Capuchin - Big newbie EA game - started

[llamabeast]

Time for another newbie game I think.

If we can get enough players I think this one will be 14 players, on Cradle of Dominion. Otherwise it'll be 8, on Parganos.

I will actually be away from the boards for most of the weekend (friends visiting), but please sign up below and I'll get the game set up to accept pretenders on Sunday evening. Because I won't be here to keep track of who's taken which race, make sure to read other people's posts before you pick a nation.

The game will be EA, with just the Worthy Heroes mod (a simple mod that adds to the variety of national heroes that turn up). All settings will be standard.

One thing I should add for newish players: I don't recommend playing in more than two games at once, or three if you have lots of free time. Early on it will be fine but later on it can get a bit taxing. Always better to be playing too little Dominions and wishing you had more than the other way round.

Players so far:

Tir n'a n'Og - duke_commando
Ulm - Firewalker
Abysia - Aapeli
Niefelheim - DonCorazon
Ermor - Cicadian
T'ien Ch'i - everz
Agartha - shogi
Fomoria - Freakboy
Kailasa - sum1lost
Oceania - Wokeye
Caelum - Sivoc
R'lyeh - darkchampion3d
C'tis - Janlm
Helheim - spacht

[llamabeast]

By the way, a capuchin is apparently a South American monkey. The observant among you will have noticed that most of my games have South American mammals for titles.

[Ubercat]

Well, if I play EA Mictlan I definitely won't qualify as a newb. I think I will as any other EA power, however. If no one objects to my participation, I'd like to take EA C'Tis. I've been/am in about 6-8 MP games so far. I've only played one other game as EA C'Tis which is on turn 3 now.

-Ubercat

[duke_commando]

I'd like to join as Tir An Og.

[Potatoman]

I'd like to join, but I haven't decided on a nation yet. Maybe R'lyeh.

[Aapeli]

Abysia for me. Just been waiting to get to play whit EA abysia.

[DonCorazon]

I am in for Niefelheim..someone has to cool down the Abysians.

[Cicadian]

I'm in as Ermor.

[OmikronWarrior]

I'm interesting in joing with Mictlan.

Will this be PBEM or server, and is that mod known to be balanced?

[everz]

I'd like to join as T'ien Ch'i.

[llamabeast]

The game will be on the LlamaServer, which is my automated PBEM server. Basically it is PBEM, but it checks its e-mail every five minutes, updates the website (www.llamaserver.net ), hosts automatically and so on. I think it is quite convenient.

The Worthy Heroes mod is very widely used, so I think it is thought to be balanced.

[Potatoman]

I'll take Ulm

[shogi]

I would like to join as Agartha

[Freakboy]

I would like to join as Fomoria

[Ubercat]

On further reflection I'd better bow out of this one. I'm in enough games already. Please remove me, Llammabeast.

-Ubercat

[sum1lost]

Kailasia

[llamabeast]

Okay cool, we are up to ten players. Still space for a few more.

[Wokeye]

I'll play! Total DOM3 n00b here...
Pangaea looks fun. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/cool.gif

Will grab that mod and get a pretender together tonight.

[Sivoc]

if there are still a free spot, then I'll like to join up with Caelum

[darkchampion3d]

I'd like to play as well. R'lyeh for fun http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[llamabeast]

Okay guys, you can now upload your pretenders when you're ready. To do this:

- Make sure you have no mods enabled
- Go to Game Tools -> Create a pretender god in Dominions
- Go to the savedgames/newlords folder in the dominions directory, and find your pretender file (e.g. early_kailasa_0.2h)
- E-mail the file to: pretenders[ at ]llamaserver[ dot ]net
- Crucially, you must have the game name 'Capuchin' in the subject line of your e-mail.

You can see who's joined so far at www.llamaserver.net (http://www.llamaserver.net) .

We still have space to squeeze one more player in.

[Janlm]

i'd like to play too if its not too late, as c'tis.

[llamabeast]

Cool, in that case we're full. Please start sending your pretenders in.

[llamabeast]

If anyone is interested in switching to a water nation that might be a good idea. Otherwise we will have an unchecked R'lyeh in the seas.

[darkchampion3d]

Watch out for my legions of aquatic troops! They will shake their tentacles menacingly at the landlubbers. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Wokeye]

OK, I'll switch from pangaea to a water nation. I'll repost my Pretender tonight (about 12 hrs from now).

I'll take Oceania. Being from Australia, this side is rather apt.

[llamabeast]

Cool, thanks Wokeye.

[Potatoman]

I'm going to have to back out of this game, sorry guys.

[Firewalker]

I'd be happy to take Potatoman's place as Ulm.

[llamabeast]

Okay, no worries Potatoman and glad to have you Firewalker! Feel free to change race by the way if you want to.

[OmikronWarrior]

Actually, I'm going to step out as well. I'm already in two games, and am probably going to pretty busy for the next month. So, Mictlan is open.

[Wokeye]

Just out of interest, when does a player graduate? (ie when should they stop playing 'newbie' games?)

[llamabeast]

I always leave it up to individual players to decide (although I will ask them not to play if I know they're very experienced). Some players here have played a few games, most have played none to completion I think, and quite a few are completely new.

[Wokeye]

Llamabeast, I meant to submit a replacement preteneder for Oceania before we started, but accidentally sent in a pangaea guy which was registered with the server - is there a way you can remove it? My apologies for stuffing it up.

[spacht]

The title suggest that there might be a slot available on this game. If this is still true I would like to join up as Helheim.

[llamabeast]

spacht - great, you're in the game. Please send in a pretender soonish. Please could I request though that you don't use two level-9 blesses, as that is strong to an unfun extent on Helheim.

Wokeye - no worries, I will delete it.

I hope to get the game started tomorrow (Thursday) evening (UK time), so if people can aim to have pretenders in by then that'd be great.

[spacht]

my thoughts exactly

[spacht]

I just sent in my pretender but got the automated response that the game is full. Shall I resend it after you delete Pangaea or will it work regardless?

[llamabeast]

Oops sorry, fixed. Would you mind sending it in again please?

[spacht]

Ok, I sent it in yesterday.

[Wokeye]

Just waiting for Fomoria now

[llamabeast]

Yep. Still waiting. I PMed him this morning.

[Freakboy]

I tried to post my pretender and got invalid nation error. This is for Formoria.

[Wokeye]

Is it Formoria or Fomoria?

[llamabeast]

Aha, sorry Freakboy, that will be my fault. Fomoria hasn't played on the server yet - most likely I didn't add it correctly.

I will fix that, resubmit Freakboy's pretender (I will have it backed up) and start the game tonight (UK time) (probably pretty late).

[llamabeast]

Okay, the game is started! The first turn has 48 hours on the clock, subsequent turns will have 24 hours.

I hope you all enjoy the game. Here are some tips from me on making it a fun game:

- Engage in lots of diplomacy. It's fun. Send messages to your neighbours, preferably in the character of your nation. Make threats, deals and alliances. One thing though - if you actually agree to a deal (such as peace for n turns, or exchanging items), do stick to it, otherwise you are likely to upset other players and make the game unfun.
- Post in-character stuff on this thread. See Tuidjy's posts on the "Neo Xekinima" thread for an excellent example of this. I really enjoy reading that thread.

People always say the most fun games are the ones with lots of messages flying around and posts on the forum. Silent games are fun too, but miss out on one cool element of multiplayer play - they're a bit more like single player versus very competent AIs.

Have fun!

[Sivoc]

For you guys that doesn't have worthy heroes 1.7 here is the link to get it:
http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/download.php?Number=537578

[llamabeast]

Oh yeah - thanks Sivoc!

