Just got the game last week, spent the weekend (as much as I could, at least) trying to get into 1863 against the AI. Bear in mind, I'm fighting against the AI on EASY here...
I haven't figured out the Amphib thing. I've landed forces, but agree, you can't get a large enough force to occupy and stick. Not sure I'm understanding the transport math properly.
AS for New Orleans, I did capture Fort St. Philip, and have shut down the Mississippi ports, but my armies are down to Memphis, so it's not that much of an advantage. Kennon is spot on here.
I'll echo the need to run your own Production, but don't try that until you get your hands on the rest of the game, which is taking some time for me! Just tired of getting all these ironclads, when I could use the cruisers more, etc.
The Initiative can be maddening as the Union player! You can see the opportunity, you've positioned yourself for it, and McClellan won't budge! I'm convinced when you go to the Political screen, and hear the pacing footsteps and the teletype clatter that it's simulating Lincoln at the War Office. Now I can have some appreciation for the exasperation he must have felt!
The geographic implications are much easier to see now. Sure, I've read about it in the books, and experienced it on a tactical scale, but having to deal with the rivers and positioning forces strategically is a great tool in knowing more about the history.
Lots of learning going on, should be ready for a human opponent soon! Really love the game!
General Jeff Laub
Union Chief of the Army
ACWGC Cabinet Member
http://www.geocities.com/laubster22/UnionHQ/