EA Game - "Strolling" Started! Fight!

[Cerlin]

Ok, I am starting the thread from the "Looking for a Newbie game" http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=d3maars&Number=594806&page =0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=&fpart=1thread. This game is for new to mid range player and we already have 8 players an 4 votes for EA. Players so far:



Cerlin - Tir na n'Og
real_friend - Agartha
Wrana - Helhiem
ossa - Vanheim
Zenphos - Maverni
Herode - Yomi
Nerildar - T'ien chi
gowb - Arcosephale
Salamander8 - R'lyeh
Kadelake - Sauromatia
Duncan_frost - Ulm
Folket - C'tis
SiyfkA - Nieflhiem
johnarryn - Abysia


Ok some Parameters we can talk over:

Number of starting provinces: 1
Strength of independents: 7
Special site frequency: 45
Money Multiple: 100
Resource multiple: 100
Supply multiple: 100
Random events common
Score graphs enabled
Hall of Fame entries: 15
Standard research
Victory Point conditions (for each players Capital)

We haven't discussed any rules yet, but how about EA, worthy heroes, the rest vanilla unless people want to propose anything. Map Is also up in the air, but I will look at some and see...unless anyone else has ideas. List your factions! People are full up. Also I was thinking Victory point victory may be best, say half the players capitals?. Ok I will add more later.

Also the most important bit of information, we are planning to host this on Llamaserver (he already offered.) So this will be a PBEM game.

Here is the FAQ for Llamaserver ways!
http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/showthreaded.php?Number=531116

Also for those of you who dont have it, Worthy heroes 1.8:
http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=560854&page=0&view=collap sed&sb=5&o=&fpart=1

[Cerlin]

Edit: Ok I think 13 is a good number, now for maps and such. Also for the last couple people to read this and pick their Nation.

[kasnavada]

Hum well I'll choose Abyssia, as I said in the other thread.

[Herode]

About victory conditions : setting it at 1/2 capitols could be tricky. Some nations have stealthy units, I've already seen and heard of unexpected end of games with stealthy armies suddenly capturing strategic points. I would say at least 1/2 capitols + 1 and keeping it >3 turns or something like that. But I'd rather vote for a victory on dominion or provinces points.

Worthy Heroes is OK for me, has it been updated to fit the last Dom patch ?

[Real_friend]

I will be for Agartha

[Cerlin]

I think that worthy heroes still works fine with the current patch even if its the same version.

And your idea is not bad herode! Maybe keeping for 3 turns or something may be best. but if more people want Dominion of provinces, let me know.

[Nerildar]

Hi,

I would like to play if the game is not already full.

I would prefer to play MA, but I have no problem with EA or LA.

I'll choose my nation when the age is decided.

I also don't have any problem with the worthy heroes mod.

[Duncan_Frost]

Hi, i'd like to join if possible.
I'd prefer either EA or LA. Ulm if EA, T'ien Chi if LA.

[Kadelake]

Hi!
I'd like to join as Sauromantia. I've played one MP game before so I'm kind of a newbie. How many games have all you others player?

[Herode]

After a short review of available nations, I'll try Yomi (and vote EA!). These demon things are odd and weird, let's see if I can get something out of them http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Salamander8]

I haven't been able to play any MP games as of late, but now that I can commit again, I'd like to join assuming you have room. I've played in a few MP games (5 or 6 of them). I don't mind any age and am open on mods and victory conditions. If we are going EA, I'd like to try R'Lyeh if it is open to try some more MP strategies as EA R'Lyeh.

[gowb]

Can I still get in? I'd like Arcosephale if possible. I like the EA a lot, so I say we go with that, but it doesn't really matter to me that much. Everything else vanilla tho. Oh and independent strength 9 is also really fun, because it makes you stop and think before expanding.

I don't have much experience though. I'm in 2 newbie MP games currently (turn 19 and 15) and I subbed for an EA Lanka game that is in the final stages. I barely know what I'm doing /threads/images/Graemlins/Panda.gif

[Nerildar]

I've decided the nations I want to play, if I can still get in:

EA - T'ien Chi
MA - Ermor
LA - Atlantis

[Cerlin]

I guesS I will cut it off here. With 13 we can play a map like Oriana or Alexander. If no one Cares especially I will pick the maps. But suggestions are always open.

[Cerlin]

Also I would like to propose we ban many of the bugs listed in the shortlist like Mist of Deception + retreat, also things like using the "patrol and move" to cheap movement.

I do not have any problem personally with things such as twice born demons and other strats that are not so huge. I dont really care about Bogus orders either.

Thoughts?

[Renojustin]

Looks like my game has been hijacked... pretty uncool.

[Real_friend]

Voting for EA, btw.