Also, I'd like to ask a favour - would anyone be willing to volunteer to be the admin for this game? Basically that just means that if someone asks for an extension, you sort it out via the llamaserver website. Also later on in the game players may come to a consensus that a longer timer will be needed (in fact they almost certainly will), and again the admin would need to sort this out. But it only takes a minute or so to do. Basically it's just hard for me to watch so many threads so it's really nice to be able to delegate a bit.

[Janlm]

I wouldn't mind helping you there

[DonCorazon]

Noob here. Won't let me take turn - says: Worthy Heroes 1.7 needs to be installed. But I have Worthy Heroes mod enabled, although the one I downloaded is 1.8.

What did I screw up? Is there a 1.7 version somewhere? Thanks.

[Janlm]

downlod this

http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/download.php?Number=537578

[Wokeye]

I had 1.8 installed, too. I changed the heroes.tga to another name (eg heroes17.tga) then also opened the heroes1_7.dm file and changed the reference to the tga.

[darkchampion3d]

Yikes didn't realize it was on 24 hour turn timer. Was gone from Saturday to Sunday http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

Oh well. Shouldn't be crippling

[Aapeli]

Oh bloody... I forgot to e-mail my turn! Well too bad. Finally the game is on.

Oh by the way lots of messages would be very nice indeed. Just some reports on wars and battles you are having or have had. I wont be very diplomatic this game cause it is the nature of my nation, but if the other side is convincing enough then I shall concider.
Nap breakers bevare, for Furriculus will not look kindly upon those who break deals.

[Wokeye]

Apparently the clocks dont work well underwater - DC3D and myself have been the last to submit the last few turns http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[darkchampion3d]

Yeah with my current schedule there is no way I will be able to reliably make 24 hour turns due to traveling. I had thought 48 hrs was the standard time limit (from reading other MP games).

So if you want to find someone to replace me that's fine. I'll continue making turns as often as I can.

[Sivoc]

I would be fine by me if we change the turner to 48 hours

[Wokeye]

ditto 48 hours would be great

[llamabeast]

Well I can change it to 48 hours if you want, but I expect at this stage each turn only takes about 5 minutes anyway. Do you really want it changed already?

[Wokeye]

It's not about the turn length, its the issue of getting near a computer each day to do it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Aapeli]

I dont know about you others but Im not in a hurry so 48 hours is ok. It would be better if evrybody would get their turns in.

[llamabeast]

Okay, I've switched it to 48 hours. It really isn't worthwhile having people stale because of lack of time, and it seems like several people have been having difficulties with the 24 hour timer. Apologies to those who were fine with the fast pace.

[Wokeye]

Thanks Llamabeast, much appreciated.

[Wokeye]

Who put bloody ghosts in as indy forces!*&%@ Tough little suckers.

[darkchampion3d]

Yeah ethereal troops are brutal to early nationals.

[Wokeye]

While appearing rather scary, the cursed Ghosts were no match for the warriors of Oceania. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[darkchampion3d]

I am going to be out of touch for roughly 4-5 days starting on DEC 1. Am I supposed to find a substitute or something for that time?

[llamabeast]

Find a substitute if you can, and if you can't PM me and ask me to postpone hosting for a few days. While it's unfortunate it's much better to avoid stale turns.

Btw I'd like to point out to players what I've written on the front page of the llamaserver website - I'm no longer carefully checking all the threads for my games, so if you have a question for me or want me to do something, please PM me.

Finally, I've just remember that there's still no admin for this game. Please can someone volunteer? It's almost no work but would be greatly appreciated.

[Wokeye]

Didn't Janlm offer to assist with admin in the last page of posts?

[llamabeast]

Oh yes, he did - d'oh!

[Wokeye]

I shall train my tritons to toss stinging bluebottles under the beachcoming feet of the landlubbers. Yarrrrrrrgh!!

[Janlm]

I have postponed the game 48 hours so that rlyeh gets a chance to do his turn.

[Firewalker]

The mighty forges of Ulm are rolling out smoking-hot dwarven hammers for those interested in trade. 25 magic gems other than nature is an acceptable exchange, however the Forge Lords of Ulm will consider other offers through diplomatic channels.

[sum1lost]

For those who will be interested at a later point, Kailasia will be sellling the same in several turns, at a lower price.

[Wokeye]

Oceania may be interested in a hammer or two in a few turns time. Pls make them out of rust-proof materials. (playing Pan in my other game LOL)

[Janlm]

hmmm, r'lyeh weren't you supposed to have been back from your vacation days ago?

[Wokeye]

Oceania has produced bottles of beer, thongs (the shoes, not underwear) and seafood platters for the sweltering Christmas season. For those landlubbers freezing in their northern boots, we can heat the beer if you like...but it may go flat and won't taste as good...

[Janlm]

if noone oppose, i'll try and find a way to get rlyeh set to ai...

[Sivoc]

sounds like a good idea, as he have stalled almost half his turns.

[Aapeli]

Well that was a relief. All tough no there is no chance of having rlyeh as an ally.

[everz]

Sounds unfair to his neighbor - like me.

[Wokeye]

As the other underwater nation I do not oppose the change to R'yleh if DC3D cannot play, only ask that you let me know if/when it does occur.

[Wokeye]

Abysia has sent a wave of mercenaries into the seas, and will pay dearly for the intrusion.

Is it confirmed that Ryleh is now AI?

[Sivoc]

nope, he is not AI yet:
http://www.llamaserver.net/gameinfo.cgi?game=Capuchin

But just wipe him if you can, maybe then we can get some faster turns http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Janlm]

i'm working on it, but llamabeast haven't replied me yet...

[DonCorazon]

The frosty giants of Niefelheim have noticed their glaciers melting and the need to turn up our massive ice magic powered air conditioners. Recently we discovered the source of this global warming.

Our advice: put on your parkas Abysia... winter is coming!

[Wokeye]

Al Gore Giants! Nooooooooooo

[sum1lost]

Oddly enough, Ulm has chosen to attack the Dancers.

Prepare to be danced on, men of steel!

[DonCorazon]

What school has the "Restore Ozone Layer" spell?

[Firewalker]

Hephestus apparently heard about monkey brains being a delicacy somewhere and so he ordered a hunting party dispatched forthwith to retrieve a gaggle of these talking monkeys to our East to try out. Don't ask me, he's a little strange. The Forge Lords just try to do what he says and stay out from under his hammer.

[Firewalker]

"Restore Ozone Layer" would probably be Alteration, Nature5 Air9. I hope you outfitting your pretender correctly! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Xietor]

I tried to set Ryleh to ai, but he set a pw. A pw is not necessary for games on the llamaserver. Llamabeast has been notified that ryleh is pw protected.

He is on vacation until tomorrow, so you may want to postpone host 24 hours if you want ryleh on Ai this turn.

[MX]

You guys are playing with a little boy on the black list...


cleveland said:
I will never again play a MP game with the following players:

darkchampion3d
konming
coobe

Abandoning a game without finding a replacement is really inconsiderate. Not only does it waste everyone's time, it ruins the game's diplomatic landscape since the AI is so damn stupid.

[Janlm]

Too bad he put on a pw, but thanks for the help Xietor.

[Wokeye]

Oceania declares war on the Ryleh mindbenders, we detect that they have no leader and will suffer for it.

[Xietor]

Ryleh is on ai. got the pw from llamabeast.

[DonCorazon]

Dang Abysian factories! Global warming is so bad down here in Niefelheim that fire is raining down from the skies.

