Which version of Zeus?

[Pedros]

In the Nominations stage of the vote for the next new map (viewtopic.php?f=77&t=29227&start=20) there were proposals for two different versions of Zeus, IV and V. Version VF (with France instead of Italy as a power) was also mentioned, although not (yet) nominated. I guess we'd all agree that there's little point having two different versions of the same game in the final poll, so we need to look at the differences and come to a conclusion about which to put into the poll (assuming it gets enough nominations.) The game we've played twice here has been Zeus IV.

I have no view on this, and although I've read through the statement in Zeus V about the changes I still don't have a clear idea about them. So - over to you (expecially those who've proposed them)

[DOI]

I can't get into the Premium Lounge to see if it's already been done, but there are a few things you might want to ask frenzal/super_dipsy about:
1. Territories which can be walked on by armies, but still allow fleets to convoy
2. An territory which can be built on but is not a home centre (Zeus V)
3. A neutral unit (Zeus V)

If #1 is alright but either of the other two are too much of a programming change to work out, that'll settle your discussion by itself.

[Pedros]

Hmm - good points DOI.

[Bluewolf]

I haven't played any of the 3 - just spend spare time doing research on such matters.

I have to say:

VF
V
IV


IV there are several open Supply Centers - especially near America. America could get armies into Japan with fleets attacking pretty easily and same with japan - unless they reach a fatal pacific stalemate which'll likely kill them both ultimately. I also feel Italy's only choice is to attack Germany - and Italy gets a pretty easy path to European neutrals and Russia ultimately. Germany and China seem a bit ganged up on, and Britain seems like the Axis in Axis and Allies - slightly undersized, but if they connect across Eur/Asia/Africa, they rock the map. USSR also seems slightly overpowered.

V is much cooler: many more spaces, neutral army in india - but most importantly to me, the split between the PAcific islands. This disables hopping from America to Eurasia. Also, it kind of has more of a Japanese and American neutral border, while reducing risk of an early stalemate The same problems with Italy and Germany still exist.

VF: Makes a wester triangle. My vote.

[Bluewolf]

didn't i send that in a PM????