Mon Sep 30, 2013 7:24 am
You can only detrimentally influence Kentucky's decision by placing too many unit directly on the boarder. If you put too many there, you will get a warning message and there is an increased chance that Kentucky will join the other side.
It is highly unlikely that the Union will invade Kentucky, because it would cost him 10 MN. I'm not sure what the South's NM cost is for selecting the invasion option, but it is less than what the North pays.
If you want to, prepare a strong invasion force and invade as quickly as possible. Early on in '61 the Union is fighting to keep up in the East and Missouri and build up the blockade. If you can organize it a suddenly-opening new front can be staggering to the Union.
Not having played the CS on CW2 yet I can say that it's very interesting having Kentucky neutral. There are only 2 avenues of approach. Over New Madrid and a lunge up the middle to take Fort Donelson. I've done the former a couple of times once Grant arrives but haven't tried the later yet. I actually took it from the west, bringing supplies in up the Tennessee River with transports, but Athena hadn't reinforced it at all, so it was actually a cake-walk.
From a Southern point of view, just don't forget that the Union can sail through Kentucky to reach Donelson. Also be aware that with the new towns west of New Madrid you have some options to sneak around that corner, but supplies, or the lack there of will kill you if your force is too large and not quick, and if you don't have a way to retreat.