Are you tough enough to be the "King of the Hill"? [Archive] - Page 3

geoschmo

March 13th, 2003, 05:34 AM

Well, what I had in mind was something a lot more simple then any kind of point calculation. The ladder in it's simplest form is as I stated below: you move up the ladder by beating people above you on the ladder. Losing to someone below you on the ladder does not affect your ranking, unless you lose to the person immedietly below you on the ladder. In that case you swap places so you only move down one spot.

How you move down that ladder is by being displaced by people beating others above you in the ranking and "leap frogging" over you. Or by being idle. Players that are idle for extended periods (No reports of winss or losses) get bumped down for inactivity. In most ladders that is within a few days. For an SEIV ladder that would need to be longer obviously.

I was not thinking of getting rid of two man games. What I was trying to come up with is a league that would permit 2 player or larger games, and allow for one ranking. This way everybody should be happy.

Those that play more would be more active on the ladder and might be higher on the ladder if they win, but I don't see that as a problem. And you can't move up unless you win anyway.

Most ladders are for 2 player games, but this could work for multiple player games by a couple modifications. These ideas were used in a Civ2 ladder and they seem to work well. In a game with more than two players, as a person is knocked out of the game they would report a loss to each player still alive in the game. So for a twenty player game if you ended up being in the middle of the pack you'd have something like ten wins and ten losses. Your eventual place in the ladder would depend on your ranking and the ranking of the other players involved at he time each loss is reported. This would occur each time someone left the game. So actually a player in a big game wouldn't neccesarily be any less active then those playing 2 man games, since people would be getting knocked out all during the game. You don't wait till the end to report losses, they get done right away.

You could have team games. In a team game each member of each team would report a loss to each member of the other teams.

Also you might think since you can't move up by beating players below you there is no incentive to play them. But this isn't correct. Keep in mind you don't report till the end, and the other person could be ahead of you by the time the game ends. Also you have to be active to keep your ranking. You have to play someone.

Getting someone else to help with the league does not fix the problem of being tedious. It just means someone else has to deal with it. It's not a long term solution. Automating the league is a long term solution. Myleauge.com isn't the only way to automate it to be sure, but it's one way. THe main concern I could see is taht you have to register with their site and you might get some more spam. Does anyone think that would be a big enough problem that they would not want to be part of it?

Geoschmo

Cheeze

March 13th, 2003, 09:50 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
And do not think Gecko will fall for your ploy... If your drones do not hit... You will use the "Poison his people with high sodium, fat, and cholesterol" Intel Project! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif Actually, I was thinking more of a "Afflict the population with massive tooth decay" Intel Project. That should not only reduce their fighting abilities, but also drive them straight into Unhappiness and Anger...along with outright Melancholy. They might even become Lugubrious.

How about King Haku? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Asmala

March 13th, 2003, 10:47 AM

Originally posted by Slynky:
I always liked those statistics and rankings.I like also much those statistics, too bad they need so much work. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

Originally posted by Slynky:
Not that I presume to know what the PBW crowd wants, but if I had to take a guess a what a lot of people might like, it's a way to see where they rate against a lot of other players. Bragging rights (or else crawl in a hole from embarrassment... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )I don't know what others think but at least I think exactly the way you guessed.

I think KOTH should be stay in two player games, this is the only place I have played two player games and I have liked them much. If someone doesn't like two player games he can participate other tournaments or games.

Nodachi

March 13th, 2003, 12:52 PM

First off, I agree with DavidG almost completely (I still love multiplayer games too http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif ).

Geo, I can see where this can be tedious for you since you have to set up the games (especially with jerks like me http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif wanting special settings each time) and keep track of wins and losses. Would the new set-up allow players to create games for themselves and just register it as an official game? It seems to me that the more this can be automated the better because you already give so much of your time and effort to this community.

Stone Mill

March 13th, 2003, 01:10 PM

Originally posted by Cheeze:
Actually, I was thinking more of a "Afflict the population with massive tooth decay" Intel Project. That should not only reduce their fighting abilities, but also drive them straight into Unhappiness and Anger...along with outright Melancholy. They might even become .

How about King Haku?

Sir, you are obviously baiting me. Don't be so smug as to think I am not on to you. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

Lugubrious, what my sista got to do wit dis? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

And no, King Haku will not be allowed either. Although getting +50 kamakaze (head butt) would not hurt.
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

[ March 13, 2003, 11:11: Message edited by: Stone Mill ]

geoschmo

March 13th, 2003, 04:00 PM

Ok, here's what I am gonna do. KOTH is gonna stay KOTH. Although I want to try and get someone that can do me some programming. I have some ideas that I don't think will be too complicated, but what do I know. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But I like the ladder idea enough that I am gonna set it up as well. We'll have two leagues. If you want you can be in both, and your KOTH games can even count as ladder games if both of you are in the ladder. The ladder will allow two player or more games.

The ladder will start in a week or so when I get some things finalized on it.

Geoschmo

geoschmo

March 13th, 2003, 07:20 PM

Another symptom of the PBW problems is it doesn't work right when I assign players. I need you to join the regular way. I have emailed several of you aboout your new games if your email on PBW is correct. If you didn't get an email but are expecting a new match soon, check the koth page and follow the link to your game from there.

Geoschmo

Ragnarok

March 13th, 2003, 11:13 PM

Geo, you can move Zarix up a level and move me back to the bottom. He beat me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
Intel sucks! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif I failed to get intel facs researched for defense and Zarix beat me like that. I couldn't keep planets populated and thus I lost resources and he kept taking ships and damaging them and so forth. If it wasn't for this I clearly had the advantage in ship to ship battle. But ships don't do any good when you can move due to damage or can't afford to keep them active. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Good game Zarix!

Oh and get this. The turn I surrendered the rest of my empire one of my Last remaining planets rebelled and started their own little empire. And then next turn they offered me a treaty. How ironic is that?! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Slynky

March 14th, 2003, 12:53 AM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:
Oh and get this. The turn I surrendered the rest of my empire one of my Last remaining planets rebelled and started their own little empire. And then next turn they offered me a treaty. How ironic is that?! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif LOL...sorry. But that's just too funny. Sucks, though. Kinda like playing your first game and finding a frigate on your "doorstep" on the 4th turn. THAT sucks, too.

tesco samoa

March 14th, 2003, 01:57 AM

cool koth is staying...

GEO If you need help setting up games... I can do that...

