Invade everything?

[The Great Santini]

Since the U.S. is Japans' biggest problem doesn't she buy more time by invading as many Pacific islands as possible,even if she can't garrison them? Or is the cost in amphibious transport points worth it? With her big fleet advantage at the beginning of the war she can provide cover for the vulnerable transports. And the U.S. will still have to invade even an undefended island to use it as a staging area later.

[scottsmm]

I don't think it's worth it unless you either have an unlimited supply of mpps, or if it's an important island (where the nukes come from). I suppose though ultimately it's up for you to decide weither it's worth it or not (after all it is your game). I'm just strongly against the idea of taking unimportant islands with what little precious resources, and time you have as being the big guy (strictly talking about Japan).

[Stitch]

Remember that Amphib costs go down with a developed infrastructure. That HQ that used to cost 100 can be Amphib'd for 40.

I am using that fact to do some Japanese island hopping. I just don't like those AI aircraft nests on those islands, especially those inside the Wake Island area. I find that in the beginning (and even during the middle!), many transports can go unescorted, thereby saving my fleet for other action.

A spare tact bomber (in rainy weather even better!) can operationally move for 20 to an island, and they can spy on an Allied town if close enough.

If you are going to be engaging, you must bring an HQ as well. Out of supply units do not attack well. You will find a lot of Allied planes garrioning those islands, and tanks kill planes quick. Caveat: On hard build limits, Japan has less than a handful of available tanks.

Oh yeah, move quickly. Towns and ports can spot adjacent units, and bombers can spot out to 4 or more naval squares depending on tech. Hanging around is like inviting a US fleet over for a party!