Matrix Games Forums

Ok so I've read some AAR's and gone through the tutorial in the first game but then when I start my own game I just look at the map and feel overwhelmed. France has like 5 countries at war with it at the beginning of the game. Is there any country that I can play where i can just sort of potter around in the back yard and grow a few vegetables?

Perhaps try a different scenario such as 1792. I think any of the countries on the edges would be good: Turkey, Spain, Russia, Sweden.

Sweden is good for the standard scenario, and Poland in the 1792 is a challenge but probably good for learning (no fleets, no starting wars, only a few crack troops to handle). I would start with simple economy, its fun and its easy to help you get the UI and tactics curve down.

SoM

I'm using the English in the 1820 'balanced' scenario. It's nice to be on that island and have time to muck around. [:)] In my first game no one even declared war on me for a long time. In my second game the Russians did declare war but the only fighting was naval.
I'll probably continue on with this scenario. I love to play these kinds of games in 'sandbox mode'. [8D]

Use Sweden i any scenario ...

Use France.  France engages in every aspect of the game and has the sheer power to survive your mistakes until you learn everything. Dont let its position as the worlds whipping post scare you away, it really is probably the best country to play to learn.