[Ossa]

I'd like to play vanhejm if sauromatia is already taken.

[zenphos]

Maverni for me please, since it seems most votes are for EA.

And Renojustin I don't think Cerlin hijacked your game, he just organised it a little. I am sure there is no spite or malice on his part just a desire to get the game up and running.

[Salamander8]

Definitely consider anything on the shortlist as bad. The copy and paste Bogus orders seems bad to me as well, but the twiceborn demon one has never been an issue for me.

[Folket]

I'd like to join as Vanheim.

I consider myself a mid range player. Some might consider me good. That is up for you to decide.

[Cerlin]

Just hijacked in the way to get it started. No malicious intent. People were just mentioning how someone should start the game and no one was, so I did. You could always keep playing and take your wrath out on me in game http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

And of course your input is always important, you just haven't been around for a couple days. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/shock.gif

[Cerlin]

and a question to the group in general, should we add to more players and make it 15? That may limit our map choices a bit but im sure we can deal.
I would be inclined to stop at the 13 we have though...thoughts?

[Folket]

If I can join I see that Vanheim is already taken. I would be happy to be playing Lanka.

[Folket]

Popular demand want me to change nation. I could pick up the banner of C'tis.

[gowb]

I'd love a 15 person game, the bigger the better imo http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Renojustin]

I've been here. I said I was organizing the game. You went ahead and pretty much stole it WITHIN 6 HOURS (gone for DAYS?! WTF??), and I came back and the nations I wanted were gone. So don't act all innocent-like, you know what you did. I've been pissed all day over it. This isn't exactly something that you do and feel good about yourself afterwards. Really great introduction to MP metagaming you've given me.

I'll remember this... I'm not usually given to drama but this is quite beyond the pale.

[gowb]

Haha wow stop being a little ***** renojustin. You got pissed ALL DAY over a GAME!? Wow. Get a life man.

[Renojustin]

If you'd bothered to read the previous thread on this game, you could see that I was pretty excited to organize and play my first MP game, as I'm sure anyone would be.

That kind of blatant flaming has no place in Dominions 3 forums or anywhere else.

[gowb]

Just organize another one man. It's not a big deal - there are plenty of people who want to play. Stop whining and do something about it.

"Blatant flaming" or just telling you idiot kids to man up. If people did that more often instead of reinforcing asinine behavior like yours the internet and America would be better places.

[Renojustin]

Hey Big Man On the Internet, some pimply little forum troll just called; he needs his stereotype back.

[gowb]

lol....what??

Seriously just start another game or negotiate with whoever took your precious nation and see if they're willing to give it up to the founder of the game. Don't be butthurt about the internet man. It isn't healthy.

[zenphos]

Hmmmm,

I can see your point Reno, about someone else kicking off your game and can understand why you would be pissed.
And I do think gowb is going overboard with his comments. But he does have a point, just start a new game thread.
Post the game name up and the era pick your race and wait for it to fill up. I will probably be one of the first to join. My other MP game has been postponed while sick people get better and sick computers get mended.

[Duncan_Frost]

gowb said:
Haha wow stop being a little ***** renojustin. You got pissed ALL DAY over a GAME!? Wow. Get a life man.



Wow, that was a mature and thoughtful response. [/sarcasm]

[Wrana]

Well, if Lanka is already taken, as I see, I'll try Helheim.
What are procedures?
And, by the way, your response to Renojustin's response was not particularly mature, either. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smirk.gif

[SiyfkA]

Hi there, I'd like to play as Niefelheim. Early age obv. Thanks

[Cerlin]

Well Renojustin, if you are so angry at me feel free to start your own thread as well, as others have suggested. I am a hundred percent sure people will just love to join it and that Llamabeast will happily host it if you are polite to him, Ive never known him to turn down a game.

I am sorry if you are personally angry at my decisiveness, it is my nature. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif No insult intended but If you would like to take it that way, that is your freedom. I personally have no ill will.

As for everyone else who asked to join, please give me some time to go over all the requests and I will get back to you about it today.

[Cerlin]

Folket and Siyfka I see no reason why you couldnt join, that should put us up too 15 and it would make it interesting!

Oh Folket you will need to pick another nation, van's are already taken!

[Renojustin]

Because of Cerlin's flippant and dismissive attitude regarding his own poor behavior even before the game begins, I have no confidence in his ability to fairly organize one.

Enjoy the game everyone, and good luck to yas!

[Wrana]

to Renojustin:
We'll just wait and see. I don't think you can shame him into abandoning this idea, but if he hosts poorly, it'll be seen, won't it?

[Folket]

Last I looked I picked C'tis.

[kasnavada]

I will quit this game too. I joined this because I wanted to fight against or with renojustin.

