Communist China starts the game as the weakest of the three factions fighting over China, squeezed between Japan on one side and the Nationalists on the other. This guide focuses on surviving before winning.
Starting Point
Your industry is minimal and your territory small. The relationship with Nationalist China can range from forced cooperation against Japan to direct confrontation, and that decision shapes the whole game. You have no room to fight two serious fronts at once.
Recommended Route
- Territorial consolidation and popular-support focuses before military expansion.
- Seek outside support, mainly Soviet, to make up for your almost nonexistent industry.
- Maintain cooperation with the Nationalists against Japan while it suits you, and prepare for when it stops.
- Prioritize cheap, numerous infantry, backed by terrain, over any attempt to match Japan in technology.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is breaking with the Nationalists too soon, before having real strength to hold on your own against Japan. The second is trying to defend territory in a straight line instead of using China's strategic depth to wear down the invader.
Next Steps
This guide will expand with a breakdown of the relationship with Nationalist China. Also check out the Nationalist China guide to see the same conflict from the other side.