Command and Control

U.S.S.R.

First off, I note one very important fact: Russia is very difficult to play. If you are a beginner, I recommend that you try a different country. Russia is always in a difficult situation, seeing as it's in striking distance for both Axis powers. Experienced players will probably see the logic in these strategies.

Principle one: Don't let Germany in Karelia for even one turn. The longer Germany is in Karelia, the more deadly they are. Generally, Russia just has to hold Germany off while the U.K. and the U.S.A. bomb the living hell out of Germany.

Principle two: Get Germany reacting to your moves while keeping Karelia safe. You have the initiative, take advantage of it. One of my favorite moves is to attack Eastern Europe with a bit of armor and a few fighters, but whatever you do, make sure you capture that territory if you attack it. What this does is it cuts both of Germany's ICs off from Ukraine, therefore making it impossible for Germany to attack Karelia first turn with any hope of success.

Principle three: Most people go into full defense when playing Russia by buying only infantry. You do want infantry, but you also want the ability to counter-attack. I recommend buying a mix between armor and infantry first turn. This gives you powerful attack capabiliy as compared to the static defense of most people. For a few turns, Eastern Europe or Ukraine might switch hands, but you will be holding Germany at bay.

Principle four: An experienced Japan can only be stopped by a fallen Germany. It's likely that Japan will build an industrial complex in Manchuria. You may have an overwhelming urge to go for it. DO NOT attack Manchuria first turn. Those are all the units you're going to have in the area for a while. Japan is the buisness of the U.S.A. They have far too many air units in the area for you to be able to hold Manchuria long.