[johnarryn]

I would be interested in replacing Kasnavada as Abysia, if thats possible.

[Cerlin]

Oh ok thanks Folket, and that would be possible johnarryn!

[Cerlin]

Well I honestly asked for your input in this, Renojustin. Had you maybe recommended "hey guys, maybe people with first interest should get first say on nations." I would have been all for that and I'm sure others would have as well. But if you would look back, you are the one that starts taking everything personal and attacking me. I have been civil in all this, and I honestly value your input on this game. But you felt the urge to just blame and get mad at me, that is your prerogative.

In this whole process I have asked for the others players input, including yours specifically. If that consideration is flippantly ignoring you, then you may be having vision issues. I never claimed to be a master organizer, but there seems to be a want for this game and I hope to help make it as enjoyable as possible for everyone. I value all the players input, and I would like to try to make this fun. That is all.

[Cerlin]

Also on this vien, do they players have map preferences or will they leave it to me to select one? And We need more solid victory conditions if people do not want just straight up VP for capitals.

How about half the capitals for 2 turns? Or Half the provinces or something? Ideas?

[Salamander8]

I can't really help on the VP idea since all my games have been the standard game, i.e. kill all the other pretenders.

As for the map, I have yet to see a map I don't like in this game, but seeing as I am the only water nation, it should logically not have too much water.

[Revolution]

I suggest getting another water nation into the game (I'm not volunteering) but having just 1 water nation is a little unbalancing, especially if you play on one of the big premade maps with lots of water.

[Cerlin]

Well there is the map Oraina and while its a big map its not like Glory of the Gods and has little water, I think 20 provinces. We could also get a second water nation or an Agartha, mmm.

Edit: Well we have an Agartha, and in EA they easily get into water. Maybe with Oraina and Agartha it would be fine.

[Herode]

Yes, Orania is fine (and wrap around http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/egg.gif).

Having only one water nation is not a big deal : many nations have amphibian access (sacred TC, Agartha, etc...) or can gain it through magic. AMOF, I am not really obsessed with balance : a perfect balance is almost impossible, anyhow, diplomatic and random events make most things unpredictable. We just have to avoid heavy unbalancing ; with the Orania map + 1 water nation, I don't think it shall be the case. And R'lyeh EA is not a very easy nation to play http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Herode]

Maybe should we also consider scripting the start provinces since the game engine is not very proficient with that. The advantage is that any player is guaranteed to have (more or less) equal room around his capitol. The drawback is that the capitols are known (and will later have to be domed, for sure)

[zenphos]

It seems the game is up and ready to load pretenders.

[Salamander8]

And R'lyeh EA is not a very easy nation to play


I love EA R'Lyeh, but it can a real chore to get my fishy dupa on land solidly, moreso against live opponents instead of just the AI. But, I'm a tinkerer and always willing to try ideas out for the nations I really enjoy to play. Win or lose, it should be fun.

[Folket]

I can play EA Atlantis if you want me to counter some water dominance.

[Wrana]

Well, I would prefer map to be NOT wrap-around, as I think whole idea of toroidal worlds just wrong (ok, it may be fine for some really funky worlds, but not in general). It would also be fine for the map to be not damaging to eyes (i.e., not too much red & not too much psychedelic colors). Other than that, I'd trust you.

[johnarryn]

While the game is up on llamabeast's server (i.e. ready for pretenders) it seems as though ALL nations are open, which I don't think was the intention (it says 22 players max).

[Cerlin]

No its always like that. We upload our pretenders and then it hosts once we are all done. I just talked to Llamabeast and he would like us to upload our pretenders sooner than later if we can (next 48 hours) because he is going to Thailand in a couple days and it would be best if it hosts with him still here. Either way will work though..

If you can please upload soon. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Salamander8]

My pretender is done, I can E-Mail it in tonight. We still use the standard E-Mail to Llamaserver procedure correct?

[Cerlin]

Also I linked Llamaserver FAQ in the original post, just in case anyone doesnt know how to use it yet.

[Cerlin]

Yes Standard uploading, game name Strolling. There are no mods that should affect pretender creation.

[Cerlin]

Well Wrana, most people seem ok with Orania...Can you give me a good non wrap around alternative? I personally like the dynamic of wrap around. and especially for this size of a group my second option was Alexander (also a wrap.)

[Wrana]

Well, Glory of Gods or Eight Gates look fine for me, but I must admit I didn't actually test them. Alexander map I didn't see at all - can you provide link?
If map of less provinces is usable, I liked Dawn of the Dominions very much.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif
And do I understand correctly that you abandoned the idea of using Worthy Heroes mod (I'm indifferent to this one)?

