another strong push but must keep in mind that even a worn troops can cause havoc.
Russia still holds Kiev and the river but defenses are thin and stretched.
A small force of Russian infiltrators have entered Germany and continue to damage rail lines in an attempt to disrupt the flow of supplies.
UK
Battle of the Atlantic, game of cat and mouse. It has been reported that more units have been spotted at Kiel. UK naval command is concerned that the new numbers and lack of escorts is of grave concern. Canadian and UK shipyards are working overtime building more shipping to keep the flow of supplies.
Africa is still quiet.
Units from both sides continue to probe with artillery but neither side has the desire to make the first move.
Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Mid/Late July 1941
Russia
The Dneiper river line is almost fully engaged. Multiple battles ensue pushing back heavily worn and undersupplied Russin units that have been in combat for months. Fresh troops are finally arriving, well supplied and trained, though the numbers still are low. A break in the Dneiper River line is expected any day, though Russian command thinks the first push will be south of Kiev, though the city is also being sieged.
In northern Russia with the assistance of a single new German armor are in retreat. They are calling up some more heavily armed units to help contain the armor but that will likely not be possible. More units race to the area to slow the advance any way possible.
After Minsk fell the Russian units fell back about 80 miles and are digging in around Mogilev. The sounds of armor have moved North were lines are thinner but an expect return in the next month is expected.
UK
Africa. Little if anything to report here at the moment...lines are still stable. Another RAF unit arrives and begins monitoring Italian naval units in the area. Arguments within UK command are causing strife as to the next objective.
Battle of the Atlantic is heating up. More German UBoats arrive straining the UK naval units. Russian aid has to be cut to keep the UK safe. More shipping is arriving but at a slow pace.
US
Debates in Congress continue with little to no change. The armed forces believe that they need to begin to rebuild and reequip but after the depression the US economy is still recovering and Congress refuses to provide more funds.
Minor aid continues to the UK...
--Odd turn with 8 Russian forming units appearing though last turn there was 1. I think that should be more scripted...basically on turn 2 of the attack Russia gets 2 units then 4 each turn until they run out. Turns like this are great but to be honest it can cost Russia the war if they have a turn with 1 or even no reinforcements early in the war.
Again just a thought...I do really like the randomness, but it can be a killer early...maybe random but no matter what you receive at least 2? I think that would work also...
Russia
The Dneiper river line is almost fully engaged. Multiple battles ensue pushing back heavily worn and undersupplied Russin units that have been in combat for months. Fresh troops are finally arriving, well supplied and trained, though the numbers still are low. A break in the Dneiper River line is expected any day, though Russian command thinks the first push will be south of Kiev, though the city is also being sieged.
In northern Russia with the assistance of a single new German armor are in retreat. They are calling up some more heavily armed units to help contain the armor but that will likely not be possible. More units race to the area to slow the advance any way possible.
After Minsk fell the Russian units fell back about 80 miles and are digging in around Mogilev. The sounds of armor have moved North were lines are thinner but an expect return in the next month is expected.
UK
Africa. Little if anything to report here at the moment...lines are still stable. Another RAF unit arrives and begins monitoring Italian naval units in the area. Arguments within UK command are causing strife as to the next objective.
Battle of the Atlantic is heating up. More German UBoats arrive straining the UK naval units. Russian aid has to be cut to keep the UK safe. More shipping is arriving but at a slow pace.
US
Debates in Congress continue with little to no change. The armed forces believe that they need to begin to rebuild and reequip but after the depression the US economy is still recovering and Congress refuses to provide more funds.
Minor aid continues to the UK...
--Odd turn with 8 Russian forming units appearing though last turn there was 1. I think that should be more scripted...basically on turn 2 of the attack Russia gets 2 units then 4 each turn until they run out. Turns like this are great but to be honest it can cost Russia the war if they have a turn with 1 or even no reinforcements early in the war.
Again just a thought...I do really like the randomness, but it can be a killer early...maybe random but no matter what you receive at least 2? I think that would work also...
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
At this point enough of the full army units have arrived that you can form a real front and most of my armor has low efficiency, so I don't expect to be able to make much more progress this summer. We'll see, but I think you've effectively stopped me. I think what happens is a lot of people split those army units to get more units, when keeping them intact is the secret IMO as the stronger units are more important than quantity. In fact, I usually combine my rifle corps after they've converted to half armies for the same reason.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early Aug 41
Russia
Northern Front - Riga has finally fallen. Unit there was cut off and surrendered.
Other units in the area are moving to guard the river line to hold the attack back from reading Leningrad.
Air units rain bombs on many of the German units delaying their ability to refuel.
Central Front - Mogilev is still held and should hold for at least another few weeks. The army there is digging in as rapidly as possible.
In the marshes, German has massed some units and are trying to push over the river there. They are beginning to make some progress.
Southern Front - Dnieper river west is almost entirely in German control, and the east is in full Russian control. Armors units are massing around Dnepropetrovsk. Some of the strongest Russian units are there to defend though with the amount of armor they are unlikely to hold.
Hopefully all the units at the river line can hold as more reinforcements arrive.
Africa
The navy decides to test the German air defenses and Germany did not disappoint. But the RAF had a surprise for them and hammered their formations. The bombers were caught without any air support and torn apart. This will surely make them rethink their future as they refit the unit.
