The Great War, part 2. A GD AAR.

[cpdeyoung]

This is a three player game of Global Domination 1938, a wonderful mod of ATG.

The Axis is played by a master, Python Magus, a very experienced and excellent stalwart.

The Soviets by a less experienced player who is eager to test his skills, Lion_of_Judah.

The Allies by cpdeyoung, who has loved and played this game for over a decade.

Let loose the dogs of war!

[ernieschwitz]

I love a good AAR, looking forward to it

[PythonMagus]

AAR: March 1938 - Shadows of the Rhineland

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Geman and French general share a drink in a future, peaceful Europe by David Bowman, on Flickr

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Location: Berlin / Kehl Border Outpost
Date: March 22, 1938

Oberleutnant Hans Richter stared at the intelligence summary spread across his field desk, the morning light catching the thick glass of his coffee mug. The official dispatches from Berlin echoed a harmonious refrain: Germany sought only friendship, economic cooperation, and a stable, peaceful Europe built on mutual industrial strength. Down at the border, brief moments of theatrical bonhomie between officers—toasts shared across tables with French counterparts—were eagerly captured by state photographers to prove that neighborly goodwill was entirely possible.

Yet, Hans felt the stark dichotomy of the spring air. Barely a mile away across the river, the landscape bristled. Heavy artillery emplacements and concrete pillboxes watched from the opposing heights, a stark reminder that guns remained steadfastly trained on the Reich. Newspapers in Paris and Moscow broadcast biting condemnations, painting German overtures as mere camouflage for aggressive expansion, even as Berlin decried foreign falsehoods.

Behind the grand political theater, Hans’s primary headache was structural. Managing the grand corps-sized formations favored by the High Command was an immense logistical undertaking. Rejecting finicky, decentralized micro-management, he preferred the broad-stroke economic rhythm of the Table of Organization and Equipment. Reinforcements flowed slowly down through the administrative pipeline from regional HQs, ensuring that replacements finally arrived at the front lines thoroughly drilled and equipped, but testing the patience of commanders waiting for manpower.

As Hans folded the reports, he knew that peace and preparation walked a razor-thin line. The heavy corps units were assembling, the supply webs were spinning, and whether the coming months brought open hand or clenched fist, the machinery of the state was ready to move.

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All around us, guns are pointed at the Fatherland by David Bowman, on Flickr
The French of Bolsheviks whisper lies about us behind our backs by David Bowman, on Flickr

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Gaming note

I like corps sized units by David Bowman, on Flickr

I like big units in this game as I find small units to finicky to manage and hard to keep replenished via the ToE. ToE suits my style, which is more economic rather than tactical, so the flow of forces through the HQs to the unit takes a few turns and means the reinforcements arrive with some training. Also note that when the game gets hot, these units are typically 50-70% strength

[PythonMagus]

AAR: March 1938 - The Pincer Closes in the East

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The East is Liberated for the Manchurian Emperor by David Bowman, on Flickr

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Location: Northern Jiangsu / Shandong Sector
Date: March 31, 1938

Major Kenji Sato wiped the dust from his field glasses as the roar of twin-engine Mitsubishi bombers faded toward the western horizon. Below him, the scene on the dirt highway surrealistically resembled a ghost town. Hours of relentless, punishing air raids by the Imperial Air Force had broken the enemy's will to resist; Chinese units had abandoned their trenches en masse, leaving behind abandoned artillery and supplies, with many formations dissolving entirely into the countryside or surrendering on immediate contact.

Chinese forces find they are surrounded by David Bowman, on Flickr

Across the plains, the grand tactical design was clicking into place. To the south, the 3rd and 7th Armies had maintained a relentless, sweeping push, while the 10th Army aggressively drove north from its bridgeheads. The coordination had been smooth, orchestrated through carefully managed logistical pipelines that kept the larger corps-sized formations supplied and steady.

Just past midday, at a dusty crossroads outside a smoldering village, the vanguard elements of the 10th Army crested a rise and met the leading columns of the 7th Army. Officers from both forces stepped out of their vehicles, exchanging formal salutes and handshakes as the eastern sector was officially declared cleared of organized Chinese defense.