[Cerlin]

Well here is the map Alexander, it is a big wraparound, but maybe too much water for our case.
http://www.shrapnelcommunity.com/threads/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=573514&page=&view=&sb=5&o =&fpart=1&vc=1

And I would like to use worthy heroes myself. It is a fun mod that rewards luck. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

And glory of the gods normal or MP? the 400 province one is a bit huge:O

[johnarryn]

I would vote for 3/4 of capitals rather than half... 1/2 seems to allow one big player to win without coming to grips with, say, the other big player(s). I'm open to 1/2, I suppose, but just a suggestion...

[Cerlin]

Ok I just ran a test on Glory of the Gods (MP) and it wasnt too crowded with 15, so that should be fine too. The problem is it does have a lot more water...but that should at least keep ryleth busy and motivate others to move into the water.

[Cerlin]

what do people think? I would not be against more %. Though maybe more like 60%-65%?

Edit: Actually thinking about it, I am in a MP game now where its half the victory points, and as long as the scales are on. people will know when someone is close, so they will gang up on him to stop him. I think less makes it much more competitive and doesnt let people get complacent to turtle.

[Wrana]

Thanks, Alexander's graphics look bit too psychedelic to me.
And if you think Glory of Gods OK, than I'm certainly for it!
As for VP - as I said I didn't play MP before, but I think that 75% capitals is certainly too much!
So WOULD Worthy Heroes be used or no??? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/confused.gif

[Cerlin]

Yes on Worthy heroes, I would say half + 1 on the vps, and glory of the gods mp is fine.

[Cerlin]

Sweet about half the people have uploaded! now for the other half http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Wrana]

Helheim uploaded. Till tomorrow..

[Kadelake]

I liked Orania. Glory of the Gods have too much water.

[Herode]

I my opinion, Glory of the gods definitely needs a second water nation. And it's not wrap around... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

[Herode]

Cerlin said:
Sweet about half the people have uploaded! now for the other half http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif


Ha, didn't see the game was opened on llamaserver http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif
I'll have to speed up my tests on Yomi pretenders http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Cerlin]

No problem! And I am personally more inclined towards Orania so if more people agree we will stick with it.

[Wrana]

Too much water for whom? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif And if you want to change nation for water one... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Salamander8]

Orania is probably much better as it does not have a lot of water compared to it's amount of land if I'm the only fish.

[Duncan_Frost]

Okay, I uploaded my pretender.

[johnarryn]

Cool.... only two more people to go.

[Folket]

Sorry, but I missed that we are playing PBEM. I usually become inactive because of the mail hassle. I prefer to leave the game.

[gowb]

Can we not do victory points and instead go with the regular victory conditions? I really hate having my capital known to everyone, as each victory point location is marked with a little crown and all you have to do is find part of that player's empire to know where his capital is.

[Nerildar]

Pretender uploaded.

I have no preference regarding victory points or not.

[Wrana]

To gowb:
Try to look at this so: you also can find another's capital. And as for "regular victory conditions" - I, for myself, just hate to clean up already beaten opponents!

[johnarryn]

Will we begin soon? Who are we waiting on?

[Cerlin]

We are waiting for C'tis and Agartha...please upload guys. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/redface.gif

[Cerlin]

And I think we are going to stick with Orania and VP's for half the capitals. I am in a game right now with both and it doesn't matter if the enemy knows where your capital is...A decent player will scout your capital anyhow.

[Herode]

Cerlin said:
We are waiting for C'tis and Agartha



Folket said:
Sorry, but I missed that we are playing PBEM. I usually become inactive because of the mail hassle. I prefer to leave the game.


No more C'tis http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Real_friend]

Oh, sorryry guys, didn' notice I'm the last one http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif. Will upload it in 2 hours.

[johnarryn]

Once Realfriend has his in, should we consider starting without whoever else is holding us up? Seems like if people haven't got their pretender in after quite some time they won't be able to keep up with a 24 hour quickhost game.

[Real_friend]

uploaded

[zenphos]

Hmmmm,

Has anyone else got their first turn file yet?

For whatever reason the game doesn't seem to have kicked off.

[Cerlin]

ok http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif Ill let Ilama know to host it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif should send out the first soon hopefully.

[llamabeast]

Okay, game is started! We have capital VPs, 7 required to win, on Orania - hope that's all correct.

You should all receive your first turn any minute. Enjoy the game!

PS I'll give Cerlin the admin password, so he's the one to ask for extensions etc..

[Herode]

Yep ! Thanks to both of you for hosting and managing the game.

And now : BANZAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/mad.gif

[Wrana]

Got it! Thanks. Now Helheim goes to scheme its dark schemes... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[johnarryn]

I note that the turn timer seems to be set to a very long interval... are we going to move to a 24-hour interval for at least the early part of the game? 48 hours seems like a long time for such simple turns.