Africa Corps and the Desert Rats continue their stare down. Neither side flinching.
Battle of the Atlantic
With the discontinuation of USSR support the UK is able to cover more of their lanes...they get the better of the Uboats this turn, though many have returned to port for refuel and resupply.
- I try to keep them intact BUT is there is a breakthrough you have to slow the German units any way you can.
I will split them to cover openings if units can reach them. If not...keep them together.
Russia
Northern Front - Riga has finally fallen. Unit there was cut off and surrendered.
Other units in the area are moving to guard the river line to hold the attack back from reading Leningrad.
Air units rain bombs on many of the German units delaying their ability to refuel.
Central Front - Mogilev is still held and should hold for at least another few weeks. The army there is digging in as rapidly as possible.
In the marshes, German has massed some units and are trying to push over the river there. They are beginning to make some progress.
Southern Front - Dnieper river west is almost entirely in German control, and the east is in full Russian control. Armors units are massing around Dnepropetrovsk. Some of the strongest Russian units are there to defend though with the amount of armor they are unlikely to hold.
Hopefully all the units at the river line can hold as more reinforcements arrive.
Africa
The navy decides to test the German air defenses and Germany did not disappoint. But the RAF had a surprise for them and hammered their formations. The bombers were caught without any air support and torn apart. This will surely make them rethink their future as they refit the unit.
Africa Corps and the Desert Rats continue their stare down. Neither side flinching.
Battle of the Atlantic
With the discontinuation of USSR support the UK is able to cover more of their lanes...they get the better of the Uboats this turn, though many have returned to port for refuel and resupply.
- I try to keep them intact BUT is there is a breakthrough you have to slow the German units any way you can.
I will split them to cover openings if units can reach them. If not...keep them together.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Mid August 41
Russia
Northern Front - Russian units fall back to the river and hill lines between Estonia and Russia proper. Heavier troops are rolled in to secure the lines.
Central Front - Armor has been absent from the area for nearly a month and that has allowed Russian command to move strong units south, but now that has caused a concern. Arial reconnaissance report armor massing around Minsk. Russia command rails in a few units to try to lock down the river line by Mogaliv...but have to evacuate the city in order to dig in behind the river. Command calls on their Russian airforce in an attempt to slow the armor...little are they aware that the elite Finnish airforce was sent south to deal with the Russian forces and it cost them dearly... the heaviest losses of the war. They lost 50% of their aircraft but are able to strike at the armor, disrupting their reorganization.
Southern Front - German units continue to attack in the Pinsk marshes with some gains. Russian units are not overly strong there as they try to hold the Dneiper River further south. Units start to fall back in order to consolidate their lines.
Germany forces lead by heavy air raids have breached the river just north of Sevastopol. This is very concerning for the city...they are nearly cut off. Russian Guard armor and a Shock Army are quickly dispatched to try to hold the lines or even push back the forces.
Africa
As night falls German forces begin to ready for another quiet night. A few soldiers report strange whistling noises as explosions rain down on them, and suddenly British artillery errupts. Off shore the King George and escorts bombard the German positions.
German officers radio back to HQ asking for air support and orders, but receive dead air.
Little are they aware that a UK amphibious invasion and elite airborne forces dropped behind their lines and caught the German command unaware. Command had to immediately evacuate leaving all their equipment as a British and New Zealand corp into them.
German frontline positions assume that this is just another false alarm even though the artillery seems to continue longer that before. As dawn breaks British forces with air support smash into German positions. With no orders and little sleep they hold for 2 days but suddenly get overrun as hundreds of Matila tanks roar into their positions. Three German corps are smashed head on and crippled, likely unable to perform any offensive actions. A lone Italian motorized corps now is all that remains between the British and a dash for Tripoli. Cut from supply they have to decide to stand and fight or make a run back to Tripoli.
Battle of the Atlantic
Steaming toward Liverpool reports of torpedo wakes are reported...escorts move to intercept as Uboats surface to shell the unsuspecting merchant ships...a battle ensues. And escort rams a Uboat, the ship ripping in half and sinking. Multiple hits are made on Uboats...heavy damage reported.
The new sonar is working better than anticipated.
Russia
Northern Front - Russian units fall back to the river and hill lines between Estonia and Russia proper. Heavier troops are rolled in to secure the lines.
Central Front - Armor has been absent from the area for nearly a month and that has allowed Russian command to move strong units south, but now that has caused a concern. Arial reconnaissance report armor massing around Minsk. Russia command rails in a few units to try to lock down the river line by Mogaliv...but have to evacuate the city in order to dig in behind the river. Command calls on their Russian airforce in an attempt to slow the armor...little are they aware that the elite Finnish airforce was sent south to deal with the Russian forces and it cost them dearly... the heaviest losses of the war. They lost 50% of their aircraft but are able to strike at the armor, disrupting their reorganization.
Southern Front - German units continue to attack in the Pinsk marshes with some gains. Russian units are not overly strong there as they try to hold the Dneiper River further south. Units start to fall back in order to consolidate their lines.
Germany forces lead by heavy air raids have breached the river just north of Sevastopol. This is very concerning for the city...they are nearly cut off. Russian Guard armor and a Shock Army are quickly dispatched to try to hold the lines or even push back the forces.