Sato lowered his glasses. The operational maps back at headquarters would show a clean, sweeping red arrow uniting the forces, a testament to air superiority and crushing momentum. Yet, looking out over the silent, deserted fields, he wondered how long an empty landscape could stay conquered.

Chinese forces vanish by David Bowman, on Flickr

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[cpdeyoung]

France: April 1938

Strategic overview.
The French armed forces are significant, but the German and Italian borders are lined with too many Axis forces for a peacetime establishment, Axis diplomacy is very active, and successful. It is time to face facts and prepare to defend the nation.
The French are not rich in manpower or supplies, but the GQG is getting by. The powerful Japanese effort is evident, and Indochina is getting attention. France is fully supporting China as they are in effect our first line of defense.
The British have said they will join us if we, or Poland, are attacked. This works but a full alliance with military co-ordination would be superior. Our diplomats are seeking alliance and joint planning with Belgium and the Netherlands.
The navy is currently split between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

[PythonMagus]

AAR: May 1938 - Steel at the Gates

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Location: Outskirts of Tsinan, China
Date: May 14, 1938

My dearest Chiyo,

The dust of this endless northern plain seems to settle into everything—my clothes, my hair, and even the tea we boil over makeshift stoves. Yet, in the middle of this desolate countryside near Tsinan, a miracle of modern engineering has risen. Just weeks ago, these fields were empty; now, a sprawling, prefabricated factory complex hums day and night, churning out the Type 95 Ha-Go light tanks our armored divisions desperately need as the 3rd and 7th Armies press toward Chengchow.

Being an engineer here is a relentless blur of grease, noise, and sleepless nights. But today something extraordinary happened that made all the exhaustion worthwhile. General Rikichi Ando himself arrived at the plant for a front-line inspection.

New Ha Go by David Bowman, on Flickr

My heart nearly stopped when his staff car pulled up, and he walked directly onto our assembly floor. Surrounded by senior officers, the General singled me out and asked me to demonstrate the latest upgrades we've integrated into the Ha-Go's suspension and turret traverse. My hands shook as I pointed out the modifications to him, explaining how the diesel engine handles the rough terrain.

General Ando listened intently, nodding with a sharp, discerning eye before commending our dedication to the Emperor's war effort. To have my small part in this massive logistical machine recognized by such a commander left me entirely overwhelmed.

I miss our quiet home in Tokyo more than words can say, and the rumble of the front grows quieter by the day as our forces close the encirclement at Chengchow. But knowing our work directly fuels the advance gives me strength. Take care of our mother, and pray for my safe return.

With all my love,

Kenji

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Surrounding of Cheng Chow by David Bowman, on Flickr

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Tactical tips of Armour
japanese armour by David Bowman, on Flickr

My thinking in Japan is very different from my German game (but quite similar to my Italian game). I have light armour units without supporting infantry. I move these around to where I am attacking, always supported by big Infantry units. As a result, I have limited mobility and exploitation capabilities, but the trick is to keep the Chinese player off balance and reacting rather than planning.

[PythonMagus]

I hope no once saw me getting this goose by David Bowman, on Flickr

[cpdeyoung]

May 1938. A Complex Issue.

Let's glance at a new feature of GD, the Investment Point. Extra Factories used to be purchased with the PP, a critical resource. Now a production Czar must choose between PP and IP. Here in the early game three nations have already produced Complexes using accumulated IP. This is impressive.

[lion_of_judah]

Europe has held it's breath... Soviet update

# After Action Report – ATG: May 1938

## The Soviet Union Stands Ready

**May 1938**

The Soviet Motherland enjoys a period of peace and growing strength. Across the vast reaches of the Union, factories operate around the clock while collective farms provide the resources needed to sustain the nation's expanding military. Though Europe remains unsettled, the Soviet people continue their work with confidence and determination.

The Red Army has devoted the past several months to intensive training and modernization. New formations are conducting large-scale field exercises, officers are refining operational doctrine, and existing units are receiving improved equipment and organization. Every division grows more capable with each passing month, ensuring that the Soviet Union will be prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.