[Wrana]

Must agree with johnarryn. But hope that all players will send their turns soon... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Kadelake]

I think it's standard to have 48h the first turn in case someone has missed that the game has started http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[johnarryn]

Well, I suppose that's ok. I'm just saying that if someone misses that email past 24 hours on the first turn, it doesn't exactly inspire confidence that they will be able to meet the 24 hour deadline in future turns. But I don't particularly care that it is set at 48 for the first turn, just wanted to make sure we would be moving to 24 hours after this turn.

[Cerlin]

I have the password and I shall switch it to 24 hours after this turn. We can keep up 24 hour turns until the turns become too long then we shall switch it to 48. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Ossa]

Is that intentional that some ppl start right next to each other? Province 208 and 228 for example?

[Kadelake]

208 isn't a starting position, the VP is just part of the map. It contains a volcano site so the player starting in 228 got lucky. He's still really close to the player starting in 180 though.

[Wrana]

And 173 and 180?

[Cerlin]

It is just map set VP's Not players capitals. Means people will need to keep an Eye on the Vp victory graph and fight the players who get too close.

[Herode]

Hmmm... Also means there are 3 additionnal VPs available at least, 3 lucky players who will have VPs for free and the Victory threshold becoming 7/17, that's a hardly more than 40%...

I'm afraid this begins to be really unbalanced and very blitz/surprise and stealthy attacks oriented.

I suggest to restart since we are only at the very beginning of the game, and whether to de-activate the additionnal VPs or to reset the VP threshold up to 9/10 (or more if more than the 3 free VP sites I saw are to be found)

[Ossa]

Considering most newbs in this game dont know how to blitz I'd rather get on playing...

[johnarryn]

Also, we should keep in mind that Llamabeast is gone till the 27th, and thus the game wouldn't be able to restart until then...

[Herode]

Wow, too long for a restart. Let's go on, then.

[Wrana]

Yeah, let's go on. Looks like we know where Vanheim is, also... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Herode]

And Abysia http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Next spot : the 173/180 couple http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Wrana]

And I don't even say about R'lyeh! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
Though THIS does less good...

[Salamander8]

Well, my home should be pretty obvious. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[Wrana]

That's why I said I'm not sayin' it! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif Got it? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Salamander8]

But by not saying you are saying it! Or something... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/stupid.gif

[Herode]

Looking at the HoF. 3 awaken gods already wandering in the wilds. Gosh, bad news for their neighbours.

And one dead hero, so young, sad fate http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/Injured.gif

[Herode]

Salamander8 said:
But by not saying you are saying it! Or something... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/stupid.gif



True. Some silences are verbose http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Herode]

Wrana said:
And I don't even say about R'lyeh! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
Though THIS does less good...


Ho hoooo, and here is another non-capitol VP province I guess : 209.
That's 4 on the count.
We REALLY will have to keep an eye on the graphs /threads/images/Graemlins/Unlocked.gif

[Wrana]

True. Some silences are verbose


Take silence of Hangadrott, for example. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif
As for hero - I was not me, honest! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif But we'll find a place for him in our Halls of Dead... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Kadelake]

It's been really quiet in here lately. How is everyone doing? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[Cerlin]

All is well on the forests of the isle of Tir na n'Og. Our mighty prophet Duirmhuid (he was made fun of in school) has been spreading the word of our Lord successfully to the heathen on the tip of our Tuatha's Golden Spears. The Tuatha have also made peaceful contact with the Van, with whom we feel we empathize politically.
We also realize that the powerful places of the world must be strictly policed. We will have our Sidhe Lord Catapults standing by....:)

[Wrana]

At the same time True Faith into mighty Pretender of Helheim spreads peacefully among nearby heathens. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif We almost do not need an army for new provinces to join our empire! At the same time we realize that there are those who don't want a peaceful coexistence and so we began a new project which would strengthen our army much. Totally for defense purposes, you understand! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[gowb]

Led by the great Argentis, Arcosephale seeks to bring enlightenment unto the people and end this dark age! Things have been going pretty well, the victory point indy armies are scary, and we haven't seen another nation yet.

[Salamander8]

The seas have been difficult, and brigands frequent, but R'Lyeh soldiers on!

[Herode]

A lot of brigands indeed.

Some heathens are in sight.
Shall I convert them to my faith, or direct them to my furnaces, that is the question... /threads/images/Graemlins/icon24.gif

[Wrana]

To gowb:
Well, WE do see you... And I mean not only my humble self... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[gowb]

Pft I posted that before I noticed you guys. I assume you're cool with the NAP-3? I never got a reply ingame, or at least haven't yet.