Africa
As night falls German forces begin to ready for another quiet night. A few soldiers report strange whistling noises as explosions rain down on them, and suddenly British artillery errupts. Off shore the King George and escorts bombard the German positions.
German officers radio back to HQ asking for air support and orders, but receive dead air.
Little are they aware that a UK amphibious invasion and elite airborne forces dropped behind their lines and caught the German command unaware. Command had to immediately evacuate leaving all their equipment as a British and New Zealand corp into them.
German frontline positions assume that this is just another false alarm even though the artillery seems to continue longer that before. As dawn breaks British forces with air support smash into German positions. With no orders and little sleep they hold for 2 days but suddenly get overrun as hundreds of Matila tanks roar into their positions. Three German corps are smashed head on and crippled, likely unable to perform any offensive actions. A lone Italian motorized corps now is all that remains between the British and a dash for Tripoli. Cut from supply they have to decide to stand and fight or make a run back to Tripoli.
Battle of the Atlantic
Steaming toward Liverpool reports of torpedo wakes are reported...escorts move to intercept as Uboats surface to shell the unsuspecting merchant ships...a battle ensues. And escort rams a Uboat, the ship ripping in half and sinking. Multiple hits are made on Uboats...heavy damage reported.
The new sonar is working better than anticipated.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
End of August 41
Russia
Northern Front - Russians move in a few more troops to solidify their lines as best they can. German units move up to counter them.
Central Front - The battles around the marshes intensify. German forces did not make much progress but were able to cause significant casualties to Russian forces. They are no longer able to hold their positions and are in danger of being overrun. They begin to evacuate.
Southern Front - German armor succeed in cutting off a land route to Sevastopol but at the cost of a heavily damaged panzer corps. It is driven back by Russian Shock and Guard Armor armies.
The river line is holding for the moment...
Africa
The WDF and UK 8th armor along with the Desert rats continue to hit German positions...Over 20K Italian and German prisoners are taken. A total of 2 German and 1 Italian corps are capture along with the entire Italian Mechanized corps. Another German corps is deep in the desert and at risk. Italy and German send in reinforcements but it may be to little to late.
Battle of the Atlantic
Neither side makes any significant progress but it continues.
Russia
Northern Front - Russians move in a few more troops to solidify their lines as best they can. German units move up to counter them.
Central Front - The battles around the marshes intensify. German forces did not make much progress but were able to cause significant casualties to Russian forces. They are no longer able to hold their positions and are in danger of being overrun. They begin to evacuate.
Southern Front - German armor succeed in cutting off a land route to Sevastopol but at the cost of a heavily damaged panzer corps. It is driven back by Russian Shock and Guard Armor armies.
The river line is holding for the moment...
Africa
The WDF and UK 8th armor along with the Desert rats continue to hit German positions...Over 20K Italian and German prisoners are taken. A total of 2 German and 1 Italian corps are capture along with the entire Italian Mechanized corps. Another German corps is deep in the desert and at risk. Italy and German send in reinforcements but it may be to little to late.
Battle of the Atlantic
Neither side makes any significant progress but it continues.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Summary: Stjeand is kicking my ass. 
We're having some debate on whether the USSR is overpowered or not, as I firmly believe they are when in competent hands, but he feels otherwise. Considering the sad state of my '41 offensive I think this argument has merit though.
I am also used to running a Germany with a lot more oil, so I have had to let some panzer units rest rather than attack, but I think that has only made a minor impact so far.
We're having some debate on whether the USSR is overpowered or not, as I firmly believe they are when in competent hands, but he feels otherwise. Considering the sad state of my '41 offensive I think this argument has merit though.
I am also used to running a Germany with a lot more oil, so I have had to let some panzer units rest rather than attack, but I think that has only made a minor impact so far.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Mid September 41
Russia
Northern Front - Minor German breakthrough by Velikie Luki. Battle worn troops that have not stopped fighting have been holding the city, came under siege, and were ordered to hold till the last man. They did and just as all seemed lost the 16th army arrived to relieve them. The Germans will have to look elsewhere.
Central Front - Russian lines are holding. Germans seem reluctant to continue pushing in the marshes.
Southern Front - The Germans break through and cross the Dneiper just south of Kiev but are too worn to hold the bridge head and are driven back by a ferocious attack by 2 Russian armies and 3 Russian Corps...
German panzers have pushed hard just north of Sevastapol and are digging in to hold the area. They are too strong for the weary Russians in the area to dislodge at the moment.
Africa
The UK units start to refit and refuel getting ready for a huge push to Tobruk. The Italian forces look fairly weak in the area and minor German units are in the area. A lone German corps appears to have retreated into the desert, and the WDF and 8th armor move into cut their retreat. They will be seeking more prisoners.
Battle of the Atlantic
More Merchants fall prey, but the Uboats take a few more losses, though not seemingly slowing them down.
- Not sure I am kicking his @$$ but holding.
As I see it the Germans are too spread early...they don't have the units to fight in Africa and Russia, not the oil to fight non-stop through the winters. I like to save up oil during this time but can see merit in both ways.
I guess time will tell when 1942 rolls around. Not sure how many units the Russians will have then...their lines are still LONG and only deep in certain places.
They need the rain and a winter to refit and dig in as well as the US to come put the pressure on Germany...