Then the victor can email David G with the results so they get added to the stats sheet...

And the Winner can also email you stating they have won.......

Hell you can even get some one else to keep the level sheet updated ...

geoschmo

March 14th, 2003, 02:37 AM

Let me say, my biggest concern is not the time it takes to manage KOTH. That's an issue, but it's not overwhelming or anything. The biggest thing is I would like the league to be bigger, and the only way I see that happening is to make it more flexible. Again I don't want to get rid of 2 player games. And if anybody wants to only play 2 player games they would be more than welcome to in a ladder format. But players could also play larger games if they wanted. It would be up to them.

No, I would not need to officiate the games. Players could simply state at the begining that it will be a ladder game. Technically I suppose you could even have a ladder game where not everybody in it is a ladder member. In that case you'd only report losses to ladder players. If you had a 20 player game and only ten were ladder player for example, if you were the first person knocked out you'd only report nine losses, to the other ladder members in the game. This would have to be codified, I am just suggesting it as a posibility.

Geoschmo

[ March 13, 2003, 13:15: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

Zarix

March 14th, 2003, 09:03 AM

Ragnarok, I think you played pretty well. You just shouldn't use colony ships to transport population in border systems. When I stole one of them I got your colonizing tech. The planet rebelled because I was testing Puppet Political Parties.

Asmala

March 14th, 2003, 10:32 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Ok, here's what I am gonna do. KOTH is gonna stay KOTH. Although I want to try and get someone that can do me some programming. It's great that KOTH is going to stay KOTH, especially because I have now the possibility to become to the King. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Though my game against Stone Mill hasn't started well, I have found only one medium and one small breathable planet.

I can do some programming if nobody else has offered. I can't do anything very complicated so if here is someone more experienced it would be nice.

geoschmo

March 14th, 2003, 05:46 PM

DavidG and I are talking about a program to automate the updating of the koth page. At some point down the road I'll probably also get back to where I just tell you who you are playing and you guys either get an owner or one of you does it and then you tell me who won. But for right now no changes.

Geoschmo

Ragnarok

March 14th, 2003, 05:49 PM

Originally posted by Zarix:
Ragnarok, I think you played pretty well. You just shouldn't use colony ships to transport population in border systems. When I stole one of them I got your colonizing tech. The planet rebelled because I was testing Puppet Political Parties.Yeah I know I shouldn't have. But I had those ships on their way to colonize some planets spread around and then you hit me with the food contamination. It hit a couple key planets that I needed population on in order to support my empire. I didn't have a transport ship up there so I would've had to build one, and then send it up. It would've taken at least 7 turns to do all that. Which I didn't have time for. So I was forced to use my colony ships to keep population on them. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif So if it wasn't for you and you're stupid intel I could've won. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif j/k

Slynky

March 14th, 2003, 06:06 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
I just tell you who you are playing and you guys either get an owner or one of you does it and then you tell me who won.
GeoschmoI understand you being over-worked. (But I sure like the idea of not having to worry if my opponent knows the map or not)

geoschmo

March 14th, 2003, 06:19 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by geoschmo:
I just tell you who you are playing and you guys either get an owner or one of you does it and then you tell me who won.
GeoschmoI understand you being over-worked. (But I sure like the idea of not having to worry if my opponent knows the map or not)<hr /></blockquote>That's a valid concern.

Gandalph

March 14th, 2003, 08:54 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Slynky:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by geoschmo:
I just tell you who you are playing and you guys either get an owner or one of you does it and then you tell me who won.
GeoschmoI understand you being over-worked. (But I sure like the idea of not having to worry if my opponent knows the map or not)<hr /></blockquote>That's a valid concern.<hr /></blockquote>To that end, we could have a nuetral party set up the game. I would be willing to act as a KOTH setup admin, but we would need more than one so I don't end up setting up my own games.

Zarix

March 14th, 2003, 09:39 PM

I could also setup games for other people.

Ragnarok

March 14th, 2003, 09:51 PM

I'm willing to host games as well.

Thermodyne

March 15th, 2003, 05:06 AM

Well the game with Nodachi is moving along.

A large fleet of ships from the evil Nodachi Empire Forced its way past a small group of Thermolian customs frigates, and then after a brief pause, proceeded to attack a small planet populated by kind, good hearted Thermolians. The local population was forced to endure the attack in terror, possessing no offensive weapons of their own. Only the hard work of their unions kept the evil Nodachian�s at bay.

Now the small peaceful Thermolian Empire has managed to scrape together a few war ships and will try to turn back the next wave of the Nodachian hordes at the border. And while the evil Nodachian barbarians prepare for all out war, the peaceful Thermolians place their trust in a few good men, who hold the fate of the empire in their few small ships. Although hopelessly out gunned, the Thermolian fleet will try to deny the Nodachian�s any further incursions into the lands of the good peace loving Thermolians.

Slynky

March 15th, 2003, 05:28 AM

Oooh, Thermo, I have read a lot of your epics in the looong KOTH thread. Nice to see reports of how things are going. Some color, as it were.

NOW, in my game (do I hear yawning?), my poor peacful farmers, who had just recently discoverd space travel, built a few colony ships to explore the nearby planets when, suddenly, warships from an unknown species warped into their home system. Knowing they had not mastered the ability to build thier own warships, they worked overtime (read: EB...LOL) to build defensive platforms to try to ward off the potential enemy. After a few months, preparations were made and ships launched and the evil aggressors departed their home system.

Years passed and minor skirmishes ensued as each race tried to eek out a colony in the same system. Mines exploding, baited traps, and surprised by a development called "fighters", our empire plodded forward.

Fronts were being established and research carried out at frenzied paces.

It has turned into an interesting game and a few turns I even found myself in 1st place (only God knows how).

primitive

March 15th, 2003, 11:31 AM

Refugees of the once proud Nindra Nation, driven almost to extinction by the forces of the "Evil Eye", had found a safe heaven in a new galaxy far far away. Or so they thought.

Their first ship, the unarmed scout escort "peace in our time", met with another race, the bloodthirsty Thritians only a couple of months (turn 4) after its completion. Seeing the Thritians already posessed superior shipbuilding technology (frigates), the valiant defenders of peace retreated to their home system.

Realising that the Thritians was a warlike race (20/20 berzerker), and unlikely to disarm themself, the "counil of peace" decided the only way the Nindra coud regain their innocence was by exterminating the bastards (That this also would make the Nindras penises feel much larger, was not part of the equation).