[Firewalker]

Wow, our Steel Warriors were indeed "danced on". It felt kind of like getting mugged by the Solid Gold crew.

This has been somewhat disturbing to the Forge Lords. They shall study the matter. (That is, sulk and scratch their heads for a while.)

Don -- I think in a later age, it will be called artillery!
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[sum1lost]

The Dancers are selling hammers for 20 gems of any flavor

Also, we are buying water gems and pearls on a 1:1 exchange for any kind of gem, as available.

PM us if interested.

Oh, and to the forge lords: If you do not wish to see what happens when we develop the cha-cha, we advise that you back off and cease your attacks. We offer you peace (3 turn NAP) now only. Also, fighting an astral nation with access to earth and water is a bad idea for an mr-poor nation like ulm.

[Aapeli]

Hey im actually feeling a bit chilly. Maybe I should turn up the heat... but then the north pole would melt and that would only be good to oceania, who by the way rules the seas again after my poor attempt to get to the water. Killed my mercs off with some aboleth thingies or what ever they are. Mind burn is quite a powerful weapon.

[Firewalker]

Hephestus is going to be bull-headed about this. Threw a fit when it was mentioned to him that no talking monkeys were obtained and that, by the way, the hunting party was tap-danced to death. A couple Forge Lords were thrown out a window. Quite a scene.

Looks like we'll have to drive the tap-dancers off our continent now. It's a honor thing. You understand, nothing personal. And these forge lords are not real big on diplomacy. I try to explain to them about how magic is nothing to sneeze at, but they start growling, hurling unmentionable curses, and waving those hammers at me.

BTW, the forge lords tell me they will be happy to provide dwarven hammers for the paltry sum of 15 gems, if payment is in earth, fire, and/or nature gems.

[sum1lost]

The tap dancers of the world's dome would like to point out to Ulm's neighbors that ulm considers that entire continent theirs, and will drive off anyone they consider intruders.

[Firewalker]

Hephestus is hoping when all is said and done, this global thermostat conflict to our West and North will be settled at a temperature we can live with (preferably, 72 degrees). So long as no stray glaciers or brimstones fall on our lands, we will be happy to sit back to watch the fireworks.

These tap dancers, however, have invaded our mutual lands from across the sea and Ulm will toss them back over there. You can dance in peace on your own continent. We might even come over as tourists to watch. Just be sure to have some monkeys on hand to sacrifice to Hephestus.

[OOC: Happy Holidays everyone. Would it be possible to have turn deadlines extended to 72 hours until after the New Year? Things are going to get hectic here...]

[Aapeli]

Well I am going to need an extencion during holidays. On monday we are off to the countryside to spend a hilarious christmas with no computers around that have dom in them.
So I can send my last turn on tuesday 23th. We should be back on sunday 30th so that us ok for me to get back on the game. So if you could stop the timers for christmas it would be cool but if not I shall find a sub.

[Wokeye]

Oceania is also holding a festival during Christmas, and then again shortly afterwards Jan 2-8. Will attempt to find a stand-in ruler during this time. Relaxing the turn cycle for a while would be great.

Edit: How about a one-turn per week cycle for the two weeks Dec 23-30 then Dec31-Jan7 ? Then back to normal after that?

[sum1lost]

Oh, come on. The dancers had developed the coast into a grand ballroom long before the men of ulm had arrived. At least two or three months. And then Hephasteus's men came, trying to poach our bountiful monkey-harvest.

The Ballet Squadron will see you off!

Oh, and in terms of delays- could we please pause forced hosting from thursday through saturday? I will have irregular internet access over that period.

Thank you

[DonCorazon]

Niefelheim is off to the tropics from Dec 21-29. Not sure we will have internet access.

[Janlm]

Perhaps we should turn off the timer during christmas and new year, and leave the quick hosting on just in case.

[Wokeye]

I'd be happy with that.

[Aapeli]

That would probably be the best.

[Janlm]

It wasn't possible to turn off the timer, so instead I have set the hosting interval to 20 days. Autohosting is still on, so if everyone sends in a turn we'll still receive a new turn for christmas http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

i'll set the turn timer back to normal some time after the 1st of january(the exact day depending on wether or not wokeye finds a sub).

[Janlm]

Happy new years everyone.

While most games seem to be starting up again now, this will be another week untill i turn on the turn timer again, when wokeye will be joining us after his vacation.

[sum1lost]

Janlm said:
Happy new years everyone.

While most games seem to be starting up again now, this will be another week untill i turn on the turn timer again, when wokeye will be joining us after his vacation.



In the meantime,since wokeye is oceania, we can probably host the current turn so long as neifelheim and ulm put in their turns. Unless, of course, they are on vacation as well, and it is my mistake.

[DonCorazon]

Niefelheim is around.

[Firewalker]

I will be getting my turn in tonight when I get home from work. (approx. 0400 1/5/08 GMT)

[sum1lost]

As the graphs show, Ulm suffered a pair of horrendously one-sided defeats as a result of their aggresion on Kailasia. Furthermore, if they do not back down and sue for peace, we will break(dance) the kneecaps of their entire nation.

Oh, and we want water gems please! Buying them for anything! Including 15 for one hammer!

[Janlm]

I am setting the turn timer back to normal today, that is 48 hours from now.

[Wokeye]

Hi Guys,
I am back as of today (Dec 7) so 48 hr timer is fine by me.

Damn Ryleh AI, now some of my carefully laid landlubbing plans are somewhat compromised by the once-allied mind lords...

[Janlm]

welcome back

[Firewalker]

Ah, so we see that Yavannas and Guhyakas do turn and flee when faced with real warriors.

There is a horde of warrior maidens forming in the mountains to the West. I suggest Kailasa take its dancing shoes and retreat across the water before they see what shrews Ulmish women can be!

[DonCorazon]

Where did Abysia get all those calvary and archers that led to the big Niefelheim giant roast? Damn, I thought giants were invincible...

[Aapeli]

Dont forget that Abysia has giants of their own (not as big as Niefel giants tough). The burning ones will succeed in where my asassin failed and get the head of the niefel jarl for Furriculus http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/mad.gif.

I didnt remember niefel jarls were so big! Wasted my asassin there.

[DonCorazon]

I was wondering what that assassin was thinking - he definitely had some big (fire)balls http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif taking on the niefel jarl.

Winter is coming!

[Aapeli]

Oh but my friend remember that seasons pass and soon it shall be time for a good old hot summer.

[Wokeye]

The Lords of Oceania are dismayed at the AI Ryleh pretender's tendency to beat the bejesus out of our mertroops in a rather random and thorough fashion.

The waters will soon be calm, however...

[sum1lost]

Im going to have spotty internet access for some time, as resulted in my stale, nor will I be able to access dominions, and will not be able to continue my game. apologies to all involved, feel free to AI me- Im not sure I can do it myself by the next turn.

[Firewalker]

Sum1lost:

I suspected that was what happened.

That is too bad, you were doing pretty good. I never realized how effective those early sacreds could be for Kailasa against regular infantry type units. Hope to meet up in another game sometime.

[eidahl]

Hi all ! Is it possible to replace sum1lost as Kailasa? I definitely qualify as a 'newbie' since this would be my first MP game.

[sum1lost]

Sure, although I'm not sure how to go about doing that.

[Sivoc]

PM eidahl with your pw and PM llamabeast and ask him to change your email with eidahl's... thats it

[sum1lost]

Sivoc said:
PM eidahl with your pw and PM llamabeast and ask him to change your email with eidahl's... thats it



...There shouldn't be PWs on llamaserver games, anyways. But okay.

