How to Play Axis and Allies

Axis and Allies is one of the most popular Risk-like strategy games on the market, with millions of players around the world. It offers a much deeper level of game play than its predecessor, including different units (tanks, bombers, infantry, etc.) and research and development. Playing the game requires strategy and skill, but with time it's possible to master the intricacies that are contained in Axis and Allies.

Things You'll Need

• Axis and Allies board game

Instructions

1. Choose which player is playing which nation (you'll end up with more nations under your control in games with fewer than five players).

2. Place your armies according to the setup instructions included in the manual. This will not change from game to game, unlike Risk.

3. Begin play with the USSR going first. Each side then uses its resources to buy research or equipment, as well as conduct combat missions against opponents.

4. Choose your targets carefully. The goal should be to proceed as directly as possible to capitals and industrial centers, although doing so can spread your lines too thin. Keep a defensible front so that you can protect your gains.

5. Use strategic bombing sparingly, particularly in the early game. The industrial cost for bombing doesn't outweigh the benefit of having additional armor or infantry on the ground. Strategic bombing is a luxury later in the game.

6. Consolidate gains as you make them, moving units into captured territory and thinning defenses in territories that are not currently in jeopardy of being attacked. Be aware, however, that a string of successful attacks can still make the territories away from the front vulnerable.

7. Play smart as the allies, and be sure to divide your forces efficiently to deal with both Germany and Japan in equal measure. Focusing too much on one enemy will thin your forces on another front, leaving it open to exploitation.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider buying the PC version of Axis and Allies, particularly if you want to play against friends who don't live nearby. The multiplayer mode is fully functional and there are plenty of opponents across the world.

• Be careful with the game pieces (particularly the infantry), as they are made of plastic and could be prone to snap. You should also be careful not to misplace the pieces, including the territory chips or dice.