Military planners remain vigilant. Intelligence reports from Western Europe indicate increasing political instability and growing military activity among several nations. While no immediate conflict threatens Soviet borders, the leadership in Moscow watches these developments with great interest. Diplomatic channels remain active, but the General Staff understands that preparedness is the surest guarantee of peace.

Industrial production continues to expand, strengthening the nation's ability to support future military operations should they become necessary. Infrastructure improvements, supply depots, and transportation networks are being steadily upgraded to ensure rapid mobilization if called upon.

For now, the Soviet Union remains at peace, but it is a peace secured through readiness rather than complacency. The Red Army grows stronger each month, and the Motherland stands united, disciplined, and prepared to defend the gains of socialism against any future threat.

**Strategic Outlook:** Continue military modernization, expand industrial capacity, monitor developments in Western Europe, and maintain the initiative through preparation while preserving peace.

[lion_of_judah]

# People's Commissariat of Defense

## Stavka High Command Communiqué

### After Action Report – May 1938

**Classification:** Secret
**Date:** May 1938

The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics continues to enjoy peace and stability as the Red Army advances through another month of modernization and preparation. Across every military district, commanders report improvements in training, logistics, and combat readiness. New equipment is steadily reaching frontline formations, while experienced officers continue refining operational doctrine for the challenges that lie ahead.

The industrial might of the Motherland remains focused on strengthening the nation's defenses. Factories continue to produce the weapons and vehicles required to transform the Red Army into the most formidable military force in Europe. Every division grows stronger with each passing month.

### Foreign Affairs

Following careful deliberation, **Stavka and the Soviet leadership have decided against direct military intervention in the Spanish Civil War.** While the struggle in Spain has attracted international attention, Moscow has concluded that committing Soviet manpower and matériel would not serve the long-term interests of the Union.

The Politburo has determined that the conflict would consume valuable resources while providing little strategic advantage to the Soviet state. Every rifle, tank, aircraft, and trained soldier preserved today will strengthen the Red Army for the greater trials that undoubtedly await Europe.

Soviet intelligence will continue to observe developments on the Iberian Peninsula, but no large-scale military commitment is authorized.

### European Situation

Events in Western Europe remain under close scrutiny. Reports from Soviet intelligence indicate increasing political instability and accelerating military preparations among several European powers. While no immediate threat confronts the Soviet frontier, Stavka believes the international situation is steadily deteriorating.

Military planners therefore continue to emphasize readiness over adventure. The Red Army will not be drawn into unnecessary conflicts while its modernization program remains underway.

### Military Readiness

Training exercises conducted throughout May have improved the combat effectiveness of numerous formations. Headquarters staffs continue to rehearse large-scale offensive and defensive operations, while supply services refine mobilization procedures necessary for future campaigns.

Commanders report growing confidence that the Red Army is becoming increasingly capable of meeting any challenge that may emerge along the western frontier.

### Outlook

The Soviet Union enters the summer of 1938 secure, united, and steadily increasing its military strength. By refusing to squander precious resources in foreign conflicts, the Motherland preserves its strength for the defense of socialism and the inevitable tests that history may yet bring.

**For now, the Soviet bear remains patient—but vigilant.**

[PythonMagus]

AAR: June 1938 - Tehran's Diplomatic Corridor

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Location: Niavaran Palace Grounds, Tehran, Persia
Date: June 18, 1938

First Secretary Masao Takahashi adjusted his lapels as he stepped out into the dry, brilliant sunlight of the palace gardens, carrying the warm echoes of his audience with Shah Reza Pahlavi. The meeting had been remarkably cordial; the Shah had expressed a keen interest in modernizing Persia's industrial capacity and infrastructure through trade partnerships that bypassed traditional Western monopolies, viewing Tokyo’s rising technological footprint with pragmatic optimism.

Takahashi felt a quiet sense of triumph. Expanding Japanese influence into West Asia was a delicate chess game, and securing mutual goodwill here was a tangible victory for the Foreign Ministry.

