Axis and Allies
So, I booted up my PC game of Axis and Allies. Played as Russians several times, and yup, Ukraine is the Key to Europe. Grab it, fortify it, and Europe falls.
Likewise, playing as Germans, Ukraine again is the key. It is the doorway to Russia and must be defended, or else there are too many fronts. Grab Ukraine and you’re halfway there to beating Russia.
Played as UK. Boy they’re useless. Can’t get to Ukraine to save their life, unless the opponent is dumb about defensive units.
Played as USA, who cares about Ukraine? They live, they die, who cares? USA is far too busy dealing with a very pesty Asian nation and takes a long time to mobilze. War is over before USA gets involved.
Played as Japan, loved it. Ignored Ukraine, but slow and steady, mopped up Russia.
So there you have it, world war via Axis and Allies, a great game!
FYI, in real life, Russia and Japan are still at war since WW2. It’s true, look it up…