Resources was scarse, and research of new technology was prioritzed, so when the minions of evil popped into the Nindra homesystem, the only defences was a fleet of 15 mostly empty escortsize vessels (LOL http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif ). 4 or 5 of the fiendish frigates would have blown this fleet to kingdom come, but the cowardly forces retreated without a fight.

Now the Nindras are widespread in the galaxy, their technology is great, and resources abundant. The time of retribution have finally come. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Thermodyne

March 15th, 2003, 05:53 PM

The Thermolian Empire has at great expense and sacrifice, gathered together a small flotilla of ships and sent a peace expedition into Nodachian space. We are about to make a diplomatic port call and ask for permission to visit one of the Nodachian home worlds. We see no reason why we can not live in peace once the Nodachians have vacated Thermolian space. We see that the Nodachians have gathered a large Invasion fleet around this world, so we can only hope that they will be willing to parlay.

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif
(Big fight on the card for next turn. The underdog peaceful Thermolians against the technologically superior Evil Nodachians )

Stone Mill

March 15th, 2003, 06:53 PM

I love reading the updates. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

In another quadrant, King Stone Mill of the Mercador empire has heard little from his 1st expeditionary force. A full year has passed and still no sign of Asmala's notorious Black Hole Riders.

The new colonies have been warned: the Riders will come one day with extreme predjudice.

Slynky

March 15th, 2003, 07:04 PM

With a stalemate on the forward battlelines, the Trithian empire (such as it is) sought other systems and planets to expand to in the unknown universe...only to find the dreaded Nindra had been sucking up ALL the planets.

It has become obvious that the Nidra spread like a disease and need to be quarrantined.

A pathetic plea for help in this endeavor has gone unanswered. It appears we are alone in the universe. Perhaps treachery is the answer!

Slynky

March 15th, 2003, 07:09 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
In another quadrant, King Stone Mill of the Mercador empire has heard little from his 1st expeditionary force. A full year has passed and still no sign of Asmala's notorious Black Hole Riders.

The new colonies have been warned: the Riders will come one day with extreme predjudice.Yes, you can be sure of that, Stone. He's a scrappy kid with lots of moxi! I wish I was a fly on the "wall" of that game.

Slynky

March 16th, 2003, 01:05 AM

Sadly, it is imperative that I report the demise of the Trithian empire. At turn 61, they have succombed to the Primitive rulership of the Nindra.

The Last living souls will be absorbed into the Nindra society. While the ability to live is appealing to them, they have yet to learn that their captors have bigger penises (see earlier post... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif )

Good game, Primitive! I learned some lessons and am going home with spank marks on my ***!

Cheers!

Nodachi

March 16th, 2003, 02:14 AM

The undead forces of the Thermolians have begun yet another incursion into Nodachian space. How can a creator who values all life allow such an abomination to exist?
This time the creatures from the netherworld have slaughtered a peaceful farming colony full of senior citizens and children. It seems that the evil overlord Thermodyne shall eat well tonight.
Through great tears of anguish the noble Nodachi awaits the next attack.

primitive

March 16th, 2003, 03:23 AM

The primitive one dances his victorydance. Dancelovers everywhere turn away in disgust, cause it's not a pretty sight to behold.

The slynky one had put up a good fight but to no awail. Mines and WPs did not stand a chance against brute force (outproduced him).

He raises his eyes to the top of the hill. There is a new (very bad) Elvis impersonator there now, but the crown is still the same. Still nice and shiny. Primitive wants that crown, he wants that crown real bad. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Slynky:
Thanx for a great game. 60 turns in 3 days http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Slynky

March 16th, 2003, 03:43 AM

Yeah, Primitive, I agree. No way Elvis should be wearing a crown... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

However, I still have my bets on "Calvin and Hobbs".

Thermodyne

March 16th, 2003, 04:02 AM

The evil Nodachians have met the Thermolian peace ships with treachery and deceit. So we will now withdraw to our space and await the inevitable attack that is soon to come. We are far too small and weak to stand long against their might, but we will fight with honor. We fear them not, for we know that one day they will be Thermolian, they just aren�t quite ripe yet http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

geoschmo

March 16th, 2003, 04:38 AM

This Nodachi/Thermodyne war is something. To hear them tell it the other guy is always the attacker and they've both lost all their battles. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Nodachi

March 16th, 2003, 01:06 PM

The patched-together merchant marine fleet entered the system too late. The foul Thermolians had already captured all of the Nodachian children and laid waste to the unarmed planet's peaceful farms and were heading back into the systems stolen from the Nodachians with their bounty.

How can the noble Nodachians stand against a foe that regards children as a food source?

Thermodyne

March 16th, 2003, 04:33 PM

As the evil Nodachians were in the act of ambushing the Peace Flotilla, Thermodyne was convinced to return from retirement. As he saw the Nodachians chasing after the remains of the Peace ships, he planed a hasty defense. As the evil Nodachians entered the Thermolian frontier system, they were attacked with a fury born of desperation. The Nodachian fleet was forged from better technology, but the Thermolian crews held a much firmer resolve. In the end, the slaughter was total. Not a single Nodachian escaped, all are now Thermolian. Many speeches were made about the victory, but all carried the same theme, never again would the Thermolians allow the Nodachians to threaten Thermolian space, and the invaders would be forced to leave Thermolain claimed space. The Thermolians were a peaceful race of artisans these days, but they still knew how to use the boot!

That has to be the longest gambit I ever ran in an SE4 game. I thought Nod�s would never try to force that warp point where I had the ambush set.

Nodachi

March 16th, 2003, 05:14 PM

The brave merchant captains were determined to rescue the children stolen by the Hell-spawned Thermolians. Blinded by their cause they passed through the warp point and were promptly set upon by a great hoard of Thermolian ships. Outnumbered one-hundred to one they fought bravely but could not overcome the long odds.

With her merchant fleet gone how long can the Nodachian Empire hold out against this ravenous host?

Thermo, this has been an extremely fun game so far. I can't wait to see what happens next! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Thermodyne

March 16th, 2003, 05:43 PM

As Thermodyne directed his tiny fleet back into disputed space, he wondered how the Nodachians would receive them this time. Across the Empire, slogans had started popping up, painted on barns and blank walls. �Give Them Liberty or Give Them Death� was the most popular one by far.

