I'll agree with the 'gaming' decision - which is what it is. Doesn't manpower levels change/increase/etc as the national mood changes? That doesn't mean that age eligable men just suddenly appear either. The game is far from perfect - but it isn't half bad either.
I personally would wish for more historical sim than game-balance in many place, the greatest abuse IMO of which is the Soviet Union gearing up and declaring war because London falls to the Axis. Historically, that is a joke and thank God and Paradox that such things can be modded away.
AND THAT makes HoI3 at least a good game - if you have enough energy and dilligence, you can mod the game more toward what you wish it to be (within limits, yes, but still a lot of leaway to adjust).
Another thing to pick on is - the Bismark is not the Bismark. Hard to swallow for the true historian, but great ghost Gerdie, it is a game and name another that trys to cover this scope and gives you historically accurate units? I'd like to know, I would go and buy it --- but as a compromise (and there are many in HoI3), you still can have a fun little challenge or diversion while conquering or freeing the world (depending on what hat you like to wear).
--EDIT--
humm just reread your initial post - no I am not an undercover Paradox employee and doubt I can be classified as a fan-boy. But after all the hours I have spent playing and modding this thing on my own (and sniffing around the modding masters to learn a few tricks, thanks guys) - I still like the game and think there is untapped potential.
Have a cigar and a shot and if you are in a better mood could you post or pm me a list of better games - I am not baiting you, I am truely interested.
Thanks in advance.