Our family purchase Axis and Allies (the 1942 edition), and I'm reading the rules/practicing ahead of time so that I can understand how to play the game.  The first thing I noticed is how at first glance the game seems imbalanced.  But since I have never played the game before, I just want to make sure that I'm wrong.

* In a five player game, is it bad that the Soviet Union has only 24 IPCs?
* People recommened the following for a three player game:  Germany vs Japan vs Allies.  So Player 1 has the most territories.  Is that bad?

Hmm never heard of that game. Is it kinda like Strategy?

Free for All. In a strategy game, this is when everyone plays against everyone. Basically there is no team.

Our family purchase Axis and Allies (the 1942 edition), and I'm reading the rules/practicing ahead of time so that I can understand how to play the game.  The first thing I noticed is how at first glance the game seems imbalanced.  But since I have never played the game before, I just want to make sure that I'm wrong.

* In a five player game, is it bad that the Soviet Union has only 24 IPCs?
* People recommened the following for a three player game:  Germany vs Japan vs Allies.  So Player 1 has the most territories.  Is that bad?

*The soviet Union only has 24 IPCs, but it starts with tons of territory and soldiers, so it works out fine...
*player 1 has the most territories, but he/she plays against a team of 2...

lose the game

X.x I lost...

Sadly I doubt I would play though, because I already have too many games to give a try including a barely used Playstation 3 in the living room.