Stone Mill

March 17th, 2003, 05:47 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
Yes, you can be sure of that, Stone. He's a scrappy kid with lots of moxi! I wish I was a fly on the "wall" of that game I'm finding that out... The Black Hole riders have pulled two surprises out early, technology-wise.

The colonists and transports in this game have turned out to be fightin' support units. So funny how our first waves of colonizers are bashing into each other... I can imagine the look on the passenger's faces! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Asmala's empire means the Mercator people harm for sure, he has torched two new deep space colonies, and we're trying to scrap together some defensive surprises of our own...

geoschmo

March 17th, 2003, 06:12 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
The colonists and transports in this game have turned out to be fightin' support units. So funny how our first waves of colonizers are bashing into each other... I can imagine the look on the passenger's faces! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif
Yes, I've had suprises like that myself recently. Like Primitive's wild-eyed colony ship captains turning kamikazee when attacked by my frigates. It's quite a shock when your current top-of-the-line warship loses a battle to an unarmed vessel.

Kind of makes me wonder how different history would have been had the Captain of the Lusitania chosen to ram that U-Boat.... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Geoschmo

Asmala

March 17th, 2003, 09:05 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
Asmala's empire means the Mercator people harm for sure, he has torched two new deep space colonies, and we're trying to scrap together some defensive surprises of our own...I'm sure you will express some nasty surprises.

I have noticed that the number of different planets vary much. In my previous game against Primitive I had in my home system plus in adjacent systems seven huge breathables! Too bad they were gas giants and I have rock colonization tech http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif And now in my game againt Stone Mill I have found very few and very small breathables. I hope Stone Mill hasn't found more breathables than me or else I would be in big problems http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

geoschmo

March 18th, 2003, 12:01 AM

Thanks to DavidG and his awesome programming skills I have a new application to streamline the administration of the Koth league and automatically generate the web page. Hopefully this means I will do a better job of keeping up with it in the future. Check out the web site now for the first update generated by it. You should notice, the W-L standings are back. WOO HOO! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

Slynky

March 18th, 2003, 12:20 AM

WOW! That was fast!

Took me a moment to figure out the sort, but it's by wins. Definitely some frigid legumes there!

(now, perhaps I can get slated for another ***-whooping http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif )

Ragnarok

March 18th, 2003, 12:46 AM

Sweetness! DavidG got that done fast. He is one hello of a programmer to get it done that soon. Well, in my book he is. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

primitive

March 18th, 2003, 12:55 AM

Great page.
Kudos to Geo and DavidG

So, in his quest to become King, Primitive must first face the one who calls himself EMPerror.
Hmm, Wonder if he has a crown as nice and shiny as the King's ? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Thermodyne

March 18th, 2003, 12:57 AM

The Thermolian people were jubilant today! Two home worlds and billions of evil Nodachians had been liberated. No longer were they being forced to live the cruel evil lives of Nodachian culture. Now they were free! The terrible bonds had been thrust aside by the Thermolian liberation ships.

Two down, one to go http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Zarix

March 18th, 2003, 03:42 PM

Geo, there is an old game in the hill. The Quikngruvn vs Zarix game at the bottom of the hill has been finished a long time ago. The RexTorres vs Zarix game game at the top of the hill is correct.

DavidG

March 18th, 2003, 04:35 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
WOW! That was fast!

Took me a moment to figure out the sort, but it's by wins.and secondly by least number of losses. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif
thanks for the comments Rags and Primitive. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geckomlis

March 18th, 2003, 05:27 PM

Cheeze:
To continue against an insurmountable foe such as you would be folly. We surrender to the United Floral Empire. Excellent game! Sorry to deny you your "Sherman's March" moment, but my position is unrecoverable at this point. I am surprised I Lasted as long as I did after some of the mistakes I made. I hope I at least gave you some tense moments, if nothing else. May your rise up the Hill be sure and swift, because if it is not I will be stalking you again here in the KOTH basement.

Any high points you would like to share with our fellow KOTH players?

Gecko

Stone Mill

March 18th, 2003, 09:57 PM

DavidG, nice work! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Asmala is proving to be most annoying. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Of late, he is apparently trying to correct his lack of breathable worlds... by hijacking Mercator citizens (and just barely, too). He is certainly playing a game I did not expect, getting through my weak first line pretty well with annoyances right now.

Hmmm, methinks the King should not relax so much and pay more attention to detail...

Asmala

March 18th, 2003, 10:27 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
DavidG, nice work! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Asmala is proving to be most annoying. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Of late, he is apparently trying to correct his lack of breathable worlds... by hijacking Mercator citizens (and just barely, too). He is certainly playing a game I did not expect, getting through my weak first line pretty well with annoyances right now.

Hmmm, methinks the King should not relax so much and pay more attention to detail...Hijacking people... I haven't hijacked any of your people but I have liberated a few millions http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif At the moment they are celebrating they new liberty and freedom.

Now I can use oxygen planets as breathables and that will balance things. I have seen only two of your systems, but even in those systems you had more breathables that I have found in the my side of galaxy!

I haven't seen much of your ships, and now at the beginning of the every turn I look nervously at your systems if there are approaching a whole bunch of ships.

Stone Mill

March 18th, 2003, 11:43 PM

Originally quoted by Asmala:
Now I can use oxygen planets as breathables and that will balance things. Well, if you can get away with them... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Cheeze

March 19th, 2003, 08:35 AM

Gecko,

Thank you for an excellent game! Whatever mistakes you made, I am sure were equaled by some of my own. This was a very fun and close game.

We started about 2 systems apart, and Gecko's Space Sharks found me around turn 6 or 7. At that point I attempted to colonize in the neighboring system, which had one of the only carbon dioxide planets (my atmosphere) I found for quite some distance around. Gecko threw me out of that system. He was savvy enough to focus on missile technology, since he noticed my defensive advantage and took advantage of his movement bonus. I countered this by going for Drones, and they served their purpose well. On at least 2 occasions Gecko was in my home system and struck at my homeworld once. In an critical moment, my drones attacked his 19-ship fleet (which had just annihilated my fleet at about the same size) and heavily damaged one of his sweepers...enough to leave this fleet vulnerable to my mines, and then lacking much point-defense my fighters picked apart the remainder of his ships.

By this point, I had put together a small fleet in another system, with a troop transport. I had explored much of the galaxy and found few CO2 planets (particularly with any mineral production), but quite a few hydrogen planets. So I snuck in from a surprise direction and liberated one of his planets and shuttled that population back to my systems. They were just beginning to boost my resource and intel production, although I never had time to use the latter.

