I've been a lurker of Paradox's forums for several years now, which I've mostly spent reading some of the great AARs published here. And I must say, yours is just amazing! The constant feeling that everything is on the verge of collapse makes this AAR one of the most fascinating I've ever read! I want to congratulate you both for your great work, and thank you for letting us enjoy it!
Now, on the AAR itself... destroying the reactor at Berlin was critical for you to have ANY chance of victory, and you achieved it... however, I think that if Allied forces are expelled from mainland Europe (which will mean loosing most of them, as your transport fleet is almost non-existent), there should be almost no chance for the American people to tolerate the war any longer. I think it would be realistic to say that if this happens, some sort of armistice should follow suit. Both sides are totally exhausted, and it would take years for your side to recover from such a disastrous defeat.
Now, if this happens, this is what I think would occur:
-Complete withdrawal of American forces from Asia, except Japan. The public must be yearning for peace and reconstruction right now, and I'm sure there are political figures trying to capitalize on this, demanding a return to American isolationism. The millions of casualties from nuclear attacks, defeat at Europe and a critical situation in Asia all work in their favor. The only other place where the US might keep some sort of presence would be in the UK and the Commonwealth countries. I wouldn't overrule some sort of coup or revolution if the government insists on carrying on with the war after such setbacks. Whatever happens, the traumatic experience of WW2 would probably mean the US will remain heavily isolationist for years, if not decades to come.
-I can't remember right now, but if I recall correctly, Argentina only conquered Brazil. I think it's safe to assume that by now, they would have seized Uruguay and Paraguay as well, two countries with much closer cultural and historical ties to Argentina. There's hardly anything the US can do about this right now, so I'm guessing they'll take advantage of that. Post-war, it could be possible for them to release Brazil (perhaps as a condition in the general armistice?), but keeping the southern regions (Rio Grande do Sur) and a permanent military presence. Also, the highly fertile and radiation-free Pampas would make Argentina one of the biggest food producers in the world. I'm guessing this could be vital for any German attempt at rebuilding Europe (if Argentina stays fascist, of course). I'd expect a large influx of immigrants and strong economic growth as well.
-In Europe, with the German male population almost gone, I think the nazis would turn more and more to the "European Crusade against Communism/Capitalism" propaganda theme they used late-war in OTL (they probably are right now, what with forces from every Axis nation fighting against the Allies). The more pragmatic, less fanatical wing of the party would probably take over (Speer, anyone?), specially once they realize the Germans NEED the other European nations if they wish to recover... or maybe a military junta takes power?. After the war, I think they would try to integrate those populations with historical or cultural ties with Germany (Scandinavian countries, the Netherlands, Czechs?) to try and recover quickly, probably offering them full citizenship and all sorts of benefits. Pro-fertility laws will be in place, and possibly punishments to those who have few children "for the Fatherland". Some sort of European Union and the first signs of "European" identity could arise from the ashes of nuclear fire... dominated by Germany of course.
-The USSR, after taking over most of mainland Asia, would set up client states and try and use their resources to rebuild and quickly obtain nuclear weapons. However, they too have suffered heavy casualties, not to mention the loss of the more heavily populated areas of Russia. The bombing of Moscow and the bitter fighting in Asia will strain relation with the Allies for years to come, no doubt. Having seen the effects of thermonuclear warfare however, it would be very unlikely for them to try and reconquer their lost territories, out of fear of being bombed back to the stone age. The iron-fisted stalinist rule will probably continue, no matter who takes his place (probably Beria... or perhaps Malenkov?). So, no Khrushchev and no de-Stalinization. Also, the loss it's European lands (and there being no eastern-european puppets to take care of) could mean much closer ties with the Chinese and perhaps a greater willingness to ensure their loyalty to the cradle of the Revolution.
So basically, the world would be split between three large areas (1984, anyone?), all fearful of the others, all trying to recover after this incredibly destructive war. I don't think there would be much contact between the different blocks. Also, all three powers would be MUCH more careful when it comes to foreign adventures... nobody wants to risk nuclear war AGAIN. I think there would be at least 20 years before the US or the USSR would dare risk anything, and probably even more before the Reich (or a united Europe, who knows?) made any serious international commitment. I dare say, it'd be a very dark and terrible world to live in, for most people...
That's just my two cents Hope you like it... As you can see, I'm totally hooked with your AAR! I keep thinking of the possibilities, and I can't wait to read the next update. If luck's on your side, maybe nothing of what I wrote before will come to pass!