Russia
Northern Front - Minor German breakthrough by Velikie Luki. Battle worn troops that have not stopped fighting have been holding the city, came under siege, and were ordered to hold till the last man. They did and just as all seemed lost the 16th army arrived to relieve them. The Germans will have to look elsewhere.
Central Front - Russian lines are holding. Germans seem reluctant to continue pushing in the marshes.
Southern Front - The Germans break through and cross the Dneiper just south of Kiev but are too worn to hold the bridge head and are driven back by a ferocious attack by 2 Russian armies and 3 Russian Corps...
German panzers have pushed hard just north of Sevastapol and are digging in to hold the area. They are too strong for the weary Russians in the area to dislodge at the moment.
Africa
The UK units start to refit and refuel getting ready for a huge push to Tobruk. The Italian forces look fairly weak in the area and minor German units are in the area. A lone German corps appears to have retreated into the desert, and the WDF and 8th armor move into cut their retreat. They will be seeking more prisoners.
Battle of the Atlantic
More Merchants fall prey, but the Uboats take a few more losses, though not seemingly slowing them down.
- Not sure I am kicking his @$$ but holding.
As I see it the Germans are too spread early...they don't have the units to fight in Africa and Russia, not the oil to fight non-stop through the winters. I like to save up oil during this time but can see merit in both ways.
I guess time will tell when 1942 rolls around. Not sure how many units the Russians will have then...their lines are still LONG and only deep in certain places.
They need the rain and a winter to refit and dig in as well as the US to come put the pressure on Germany...
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
End September 41
Russia
Northern Front - Rain comes and it could not come soon enough. Hopefully it will hold. Mud has slowed the German war machine to a crawl. Their units are unable to operate efficiently so they start digging in. The USSR airforce moves north where there is not Axis air cover and bomb all the Finnish troops on the front lines.
Central Front - Rain here too...and the war machine is stalled.
Southern Front - German panzers push back a few more Russian units widening their lines by Sevatapol. The troops there hope for some rain to stall the attacks.
UK
Africa - Here everything erupts, land, sea, and air. A massed British armada led by the Illustrious strick the Italian navy that has finally appeared in an attempt to slow the UK down. One Italian cruiser and one British are sunk. Most of the Italian navy is heavily damaged but it got in a few licks of this own with air cover. The RAF did the best to slow down the Italian bombers and kept them from causing to much damage. More RAF units were brought in to counter.
The army blew a hole straight from Cairo right past Tobruk hopefully starving the few units south including a German corp, Rommels command and the Italian Armor. The Italian HQ was overrun along with a corps...The UK struck so fast they were able to capture the plans for defense of Tobruk which will come in handy.
With most of the Italian army cut, Tobruk nearly surrounded and a huge British naval armada at sea...it will be interesting to see what the Axis does now...as their plans did not include this contingency.
Battle of the Atlantic.
More Uboats are arriving wreaking havoc among the UK shipping. Production is strained and they are not sure that they can continue at the pace they are. Something will have to change soon.
Russia
Northern Front - Rain comes and it could not come soon enough. Hopefully it will hold. Mud has slowed the German war machine to a crawl. Their units are unable to operate efficiently so they start digging in. The USSR airforce moves north where there is not Axis air cover and bomb all the Finnish troops on the front lines.
Central Front - Rain here too...and the war machine is stalled.
Southern Front - German panzers push back a few more Russian units widening their lines by Sevatapol. The troops there hope for some rain to stall the attacks.
UK
Africa - Here everything erupts, land, sea, and air. A massed British armada led by the Illustrious strick the Italian navy that has finally appeared in an attempt to slow the UK down. One Italian cruiser and one British are sunk. Most of the Italian navy is heavily damaged but it got in a few licks of this own with air cover. The RAF did the best to slow down the Italian bombers and kept them from causing to much damage. More RAF units were brought in to counter.
The army blew a hole straight from Cairo right past Tobruk hopefully starving the few units south including a German corp, Rommels command and the Italian Armor. The Italian HQ was overrun along with a corps...The UK struck so fast they were able to capture the plans for defense of Tobruk which will come in handy.
With most of the Italian army cut, Tobruk nearly surrounded and a huge British naval armada at sea...it will be interesting to see what the Axis does now...as their plans did not include this contingency.
Battle of the Atlantic.
More Uboats are arriving wreaking havoc among the UK shipping. Production is strained and they are not sure that they can continue at the pace they are. Something will have to change soon.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early October 1941
Russia
Northern Front - Clouds part and things go from bad to worse. The panzers take full advantage of the weather and tear across the river smashing multiple units and surrounding the 50th and 7th Guard Armies. Russian pilots sacrifice themselves to keep them supplied
Central Front - Is for the most part quiet those the Germans continue to launch attacks against an army just northwest of Kiev in the Marshes. Multiple armies have defended there and keep the Germans at bay. The Russians are able to attack Southeast of Kiev and drive back the Germans, gaining more of a foothold across the river.
Southern Front - All is quiet in the rain for the moment...though a chill is in the air.
UK
Africa - A quick move by the UK forces completely surround Tobruk. More Italian units are brought in by transports leaving Italy proper to be guarded by German forces. With the plans of the defenses of Tobruk in their hands, UK command is feeling confident.
Battle of the Atlantic
Here it is heating up...the UK Merchant fleet is looking sparse but many more are on the way and should arrive shortly.