With both of us having gas giant colonization, the game hinged on my having superior position to move unhindered through the rest of the galaxy. Gecko had more planets available for exploitation earlier in the game. However, had he pushed further in the south, he would have found 5 hydrogen planet for his use. Otherwise, focusing his attack on my home system did prevent me from really moving in other directions, since I had to defend my homeworld. Had our positions relative to the galaxy been more equal, or had more hydrogen planets been within his reach, this game would have gone longer.

I can't wait until I have another match. It was fun playing an opponent who chose a more unique race design. Knowing he needed no spaceports was a great concern of mine.

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif I do deny the Sherman's March comment. I destroyed one colony the entire game, and that was early. I was moving to capture planets rather than glass them and that not only helped, but made for a more on edge game.

Asmala

March 19th, 2003, 09:32 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
<blockquote>quote:<hr /> Originally quoted by Asmala:
Now I can use oxygen planets as breathables and that will balance things. Well, if you can get away with them... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif <hr /></blockquote>Of course I can. How do you think you can prevent me? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Geckomlis

March 20th, 2003, 06:45 AM

In an critical moment, my drones attacked his 19-ship fleet (which had just annihilated my fleet at about the same size) and heavily damaged one of his sweepers...enough to leave this fleet vulnerable to my mines, and then lacking much point-defense my fighters picked apart the remainder of his ships. From my perspective, your drone kill on that single mine sweeper won you the game. I should have backed off and regrouped at that point, but I took a chance that you might have skimped on mines to build that fleet I had just scragged. I attempted to perform scorched earth against your homeworld, and promptly lost 12 ships to mines. A high risk, high gain move that failed catastrophically for me. Sometimes lust and greed kills. The game definitely rocked, cradle to grave, for me.

Slynky

March 20th, 2003, 07:23 AM

Originally posted by geckomlis:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />In an critical moment, my drones attacked his 19-ship fleet (which had just annihilated my fleet at about the same size) and heavily damaged one of his sweepers...enough to leave this fleet vulnerable to my mines, and then lacking much point-defense my fighters picked apart the remainder of his ships. From my perspective, your drone kill on that single mine sweeper won you the game. I should have backed off and regrouped at that point, but I took a chance that you might have skimped on mines to build that fleet I had just scragged. I attempted to perform scorched earth against your homeworld, and promptly lost 12 ships to mines. A high risk, high gain move that failed catastrophically for me. Sometimes lust and greed kills. The game definitely rocked, cradle to grave, for me.<hr /></blockquote>Really an interesting assessment. And a discussion of just what goes through minds when comptemplating what to do next. Somewhat like the chess games I used to play (when I played competition).

I find it interesting. I wonder if the pace of the game (sometimes, slower than what we want) and the rush to the crest of the hill sway our judgement. One thinks, "If I do this, this could be my win!", instead of, "OK, I've got position on him...pull in a few more ships, quard this point, feint here, and in 10 more turns or so, I should be able to do...". You get my meaning.

Cheeze

March 20th, 2003, 08:30 AM

Originally posted by geckomlis:
From my perspective, your drone kill on that single mine sweeper won you the game. I should have backed off and regrouped at that point, but I took a chance that you might have skimped on mines to build that fleet I had just scragged. I attempted to perform scorched earth against your homeworld, and promptly lost 12 ships to mines. A high risk, high gain move that failed catastrophically for me. Sometimes lust and greed kills. The game definitely rocked, cradle to grave, for me.Consider that I thought I had lost the game when I sent my fleet against yours. I realized after I submitted the turn that I hadn't sufficiently determined how under-equipped my ships were to facing yours. That, and some idiotic manuevers in the battle left me virtually defenseless. I figured I should have kept my fleet over my homeworld. All I had left were 2 drones, a pretty good contingent of fighters, and several capable weapons platforms.

In that regard, I was fortunate my drones didn't so heavily damage that sweeper that it couldn't move at all. Stopping that fleet before it hit the minefield could have been devastating for me!!!

Rollo

March 21st, 2003, 12:23 AM

Geoschmo,
I concede the game against Pablo. I have obstructed his way up far too long by not sending turns.
Please also remove me from the KOTH participents.

Rollo

Slynky

March 21st, 2003, 03:19 PM

Originally posted by Thermodyne:
So we take this opportunity to ask that the Nodachian people revolt against their leaders. Throw off the chains of the evil empire and know the joy of being Thermolian. Spare yourselves the pain and suffering of another hopeless battle.
This sounds vaguely familiar. Hmmmm, where HAVE I heard this approach before....?

Thermodyne

March 21st, 2003, 03:24 PM

Hey, what can I say? It was too good to pass up on, and the situation is similar. Nod�s needs to use his WMD or the war is lost to him. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Stone Mill

March 21st, 2003, 06:34 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:

I'm still wanting to hear if Asmala (who I have my money on) got those "kidnapped" population out of the system. Last I heard, Stone was hinting at their impending death.

Hey, after all, guys, this game is for the hill.
Well, I did not have enough to stop him in the short term. That will be a cramp. Kudos to Asmala on that move... Right now it is still pretty even.

The Black hole riders pushed themselves into our border systems and made a general nusiance of themselves. No planets were lost; but I had to sacrifice a few ships...
I was finally able to capture one of his carriers, which will result in some nice free tech.
Short term balance swinging in his favor. But I'm used to that. Patience is a virtue. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

This is a fun game... it's been a long while since I had to combat someone using Asmala's tactics... his style is completely different from my previous challenges up the hill. He definitely anticipated me nicely, was ready to throw me some curveballs, which I am working on countering. Hope I'm not too rusty.

Slynky

March 21st, 2003, 10:00 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
<blockquote>quote:<hr /> Originally posted by Slynky:

I'm still wanting to hear if Asmala (who I have my money on) got those "kidnapped" population out of the system. Last I heard, Stone was hinting at their impending death.

Hey, after all, guys, this game is for the hill.
This is a fun game... it's been a long while since I had to combat someone using Asmala's tactics... his style is completely different from my previous challenges up the hill. He definitely anticipated me nicely, was ready to throw me some curveballs, which I am working on countering. Hope I'm not too rusty.<hr /></blockquote>Well, I don't claim to be an expert...for SURE. But, of the games I've played, I'd say he's the best I've run into.

