Switch the Russian and German turn order. Russia goes first, Germany follows.
THEORY:
The main thing that ends the most stalwart Russian defense, is the advent and application of the Italian can opener. This cripples Russia and takes away its critical abilities to defend itself. Because it simply can’t block territory to save itself. Russia often has to sacrifice swaths of men to hold key positions. Thereby making it more sensible to just fall back, further giving Germany advantage.
Further, the imbalanced NO’s put Russia at a significant economic disadvantage.
Going first gives the Russians the temporal “build boost” of 1 turn that they desperately need. And might allow Russia to send some of its units to the pacific theatre.
Further, this adjustment is balance safe because Russia is already politically restricted and unable to exploit the starting setup. And no other nations are affected by this turn order change.
Further, Russian play will be far more exciting, as the nation is open to more strategic possibilities, and tactical opportunity. The Germans will still retain plenty of thier favourite advantages.
Last - Allowing Germany and Japan to play at the same time will likely reduce the game session by HOURS. Play by forum games will be reduced by days if not weeks (Russia will post after franzac, skipping a whole wait period)
THOUGHTS:
I’d love to hear your comments on this one guys.
If you take yourself back to 1984, you will remember this is how it always was!
NO BIDS
NO BS
NO NEW RULES TO REMEMBER
NO CHANGES
Just 1 slight adjustment that saves time and improves balance.