[Janlm]

Hi Eidahl, that should be possible easily enough, just pm me your email adress.

[eidahl]

Janlm said:
Hi Eidahl, that should be possible easily enough, just pm me your email adress.



Check your pms.

[Wokeye]

Is it just me, or did an entire Agarthan army just get stomped by the Ryleh pretender Kraken? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Janlm]

Fomoria has staled 4 times in a row now.. I have asked Llamabeast to set him on ai.

[Wokeye]

awww that's my second ally to go AI in this game, maybe I need to work on spreading more allied goodwill.

[llamabeast]

Sorry for the slow response with Fomoria. I loaded them up to set them to AI, and decided actually they look like fun. So if it's okay with everyone, I will play them. I expect having staled 10 times(!) may counteract the fact that I can't claim to be a new player. Probably I am doomed so will set them to AI soon, but it will be fun to have a go. If I manage to un-doom them I may eventually have to find a sub, as recently I've been having a bout of trying to rescue doomed races. Apart from the two proper games I'm playing, this'll be my third(!) didn't-set-to-AI race, which is a bit crazy. But still, this looks like fun...

[Janlm]

ofcourse, feel free to take control of fomoria http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Aapeli]

Abysia is shrinking and apparently doomed also...

Didnt manage to spread wide enough with them. But those burning ones are really effective (they die quite easy tough). I think im going to AI. I have another game to try again with Abysia (my favourite nation http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/cool.gif).

[DonCorazon]

Sorry to see you go Abysia though we look forward to cooling down the continent.

[Firewalker]

The Forge Lord is proud to announce that the Kailasans have been driven from our lands. They can have a cease fire if they are interested.

Yeah, Aapeli, you got tag teamed fairly early on -- that's how the cards are dealt sometimes I guess. Someone has to be the guy who gets swallowed up early on.

Good luck to you in your next game!

[Wokeye]

The Ryleh AI nation will soon be destroyed, thankfully - those weird mind lords scare Oceania's children.

[shogi]

I am traveling about the country at the moment and I am having a bit of difficulty running this turn. I was hoping we would be able to postpone this turn for 24 hours.

[llamabeast]

I am setting Fomoria to AI. The Tuatha of Tir Na n'Og have struck a pair of devastating blows and annihilated our armies. Although the Tuatha seem doomed themselves - the armies of Ermor are marching in and the fishmen of Oceania swim threateningly around their shores - there is no future for Fomoria. Fomoria has, essentially, nothing, so the game will merely consist of waiting to be invaded.

Oceania and Agartha are hereby freed of their NAPs.

[Wokeye]

ooo open season! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[DonCorazon]

Giants of Jotunheim sad - we like cute little keebler elves of Tir Na N'Og.

[Firewalker]

The Forge Lords of Ulm desire to trade for Air gems with any nation desiring Astral, Death, or Nature gems. We especially wish to rid ourselves of these nasty death gems we have piled up.

Also, we can forge greater items now for trades: fire & earth items and simple water, air, nature items.

PM for negotiations.

[Wokeye]

My horde of sieging Tritons finally cracked that Ryleh Fortress open. HOORAH!

[Wokeye]

Hmm...I staled last turn, don't have record of receiving turn 39. Anyone else stale?

[llamabeast]

Hmm, it does look like something funny happened to Capuchin just now. Can people tell me precisely where you're up to?

The server reckoned you were on turn 41, but actually it's just turn 40. Did people play turn 39?

[Wokeye]

I never received 39. Now that I've done 40, it says its the wrong number.

[spacht]

The last .2h i sent in was for turn 39, but now i received turn 41, which says i have staled. Somehow turn 40 is missing.

[llamabeast]

Okay, so did you all receive turn 39 except for Wokeye? Wokeye, can you check your spam/junk mail folder? It would be weird if other people got the turn but not you.

[Sivoc]

mine says 41

[llamabeast]

Yeah, I understand that. Let me clarify. There are two issues:

1) Wokeye says he never got turn 39. I don't understand this.

2) When hosting turn 39 the server threw a wobbly, threw away your 2h files and moved the turn counter on two turns. Hence you all staled and the new turn is labelled "41" on the e-mail.

The solution is to roll back to turn 39 and ask you all to send your 2h files again. However, I need to be sure that you actually can play turn 39, since Wokeye said he never got it. Did anyone else not get it?

[Firewalker]

I received rec'd and sent in turn 39 myself. Then got 41 staled back last night.

[Wokeye]

Apologies for my confusion - I re-checked this morning and have completed turn 39. It was turn 40 that I missed as per the others. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

[DonCorazon]

I sent 39 on Friday - received 41 last night. Haven't opened it yet but assume I got the stale too.

[everz]

Same thing to me...

Roll back to turn 39 is the best solution to handle this.

[spacht]

Did i miss the rollback or why are we now on turn 40?

[llamabeast]

I haven't done the rollback yet. Life is conspiring against me.

[DonCorazon]

Can someone provide a Capuchin update? I just received an email saying my turn is due in 6 hours. I thought there was nothing to send in though, correct?

[llamabeast]

Yep, nothing to send in. Sorry guys, I've been letting you down a bit. I need to roll back the turn but I've just been overwhelmed. Will try to do it tomorrow.

[DonCorazon]

No problem or let down at all Llamabeast. You are a gracious host - I was just afraid I might have missed a turn. Happy to wait for whenever you have time to roll back.
Thanks!

[Janlm]

eh by the way, I have been defeated so you might want to find another admin for this game.

[Firewalker]

I can take over the administration if no one else is interested.

[llamabeast]

Right, I've just sent you all a message. Basically I've left it too late to roll back to turn 39, so we are at least going to roll back to turn 40. EVERYONE needs to send their turns in again.

In the message I also promised a ramble as to why I didn't get home in time to roll back the game. Here's the ramble. I was helping out at a charity event, and expected to be home in plenty of time before hosting. However, I was foiled by a couple of things. Firstly, the charity event ended up involving a vast quantity of cornflakes and whipped cream being spread over the floor of Oxford's historic union debating chamber, which we then had to clear up _without tools_. Never would I have been happier to see a dustpan and brush, having spent ages on my knees picking up cornflake fragments with my bare hands. Also the cream got between the floorboards. The most absorbent thing we had to get up the cream was newspapers. Turns out newspapers don't really absorb cream. And secondly we had several jugs of cocktails left at the end which needed to be, er, dealt with. That took a while.

[llamabeast]

Firewalker - many thanks. I'll send you the admin password.

Also, I would like to add to the last post: sorry for the cockup. The game should be all back to normal after this turn.

[Wokeye]

Sounds like a cracker of a night Llamabeast - thanks for your efforts with the rollback.

[DonCorazon]

Hmm..I am suspicious of the sequence of events as relayed by Mr. Llamabeast

[llamabeast]

In what way? It's true!!

The worst of it was that we found out afterwards that the reason there'd been so much cocktail left over was because of a disastrous misunderstanding whereby the Union thought we asked for several times as many drinks as we actually wanted. We probably should have realised there was too much to be fair. Anyway, once they charged us for all those drinks, we only made 80 pounds profit on the whole night! About 15 volunteers over 6 hours -> 80 pounds. Not good. But still fun.

[everz]

I received turn 41 instead of 40. Namely, I staled two turns: 39, 40.

DonCorazon might meet the same problem? I noticed that Niefel army hasn't moved a step.

[llamabeast]

Sorry, I was not very clear. You should have already received turn 40 a couple of days ago, although it was labelled "turn 41". Then last night you will have received another "turn 41". You want to play the earlier one, which was really turn 40.

Sorry, I really made a mess of this.

