How to Start Playing PzC Games Properly? Any newbie guides?

[pokeytrev]

I have been playing some of the PzC games on and off over the last several years, and by playing I mean firing up a scenario and quitting after a few turns. I have played a few PBEM games with others here, and had a good deal of fun in the process.

I am very interested in the maps and game systems available for the PzC titles, but coming from a non-wargaming background, I often struggle to understand how most veteran players get invested in a game and create strategies around the particular scenario they are playing.

Anyway, to the question at hand: what are some good ways to get into the PzC titles and learning how to play the games as they are meant to be played? Are there particular titles or other things to look for when starting out?