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The Great Push(war with France)

5 (50%)

Schlieffen Plan(war with France, Begium and Luxembourg)

1 (10%)

Extended Schlieffen Plan(war with France, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands))

2 (20%)

Rupprecht Plan(war with France and Switzerland)

2 (20%)

Total Members Voted: 10

[Toady Two]

I've been aching to give this a shot for quite some time now. I'm nowhere near competent at HoI style games but I find the historical period presented fascinating. Darkest Hour is the name of the game.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darkest_Hour:_A_Hearts_of_Iron_Game

There are plenty of World War II HoI AARs going on on this forum so let's mix it up with a conflict that gets less spotlight.

There are two completely separate historic scenarios included in the game. One starts in 1914 and ends in 1920 incorporating mostly only the Great War and the other one start in 1936 and ends in 1964 which is the standard HoI timeframe allowing for some cold war or nuclear exchange after WW2 has been concluded. We will be playing the first scenario. It is short enough to actually give the LP a chance to finish and is action packed for most of it's length (if you can call the western front action-packed ).

Without further ado:

Europe on June 30th 1914:


With subtitles. For those who don't know geography.

We need choose a European Imperialist Nation to lead to glory in these times of troubles.

I've done a little playtesting beforehand and I will list the nations cons and pros below. The ones that I downright refuse to play will not be listed.

What we call World War I was the conflict between the Triple Entente Alliance incorporating the Russian, British and French Empires against the Central Powers of Germany and Austria-Hungary. Many other powers ended up joining the conflict on both sides which resulted in the following a balance of power resembling a few yellow stains in a sea of green:


Source: Wikipedia

Green being the Entente and allies and yellow being the Central Powers and theirs.

Possible choices:


British Empire - big and strong world police.

The British have forged an empire historically unmatched in size and it is now at the top of it's power and the envy of the rest of the world. Britain's number one goal is to maintain the current global balance of power so that no one can rise to rival it's position and it's policies reflect that. Over the last few years the Empire often found itself in conflict with the upstarting continental powers. The Germans threaten it's dominance at sea with their massive naval programs and Russia's imperial ambitions had to be put to check many times as well.

Controlling a vast overseas empire can be cumbersome along with maintaining a fleet capable of policing every ocean in the world.

Possible areas of fighting include just about everywhere we can land our troops. Obviously the western front will need reinforcing but sending some forces east to Russia early could be interesting. If the Ottomans or Italy join our enemies it will warrant some fighting in northern Africa. Once again invasion from the sea is always a possibility against any opponent but the Turks present an optimal target.

The encumbrance of micromanaging a vast and scattered empire is likely to slow down progress with the LP.

Summary:
Alliance: Entente    Power: Maximum     Difficulty: Medium    Fun! Rating: Low

France - eastern front galore

France is now superpower in decline. It has settled it's differences with Britain and formed an alliance with it's former greatest rival. Having suffered humiliating defeats from the Germans in the XIX th century has left the French with a thirst for revenge.

Like Britain France possesses some overseas provinces that require some care but most effort will come to managing the western front since if it collapses then Paris is just a short stroll away. Despite being very knife-edge the western front can just become the historical stalemate. Being the leader of the Entente would likely give us the most influence over the outcome of the war but it is also likely that here my incompetence would also take the highest toll.

Personally I'm not too eager to play France but it has to be an option since they are Entente Leader. If the poll chooses them the I won't grumble though.

Summary:
Alliance: Entente Leader   Power: High     Difficulty: Easy-Medium    Fun! Rating: Low

Tsarist Russia - winning back the hearts of the populace

The enormous expanse of Russia's borders can lead to confusion. Despite a vast imperial domain the country is debilitated by the inefficiency of it's autocratic political system and is in dire need of modernization. Dangerous ideologies find fertile ground in the mind of the impoverished citizens. Having suffered a crushing defeat against the Japanese the Tsar desperately needs to prove to his people that his position of power is justified. His advisors say that a short victorious war against a common despicable foe could rally the masses firmly under his rule.

The eastern front was historically much more mobile than the western front and that is where Russia will have to prove it's worth against two very powerful foes. If we can withstand the initial onslaught of combined Austrian and German armies then the encirclement of the Central Powers will being to take a toll on them. Securing the Caucasus against the Turks is a secondary objective. Despite being on the winning side Russia could prove to be a very interesting and Fun! nation to play since they start at a disadvantage. I can promise now that I won't disengage from the war ahistorically quickly if things go bad. I want to either see the Tsars troops in Berlin or a revolution in Russia, whichever comes first. Roleplaying the Tsar's incompetence should be easy for someone who does not necessarily have a good hang of this game.

Lot's of potential awesomeness in choosing Russia. I'm not sure if the revolution is properly modeled(with special events) in game but I hope it is.

Summary:
Alliance: Entente   Power: Medium     Difficulty: Hard    Fun! Rating: EAGLES SCREAM!(hopefully)

Italy - the wild card

Italy used to be just the name of a geographical region until it was unified in the mid XIX century. As a unified entity it finds itself in a unique position in the middle of Europe. Seeing the continents inevitable march towards war Italy can choose whether to press it's territorial demands against Austria-Hungary bringing it into conflict with the Central Powers or to honor it's old alliance with Germany in hope of gains from helping defeat the Triple Entente.