[DonCorazon]

Yep, the turn I have to work off of is #41.

[everz]

I obtained the file by clicking "Request turn resend". A few minutes age I got an email labeled "turn 40" but in fact the attached .trn file is for turn 41.

[llamabeast]

Ooh dear. No no, don't use the one from the resend. I've made it so that won't work if you try again now, that's not the correct turn. I'm kind of relying on you having kept the original "turn 41" that was actually turn 40. I hope you all still have it.

[everz]

Okay I see. We should use the file we received 3 days ago.

As a reference to everyone, we should use the .trn file from the email whose last sentence is:

"The next 2h file is due in by 06:00 GMT on Wednesday February 20th."

[llamabeast]

Indeed. Thanks everz.

[DonCorazon]

llamabeast said:
In what way? It's true!!



Usually the alcohol comes first, then the big mess. Guess you guys do it backwards over there! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[DonCorazon]

I deleted it from email, although may still have it downloaded, but likely saved over it. I will play with whatever I have. Will check when I get home

[Firewalker]

I've started making it a habit not to copy over the old turn file. Instead I rename it by the turn no. it was and then save the new turn. I started doing it so that I could go back and see the monster battles if I ever want to. But looks like its not a bad idea for unforeseen events.

[llamabeast]

You may all be pleased to hear that I've just vastly improved the backup system on the LlamaServer, so that in future such a cockup couldn't happen. I'm sorry that you guys got messed around.

[Wokeye]

No worries Llamabeast, all good now! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[DonCorazon]

Can I get a 5 hour extension on this turn? Passed out last night after an all-nighter at work on Monday. Will PM Firewalker as well.
Thanks.

[Firewalker]

Certainly. I'll set it back 8hrs for good measure. A couple other people have been staling as well, so it may help in general. We seem to still be getting back into the groove after the technical difficulties.

[Wokeye]

The mermen do not like the shapeshifting elf troops that drop lightning and such. We will laze about on the icy cold beach elsewhere, then.

[DonCorazon]

Cold beaches, where? Sounds perfect for the Niefelheim surf team.

[duke_commando]

stayin' alive, stayin' alive...

[Firewalker]

Reporting from Syzran, capitol city of Kailasa:

A massive battle has just taken place outside the fortress walls of the Kailasa's capitol between the invading Ulm horde and the Kailasan army returning to break the ongoing seige.

The carnage was a horrible sight, as both sides pounded each other to a pulp. Not many survivors limped away from the battlefield, as both armies lost over 50% of their forces.

The Kailasans, led by their pretender, Yama the Master Lich, demonstrated their greater wizardry from the outset, hurling bladewinds, thunderstrikes, falling frost, and orb lightnings at the advancing Ulmish army. The Ulmish prophet Folkher (an unfortunate name) was killed quite early on by a bland wind attack.

Ulm, on the other hand, used a large regiment of archers to rain mundane destruction onto the Kailasan troops.

By the time Kailasa's Yavanas were wearing down, most of Ulm's swordsman and cavalry had perished to the onslaught of lightning and frost, but they had served their purpose. The last of the Yavanas refused to stop fighting, even as the rest of Kailasa's army fled the field. They and Yama fought on, knowing that defeat would likely mean the loss of their capitol to the invaders.

It came down to Ulmish archers finishing off the last of the Yavanas in hand-to-hand combat and finally Yama himself, despite their numbers falling to his thuderstrikes as they charged. In the end, the inevitable could not be averted.

Indeed, the smell outside of Syzran's fortress walls will be thick until this mess is finally cleaned up.

[DonCorazon]

Firewalker, excellent report. You should be a writer (if you're not already). I could almost feel the ground trembling under the sorcerous barrage of Bandar.

[Firewalker]

I'm a technical writer by trade -- a fiction writer by dream.

[Firewalker]

It would seem that we need a new Caelum player or else have Caelum set to AI as well. He has missed 4 of the last 5 turns.

[DonCorazon]

Always seems sad and strange to me when a player just vanishes. I'd like to eventually find a group of proven players who will stick out games to the end, and have a sense of humor / penchant for roleplaying since that helps makes the games memorable.

It is wierd to me how players just suddenly disappear and stop posting, like HJFudge who was in 2 of my first MP games - then simply dropped off the radar screen.

Where are you HJ???

[Firewalker]

I know what you mean, Don. I think it is a drawback of newbie games -- players are perhaps not sure if they like the game longterm or not aware of how much time it takes until they've played a couple games. And life gets hectic.

Caelum had assured me he was still playing, put in a turn, then staled twice again. If I don't hear from him & don't get a player offering to replace him by the deadline this turn, I will AI Caelum until another player offers to take it over.

Please, everyone let me know if any extensions, subs, or replacements are needed. I am happy to help a player out if they need some time to get a turn in.

[Wokeye]

My advisors have ...advised ...that a large war host of wave lords recently raided a northern shoreline, only to be pummelled on the beach by only a few mutant giants. The triton lords are not impressed.

[duke_commando]

There is much rejoicing throughout Hengewood this month as finally, after six months of on and off sieges by fish men and giants, the capital of Tir na n'Og is free. Down to their last bits of hardtack and crayons, the citizens of the great city celebrate by feasting as food is at last able to make it in from the countryside. One elf in particular, the Chief Thundermancer Tomasin, is held in high regard for lead ing the tiny defence force to victory with her cabal of mages. When all seemed lost and the elven army to far away for aid, it was she who pioneered the BOOM LIGHTNING LOL defence tactic that saved Tir na n'Og from destruction.
Unfortunately she has, some say, celebrated a bit too much, especially in regards to food. Some might say it is hard, or even impossible, to gain 400 pounds in one month, but it is not, apparantly, for a hero of the elves. She now sequesters herself in her room gorging on lembas and writing emo poetry on the loss of her fabled beauty. What this means for the future of elvenkind is uncertain, but The Morrigan is pissed, to put it mildly.

In other words, getting heroic obesity on your A5 Thunderstriker sucks ***. 7 encumberence ftl... I wish there was some way to choose heroic abilities for your guys, my mages seem to get heroic obesity a lot.
At least she didn't get heroic stupidity...and her fat will protect her from stray arrows.

[DonCorazon]

duke_commando said:
She now sequesters herself in her room gorging on lembas and writing emo poetry on the loss of her fabled beauty. What this means for the future of elvenkind is uncertain, but The Morrigan is pissed, to put it mildly.



LOL!!!

Don't worry, her increased girth makes her that much more attractive to the Niefel giants - we just need to get her some cold resistance! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Wokeye]

A clash of mighty armies and uneccesary loss of life was luckily prevented last turn - the Triton Lords decided to take an extra turn to muster their troops in the attack on the Fomorian Capital. However, Agarthan troops beat us to the prize!

[Wokeye]

Be careful when your rotund Thundermancer is out walking in the forests, TNN - Tien Chi may send their shiny new Tartarian to eat her. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif What an impressive research effort!

[DonCorazon]

Nystul is a bit annoyed these days. The frosty giants of Niefelheim are clamoring for a demonstration of divine power and frankly Nystul has less taxing things to do like read books about the million types of snow.

But every day his ice giants say "why can't you be like Tien Chin" "Tien Chin's pretender can harness the power of the stars" "Tien Chin can summon Tartarians" "Turn on the air conditioning" bleah bleah.

As such, Niefelheim must hereby give notice it is cancelling its 3 turn NAP with its old friend Tien Chin on this turn 47 so that it is open season on Turn 50. If nothing else this will be our first opportunity to see a real live Tartarian.

