Bill,
In hindsight, you’re probably correct about this. At the time, we just didn’t see it and too much focus on the western front.
The Austrians DID take out Romania on turn one, Russia did not withdraw. In fact she went on the attack a couple times capturing Galicia. At the time it looked like a good idea, but the Austrians and Germans and Turks pretty much went all out send the bulk of their forces into Russia. This was why the French and British were able to capture 3 German territories and free Belgium in the west.
I m sure next game the Russians will take a different approach if they are pushed like that again. As far as not using the optional Russian Revolution rules, at this point we believe they are to convoluted as far as the movement goes, and also depriving the CP of victory capital, but more importantly the IPCs from taking Moscow and the remaining territories. Just don’t see it as any advantage for the Central Powers.
I definitely agree the Allies under played the importance of sending troops into India and that was a lesson learned. Waited to long and the Turks captured Bombay.
As for the allies losing naval dominance, that occurred when the Central Powers gained a lead in the IPC race, and they all each had at least 4 battleships!
Looking forward to playing again next weekend and see lots of different strategies for both sides.
Thanks
Kim