Italy is interesting in that it is not bound to join any of the warring sides by default but can rather choose to join the war on it's own terms. We could go the historic route of joining the Entente and fighting Austria in the Alps or we could try something completely different. Further territory on the Mediterranean coast could be gained from the weak Ottomans or perhaps seizing more colonial grounds in northern Africa from the otherwise preoccupied French and British should become our goal.

Though not particularly powerful Italy is in a good position to tip the balance towards either side.

Summary:
Alliance: Depends   Power: Low/Medium     Difficulty: Normal    Fun! Rating: Normal

Germany - alone against the world, since 1871

Summary:

Similarly to Italy, Germany became a unified state as a result of XIXth century nationalism. It immediately became a European great power however it was too late for it to acquire many oversea colonies. Germany's imperial ambitions remained unfulfilled. It's industrial capabilities were unrivaled however and allowed XXth century Germany to challenge the hegemony of the British Empire. The upcoming conflict is a chance for the Germans to prove themselves among the nations and establish a place for their country among the global superpowers.

Playing Germany would be the perfect blend of power and challenge. Leading the Central Power to victory against all odds. A swift, crushing campaign against Russia while maintaining a stalemate with France would allow Germany to gain enough of an advantage to survive the inevitable dog-piling by most of the overseas nations.

It could end in either glory or a crushing defeat. Anything in between would be a disappointment. Leading the Central Powers means that the war can not abruptly end without our acknowledgment or utter defeat. 

Alliance: Central Leader   Power: Huge     Difficulty: Hard    Fun! Rating: Very High

Austria-Hungary - they started it

Austria-Hungary is a patchwork multi-ethnic empire. Historically funded more on skillful diplomacy and intrigue that military might. As the Balkan states gained autonomy from the Ottoman Empire they became a threat for the stability of Austria-Hungary. Historically the demesne of the Hapsburg was prone to ethnic revolts and the existence of these independent states would incite nationalism and separatism of the minorities within the empire. It was Austria-Hungary's rivalry with Russia in the Balkans along with the Serbian spark that eventually lead to the eruption of war and the tight chain of alliances did did the rest to plunge the entire world into conflict.

If we choose A-H we will basically be Germany's goofy sidekick. A considerable force will have to be committed to take Serbia and victory on that from is not a given. further war efforts will likely concentrate on helping Germany swiftly defeat Russia and defending against potential Italian treachery. Furthermore if AI Germany screws up in the western front then there is little A-H can do other than send some reinforcements and hope that the war hasn't already been lost.

Summary:
Alliance: Central   Power: Decent     Difficulty: Hard    Fun! Rating: High

Ottoman Empire - the sick man's time to fight back

This once great Islamic Empire is now a relic of the past. Surpassed both technologically and economically by all it's rivals the Ottoman Empire had been steadily losing territory to the hostility of it's neighbors and to ethnic uprisings on it's own soil. The new brewing conflict in Europe brings a spark of hope to the Sultan. Turkey is in need of a new protector to help it survive the upcoming turmoil. Great Britain and France have proved to be unreliable allies having themselves supported Russia. Relations with Germany have warmed however and perhaps the upstarting superpower could help the Sultan in his claims for the land once owned by his ancestors.

I've probably played the most games as Ottomans. They are pathetically weak and technologically backward by decades. The AI seems to realize this but underestimates that fact that your unit can take undefended provinces just like any other unit Overall the game I played felt a bit unsatisfying even if all went well. It felt like the great powers were too busy duking it out between themselves to even bother throwing much at Turkey.

The amount of forces the Ottomans have in comparison to the landmass they control is appalling. I would probably be interesting to see what we can achieve from such a disadvantage but our effect on the outcome of the war will be minor. It could also be cool to see from a somewhat sideways perspective how the AI concludes the Great War mostly by itself.

Summary:
Alliance: Central   Power: Pathetic     Difficulty: Very Hard    Fun! Rating:High/Medium

Vote for the country you would like us to control the most. I will play a few more test games while the votes are accumulated and we will start when a decisive winner is chosen in the poll.

[Toady Two]

I forgot to mention that the LP will have viewer input. I will make polls for important decisions in between updates and I'll appoint ministers/advisors/generals to whoever want one.

[GreatJustice]

Turkey!

[mainiac]

I would suggest Russia.  I've tried playing with various powers and found that the surrender events aren't generally well made and give wtf moments.  But I believe that should be less of a problem with Russia as they lead their own, orthodox alliance and are the only major power in it.

[Korbac]

You want Germany; you can have Germany.

[anzki4]

I'm voting for Italy.

When the game was released, it gained some negative critique because of the somewhat broken and buggy WWI-scenario. Has it been improved by patches by now? Would you recommend the game for someone who loves original Hearts of Iron II and especially Arsenal of Democracy?

[inteuniso]

I vote Germany. Win the War by devoting more troops to the Schlieffen Plan. Or, make sure the Americans don't jump in. DON'T SINK THE LUSITANIA, FOR THE LOVE OF GOD (no unrestricted submarine warfare).

