In Quartermaster General: East Front one player commands the Axis and the other the Allies (Soviets).

The Axis has two factions, Germany, and Pact. The Pact represents the nations that fought alongside Germany in World War II - signatories of the Tripartite Pact, plus Finland. The two sides play very differently and have their own strengths and weaknesses.

The Axis must use their initial advantage to seize as much territory as possible – the Soviets begin with 10 Victory stars and the Axis just 7.

As the Allies, the player needs to cobble together a defense that selectively destroys advancing Axis elements while still maintaining a solid line – and whenever possible, keep reserves ready for a counterattack.