Matrix Games Forums

As I try to understand how ZoC works, my Panzer Corps advance was cut off by the Soviets because I was bit greedy - no problem there - but three hexes that flipped were next to an infantry division. I can't post a screenshot as I don't have 10 posts yet, but why did a hex next to a division flip during the Soviet turn?

Only reason that comes to mind is that it was occupied by an enemy unit which vacated the hex afterwards

The only way a hex adjacent to your Panzer unit would flip is if the Soviet player entered the hex during the turn, then moved out of it. That is a valid tactic by the Soviet player, you want to flip as many hexes as you can.

Note that the AI has the ability to take control of some enemy hexes in the front lines without necessarily entering the hex. This SHOULD be limited.

@carlkay58,

do you know if this is the case on every difficulty level or just 120+?

Thanks for all the answers. From what I can tell - having had a similar thing again the next turn - some of my Axis units do not always appear to be establishing the ZoC necessary to prevent nearby enemy units from flipping hexes next to them (as per section 7.4.3 of the manual). Does this defensive ZoC not apply to units that have moved?

Floxolydian - it is true on every difficulty level.

Mendeth - friendly ZOC will not convert a hex that is also in an enemy ZOC. Nothing stops the AI from flipping a hex at the start of its Ground Phase. If you follow the AI actions in the lower right hand info box you will see something like a pick off hexes step - I can't remember the exact wording. It does not care if you moved your unit or not it will flip the hex.

Thanks Clarlkay58. I was just a bit puzzled that my units cannot flip empty hexes next to enemy units - and I understand why not - but empty hexes next to mine are being flipped without enemy units passing through them.

My understanding is they move the units into the hexes and then move out, which would convert the hex. AI on 110 plus gwt unlimited admin movement (still subject to ZOC movement penalties though), but if you have any gaps in your line its very easy for them to slide through. Playing against AI 110+ you should try not to leave gaps near your railroads because AI can easily cut it.

Thanks, I'll take more care in the future. I'm playing on AI 100 across the board, but looks like I need to pay more attention to cavalry and tank units.