Do you remember your first time playing the Annaversary Edition, the board was bigger with more vibrant colors, there were new powers and units introduced, and the strategic possibilities seemed endless. Now fast forward to Global and I’m sure you will feel the same way all over again. There are a few issues however, like the fact that the rules are scattered over 2 books, 3 FAQ threads and 2 (about to be 3) modifications. Also, the political situations are a bit confusing, but if you learn what you can, play the game as you know it, but understand that you can’t know everything, you will be fine. There are some really great things about global (the new air and naval base units are revolutionary & the China rules are better) but there are also some disappointing things (you may wish to revert to the AE SBR rules and use the AE money) But overall, it is the latest most upto date A&A and for all purposes, you and your friends should try it (besides, what other edition gives Germany A 50/50 shot at invading London and still win the game?). Don’t worry about all the variables and political situations, you will learn them in time, but I believe that the majority of the new material is superior to all past editions ( like how neutral territories are treated and how units can be combined for better attack value). There is definitely enough here to dive in and forget the games flaws, and the fact that it constantly gets modified by the designer, gives this game the potential to rise above it’s problems.