But you said it above...it's a fun game with give and take. That makes it worth it. NOW, having said that, I don't know about the others who frequent this thread, but I am interested in "following" the game for the top of the hill. So, any news that doesn't give away game plans would be welcomed by me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Pablo

March 22nd, 2003, 02:18 AM

Rollo, as I said in some other thread - take your time. I can wait as long as it takes. All the game I am Nr.2 and the victory sounds unfair.

Slynky

March 22nd, 2003, 02:32 AM

I'm still wanting to hear if Asmala (who I have my money on) got those "kidnapped" population out of the system. Last I heard, Stone was hinting at their impending death.

Hey, after all, guys, this game is for the hill.

Thermodyne

March 22nd, 2003, 02:55 AM

The Thermolian forces of liberation have on this day sliced through the Last of the evil Nodachian fleet units. In two standard space/time units, we will liberate the Last home world of the evil Nodachians. So we take this opportunity to ask that the Nodachian people revolt against their leaders. Throw off the chains of the evil empire and know the joy of being Thermolian. Spare yourselves the pain and suffering of another hopeless battle.

Unless you have a very big surprise in one of the three systems that I can�t see, this one is about over http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Ragnarok

March 22nd, 2003, 04:47 AM

Update with the game between Rambie and myself. We finally met at turn 19. I have a horrible starting half of the map. Hardly any planets and hardly any systems that arn't nebulas and so forth. But I've managed to hold 1st place through the whole game. I'm sure that'll change though.

Nodachi

March 22nd, 2003, 06:15 AM

The emperor Nodachi surveys the damage and wonders why the gods abandoned him.

The Nodachian empire is no more. Thermo, you got me again! Fun game, though. I probably should have surrendered several turns ago but I wanted to see how my scraped together warp point defense would do, not well enough obviously!

Thermo, thanks for a fun game! Who's next in line to smack me around? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

sparhawk

March 22nd, 2003, 07:04 PM

Well , maybe its me.
I was destroyed by Kazarp, so back to the bottom for me.

Sparhawk

Asmala

March 22nd, 2003, 07:38 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
I was finally able to capture one of his carriers, which will result in some nice free tech.But I was able to destroy it before you had time to analyze it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif

Short term balance swinging in his favor. But I'm used to that. Patience is a virtue. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif It looks like so. I finally dropped to the second place. However I mothballed some ships so don't celebrate yet http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

This is a fun game... it's been a long while since I had to combat someone using Asmala's tactics... his style is completely different from my previous challenges up the hill. He definitely anticipated me nicely, was ready to throw me some curveballs, which I am working on countering. Hope I'm not too rusty.Completely different... hmm... is that positive or negative thing http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

I think we'll got some bigger battles soon. Stone Mill has gathered a nice fleet and it'll be only a matter of time when he attack. I reveal that I have gathered a nice fleet myself too so interesting times are coming...

Asmala

March 22nd, 2003, 10:59 PM

Some news about my game against Stone Mill.

Everything is going brilliantly though I guess Stone wouldn't say so http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

At the turn 2404.0 there was the big battle which I expected. I can't imagine how Stone was able to brought that fleet to my system and I have to admit that I was very lucky. The Stone's fleet emerged from the nebula system and attacked one of my planets. Luckily my large attack fleet was just passing the planet and the two big fleets ran across.

The result of the combat was overwhelming. The ships count was even, we both had 24 ships. And the losses was the following: Stone lost all of his ships and I lost one planet, furthermore two of my ships damaged.

The reason is simple: my ships were more advanced and more experienced. For example PBB 5 vs DUC 5, ECM 2 vs ECM 1, Combat Sensors 2 vs none. And I had trained my ships.

Thermodyne

March 23rd, 2003, 02:50 AM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
The emperor Nodachi surveys the damage and wonders why the gods abandoned him.

The Nodachian empire is no more. Thermo, you got me again! Fun game, though. I probably should have surrendered several turns ago but I wanted to see how my scraped together warp point defense would do, not well enough obviously!

Thermo, thanks for a fun game! Who's next in line to smack me around? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Thanks for the Game Nod�s, sorry that we can�t both be winners. Perhaps we will end up as allies in a larger game some time.

Stone Mill

March 23rd, 2003, 06:09 AM

Originally posted by Asmala:
The reason is simple: my ships were more advanced and more experienced. For example PBB 5 vs DUC 5, ECM 2 vs ECM 1, Combat Sensors 2 vs none. And I had trained my ships.

Advanced... yes. But that fleet was trained to 20% and each ship was also 20%. I still should have lost, however.

You have had your fair share of luck. I can't figure out how your ships slip past mine throughout this game when we start out adjacently, and I am player #1???

I am completely astounded at how you have so much tech, and so quickly. And I have played many, many games. I just hope you are doing it fairly. If so, my compliments.

Asmala

March 23rd, 2003, 10:45 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
I am completely astounded at how you have so much tech, and so quickly. And I have played many, many games. I just hope you are doing it fairly. If so, my compliments.I have much tech because I have much research points. I don't know how much research points you produce but I guess it's much less than my 83k. And I have research centers under construction at six planets so my research output increase 3k per turn.

When I entered Zanthris system I was amazed: there was three empty large planets! I really wondered why you haven't colonized them. If you have more empty planets in your inner systems that'll be one of the most important reasons why my ships are more advanced.

One important reason is the oxygen breathing population that I captured from you. It brought to me over 100 new facility slots.

Finally I'd like to say that I never cheat. If you want to see it I can send all the save game files (I have all of them stored in my Outlook Express' deleted folder) and my password to you after the game.

primitive

March 23rd, 2003, 12:18 PM

Hello everybody - this is your friendly sportscaster again.

We are comming to you live from the "Sky high arena" located at the very top of the hill, to follow the ongoing Kingship match. The stakes are high - For the winner: a chanche to keep the crown nice and shiny until Primitive comes and takes it away. For the looser: A long tumble down to the gutter, where he will have to face the scum of the earth for a chance to ascend the hill again.

The contestants:
In the red corner; raigning King and keeper of the crown, the bad Elvis impersonator: Stone Mill
In the blue corner; the young contender, the laughing Hyena: Asmala

Before we join the match in progress, here is a recap;
The initial rounds showed the contestants to have great respect for each other - very polite posting - the usual boring stuff.

By round 4 the match has heated up considerally, the arena is buzzing when post like:
- Well, if you can get away with them... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif and
- Of course I can. How do you think you can prevent me? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

This is truly a machup of gigantic proportions and the spectators follows every move with bated breath.