Russia
Northern Front - Clouds part and things go from bad to worse. The panzers take full advantage of the weather and tear across the river smashing multiple units and surrounding the 50th and 7th Guard Armies. Russian pilots sacrifice themselves to keep them supplied
Central Front - Is for the most part quiet those the Germans continue to launch attacks against an army just northwest of Kiev in the Marshes. Multiple armies have defended there and keep the Germans at bay. The Russians are able to attack Southeast of Kiev and drive back the Germans, gaining more of a foothold across the river.
Southern Front - All is quiet in the rain for the moment...though a chill is in the air.
UK
Africa - A quick move by the UK forces completely surround Tobruk. More Italian units are brought in by transports leaving Italy proper to be guarded by German forces. With the plans of the defenses of Tobruk in their hands, UK command is feeling confident.
Battle of the Atlantic
Here it is heating up...the UK Merchant fleet is looking sparse but many more are on the way and should arrive shortly.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late October 1941
Russia
Northern Front - the 7th Guard army and not hold and surrenders but again Russia pilots sacrifice their lives to keep the 50th fully supplied. More Russian units are railed in and start attacking German forces in an attempt to free their comrades.
Central Front - Continued rain hampers German attacks...Mud is piling up.
Southern Front - Heavy rains grounds all aircraft but the Germans move in a new panzer unit with some of the new PZIV tanks...the Russians are concerned that the river line may not hold.
UK
Africa
Tobruk is assaulted by land, air and sea. The Germans radioing for air support receive none from the Italians. They try their best but are not able to hold back the onslaught and surrender.
Battle of the Atlantic
Still not going well...something will have to turn soon if the UK is to recover.
Luckily the UK oil reserves are well built up.
Russia
Northern Front - the 7th Guard army and not hold and surrenders but again Russia pilots sacrifice their lives to keep the 50th fully supplied. More Russian units are railed in and start attacking German forces in an attempt to free their comrades.
Central Front - Continued rain hampers German attacks...Mud is piling up.
Southern Front - Heavy rains grounds all aircraft but the Germans move in a new panzer unit with some of the new PZIV tanks...the Russians are concerned that the river line may not hold.
UK
Africa
Tobruk is assaulted by land, air and sea. The Germans radioing for air support receive none from the Italians. They try their best but are not able to hold back the onslaught and surrender.
Battle of the Atlantic
Still not going well...something will have to turn soon if the UK is to recover.
Luckily the UK oil reserves are well built up.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Allied Summary -
The game is far from over but I am doing better in Africa and Russia than I normally do.
I am starting to wonder if they crazy expansion is good for Germany? On paper it looks like it is...more points...but more area to defend. If you don't get all of Africa and the Middle East you have spend the winter of 1940 fighting and using precious oil.
Depending upon my opponent normally I have 100% German oil, 100% Italian olive oil, 50% Romanian and Hungarian oil, Bulgaria does not need any and Finland...well they are a PIA for oil. Not sure what kklemmick had but with air flying almost non-stop and armor attacking that eats up tons so suspect not that much.
Often I am nearly out by the end of 41 so I can only imagine what you are at now.
Not sure if Russia is overpowered because kklemmick says Germany can take all of Europe and Africa before they even attack Russia. If that is the case than Germany is way overpowered.
If Germany limited themselves to Europe and some Africa fighting and always ready to pounce if the UK make a mistake. Spreading out to much always concerned me due to the amount of area to defend. You can't trust the Italians to help at all.
I guess if we play a game where I am Axis we shall see. EVEN though I have almost exclusively created infantry I barely have enough to cover the lines...I could never cover if I had more armor. Not sure how you have but hopefully I can witness it first hand.
Now the Allies are waiting for the US to join with their merchant and escort fleet to assist the UK and dive right into Africa. The BOA is wearing down the UK heavily as it should but they are holding and now exclusively building MM and Escorts while repairing for all their attacks, besides having to monitor all the naval repairs...
Not having to invade Africa is great. I consider that a big bonus for the Allies. Normally takes about 120 Landing ships or more...instead I was able to make use of them elsewhere.
The game is far from over but I am doing better in Africa and Russia than I normally do.
I am starting to wonder if they crazy expansion is good for Germany? On paper it looks like it is...more points...but more area to defend. If you don't get all of Africa and the Middle East you have spend the winter of 1940 fighting and using precious oil.
Depending upon my opponent normally I have 100% German oil, 100% Italian olive oil, 50% Romanian and Hungarian oil, Bulgaria does not need any and Finland...well they are a PIA for oil. Not sure what kklemmick had but with air flying almost non-stop and armor attacking that eats up tons so suspect not that much.
Often I am nearly out by the end of 41 so I can only imagine what you are at now.
Not sure if Russia is overpowered because kklemmick says Germany can take all of Europe and Africa before they even attack Russia. If that is the case than Germany is way overpowered.
If Germany limited themselves to Europe and some Africa fighting and always ready to pounce if the UK make a mistake. Spreading out to much always concerned me due to the amount of area to defend. You can't trust the Italians to help at all.
I guess if we play a game where I am Axis we shall see. EVEN though I have almost exclusively created infantry I barely have enough to cover the lines...I could never cover if I had more armor. Not sure how you have but hopefully I can witness it first hand.