[Toady Two]

There were patches. I don't know exactly what the complaints were about. To me the WW1 scenario captures the feeling of that conflict nicely. Winning is all about breaking through the front lines and then pressing your advantage. Goofy stuff might happen occasionally and like someone mentioned the peace treaty events are disappointing. If you play a minor power like Ottomans and the Central Powers do well then then war can abruptly end resulting in the status quo. Some other events might also feel a little half asses but I all come down to an enjoyable experience.

I can really say whether I can recommend it to a HoI fan. I like paradox grand strategy titles in general and this was the first HoI game that I got and played so I can't tell how it compares to AoD or HoI 2 Doomsday.

For a Europa Univesalis-esque title I would say that the AI is pretty good. It actively seeks out weak spots in your defenses and hits there. It utilizes naval invasions if you leave your beaches undefended.

There is also some automation added. The computer can handle intelligence, economy management and resource trading for you so you can concentrate on grand strategy and diplomacy.

The complains I've heard on the game forum were mostly about balance in the WW2 campaign but those should be taken with a grain of salt.

I would love to play either Germany or Russia. Since they are tied in votes I will make another poll to decide which one we'll play first.

[Digital Hellhound]

Come on, don't let Germany win! It is our destiny to lead Imperial Russia to glory! How can you not see that?

[Toady Two]

It looks like Germany won by the skin of your teeth. I'm locking the poll and I make the first post in a moment. The first thing we'll need to do as the German leaders choose our contingency plan in case of a war with France.

[Toady Two]

Part 1: Have a plan.

Germany on June 27th 1914.

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Our ruling Kaiser - Wilhelm II:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

The mood in Europe is warlike with all the Great Power participating in an escalating arms race. Many predict that a large scale conflict in Europe is imminent. Our position in the center of the continent is therefor a liability. One of Chancellor Bismark's priorities in diplomacy was securing the Russian Empire as our ally. That might have been a wise policy back in the XIXth century. The Russia of today is nowhere near the bear at the gates that it used to be. We see no reason to continue viewing the Tsar as such a threat. Russia recent defeat at the hands of the Japanese has discredited their military and the country is crippled by poor leadership. It's own citizens ofter risk exile to Siberia by conspiring against their incompetent Tsar and his superstitious advisors. If a war on two fronts against a Franco-Russian alliance would take place, it would be the western front where it would be decided. Our strategists have concluded four different approaches that would eliminate France from the war and allow a prolonged and ultimately victorious campaign in Russia.

The  Great Push:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

Our generals are confident that they will be able to break the French defenses on our border in a matter of months. Then with proper maneuvering our armies will be able to fight their way down the eastern bank of the Seine and eventually take Paris. This plan assumes a long term campaign against France but has a chance of success with fewer troops commissioned to the front line. The additional reserves could reinforce the Eastern front thus help score a decisive victory against Russia and begin the march to Moscow and St. Petersburg early. This plan is also likely to upset the international opinion the least since we will only be fighting with our equals in a war which they have likely provoked. Furthermore, with this option the British Empire will be given no provocation to meddle in the affairs of the continent.

Schlieffen Plan:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

This cunning strategy would involve conquering the neutral states of Belgium and Luxembourg in order to open a shortcut to Paris. Belgian defenses would be a pushover for just a handful of divisions and we could commence our march towards the enemy capital immediately. Likely this would catch the French off guard and cause them to disorganize their main defense line making the main offensive easier. This act may however anger the Britons as they bound by a 1830 treaty to defend Belgium. It is unlikely however that they will risk outright war for the upholding of such an old document. The international community will also not look fondly of our aggression towards our weaker neighbors. 

Expanded Schlieffen Plan

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

An extreme version of the same plan, violating several international laws. Like the original but with the additional conquest of the Netherlands in order to make even more room for the offensive on Paris and further disorient the French leadership. We fear the international community will not tolerate such boldness on our part

Rupprecht plan:

Spoiler (click to show/hide)

An interesting alternative to waging war in northern France. If we can pass troops through the swiss mountains we could then attack France in its weak underbelly and mount an offensive towards Vichy. The defenses of Paris will be then pressured in the same manner as The element of surprise would not be as effective as a prolonged mountainous campaign is required beforehand against the swiss army.

I'm updating the poll. I believe we need to choose the contingency before starting as I have to know how to position my troops in the few week remaining before hostilities start.

[Azkul]

The Great Push, but don't attack France, just defend the border until the eastern front is secure

[Pwnzerfaust]

Agree with Azkul-- if you refrain from attacking Belgium, perhaps you can prevent or at least delay Britain's entry into the war until Russia is defeated and all forces can be concentrated of the Western front.

[USEC_OFFICER]

Let's try the Great Push. The silly Frenchmen can't possibly withstand a concentrated push from our brave German infantry!

[areyoua]

The Great Push. The Schlieffen Plan isn't really good in either form as it attracts the ire of Britain too early, and the Ruprecht Plan seems a bit insane. Why go for Vichy anyway?