Rude Brits by David Bowman, on Flickr

His satisfaction, however, was abruptly shattered as he rounded the corner toward the grand marble steps of the ministry wing. Blocking his path were two visibly flustered British diplomats, their faces flushed from the desert heat and bureaucratic panic. Without so much as a polite nod or a customary greeting, the senior attaché stepped directly into Takahashi's path, his voice dripping with an abrasive, colonial entitlement that completely ignored all standard diplomatic niceties.

"Look here, Takahashi," the British official blustered, his finger practically waving in the air, "this backdoor maneuvering with Tehran has gone quite far enough. You need to inform Tokyo immediately that His Majesty's government expects these absurd trade talks to cease. Persia is within our sphere, not some playground for your industrial ambitions."

Takahashi stared at them for a fraction of a second, taken aback less by the substance of their demand than by the sheer, unbridled rudeness of their breach in etiquette. He kept his posture rigid, his expression a mask of cool, unyielding politeness.

"Gentlemen," Takahashi replied in crisp, flawless English, "His Imperial Majesty’s government acts only in the interest of mutual economic enrichment and sovereign respect. If the Persian government chooses to speak with us, I suggest you take your grievances up with them—or perhaps adjust to a changing world."

Without waiting for their sputtering reply, Takahashi offered a stiff, formal bow and walked past them. The encounter left a bitter taste, but it laid bare a vital truth: the old empires knew their grip was slipping, and panic was making them clumsy.

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This game requires a deft touch, particular as the Axis where you start with a great army, but are way behind on resources. Japan is stripping its economy to building industry this year because when it will face the USA, it needs top technology, which means lots of Political Points. Japan has enough tech to defeat the Chinese in 1938, but lacks the artillery, armour and planes to finish the job.

artillery by David Bowman, on Flickr

Part of sparing the cities to build Investment Points means making do with non Japanese support units. See how the artillery pulled by Chinese horses. (Chinese cities may not product PP.)

[cpdeyoung]

China Front, June 27th, 1938, Turn 7

The Chinese are getting beaten very badly. Python is a very good Japanese player.

[PythonMagus]

AAR: July 1938 - The Currency of Steel and Fear

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Location: Industrial Office, Stuttgart
Date: July 14, 1938

The plush leather chair in Heinrich’s office felt like a witness stand. Across his mahogany desk sat Hauptmann Werner of the Army Ordnance Office, flanked by two aides. Spread before them were requisition manifests demanding a massive pivot from civilian furniture to tens of thousands of laminated rifle stocks.

Heinrich pushed the papers back, his voice tight. "Hauptmann, my workshops are tooled for cabinetry and domestic export. Furthermore, these payments are structured entirely on MEFO bills. Everyone in industrial circles knows these state-backed promissory notes are a financial shell game. They are swelling the money supply, hiding public debt, and dragging our long-term economic stability to the brink of ruin. I cannot jeopardize my workers' wages on hidden deficit paper."

Werner’s expression hardened, his posture stiffening. "Herr Weber, the Wehrmacht does not debate monetary theory with woodworkers. The Reich’s rearmament is absolute, and accepting MEFO drafts is not a commercial negotiation—it is your sacred patriotic duty to the Führer."

Before Heinrich could reply, the junior aide seated to Werner’s left leaned forward. He had remained silent the entire meeting, wearing a tailored civilian suit that sat awkwardly in a military office. He smiled thinly, his eyes entirely devoid of warmth.

"The economy thrives when loyal citizens cooperate, Herr Weber," the Gestapo agent murmured, his voice chillingly polite. "It would be a tragedy if an audit found ideological deviance in your bookkeeping, or if your daughter's university placement—and your wife's quiet comfort here in Stuttgart—were suddenly disrupted by a lack of official state grace. Patriotism is a family obligation, after all."

Heinrich looked at the agent, the blood draining from his face. The subtle threat hung heavy in the smoke-filled room. He looked down at the contracts, realizing the economy was no longer his to protect. With a trembling hand, Heinrich picked up his fountain pen and signed.

