Ok. After many more games under my belt, here is my 2 cents on taking out France without disastrous results for the Germans so a good long game can be had by all.
I understand the the dice are a factor but I am trying to present a scenario that put the probabilities heavily in favor of the Germans.
All of this is assuming the UK is helping France out.
German Recommendations:
1) Start by buying AT LEAST 2 fighters. (BTW - It is a good idea to max build fighters through the WHOLE GAME)
2) Take out Belgium in the Winter. Move ALL OF THE ITALIAN units possible to Milan to threaten Provence. This is VERY important if France is tough
3) Move into Picardy in the Spring, especially if the Maginot line is well defended.
4) Take the counter attack if France goes for it. Sit tight. Allied units have to retreat after 1 round otherwise they will be out of position to defend Paris.
5) If the French do not surrender in the Spring - DO NOT WORRY.
6) In the Summer, you should be in a postion to surround Paris (this is why the Italians are very important to have in Milan). Do not blunder head on ito a well defended Paris!
If you have any questions as to why I make these recommendations, let me know.
John