Summary of what happened in Episode I: [actions based on survey results by our readers]

The German war machine was unleashed on Poland after a series of trumped up excuses of border incursions by the Poles themselves. While the defense put up by the Poles was noble, it was ultimately doomed to failure. France and Britain both pledged support for Poland, but in reality could do little except take in their government-in-exile. In just a few short weeks, Poland was erased from the map.

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The end for Poland

Not content to simply digest this new territory, the Werhmacht began planning a stunning campaign into Denmark and Norway, with an eye towards protecting vital shipments of Iron Ore from Sweden. These were coming through Norwegian territory and could easily be interdicted by British shipping. With the help of airmobile units as well as amphibious landings, the Germans began an invasion near Oslo along with a quick strike to capture Denmark at exactly the same time.

Airborne units capture Oslo

The invasion of Norway was initially thrown into a state of disarray as several ships were intercepted and sunk with all soldiers onboard going down as well. Several German capital ships were also lost in the operation. However, with determination, they were able to get ashore and secure and subdue the capital city of Oslo, forcing the government to capitulate. French and British expeditionary forces inside Norway (now faced with operating without their Norwegian allies) had little choice but to escape back to the Home Isles before being digested in the mountainous terrain. The allies were able to cause enough trouble for the Germans that this won’t go down as an "easy" mission – as losses were quite high for them. Yet, for now, they were victorious. Swedish Iron Ore will once again flow freely to Germany…

In Russia, the high command was committed to absorbing the Baltic states into the Soviet Union, as a means of protecting themselves against perceived aggression of their German "ally." Poland was also sacrificed by the Soviets, and in return they gained more buffer zone between themselves and the Germans. While elements of the high command suggest that Russian intervention in Finland and in Persia are necessary for protection of the Soviet people, the threat level has not reached a point which would justify such unprovoked aggression.

The USSR prepares its defenses…

At the end of 1939 both sides of this developing conflict were willing to cease hostilities, lick their wounds, and prepare for 1940. Contact between the two sides was minimal, leading to what some have called the "Phoney War" or Sitzkrieg. As the winter snows melt in early 1940, it is time for both sides to look ahead…

Germany looks West.

Summary of Axis Poll from Episode I.
Summary of Allied Poll from Episode I.

Episode II : Germany Looks To The West

German high command has dictated that the greatest threat to the German state is the French and British. In 1940 plans must be drawn up to attempt to conquer the French people. The attack must be swift, devastating, and decisive. There can be no repeat of the Great War here…

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