[Wrana]

Well, I didn't get offer ingame last turn. If I still won't get it next one.. well, this will mean that you should check whom you actually sent it.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
BTW, if it's OK to you this means scouting is OK but no spy/assassin action & no province attack spells (at least, we shouldn't get caught with it & for obvious ones recompense is due...). And you should get more sharp-eyed or you'll get the same as Niefel gets just now... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif
To Herode:
So it's you fubaring Niefelheim? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Herode]

Nope, that's not me for sure. I'm the cool guy, not that kind of hooligan http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif
Considering the graphs, I shall very well suspect Abysia.
What does Niefel says ?

[Duncan_Frost]

The great and deunindefatigueabletacular nation of mighty Ulm has won. You just haven't noticed yet.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[Wrana]

I would suspect Abissia, too, but shall wait for some confirmation... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif
To DFrost:
So, you've researched Const 2? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif And consider this will make all others do not want to crush you? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[johnarryn]

Abysia here. I have not attacked any player in the game thus far (including Niefelheim).

[Duncan_Frost]

I have researched Const 9 and forged every artifact in the game! Even the Sandals of the Crane! My victory is inevitable.

[Wrana]

Yeah-yeah. Care to sell some? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
I'll tell if I find out who is fubaring our heriditary enemies. Unless it's Vanaheim, of course... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Cerlin]

It is not the noble creatures of Tir na n'Og...we are busy clearing heathens out of the flatlands...

[gowb]

Hm it appears the noble nation of Arcosephale gets all the -heim nations confused....

[Kadelake]

It’s actually the kind and peaceful tribes of Sauromatia that’s clashed with Niefelheim. Frost giants make great desserts http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

How come no one suspected me? I thought the graphs gave me away

[Herode]

True. It must be the colour of your graph. The flashy abysian red is far more... flashy ! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/cool.gif

[Kadelake]

Mud-brown isn't a glamorous colour? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Wrana]

It certainly is! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
Well, to be honest I was too busy scouting to pay enough attention to graph study. And Abyssians certainly DID look flashy enough... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif
As for giants - well, I understand your point of view.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif You should probably look for Kailasa or Yomi after that? They are big, too... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Kadelake]

I've just recently started to fully understand how bad it is with a 7 VP victory condition and all those indy VP provinces laying around. Especially since several nations have good thugs with air magic for cloud trapeze. Many of the VP-provinces have only ordinary independents that can be easily beaten.

It's a little sad, I was looking forward to a long game. I got a good start so I think I would have managed to stay alive a long time. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif

[Cerlin]

Yeah i personally forgot how many vps they were. If we end this too fast we can always reload and start again haha.

[Herode]

Yes, Kadelake, I agree with you. That's why I asked for a reset, but it was too late... I'm afraid the 7 VP condition will be reached very soon.

I don't mind so much after all : I just play this game as a training for the next one. And a training against humans is far more fun than a training against AI. My next Yomi pretender will be THE ONE. You can start bowing right now if you please http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif

[Cerlin]

yeah for me this was mostly training too but we should all work to keep others from winning if we can. :p I know I will

[Herode]

Obviously, I need much more training. My first battle against Abysia invaders has been a sad and heavy defeat. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/Injured.gif
Keep them from winning... if you can http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Cerlin]

Im getting my paratroopers ready http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/laugh.gif haha

[Salamander8]

Heck, I don't think I'll be out of the water before it ends! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/stupid.gif

[johnarryn]

While concerned somewhat about the VP situation, I don't think it is as scary as everyone seems to think. There are alot of extra VP's out there, but if anyone gets close it seems the obvious solution is simply to castle all the VP's. It makes it much harder for a lightning win.

Without that possibility, it becomes much more difficult for one player to inexorably win... anyone who gets too strong will likely be attacked by their neighbors.

[Wrana]

To Salamander:
Well, it goes with being a water faction... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
To johnarryn:
Yes, it's possible. But you need to actually own these.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smirk.gif

[Duncan_Frost]

Oh joy, just scouted the VP province i'm about to invade and it has an Ice Devil in there... Hopefully my squishy Ulm troops can crush his hordes of ice elementals and winter wolves.

[Wrana]

To DuncanFrost:
Some others are of the same level. But you can hope that he won't summon all these... at least before you can kill himself. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Herode]

Ha, at least I won ONE battle against those damned Abysians !

Okay, okay, there was not a single Burning One in there, just poor wandering barbarians. One shall aim what it can reach, after all http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/tongue.gif

Now, I'll try the guerilla tactic. Some guys have been driven mad by thse means. Guess what will fall first : my capitol fortress, or the Rhuax morale ? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Cerlin]

I wanted to say thank you to everyone for doing their turns in a fast manner. we have had fews stalls and this is awesome. I think this is the fastest Ive ever done the early turns in a PBEM game.