Now the Allies are waiting for the US to join with their merchant and escort fleet to assist the UK and dive right into Africa. The BOA is wearing down the UK heavily as it should but they are holding and now exclusively building MM and Escorts while repairing for all their attacks, besides having to monitor all the naval repairs...
Not having to invade Africa is great. I consider that a big bonus for the Allies. Normally takes about 120 Landing ships or more...instead I was able to make use of them elsewhere.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early November 1941
Russia
Northern Front - A blizzard bares down on the German and Russian formations...luckily the Russians are ready for it.
A few probing attacks by the Russians...but still waiting for the winter weather to take hold and push down the German effectiveness to see if that will help.
Central Front - More bizzard coming through. One attack testing German resolve. The units seem worn which could be good news but it is not easy to fight in this weather.
Southern Front - Snow arrives, so all attacks hold. Russians dig in around Sevastapol as fresh units move to the riverline.
UK
Africa - Sadly the Italian armor is able to slip past Allied units as they move to cut them. Two Italian corps are not so lucky as they are overrun and yield a great deal of prisoners. Still a German unit wanders deep in Africa. It may or may not be able to escape...I see a good chance that it may but with that...other units move towards the lightly defended Benghazi. Just Italians hold there and the UK had knowledge of where they best units reside...and that is not the location. The 8th armor and Anzac corps move in readying for an attack.
Tripoli is heavily fortified and naval units move in to refuel for the coming attack on Benghazi.
Battle of the Atlantic
Minimal losses for the Allies due to weather.
Russia
Northern Front - A blizzard bares down on the German and Russian formations...luckily the Russians are ready for it.
A few probing attacks by the Russians...but still waiting for the winter weather to take hold and push down the German effectiveness to see if that will help.
Central Front - More bizzard coming through. One attack testing German resolve. The units seem worn which could be good news but it is not easy to fight in this weather.
Southern Front - Snow arrives, so all attacks hold. Russians dig in around Sevastapol as fresh units move to the riverline.
UK
Africa - Sadly the Italian armor is able to slip past Allied units as they move to cut them. Two Italian corps are not so lucky as they are overrun and yield a great deal of prisoners. Still a German unit wanders deep in Africa. It may or may not be able to escape...I see a good chance that it may but with that...other units move towards the lightly defended Benghazi. Just Italians hold there and the UK had knowledge of where they best units reside...and that is not the location. The 8th armor and Anzac corps move in readying for an attack.
Tripoli is heavily fortified and naval units move in to refuel for the coming attack on Benghazi.
Battle of the Atlantic
Minimal losses for the Allies due to weather.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Yeah, if Germany is able to take all of Africa and the Middle East, then it makes it really hard for Russia. I generally can obtain historical results or better in that case, but this is only because of this failure by the UK. Attacking on one front like I am in '41 I am rarely able to obtain even historical results, even against average players. Against you I did ok, but no where near where I'd need to be in order to hobble Russia. Russia will likely be on the offensive by '42. So I do think the USSR is overpowered. I would recommend going back to the 30 exp they had previously. I still think it'd be overpowered, but at least it's a move in the right direction.stjeand wrote: ↑Mon Oct 23, 2023 4:52 pm Not sure if Russia is overpowered because kklemmick says Germany can take all of Europe and Africa before they even attack Russia. If that is the case than Germany is way overpowered.
If Germany limited themselves to Europe and some Africa fighting and always ready to pounce if the UK make a mistake. Spreading out to much always concerned me due to the amount of area to defend. You can't trust the Italians to help at all.
I guess if we play a game where I am Axis we shall see. EVEN though I have almost exclusively created infantry I barely have enough to cover the lines...I could never cover if I had more armor. Not sure how you have but hopefully I can witness it first hand.
Africa was a horrible mistake for me this game. I should have been prepared to land on all the ports and prevent UK reinforcements, but I was in a hurry and failed there. It really did give you a boost not having to invade and I'm likely looking at an invasion of Italy in '42 instead of '43 because of that.
As the first game I've played where I didn't have all the Middle East oil, I have had to think about oil for the first time ever, and it's interesting. At this point I'd dismantle some of my beat up ships to save on oil maintenance but the game won't let me for some reason. Even the BOA is costing me oil that I would rather be spending elsewhere. It's very sad.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Late November 1941
Russia
Northern Front - Sadly the Russians are not able to save the 50th Army...so they go on the offensive and start to push back some of the weakened units. The snow is not as hard as it was so air is able to bomb some units.
Central Front / Southern Front - All it quiet here...no good spots to try to attack...yet.
Time...
Africa
It may not be possible to destroy the German corps that is still deep in the desert but one never knows. Units try to slow it but only minor successes. UK units attack the units trying to dig in around Benghazi and push one back...units can begin the siege. With naval and air support it should not be long.
Battle of the Atlantic
It is heating up again...the Germans get all their subs to sea and sink some decent tonnage for minimal losses. Though everyone helps. Rationing is occurring in all UK cities...as it is difficult to find available goods.
Russia
Northern Front - Sadly the Russians are not able to save the 50th Army...so they go on the offensive and start to push back some of the weakened units. The snow is not as hard as it was so air is able to bomb some units.
Central Front / Southern Front - All it quiet here...no good spots to try to attack...yet.
