Didgeman, I had the same problem but solved it by not using the save tab in the game, if u really want 2 save a game, exit the current game by the level select tab, then hit the back tab, then hit the save games option, save and then resume the game. works every time, though it does take those few extra clicks.
Yes! u can get the Europe challenge gold star; I just did in 21 turns. a key insight is: don't b afraid 2 attack your ally; definitely take Germany whoever has it, ally should b fighting in Scandinavia and Russia. move steadily east; its slow going thru all those damn little states in central Europe, but once u hit the steppes u can move fast and far. obviously, don't let him get behind u. I found using large army groups surrounded by basically scouts worked well, which also helps when u need an emergency airlift. the first 7 turns r critical.
ty, idanthyrsus! I see the key was taking the mid-east on the first turn and then never losing. the game maker mis-directed when saying the first thing to do was take Ukraine.
Just finished all levels, day/nite and completed all badges, so it is doable. Don't know what all this talk about lag is about. I have a relatively old, albeit structured for gaming computer, and play on bing from a Windows 8 platform and have had no significant problems...a little slow at the very end but not game changing. tip: get the monument keeper badge on map 16; impossible otherwise. Also, don't grind,; just replay the map stages after u have completed them with new strategies, helps at the end.