@Suppressmeajumma
Such an opener is totally viable. Not sure if it is a top strategy, but it works.
For me that opening includes sinking the UK fleet at 106 (Canada), 109 and 111. Just leaving the channel fleet alone. That takes all DDs and TTs away from UK and gives Germany some free reign of Atlantic the first few turns. And I build a Carrier plus sub/DD or 2 TTs.
Sea Lion itself is easily countered by UK, but they have to invest to do so, and possibly have to neglect defense of Cairo.
And Germany can use it’s fleet to take Gibraltar and put US in an awkward position.
That opens the MED for Italy and enables them to create some disturbance for Allies. (but do not expect too much from them, it is a minor power, no matter what)
Starting G2, Germany should build and move all they can to Russia, though. That is where the war is won. “Owning” Atlantic is nice, but the money lies in Caucasus, as you noted.