[Firewalker]

Actually it should go --

"Why can't you be like >.<?" ">.< can harness the power of the stars!" ">.< can summon Tartarians." "Turn on the air conditioning!"

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[everz]

Nothing is more painful than fighting a friend. Especially when you had a picnic with him yesterday. Unfortunately he is still hungry and now want more food from...the body of his old friend.

Niefel doesn't like TC, because Niefel is always thinking of conquering others, while TC sit and develop their own country. At least, TC never choose an enemy with comparable power as itself.

[DonCorazon]

The wrath of TC has been unleashed.... The peaceful frosty giants of Niefel were suddenly struck from a million directions - sneaky wolves, astral mages, Tartarian gods, Elemental queens....

Meanwhile TC's enchantments and research mean its power increases with every passing turn. Niefel will only be able to hold for a while against this sorcerous onslaught.

Sleepy nations of Capuchin - rise now and join the fight against tyranny or we shall all crumble one by one....

[everz]

Someone terminated the NAP with us, throwed 7 destructive spells on my land in 3 turns. They call themselves "peaceful" frosty giants http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Someone has 40+ provinces, 800+ giants force. He has not lost even a single giant yet. But he said he will only be able to hold for a while http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Someone crumbled Abysia, Ermor, Fomoria one by one. He said he is fighting against tyranny http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Someone obviously has comparable power to TC. But he wants to make use of other nations. People call this icy fox - Niefelheim http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Wokeye]

The conflict with our allied Neifel frost giant neighbours means the Triton Lords are rallying for war - Tien Chi, you have three months warning until the seas turn hostile and icy offshore winds bite.

[everz]

Your alliance is quite powerful. Abysia, Ermor, Fomoria were easily crumbled. TC is the fourth prey?

Ulm, Agartha and Tir, one of you will become their next target, if TC falls.

[DonCorazon]

Ha ha TC. Unfortunately for you, the score charts are on. We are a bunch of Taliban like kingdoms vs. your super powerful American military-like sorcery.

And just so Capuchin history is clear I need to clarify some of your facts: http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif :

Fomoria: never faced them once
Abysia: come on, Niefel is obligated to attack these climate destroying fireballs
Ermor: I don't know what happened to them. By the time Niefel faced them it seemed someone else had already got to them. we never saw a single undead and we were rescuing our little elf friends anyway...

As for the earlier post, we frosties are peaceful. We ended the NAP but what the wily TC forgot to mention was we did not attack...not even TC's empty provinces near our border. We were brutally assaulted. Niefelheim giants violated in the street. It was ugly folks...(think Mighty Joe Young in the snow)

On the 800+ giants, 40+ provinces..I don't think there is enough food to supply such outlandish figures. Plus provinces are clearly depicted on the score graphs. Whatever Niefel has, TC has 2x...

Not lost a single giant?! Come on Everz, we both saw you brutally strike down that one Jarl I forgot to take off of Patrol mode. Cut down in a hail of arrows and communion empowered phoenix pyres. I wonder how many resources were consumed just to wipe that hapless dude off the map?

And your global enchantments, Tartarians, Elemental Queens of Air, etc. speak for themselves.

So now that we have cleared that up, Nystul, the reluctant god of Niefelheim, can get back to watching basketball while the sun sets on the declining Niefel empire....

[everz]

You didn't attack? Then I should suffer your magical attacks quietly? Your own words is "it is open season on Turn 50". But you throwed a bunch of "murdering winter" on my land since turn 47. Personally I consider this kind of actions as nasty as breaking a NAP.

You got 200+120+110+170=600 units in 4 provinces adjacent to TC. I expect another 200 units around your capital and other forts. Your province number is between 40 and 45. What I said is exactly true, isn't it? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Never faced Fomoria? How did you get (173)? (and even further in northwest?) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/confused.gif

You lost a commander last turn? Then you draw the conclusion that you will only be able to hold for a while by just losing one unit?

Whatever Niefel has, TC has 2x? Unfortunately for you, the score charts are on. The only advantage TC has is our research level. Everyone knows one giant can beat 3 infantry. Amry size speaks nothing. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Be honest, "peaceful" frosty giants. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif Nystul wants to kick out his opponent TC, while saving his own power, for later battle.

[duke_commando]

Army size does speak nothing. Magic is where it's at.
Also, Formoria and Ermor went AI quite a while ago. Ermor just kinda disappeared and Formoria descended into anarchy after we zapped the [censored] out of their sieges.
The agarthans have most of their provinces.

[Wokeye]

There's only one way to settle this, the field of battle! ...and the throwing of hard shells from the oceans!

We have tried to play this 'basketball' you speak of, but bouyancy + oceanic currents play havoc with air-inflated fish innards.

[DonCorazon]

Hey, just cause the temperature dropped don't blame Niefel - it could have been Caelum (so much for anonymous spells) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[DonCorazon]

Hahaha! Just reviewed last turn. I will be saving that one as a lesson of the power of magic. Utter humorous slaughter. Evers, I have never even seen such powerful indie mages - Adepts of the Golden Order (4S4F) and literally hordes of them Mistformed legions of TC heavy infantry, flaming arrows, earth attack, blights, hahahaha...Turn 52 will go down as a day of infamy among the Niefel giants.

I give us about 5 more turns before we are squished like grape.

[everz]

Well, the score chart tells me, Niefel main forces haven't showed their faces yet...

[Wokeye]

By the sound of that - I'm not surprised, LOL!

[everz]

Hey Firewalker, can I get extra 6 hours for this turn? Tomorrow evening I will be in a meeting, to about 9:30pm. Don't know when I can get back home.

[Wokeye]

Are those wolf skins your giants are wearing, Neifel? Lucky - as the tritons have observed it is getting rather chilly around the ocean shores. Quite pleasant, really...

[Firewalker]

What does everyone think of taking a break until next Tuesday (3/25) for those who will be busy for the holiday weekend (like myself)?

[DonCorazon]

Works well for me too.

[everz]

No problem.

[Wokeye]

NP here

[DonCorazon]

So sad to see a Niefelheim giant get leprosy. What a waste!

But despite the sorcerous onslaught of TC that continues to dramatically reduce Niefelheim's magic academy, we are happy to report getting off one icy spell that decimated a small part of TC's army. The western front appears to be lost - only one regiment, The Blizzard Corps, managed to escape the ruins of Niefelheim's western post. Things look a little better in the East, where Niefelheim won its only victory against TC with the help of an unusually cold winter (if only I had more water gems. Note to self: site search early on) and has managed to cross the straits to the North.

(Caveat: have yet to look at latest turn. Good chance some new sorcerous concoction has obliterated us)

[Wokeye]

The occupational health risks of falling giant icy teardrops are unnacceptible, so the Triton Lords march (float?) on TC. Winter comes in greater numbers.

[DonCorazon]

I am going AI. Useless to fight. Frankly a little disappointed in some of these endgame strategies (exploits?) E.g. TC attacks with his Pretender who has cast Ritual of Returning upon himself and holds Unquenched (creates Heat from Hell).

TC Pretender's first action is to cast Mists of Deception, then I am assuming the Heat from Hell damages his pretender so the Ritual of returning kicks him home. There is a message that says TC is routed. But Niefelheim's entire army runs around fighting the illusionary warriors for what seems like forever amidst the Heat from Hell. Even though TC's pretender vanishes, it seems these spells remain in effect. The battle goes so long I cannot even bear to finish watching it and Niefel giants start dropping from fatigue and eventually get the message Niefelheim is routed. Huge Niefel army is slaughtered.

What kind of battle is that? What is the point of carrying on?