(btw, sorry if my english is not very good, it's not my first language)
Now, on the AAR itself... destroying the reactor at Berlin was critical for you to have ANY chance of victory, and you achieved it... however, I think that if Allied forces are expelled from mainland Europe (which will mean loosing most of them, as your transport fleet is almost non-existent), there should be almost no chance for the American people to tolerate the war any longer. I think it would be realistic to say that if this happens, some sort of armistice should follow suit. Both sides are totally exhausted, and it would take years for your side to recover from such a disastrous defeat.
Now, if this happens, this is what I think would occur:
-Complete withdrawal of American forces from Asia, except Japan. The public must be yearning for peace and reconstruction right now, and I'm sure there are political figures trying to capitalize on this, demanding a return to American isolationism. The millions of casualties from nuclear attacks, defeat at Europe and a critical situation in Asia all work in their favor. The only other place where the US might keep some sort of presence would be in the UK and the Commonwealth countries. I wouldn't overrule some sort of coup or revolution if the government insists on carrying on with the war after such setbacks. Whatever happens, the traumatic experience of WW2 would probably mean the US will remain heavily isolationist for years, if not decades to come.
-I can't remember right now, but if I recall correctly, Argentina only conquered Brazil. I think it's safe to assume that by now, they would have seized Uruguay and Paraguay as well, two countries with much closer cultural and historical ties to Argentina. There's hardly anything the US can do about this right now, so I'm guessing they'll take advantage of that. Post-war, it could be possible for them to release Brazil (perhaps as a condition in the general armistice?), but keeping the southern regions (Rio Grande do Sur) and a permanent military presence. Also, the highly fertile and radiation-free Pampas would make Argentina one of the biggest food producers in the world. I'm guessing this could be vital for any German attempt at rebuilding Europe (if Argentina stays fascist, of course). I'd expect a large influx of immigrants and strong economic growth as well.
-In Europe, with the German male population almost gone, I think the nazis would turn more and more to the "European Crusade against Communism/Capitalism" propaganda theme they used late-war in OTL (they probably are right now, what with forces from every Axis nation fighting against the Allies). The more pragmatic, less fanatical wing of the party would probably take over (Speer, anyone?), specially once they realize the Germans NEED the other European nations if they wish to recover... or maybe a military junta takes power?. After the war, I think they would try to integrate those populations with historical or cultural ties with Germany (Scandinavian countries, the Netherlands, Czechs?) to try and recover quickly, probably offering them full citizenship and all sorts of benefits. Pro-fertility laws will be in place, and possibly punishments to those who have few children "for the Fatherland". Some sort of European Union and the first signs of "European" identity could arise from the ashes of nuclear fire... dominated by Germany of course.
-The USSR, after taking over most of mainland Asia, would set up client states and try and use their resources to rebuild and quickly obtain nuclear weapons. However, they too have suffered heavy casualties, not to mention the loss of the more heavily populated areas of Russia. The bombing of Moscow and the bitter fighting in Asia will strain relation with the Allies for years to come, no doubt. Having seen the effects of thermonuclear warfare however, it would be very unlikely for them to try and reconquer their lost territories, out of fear of being bombed back to the stone age. The iron-fisted stalinist rule will probably continue, no matter who takes his place (probably Beria... or perhaps Malenkov?). So, no Khrushchev and no de-Stalinization. Also, the loss it's European lands (and there being no eastern-european puppets to take care of) could mean much closer ties with the Chinese and perhaps a greater willingness to ensure their loyalty to the cradle of the Revolution.
So basically, the world would be split between three large areas (1984, anyone?), all fearful of the others, all trying to recover after this incredibly destructive war. I don't think there would be much contact between the different blocks. Also, all three powers would be MUCH more careful when it comes to foreign adventures... nobody wants to risk nuclear war AGAIN. I think there would be at least 20 years before the US or the USSR would dare risk anything, and probably even more before the Reich (or a united Europe, who knows?) made any serious international commitment. I dare say, it'd be a very dark and terrible world to live in, for most people...
That's just my two cents Hope you like it... As you can see, I'm totally hooked with your AAR! I keep thinking of the possibilities, and I can't wait to read the next update. If luck's on your side, maybe nothing of what I wrote before will come to pass!
(btw, sorry if my english is not very good, it's not my first language)