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Well, this is my first post here, before I've even fired up the game (just got it in the mail).

When playing the campaign (though thoughts on the smaller scenarios are welcomed too), which side gives more of a challenge when you play against the computer? From reading various threads, it seems like it should be the Germans since the Soviets get a 'scripted' opening so are probably playing close to what the designer feels is optimal. However, comments that the attacker AI is somewhat suspect seems to indicate that maybe the Russians are more challenging. Thoughts?

gambler wrote:Well, this is my first post here, before I've even fired up the game (just got it in the mail).

When playing the campaign (though thoughts on the smaller scenarios are welcomed too), which side gives more of a challenge when you play against the computer? From reading various threads, it seems like it should be the Germans since the Soviets get a 'scripted' opening so are probably playing close to what the designer feels is optimal. However, comments that the attacker AI is somewhat suspect seems to indicate that maybe the Russians are more challenging. Thoughts?

I think you are correct, the AI when on the offensive is sometimes a bit rash and can make serious mistakes, although I will say in my experience the defence for the AI is a good challenge.

You can play against the computer too?

Ok, I tested this the way I sometimes do. I simply set both sides to computer and let it run. No pocket was formed by the Russians until Turn 47 and even then it very small. The Axis won with 2396 points and I was never impressed by the attacks the Russians made. From this playing (and technically it was the 2nd attempt since the power went out on Turn 43 of the first attempt - hey, I was watching college football all day so I figured I might as well get some use out of the game after doing the tutorial in the morning). I didn't watch too closely since I don't want to overly influence my own playing, but I noticed the Soviets spent quite a few units to screen the southeast group that probably could have achieved a decisive breakthrough much earlier. Based on this, I'd have to guess that the side to play in this game is Soviet.

Gambler I didn't vote because there was no 'both' option.

In my opinion both sides have their own particular challenges in the campaign. As a new player I would probably play German because you have less units to move initially and the inititive is not necessarily with you for a while.

If you are a fairly competent wargamer, and have confidence you will pick up the basics pretty quick, then give the computer an advantage (ie. +1 or even +2). You will find then that his effectivenss in individual battles is raised to the point where you will get a better challenge.

The German AI give me a better challenge.

Definitely the soviets. Not only does the computer have a couple pretty serious flaws when attacking, there's something of a puzzle in how to best clear the initial fortifications. Besides, doing better than expected on offense has its own problems, like out-running the supply trucks and the heavy artillery, or exposing your panzer divisions to counterattack when they don't have infantry support to soak up the losses. While success in defence leaves you with a basically static situation until you get the reinforcements to counterattack.

But still, you say you have a background in wargames, you should probably find it easy enough to rack up 10,000 point victories as either side, unless you give the computer a boost.

The russian AI advance to fast and leave nothing in his back to protect his supplies. It's eassy after to trap it in pockets...

This made me remember something that Roger Keating said over at Run5, and that was, that he would like to implement an 'AI' ladder where every and all can write their own AIs with the object of having the perfect script! I look forward to that event.