I am going to post this on the main thread and see if there are counters to this or if this is one of those unstoppable slaughter moves. The more I learn of these the more I become somewhat disenchanted with how these games end. If there are no counters then it seems it just is a race to research artifacts / summon tartarians.

btw - seems like a pretty advanced move for a noob game. Nice job >.< if you came up with it on your own.

Bye Capuchin, bye cruel world. I will be sure to distribute gems and magic items to those who wish to fight on.

[Kamamura]

DonCorazon - yes, it's a known exploit. Some people just do anything to win, even if it means spoiling the game for others. I recommend not playing that person in future again.

[llamabeast]

That's an exploit which shouldn't be used. Dammit, I wish I'd said that somewhere explicitly.

I guess it's quite likely that T'ien Ch'i either thought of it himself (I'm impressed!) or read the suggestion on the forum without reading the following community digust, in which case he certainly doesn't deserve any harsh words from us. But in any case, it's definitely not a fair move.

I'm actually open to rolling back the turn and asking just T'ien Ch'i to retake his turn but do something else with his pretender. DonCorazon, would you have the stomach to continue the game if I did that? It is indeed a silly way for the game to be finished for you.

Finally, although the end game seems different to the early and mid games and can initially be frustrating, I can reassure you that there is still plenty of strategy and options. It's not as if you have to have artifacts or Tartarians to win, so you shouldn't think that. I almost never bother getting artifacts in fact, and tend to get Tartarians as an afterthought (not that I'm one of the best players, but I've won a few games). It is a bit different though, and requires some thought. Anyway, whoever wins the early and mid games tends to win the late game (assuming they're not ganged up on), because they tend to have more gold, gems and research.

[DonCorazon]

thanks for the gracious offer, llama. At this point I am feeling somewhat soured / grumpy in Capuchin and ready to move on. I guess seeing my Niefels get slaughtered traumatized me http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif and a roll back means what few tricks I had up my sleeve were revealed to my enemy.

But as one of the "powerful" nations (at least a couple turns ago), I will continue on with the rollback if at least a few other players have a strong desire to keep playing. I personally hate players to go AI early. But frankly, I have little desire to keep playing and trying to take thoughtful turns in this particular game.

I'd prefer to take the many lessons learned here and start a new game, I guess with more rules outlined up front. Again, I will wait to hear what others have to say.

btw, I think TC would win regardless, it is a shame he felt these types of moves were necessary. If you read the thread above, you can see I certainly don't mind getting slaughtered by "fair" means, or at least I can take it with a smile. But just getting slaughtered with no chance to fight back ? I don't even see how that provides any sense of joy to the victor.

[Tuidjy]

He did not know? Whom are you kidding?

This exploit was explicitly described in DangerPudding, when Fomoria, maybe
accidentally, used the sword of storms and the armour of virtue on the same guy.
I know, because my uncle asked my advice on that. And I gave him examples, which
he posted in the thread.

At that time, the Tien Chi player was a participant in the game, and posted after
the discussion. The discussion ended with three people posting that it is on the
short bug list, and should not be used.

So arguing that this is not an exploit is OK (albeit wrong) but saying that
Tien Chi did not know is ... naive?

[everz]

>.< is busy with exams...but I have to make some answer.
especially to some guy use his own gray heart to render mine:

This is my first MP game. Unquenched + Mists of Deception is a strategy I carried from my SP experience. Why you called it exploits? If your soldiers are quick enough to kill all phantom warriors in one turn, you will win the battle. It's a good strategy to eliminate army that has no flying troops. Anything wrong?

To the guy above: who is your uncle? I never played any game with you. I was defeated by TC, Niefel in [DangerPudding] and didn't participate in that game for a long time.

---------
Just viewed the discussion of DangerPudding. Haven't read that part of discussion before. My last post there is just to say bye-bye. That guy named Tuidjy seems to be a bug-master. Even his uncle asked him for advice. You should at least check with Fomoria before framing the case against me.

Some people do anything to win. But I play game for fun. Now I can not gain any more interests here. I'm going AI. Gold/gems will be distributed to other nations. My only ally will get more. Good luck for all guys remaining in the game. Sorry for any trouble after TC go AI. You defeat me, Niefelheim. By only a post, you defeat me in all games.

Although there are many hot hearted person here, it's not a civilized forum. Before today I enjoyed the feeling of playing with people, but now I realize that some person are more horrible than AI. I'm leaving and won't touch dom3 any more.

Back to prepare my own exams. Goodbye, everyone.

[Tuidjy]

Nick was Niefelheim. The quotes are from posts that came a few posts before
your last post. Am I to believe that you do not read threads that you are
posting to?

"Two scenarios:
1. Two units on field. One has "Staff of Storms", casts "Wrathful Skies", and retreats. Other stays and fight.
2. Two units on field. One casts "Mist of Deception" and retreats. Other has "Staff of Storms", casts "Wrathful Skies", and retreats.
Do we allow either? My preference is: "No" on 1, "No" on 2."

[a number of posts that all agree it is an exploit ending with]

well if it is on the bug list, ofcourse it shouldn't be used. No reason to make it such a big deal...

[three posts]

A post by you.

[spacht]

So far i have been lucky not to be on the receiving end of such exploits (and yes, i consider this one to be an exploit and not a valid strategy). A rollback and a promise by all participants not to use such exploits would be necessary to continue this game, in my opinion.

Btw, it there a collection of known exploits other than the bug shortlist?

[DonCorazon]

Everz,
I would be sad if you really meant that you would never play Dom3 again b/c of this. I enjoyed our clash up until that last maneuver. I wasn't sure if it was an exploit or a strategy that had some counter, which was why I posted - not to attack your honor. It was clearly frustrating to lose an army like that, especially since I didn’t even know what was happening or how to counter it. We should have clarified what was allowable and what is not. We are both MP noobs so there was a communication breakdown but not a big deal. If you were enjoying Dom3 MP then please keep playing it. I’d hate to see you give up something that was fun for you just b/c of this.

Btw Your game was skillful and from what I can tell you certainly deserve the win, unless someone else has something up their sleeve.

[Firewalker]

Huh. So, who all is dropping so far?

Just to try and keep track. If Niefelheim and T'ien-chi both go AI without subs, I'd say we might as well break and start a new game.

[everz]

Tuidjy said:
Nick was Niefelheim. The quotes are from posts that came a few posts before
your last post. Am I to believe that you do not read threads that you are
posting to?

"Two scenarios:
1. Two units on field. One has "Staff of Storms", casts "Wrathful Skies", and retreats. Other stays and fight.
2. Two units on field. One casts "Mist of Deception" and retreats. Other has "Staff of Storms", casts "Wrathful Skies", and retreats.
Do we allow either? My preference is: "No" on 1, "No" on 2."

[a number of posts that all agree it is an exploit ending with]

well if it is on the bug list, ofcourse it shouldn't be used. No reason to make it such a big deal...

[three posts]

A post by you.



I never seen/participated in your bug discussion. That thread is public and everyone could go there to find out the truth. I don't know (and don't care) where you are from and what your purpose is. Fortunately I'm leaving and won't necessarily to stay here with such kind of person like you.

To DonCorazon: A lot of fun fighting against Niefelheim. They will become nice frames in my memory.

To Firewalker: Sorry for that. I'll try to find a sub.

Finally, and honestly thank you for hosting us, llamabeast. You are a gracious host.

[Xietor]

If it helps any, in the games I host, if you cast a battlefield spell that causes the opponent damage, you cannot retreat the caster for 5 turns. I think that is a fair rule. Velusion hosted games use the same rule.

