Matrix Games Forums

I have tried a few "learning" games as Soviets trying a mostly "land warfare only" country with AI controlled production to hopefully get a grasp of the games fundamental mechanics.

Every game so far the AI German evactuates Africa, allowing the Western Allies to cakewalk and pours every available asset into trouncing Russia.

So far, the biggest thing I have learned is that the Soviets don't have a prayer's chance in hell of holding on with the Germans pouring every available asset into conquering them.

I have never seen the AI put up a fight in N. Africa

me too, never seen any serious AI controlled Axis NA campaign.
but the pt is the AI is just for ur practise, the pbem is the real thing!
 
a511

a511 is right, PBEM is much more interesting than playing the AI, because the AI is there mainly to help players learn the ropes of the game. Once a player becomes experienced, they will just beat the stuffing out of the AI repeatedly and soon loose interest unless they switch to PBEM.

I haven't played the AI much, so I honestly can't say whether I've ever seen the German AI fight for North Africa or not.

I'll also agree that the Russians have no chance at survival if the Germans attack them with everything they've got. But, there lies the problem for the Germans. If they throw everything at the Russians, then the British will typically start causing problems by making small amphibious raids, pillaging some small coastal territories, taking North Africa, or making bombing raids. This makes it somewhat difficult for the Germans to just throw everything at Russia, and usually it's a smart thing for the Germans to keep an army in reserve back in Europe to counter the British. However, when the AI is playing the Western Allies, you can get away with attacking Russia with everything you've got because the Western Allies' AI isn't intelligent enough to plan strategic raids, worthwhile bombing runs, etc. It tends to operate on a pretty historical basis and often isn't as aggressive as it should be. Thus, the German player can just grab everything and throw it at Russia, and the Russians are going to be beaten into a pulp because they can't possibly resist that much Germans hardware rolling over them.

Hans, take me on in a PBEM game, you choose the side you want, I have played the game many times but always lose, so I guess I´m not that good, I might be an ideal first time PBEM opponent for you.  Contact me at christianbrowntristanyahoo.com if you are interested.  Note: I am on Central European time, in case that´s an advantage for you.....