Time...
Africa
It may not be possible to destroy the German corps that is still deep in the desert but one never knows. Units try to slow it but only minor successes. UK units attack the units trying to dig in around Benghazi and push one back...units can begin the siege. With naval and air support it should not be long.
Battle of the Atlantic
It is heating up again...the Germans get all their subs to sea and sink some decent tonnage for minimal losses. Though everyone helps. Rationing is occurring in all UK cities...as it is difficult to find available goods.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early December 1941
Russian
Northern Front - Another army is cut off from the lines. Siberians arrive and decide to move to engage the German forces. There are hopes for the weather to turn colder and hold the Germans in their tracks.
Central Front - The army holding north of Kiev is finally driven back.
Southern Front - Snow holds both sides at bay.
UK
Africa - The WDF and Australians decide to make one major push for Benghazi. They decimate two Italian corps holding Benghazi and overrun both units with minimal casualties. Benghazi falls to the UK with the assist of heavy naval guns that caught an Italian cruiser attempting to supply the port.
British units may have to spend a few weeks gathering up supplies for their next offensive as they are wearing down but with Benghazi perhaps they can continue. The Italian and German defenders are looking sparse and weak.
In order to accomplish this, the UK had to give up on their efforts to destroy the German corps in the desert. But it will be some time before the unit is able to be in battle condition again.
Air units begin returning to Africa now that supply is getting stronger.
UK units hope to push west into Algeria and with the rest of the UK army there pin the Italian and German forces and take them out. The majority of the Italian army is in Africa at this time forcing the Germans to come defend all their ports pulling critical forces out of Russia.
Battle of the Atlantic
Minor losses on both sides. More ships arrive daily but the Kriegsmarine is able to continue to sink more than they lose.
-I am lost with this winter scenario. It states this is the worst winter in history but it is just snowing, which allows the Germans to continue to operate. I thought the weather was to be 100% blizzard from December through February. If that is not the case then for me it is not correct or good for the Russians. I guess we shall see. I was planning on blizzards but if just snow there will be no way for Russia to really do anything.
Russian
Northern Front - Another army is cut off from the lines. Siberians arrive and decide to move to engage the German forces. There are hopes for the weather to turn colder and hold the Germans in their tracks.
Central Front - The army holding north of Kiev is finally driven back.
Southern Front - Snow holds both sides at bay.
UK
Africa - The WDF and Australians decide to make one major push for Benghazi. They decimate two Italian corps holding Benghazi and overrun both units with minimal casualties. Benghazi falls to the UK with the assist of heavy naval guns that caught an Italian cruiser attempting to supply the port.
British units may have to spend a few weeks gathering up supplies for their next offensive as they are wearing down but with Benghazi perhaps they can continue. The Italian and German defenders are looking sparse and weak.
In order to accomplish this, the UK had to give up on their efforts to destroy the German corps in the desert. But it will be some time before the unit is able to be in battle condition again.
Air units begin returning to Africa now that supply is getting stronger.
UK units hope to push west into Algeria and with the rest of the UK army there pin the Italian and German forces and take them out. The majority of the Italian army is in Africa at this time forcing the Germans to come defend all their ports pulling critical forces out of Russia.
Battle of the Atlantic
Minor losses on both sides. More ships arrive daily but the Kriegsmarine is able to continue to sink more than they lose.
-I am lost with this winter scenario. It states this is the worst winter in history but it is just snowing, which allows the Germans to continue to operate. I thought the weather was to be 100% blizzard from December through February. If that is not the case then for me it is not correct or good for the Russians. I guess we shall see. I was planning on blizzards but if just snow there will be no way for Russia to really do anything.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Mid Late December 1941
Russia
Northern Front - The Siberians strike while the iron is cold driving back a panzer and infantry corps, freeing their surrounded comrades. The snow swirls and winds bite forcing the air to remain grounded and German forces to halt all offensive operations. Sadly due to such conditions the Russians are not able to make much progress forward.
Central Front - No action occurs here.
Southern Front - Rain...yes rain...muddy conditions do not help the Russian attackers / defenders. They need the ground to freeze to begin any sort of offensive operations. All units continue to resupply.
UK
Africa - The UK consolidate units and start to resupply. There is a large Italian and German force between Benghazi and Tripoli which will need to be eliminated. For the moment they wait.
Battle of the Atlantic
Quite a few merchants sink...the fleet is looking sparse.
US
Half a world away the United States of America come under surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Empire. The have sat by and watched Europe burn for two years and finally decide to do something...and begin sailing East towards Europe with a huge armada.
- Blizzards hit in the north finally...hopefully they last until the end of February...does anyone have a weatherman family member? Rain in the south is bad...Russia really requires it to snow as much as possible to lower German efficiency. Rain is a great way to rest units.
Russia
Northern Front - The Siberians strike while the iron is cold driving back a panzer and infantry corps, freeing their surrounded comrades. The snow swirls and winds bite forcing the air to remain grounded and German forces to halt all offensive operations. Sadly due to such conditions the Russians are not able to make much progress forward.
Central Front - No action occurs here.
Southern Front - Rain...yes rain...muddy conditions do not help the Russian attackers / defenders. They need the ground to freeze to begin any sort of offensive operations. All units continue to resupply.