We goes to the live action:
Ouch, The laughing Hyena goes on the attack with a badly phrased post (which could be seen as) containg gloating, a weapon outlawed by the arrangers as a WMD. This really hurt the King, who responds with another badly phrased post (which could be seen as) containg accusations of cheating.

Hey guys, its just a game.

Asmala

March 23rd, 2003, 01:23 PM

2404.2
Technology Minister: We have achieved Tech Level 2 in Ship Construction, sire.

This was a milestone at the history of Black Hole Riders empire http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

And Primitive, did it truly heard that I was so serious about that game? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif

primitive

March 23rd, 2003, 01:37 PM

Of course not.
It was just a comment about the choice of words. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Your post about the great battle was a little gloating, and I'm pretty sure Stone Mill didn't mean to accuse You of cheating. That's all. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Stone Mill

March 23rd, 2003, 03:23 PM

You mean I will have to hang out with the scum again? Ack! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/blush.gif

It certainly may look that way...

Well the good news is that it looks like if (when?) Asmala finishes me off... your new King well be even cockier than the former. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Ouch, you are putting the boots to a guy who is down...

But not completely without hope. If lady luck swings my way.

Asmala, you played this one out really really well. You used a strat I wasn't ready for, and by the time I compensated, you had the left hand ready. I'm impressed. And you were so bloody lucky (sweeping minefields with barely enough sweepers... one more turn and they'd be dead). And out-guessing me on a few moves.

Not that that means much from a bad Elvis impersonator. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif The King, battered and wounded (ego, worst of all) pulls himself up to continue the fight. However, he sends several servants to have his bags ready, just in case. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Slynky

March 23rd, 2003, 03:53 PM

Originally posted by primitive:
Ouch, The laughing Hyena goes on the attack with a badly phrased post (which could be seen as) containg gloating, a weapon outlawed by the arrangers as a WMD.

Hey guys, its just a game.I'm afraid I may have to take some of the blame for that. I think I have have been interested in how Asmala was doing to the point of requesting some Posts here. I may have built him up some and he may have wanted to live up to it.

In a world where 17-year-olds play PS II and the assorted skateboard games intermingled with 1st-person shooter games, it's a breath of fresh air to see one undertake a strategy game (dominated by much older peeps) and do darn well at it.

He's has beaten me twice (once I may have been able to win against him but I withdrew to regroup after I had, I think, the upper-hand and he took advantage of it).

Whenever he did some tricky stuff, I asked him how he did it and he always sent long Messages explaining. I sent him the game between you and me for comments...and he typed nearly a whole screen of advice. Tips and such.

So, I like the guy from Finland. He learns fast and plays in about 5 games at any given time, goes to school in the week, works on the weekends and STILL manages to be much better at getting turns in than some of the people I am "plagued" with in my current games.

So, if his message came across as bragging a bit, I can't say I blame him much. He should feel proud of his ability and I asked for updates.

(steps off soapbox)

BBegemott

March 25th, 2003, 10:51 PM

I resigned my KOTH 1.49 game. Congratulations, Yurloy.

Back to the bottom I go. Oh, I see Pablo is awaiting for rematch http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif and here we go again.

geoschmo

March 26th, 2003, 04:06 PM

Slynky, you can't forfeit a win in the first 5 turns. Well, you can withdraw but Drieko won't get a win for it.

Let me try to get a hold of him and find out what's going on.

Geoschmo

Slynky

March 26th, 2003, 07:35 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Slynky, you can't forfeit a win in the first 5 turns. Well, you can withdraw but Drieko won't get a win for it.

Let me try to get a hold of him and find out what's going on.

GeoschmoWell, I suppose you can try. But I sent him an email and have no reply. That was about 5 or 6 days ago. If a person wants to play, they will find time. If a person can't find time, there's just not much that can be done, is there?

I'm not saying it needs to go as fast as the game bewteen Primitive and me (61 turns in 4 days) but I would think a person could expect 2 turns a day. Barring that, I would expect a person to say, "I have a business trip next week...I'll be back at the end of the week." I would also expect that to be somewhat infrequent. (I say that now, but I know I have to start traveling to install computers in 3 or 4 states next month http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )

DavidG

March 27th, 2003, 12:56 AM

Come on you Middle of the Hill woosies! Finish you petty squabbles and move to the top. The mighty Kazarp empire is looking for some empires to exterminate.

DavidG (aka Kazarp)

Slynky

March 27th, 2003, 02:20 AM

Geo, please terminate the game between Dreico and myself. I forfeit the win to him. I must confess, he has used a secret weapon...our empire was destroyed by boredom.

Game created by you on March 17th and we're only up to 2400.5 on March 26th. At that rate, the hill will be flat due to natural erosion by the time this game is over.

Either he doesn't have much interest in the game or he's too busy to play. In either case, I'll take a loss and try someone else (someone with a better track record submitting turns). (I realize the turnaround time is 120 hours, but in the beginning, the turns only take about one minute to do).

Slynky

March 27th, 2003, 02:58 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
Come on you Middle of the Hill woosies! Finish you petty squabbles and move to the top. The mighty Kazarp empire is looking for some empires to exterminate.

DavidG (aka Kazarp)Middle of the hill? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

How about in the rut at the bottom?

Zarix

March 27th, 2003, 11:19 AM

RexTorres won our game. Drones seem to be totally useless against point defence. Geo, I will try again so but me back to the bottom.

Stone Mill

March 27th, 2003, 05:31 PM

In the King of the Hill Match:

Asmala' raiders have fragged 3 systems, destroying all life while probing for the Mercator home system. A interior patrol tried to catch them, but they proved elusive for the time being.

In the south, StoneMill's Mercators launched a Last ditch campaign into enemy territory, bLasting up a nice system with a formidible fleet.

As of right now, it still looks bleak for the reigning King. Asmala has a whopping research and (perhaps?) resource edge, but if my spearhead is really lucky, that may change.

Despite some refreshing small victories, the King is still waiting for Asmala's next big move... the final strike to be dealt?

Slynky

March 29th, 2003, 03:56 PM

Well, the updates are running "thin". Both for the top of the hill and the "wannabees" just below the crest.