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Indutrialising the Ruhr by David Bowman, on Flickr

Investment Points or Political Points
GD1938 is fun precisely because you can go so many ways in the political, military and economic route. A couple of sub-versions ago (principally because of the way I played the game, I suspect), Ernie shifted the building of industry from political points to investment points, requiring a lot more deliberation about what you want. Political points buys you card play, research and new units. Investment points just buys you industrial complexes and supplies centres. Both really are a bit problematic in terms of simulation - a good player can triple their industrial output in 3 years, far in excess of Albrecht Speers' wildest dreams.

The way the game works now I find quite reminiscent of MEFO bills. Hjalmar Schacht set up Metallurgische Forschungsgesellschaft (or Mefo for short) as a paper company to issue promissory bills that could be used off the balance sheet to fund German rearmament without breaching the terms of the Versailles Treaty. While spectacularly successful at that, they did hollow out the actual economy creating effectively a bubble that could pop (but I think in practice were paid out with the treasuries of conquered nations). In terms of the game, Germany needs a regular supply of artillery, armour and planes, particularly for the battle for France. Before I became a player, the orthodoxy was to dedicate a few factories to these and otherwise support the economy with PP. I, as a mathematician, know that compound interest is the most powerful force in the universe. The more I invest, the bigger my returns, provided I do not need the investment back in a hurry.

In this game, I have invested more heavily in Investment Points than ever before. I am, in effect, hollowing out German industry to achieve these factory complexes. I am doing something similar in Japan for a slightly different reason; I have enough to harm China a lot in 1938, so do not need my industrial output so I break everything to give me three factories immediately and then return to a more classic game. For Italy, I am staying with a purely classical game - only card playing economic improvements. Italy would be useless in a war now, in 1939 and probably in 1940. My aim is to have her ready for 1941, at which point there will be some industrial complexes and shipyards up and down the peninsular.

Tactical note: The industrial complexes must be protected from bombing and airborne assault. I place them on rail junctions, preferably in a forest, with garrison and an interceptor squadron. In Japan I placed one near the front and it acts as a forwards air base - brave, but safe in 1938.

[PythonMagus]

AAR: July 1938 - The Iron Prongs of Wuhan

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Location: Hubei Province, Northern Approaches to Wuhan
Date: July 22, 1938

The summer heat over the Yangtze river valley was stifling, but the advance of the Imperial forces offered no respite. The offensive entered a decisive phase as two massive armored breakthroughs spearheaded the drive toward Wuhan. From the north, powerful columns smashed through entrenched enemy lines, while a secondary prong surged aggressively from the east, threatening to trap the defenders in a colossal pincer movement. Leading the spearhead were the heavy Chi-Ro medium tanks and the swift Osaka armored cars, tearing deep into the hostile countryside and shattering every attempt at a coordinated counter-attack.

Desperate China by David Bowman, on Flickr

Amidst the dust and chaos of the northern breakout, Corporal Hiroshi Nakajima found himself steering his Osaka armored car at the forefront of the vanguard. Suddenly, a concealed anti-tank position erupted from a wooded ridge, unleashing a hail of armor-piercing fire that pinned down the infantry flanks and immobilized the vehicle directly ahead of him. Smoke billowed from the burning hulk, threatening to trap the advancing column in a deadly bottleneck under heavy mortar fire.

Without hesitation, Nakajima slammed his gears into overdrive. Instead of retreating, he maneuvered his nimble Osaka armored car right into the line of fire, using his vehicle's hull as a mobile shield to protect the trapped infantrymen scrambling from the burning wreck. While enemy rounds ricocheted furiously off his armored plates, Nakajima held his ground, using his vehicle's mounted machine gun to suppress the ridge line and blind the enemy gunners.

His reckless, heroic intervention bought precious minutes for the supporting Chi-Ro tanks to pivot and silence the enemy position with high-explosive shells. Though his armored car was riddled with bullet holes and his ears rang from the concussions, Nakajima successfully kept the route open. As the front surged forward, the road to Wuhan lay wide open before them.

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Breakout to Wuhan by David Bowman, on Flickr

[cpdeyoung]

A rolling disaster, crafted by a master.