[Wrana]

Probably because people are still new at this & hadn't learned an all-importance of stalling tradition? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Cerlin]

haha I hope they never do! besides nieflehiem I dont think anyone major stalled. Which makes me a happy Tuatha. :p

[gowb]

Wow, what a fun game. NOT. -Borat

Seriously though that was way too fast. Victory point conditions suck. I'll know to avoid them in the future.

[johnarryn]

Hmm... well done for Sauromatia, I suppose, although for some reason I had thought there was more leeway in the number of VP's still necessary. Obviously this whole VP thign didn't work out too well...

[johnarryn]

Llamabeast will be back fairly soon, however, so if the folks in this game want to restart with the same (or different) nations we could also do that.

[Duncan_Frost]

Can we start on a different map? Maybe that Cradle of Dominions map, I always liked that one.

[Herode]

Well done Sauro, a neat rush victory ! /threads/images/Graemlins/icon09.gif

Of course, as anticipated in the very first turns of our game, something like this had to happen due to the VP threshold. I thought that one would reach the conditions between turns 20 and 25, you were faster than my guess !

The fact is the VP threshold condition has to be carefully balanced. This game is the first VP game I played. It took me 2 tries on an Orania solo game to understand that the map contained 15 VP by itself on 14 provinces + the capitols VP (if set) + if I am not wrong, the VP set in the 'set victory screeen' with the slides at the bottopm of the screen (nbr of 1 VP province & so on...). Hence, for a standard Orania with Capitol-VP set & 10 players, we have 15 + 10 + 5 = 30 VP. The threshold must be > 15, more likely between 17 and 20 to limit rushes.

After some tries, I like the VP kind of game, provided the conditions are balanced. Enhances the strategic flavour of the moves. One just has to anticipate such rushes aas the one of Sauromatia.

Greets to Abysian warriors ! Your sacred are really tough guys, man. I'll consider this more seriouly next time I meat them http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

I'll retry Yomi soon with some updates in the pretender, this one was also my first try and not so good, but this nation is fun to play.

[zenphos]

I would play again, but with different nations, or at least I would prefer a different nation. And a different map. Cradle of dominions would also get my vote.

[Kadelake]

I apologize for ending the game so early. I figured that if I didn’t someone else would. It would have happened sooner or later and since llamabeast returns today it seemed a good time to restart the game http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

I had insane luck this game. Found a free fortress on turn two and found some other good sites like a forge-bonus one. Had Niefelheim three provinces away with low dominion and a dormant pretender. My awake dominion 10 pretender could dominion-kill him easily http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/stupid.gif
It would have been great to continue to late game. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

I'd love to restart with the same nation. The map was really fun as well, the only problem was the VPs. Is it possible to deactivate the VPs in independent provinces? Or that we simply say that the victory condition is to control half of the capitals and don't bother with VPs?

By the way, this game was kind of messed up. Does it still count as a victory for the hall of honour? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/confused.gif

[Ossa]

Gosh... I didnt notice we were about to be finished so soon... the fun didnt even start for me. I'd also like to replay, with different victory conditions though. I'd prefer a longer game.

[Real_friend]

The speed of the game was incredible ! Never had it. Amazing. Thats what I remember the most http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif From other things- its pity. Even had no chance to tae over all indep. lands around me, no wars! Not really a game for me . Next time we should be more careful with conditions.

[Salamander8]

Crazy fast! The worst part of it being over so soon is that I just found 4 sites with an acashic record in a sea province. The total for the province was 5 water, 3 death, 1 earth, and Sea Fathers available for hire!

Having brigands in my capitol twice and in my only other province once on top of my home temple going boom didn't help my expansion at all. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/stupid.gif

[johnarryn]

Any folks interested in maybe random nations next time (assuming we're going to start another)? I enjoy those games, it makes you try out new nations.

[llamabeast]

Hello again - er, oops! Man, I'm really sorry about the VP cockup, that was a bungle of epic proportions. Extremely unfortunate that I did that just before leaving, I'm sorry to have left you all with a curious and brief game.

I'd be more than happy to host again if you'd like a rematch - and this time I will get the VPs right!

[llamabeast]

Oh, and to clarify - yes, it is possible to deactivate the VPs in independent provinces, and that's what I intended, but apparently failed to do.

[Cerlin]

Im sorry about that too! >< We can totally restart...I would like that too. It is my fault for picking a bad map. Random nations may be fun, but glory of the gods may be good. Thoughts?

