Mr. Harris,
Your recitation of the facts has def. converted me, as I began by arguing minimal bias but now, I see the light. Part of the effect is an insistence on playing the Axis if victory seems more interesting than variety.
That’s why I keep seeking out the live play and disdain AAA. The best warriors are there, but the game is much more fun in person and as we keep nostalgically stating, it is an immensely fun and attractive game that is just engaging to play (for 8 hours, after that…phew). Going up against newbs isn’t interesting, but at least in our groups, everyone understands the rules, framework etc, so its not as if the competition isn’t exciting or that victory is ever certain, and if it were, we would just reallocate the most experienced players to opposite teams (or force them to change sides every week).
The bid clearly addresses some of the shortcomings of the initial setup and playout, it adds choice. Varied editions, and varied setups (G40,41,42 etc), conventions, and varied friends keep the game interesting.