UK
Africa - The UK consolidate units and start to resupply. There is a large Italian and German force between Benghazi and Tripoli which will need to be eliminated. For the moment they wait.
Battle of the Atlantic
Quite a few merchants sink...the fleet is looking sparse.
US
Half a world away the United States of America come under surprise attack by the Imperial Japanese Empire. The have sat by and watched Europe burn for two years and finally decide to do something...and begin sailing East towards Europe with a huge armada.
- Blizzards hit in the north finally...hopefully they last until the end of February...does anyone have a weatherman family member? Rain in the south is bad...Russia really requires it to snow as much as possible to lower German efficiency. Rain is a great way to rest units.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Early January 1942
Russia
Northern Front - The Siberians push more west...German units in the area are weak and low on supplies. A Russian corps gets caught behind lines...but holds its ground. It is unlikely to be able to break out.
Central Front - All is quiet.
Southern Front - The coldest weather on records, it has been raining for a month which is a huge plus for the German army. They are able to resupply freely.
UK
Africa - UK makes a probing attack on the Italian armor with the WDF and 8th armor and they drive it back. The Germans and Italians appear to be falling back as quickly as they can, though it could be a trick.
Battle of the Atlantic
Tons of supplies reach Russia but after huge losses. With the American industrial might more shipping is arriving daily as is more units to counter German Uboats.
US
Getting closer to landing...
Russia
Northern Front - The Siberians push more west...German units in the area are weak and low on supplies. A Russian corps gets caught behind lines...but holds its ground. It is unlikely to be able to break out.
Central Front - All is quiet.
Southern Front - The coldest weather on records, it has been raining for a month which is a huge plus for the German army. They are able to resupply freely.
UK
Africa - UK makes a probing attack on the Italian armor with the WDF and 8th armor and they drive it back. The Germans and Italians appear to be falling back as quickly as they can, though it could be a trick.
Battle of the Atlantic
Tons of supplies reach Russia but after huge losses. With the American industrial might more shipping is arriving daily as is more units to counter German Uboats.
US
Getting closer to landing...
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
Mid January 1942
Russia
Northern Front - The surrounded corps surrenders. Russian forces make minor attacks and push forward, though winter is running short. German forces appear to have resupplied more than expected.
Central Front - No change
Southern Front - Snow FINALLY arrives, but it is likely too late unless it snows for a few months.
Africa
UK - British forces continue to resupply and move towards the Axis forces. Another tight location for offensive operations
US - Forces land in Africa. They have committed to support the Vichy government. They have also committed to supporting shipping to the UK.
Battle of the Atlantic
More shipping has arrived and the US and UK are running their shipyards at and over capacity which is still barely enough.
Russia
Northern Front - The surrounded corps surrenders. Russian forces make minor attacks and push forward, though winter is running short. German forces appear to have resupplied more than expected.
Central Front - No change
Southern Front - Snow FINALLY arrives, but it is likely too late unless it snows for a few months.
Africa
UK - British forces continue to resupply and move towards the Axis forces. Another tight location for offensive operations
US - Forces land in Africa. They have committed to support the Vichy government. They have also committed to supporting shipping to the UK.
Battle of the Atlantic
More shipping has arrived and the US and UK are running their shipyards at and over capacity which is still barely enough.
Last edited by stjeand on Thu Oct 26, 2023 1:59 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: Looking for strong Axis player to play Harsh Winter
End January 1942
Russia
Northern Front - Another few attacks yield little.
Central Front - All is quiet
Southern Front - All looks not great for the Russian. Warmer weather keeps the German panzers in tip top shape...they will be a huge problem come clear weather.
UK
Africa - Americans arrive and have seen enough...war is declared on Germany. With that the units land in multiple locations. The UK have received word that the Axis forces are to hold, so they decide to perform another daring raid with the 1st Airborne...and drop within 40 miles of Misurate...there they find an Italian HQ and call in naval support along with UK special amphibious forces...they drive the HQ and cut off the army now stuck between them and the main UK army. Supplied up they are ready. The RAF hammer unsupported German and Italian air attempting to disrupt the landings.
Word is received from Greek intelligence that the Germans have left Crete, so UK forces land there and call in support from American air units to cover them.
Battle of the Atlantic
The German fleet sets to sea in a horrific storm...UK naval is not able to find them as of yet...but are to dispatch a huge fleet including American battleships to hunt them down.
Russia
Northern Front - Another few attacks yield little.
Central Front - All is quiet
Southern Front - All looks not great for the Russian. Warmer weather keeps the German panzers in tip top shape...they will be a huge problem come clear weather.
UK
Africa - Americans arrive and have seen enough...war is declared on Germany. With that the units land in multiple locations. The UK have received word that the Axis forces are to hold, so they decide to perform another daring raid with the 1st Airborne...and drop within 40 miles of Misurate...there they find an Italian HQ and call in naval support along with UK special amphibious forces...they drive the HQ and cut off the army now stuck between them and the main UK army. Supplied up they are ready. The RAF hammer unsupported German and Italian air attempting to disrupt the landings.
Word is received from Greek intelligence that the Germans have left Crete, so UK forces land there and call in support from American air units to cover them.
Battle of the Atlantic
The German fleet sets to sea in a horrific storm...UK naval is not able to find them as of yet...but are to dispatch a huge fleet including American battleships to hunt them down.