[Wrana]

Congratulations, Kadelake! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif
BTW - had you good scales or not? You used mainly cavalry rush, aren't you?
And thanks for a sporting reply, Marverny. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif I accosted you, firstly, because in was on your border where my army got 2 identical "bad star" events! Which, together with you not responding to earlier offer of peace, made quite clear impression.. And it was time for some war any way! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif
To all:
Yes, it should have been either no capitals as VPs, or no other VPs. Otherwise, VP condition is great fun! Map VPs occurring together with great magic sites are probably better, but capitals already have good sites...
And yes, I like Cradle of Dominions so vote for it too.
As for nation - I'd prefer the same, but probably with different Pretender (I made 4 before this game... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif )
So - Back to Strolling 2! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/biggrin.gif

[Kadelake]

I had decent scales, order 3 and sloth 1. Used cavalry, archers and awake pretender. The pretender helped a lot in this short game. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

I'd like to play as Sauromatia again. This was my first time and I think I'm starting to learn some things about them. A VP game sounds good as long as it works as intended. I actually really liked the map but if you want to change I don't have much against it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[Duncan_Frost]

I didn't really like playing as Ulm. Hmm.. Can I be Agartha, please?

[Salamander8]

I'm fine keeping R'Lyeh myself, although I'm not totally against picking again, I'm not a fan of pure random since some nations just don't appeal to me. I just checked my E-Mail and it's warning me to send my turn in in 6 hours even though we are done. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[llamabeast]

fixt http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

[zenphos]

Well if Duncan switches to Agartha I would happily take the spot of Ulm.

[Kadelake]

Cerlin, can you start a new thread and organize the new game? I'm raring to go http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[Wrana]

Or just continue here. I've come to rather like it... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[johnarryn]

I see a new "strolling" game is awaiting pretenders at the llamaserver. Should we be sending our pretenders in?

[llamabeast]

No, sorry, that was a mistake - I got the name confused with Fracture (which is also restarting). However, I'm happy to set up a new Strolling as soon as Cerlin gives me the go-ahead.

[Cerlin]

Oh sure sorry Llama and everyone! I have been ill for the last 3 days! but getting better now. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/happy.gif

Sure start it up! I am totally fine with people switching just PM me a let me know so I can update the top thread for diplomacy and such.

[llamabeast]

Okay, Strolling is now accepting pretenders once more.

[Salamander8]

Ok. I'll send my pretender sometime tonight then.

[Kadelake]

I've uploaded my pretender. Playing Sauromatia again http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[Duncan_Frost]

Sorry guys, I won't be able to join this game. Going on holiday on Monday.

[Herode]

OK, I'll give some thoughts on my new Yomi pretender and upload it asap !

[johnarryn]

Anybody else going to send their pretenders in? We only have 4 thus far.

[Herode]

I'm still working on mine since so many pretenders lack.

We should check who wants to play Strolling2 exactly, because not all of us posted here after the anticipated end of the game. So we could know if it's worth waiting for more people or of we just have to move to another game.

Then : who, amongst those having not sent their pretenders ? and what nation ?

1 - me / Yomi

[Wrana]

I'll send Pretender as soon as I'm content with him/her. For now I'm not.. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/frown.gif Also, still Helheim. And when all others are ready, I'll send the one which least disconcerns me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[Cerlin]

Hello All!
I know the relaunch is a bit slow, Im sorry I have not participated more! I was positing because I wanted to see if anyone else of you wanted to Admin this next game. I will be moving to Japan in a week and a half and I may not be able to do my turns in a timely manner for a while. All my other games but one have summed themselves up so It would be better if you had someone who was active to be in the game and update the stuff. Any one of you interested? It is not hard, Llamaservers are pretty easy, you just need to keep an eye on people and give extensions if needed and such.

[johnarryn]

I don't mind being the admin.

[Kadelake]

Good http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/smile.gif
Do you think we should start a new thread so that new players can find the game?

[Cerlin]

Thanks Johnarryn! A new thread is ok if you all want it to recruit some new people! Also Ask Llama for the new admin password once it starts! I hope you all have fun and I wish I could keep playing.

[Herode]

Pretender sent for Yomi. Of course, I could drive many more tests and so on but MP is a far more effective than solo games to test a pretender ;o)

[Wrana]

Helheim is sent. Probably would work OK. Human rainbow would probably be better, but I just can't see Vans worshipping an upstart human... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/wink.gif

[johnarryn]

Ok, so we've got about 7 so far, and i'm going to assume that everyone who wanted to play from the last game has sent in a pretender. Should I look for, say, 3 more players?

[Wrana]

Probably, the map is big enough.. On the other hand, I personally wouldn't probably be present after the end of May & would need a sub for about 2 weeks at the time - so it'd be better if it started earlier...

[johnarryn]

Actually, we have 8. So i'm going to look for two more, and then we will begin. Shouldn't take too long.

[johnarryn]

I've started a new post for the next game.