Also no game hosted on llamaserver allows you to copy the attack mage commands from charmed Bogus friends to other units.

Llamabeast posted that under his rules for llamaserver games.

[Wokeye]

If the two remaining major powers (TC & Neifel) are not interested in playing on, then I say we retire the game.

My Tritons hate the thought of leaving the sea to fight Tartarians. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif ...and I didnt have much going for me *on land*, except a few unique items, weak inf. raiders and the alliance with landlubbers.

I am happy to concede victory to TC - the research race was absolutely dominated and the sheer number of troops and uber SCs (Tartarians everywhere!!) will pound any challengers.


Everz I do believe this is a competitive strategy game and it is our job to find and use strategic advantages. While there is an accusation against you of unsportsmanlike play by use of that strategy, I think if you admitted to making a mistake, then we can all move on from it and learn.

Overall, I leant a lot from the game, including:
- keep more of an eye on those players getting ahead in the mid-game, to place more pressure earlier...
- An AI nation really changes the whole game. Going AI without warning is bad form. Going AI is undesirable at any time, even with warnings. (not having a go at anyone here, just generally)
- do not use the battlefield nuke/retreat general strategies (as discussed above)
- lightning storms and stealthy elves are hurty.

If the game does not continue, I look forward to butting armies again with you all. Except that 'AI' guy - he sux!

[DonCorazon]

Let's end it then. Call it a victory for Everz, so he can retire his brief MP career with an amazing undefeated record at 1 - 0.
I hope he comes back - it is a shame to let a heckler drive you away but that is his call.

Good game everyone. Thanks again to Llamabeast for organizing and letting us use Llamaserver.

I learned:
- site search early and often; Niefel needs to find cheap researchers and astral mages to protect from Mind Hunts
- think about how to deal with SCs. Everz threw some tough Tartarians and AQs that tore through me
- don't make a lame pretender (I had a sage with 3e1s - don't even remember what I was thinking when I designed that crapola. Would have loved a bless)
- be good to your friends; I stayed true to all my allies and that probably would have been helpful if the fight had continued on
- develop a research plan – I was all over the place
- I think the only thing that helped me was Niefel is pretty tough and a good nation for noobs
- Always cast a few Wolven Winters prior to a Niefel invasion – pretty funny to watch your enemies freeze

I plan to organize a unique type of game soon on Llamaserver. Details to come.

Cheers, DC of Niefel

[llamabeast]

Oh dear, what a big debacle.

Well, I am of course happy to continue running the game if either everz or DC change their mind and want to carry on after the heat of the moment has passed. Also I'm content to believe that everz didn't know it was considered an exploit and was just very clever - so props to him for that. Still I will ban it in future games. I'm very sorry you were offended by this ruckus everz.

Tuidjy, your comments here were unhelpfully accusatory and offensive. I wish you hadn't posted, you made things feel much worse. Please don't in future.

Hope everyone's not too annoyed about this, it's an unfortunate way for a game to end. And of course I hope you all enjoyed the game!

[lch]

DonCorazon said:
If there are no counters then it seems it just is a race to research artifacts / summon tartarians.


Damn, he discovered the secret! Quick, get the thought police!

Somehow I think that people are overreacting about this. As DonCorazon pointed out himself, he would probably have lost regardless of this. Endgame pretty much consists of finding and using deadlocks which other players are unable to get out of. This specific case might be exploiting a game mechanic, but so are lots of other things. Finding a good combo is the bread and butter of this game. Retreating before the script runs out is frowned upon, but I'd give it the benefit of doubt and assume that the interaction with armor of virtue was not planned. Even if it was, waiting a few more turns would hardly have affected the outcome.

I remember some heated discussions and angry mails from some old games of mine, and compared to this it's surprising to see people quitting like this. You dropped a brick, no problem with that. Consider it a coming of age and do it differently in the next game.

[Wokeye]

If Everz and DC want to play on I'll also play on, but otherwise I think the game is really over.

Regardless of the events of last turn, Everz was going to stomp us all. He had 3x the research of the rest of us, all the good unique items made and equipped on his army of tartarians - where the rest of us were at/just out of mid game.

I have no hesitation in conceding victory. He played well. I enjoyed the game immensely, but was not looking forward to the being broken as one of two TC enemies next in line after Neifel. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Thanks for hosting Llamabeast!

[DonCorazon]

Just to clarify since this story seems to be getting picked up across the boards...

I was getting my *** handed to me by Everz even before the now legendary power move. I was like the Taliban going holy crap what is happening as the bombs fell from planes I couldn't even see...

So I would have likely been going AI even without the power move. Then that wiped out my last viable army so there wasn't much reason for me to continue on. Because of my own noobness / stupidity / lack of foresight (whatever you want to call it), I had developed no counters to his advanced research and legions of powerhouse fighters. Certainly nothing to prevent the power move. Lesson learned. I will definitely be focusing on SCs, artifacts, mind hunts, all that good stuff in my future games.

I didn't expect all the fall out - didn't mean to cut the game short, but didn't hear anyone strongly wishing to continue. Certainly didn't mean for Everz to retire.

I had a blast, I learned a lot, I am ready to try again.

Move along folks, nothing here to see. /threads/images/Graemlins/PointRight.gif

[Firewalker]

Yeah, a little complaint and its "huff and run" -- reminds me of the office I am forced to go to every day. It's a game guys. Please don't make it seem more like "work," if it can be helped. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

Well, as everyone else has pointed out, T'ien-chi had this one bagged up. He should have stuck around to enjoy making us all say "uncle!" -- that's what the endgame is all about, right? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

Myself, I was so pathetically behind on research (Early Ulm and took -3 magic scales -- um, yeah, not doing that again). I was just proud to have made my first golem. I just got my shiny new Forge of Ancients to make some cool stuff to give it and see if I could win a battle.

I say we come back when DC gets his new game going.

[Wokeye]

Agartha, Helheim and TNN - you guys OK with calling it a game?

[everz]

I will never accept the victory like this. Please be a little more patient. I may be able to find a sub.

As the answer to a few pms, I'm not blaming anyone. llamabeast & Ich's posts are fairly objective. DC is a sensible opponent. Sometimes his posts are tricky, but those're valid diplomatic strategy. Quite funny competing with him. (and pround to be winning against giantshttp://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif) Two crasher accidently landed on Capuchin, and they thought that I should have green skin as themselves. They had no faults. That's the way they judge people.

I leave mainly because of my own reason. There are still many strategies in my head. My motivation of playing this game is to try them out and to see how they work. Seems like many heroes will jump out and accuse my evil action. My self-respect doesn't allow me to continue this evil test any more. It's irresponsible to just drop the game in such situation. But except appologize I can not do more.

[spacht]

Yeah, it's ok. Let's end this game with everz as the winner, although i would have liked to continue, have all gang up on him and try out some late game tactics.

Things i learned:
- Never take just dom strength 4 when your neighbour might have a turmoil 3 sloth 3 death 3 heat 3 strength 10 dominion http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[duke_commando]

I'm a bit player in this game, so if the general consensus is to end it then I'll go with that.
Honestly I apologize for staling so much. Who knows, maybe if I hadn't I coulda lent my weight in challenging TC. My own research wasn't too bad before my income tanked and I had to put my mages on defensive duty.

[everz]

DryaUnda is interested to continue this game as Tien Chi. Could you give him a chance to try?

[Firewalker]

Okay --

One final vote, Yea or Nay.

Do we play on with Everz' sub or not?

[Wokeye]

I vote nay, that we should move onto a new game.

[DonCorazon]

Nay.

[spacht]

Nay