(I'd post some of my stuff, but at turn 12, how much interest could their be in colony ships taking 4 turns to reach a place to settle? Besides, I reside in the gulley http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif )

Ragnarok

March 29th, 2003, 08:40 PM

Well a update for me and Rambie.
Turn 46 and nothing big is happening. Only one battle has been fought and I won it. Even though I did have a number advantage, 5 to 1, plus his ship didn't have weapons. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But my horrible start has turned out to be not so bad. I have been holding 1st place for the most part. I lost it for a couple turns but got it right back.
Not much to report, I will have more as news breaks. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Stone Mill

March 29th, 2003, 10:09 PM

Asmala's offensive blitz was finally run down, but only after taking it's toll on 4 systems. The only optimistic thing about the attack is that the Mercator empire is still somewhat healthy.

Though hurt, the Mercator empire had other ideas than just laying down. Three attack Groups retaliated from different entry points, and scorched a few of the Black Hole Rider's systems, including a nice one. Significant interior patrols have yet to counter them. I think my counterattack was somewhat of a surprise, but I am skeptical about the level of damage I did to his war machine.

What a match.

DavidG

March 29th, 2003, 11:55 PM

Update on my game with "---open---"

Turn 0. No enemy sightings yet.

Kazarp

Slynky

March 30th, 2003, 01:41 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:

What a match.Sounds like it. I found it hard to believe you could recover from the 24 (or so) ships loss several turns back.

Sounds like a good match with a high amount of eagerness on receiving turns for both parties.

Slynky

March 30th, 2003, 01:44 AM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:
Well a update for me and Rambie.
Turn 46 and nothing big is happening. Only one battle has been fought and I won it. Even though I did have a number advantage, 5 to 1, plus his ship didn't have weapons. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But my horrible start has turned out to be not so bad. I have been holding 1st place for the most part. I lost it for a couple turns but got it right back.
Not much to report, I will have more as news breaks. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Sounds like each of you have intentionally kept distance while jockying for just the right moment or else started on opposite sides of the map. But, at 46 turns, something's gotta be brewing soon http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Slynky

March 30th, 2003, 01:46 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
Update on my game with "---open---"

Turn 0. No enemy sightings yet.

KazarpI wouldn't worry too much at this point http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif .

I'm sure your turn number will pass mine soon enough...my game in progress for 13 days and just finished turn 12 this morning. (sigh)

Slynky

March 30th, 2003, 01:48 AM

I'm looking for a benchmark that I can guage my game progress with.

Would it be fair to say that around turn 25 or 30 that one's research level (in thousands) should start equaling the number of turns you've completed?

primitive

March 31st, 2003, 01:11 AM

Slynky:
It all depends on the starting position and the tactics used. With a decent amount of breathables close, 30 K at turn 30 is fairly standard (I have done much more and much less in KOTH games). It all depends on available planets and how much resources you use for exploration/colonization and defence. The important thing in the first 30 turns (that is if you don't have your adversary next door http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ) is to grab as many systems as possible.

Ragnarok

March 31st, 2003, 01:20 AM

Originally posted by Slynky:
Sounds like each of you have intentionally kept distance while jockying for just the right moment or else started on opposite sides of the map. But, at 46 turns, something's gotta be brewing soon http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif That's pretty much what's going on. Something will soon be happening probably. Just some things to get sorted out. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif It has been a fun match though so far.

Baron Grazic

March 31st, 2003, 02:09 AM

2 updates from Baron Grazic.

The Gecko's Spacesharks versus Grazic's EEEvil EEEmpire - Gold Koth Match.

Currently we have just passed the round 20 mark and Gecko may have the upper hand as he has taken over first place.
Only 1 battle so far, a supplyless EEEvil Frigate destroyed by a SpaceShark Destroyer, but the EEEvil EEEmpire has detected a couple of SpaceShark planets, while the EEEvil EEEmpire remains hidden.

Game should pick up quickly now that I'm back from holidays.

Grazic's Lego Empire versus Darkshado's Zanthu Federation - 1.49 Koth Match.

Turn 33 and the Lego Empire is blockading the Zanthu Federation's Home World. The Lego Ships are damaged and without supplies but reserves are on-route.
Can the Zanthu Federation defend their Home World in time?

geoschmo

March 31st, 2003, 02:25 AM

The battle between Gozguy and myself is at a critical point. We have had two major engagments in the preceding months, each of us being victorious in one.

To this point I have been practicing a policy of "containment" using strategically placed minefields, however he has developed the neccesary technology now to render those irrelevant.

He recently attempted a series of espionage and sabotage attacks, but our internal security uncovered his plot and executed all his agents before any significant damage could be done.

We are both building up our forces for the next battle. Likely the winner of it will be in a position to deal a serious if not fatal blow to the other.

Geoschmo

Slynky

March 31st, 2003, 03:18 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
The battle between Gozguy and myself is at a critical point. We have had two major engagments in the preceding months, each of us being victorious in one.

To this point I have been practicing a policy of "containment" using strategically placed minefields, however he has developed the neccesary technology now to render those irrelevant.

He recently attempted a series of espionage and sabotage attacks, but our internal security uncovered his plot and executed all his agents before any significant damage could be done.

We are both building up our forces for the next battle. Likely the winner of it will be in a position to deal a serious if not fatal blow to the other.

GeoschmoIntelligence projects? WOW! I thought people mostly forgot those in KOTH. After all, IMHO, intel is one of the few flaws in the game.

PS: When reporting on items of interest in matches, it might be helpful for readers to know what turn you are on. (that way, one doesn't have to go search and see... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif )

Slynky

March 31st, 2003, 03:22 AM

Originally posted by Baron Grazic:
2 updates from Baron Grazic.

The Gecko's Spacesharks versus Grazic's EEEvil EEEmpire - Gold Koth Match.

Currently we have just passed the round 20 mark and Gecko may have the upper hand as he has taken over first place.
Only 1 battle so far, a supplyless EEEvil Frigate destroyed by a SpaceShark Destroyer, but the EEEvil EEEmpire has detected a couple of SpaceShark planets, while the EEEvil EEEmpire remains hidden.

Game should pick up quickly now that I'm back from holidays.

Grazic's Lego Empire versus Darkshado's Zanthu Federation - 1.49 Koth Match.

Turn 33 and the Lego Empire is blockading the Zanthu Federation's Home World. The Lego Ships are damaged and without supplies but reserves are on-route.
Can the Zanthu Federation defend their Home World in time?Sounds like another good game.

Initially, when I played my first game (and got spanked by the Primitive one), I thought the game would be sort of drab considering the "low" start. One planet...average...etc. But it's quite interesting. It's slow in the beginning and therefore a bit sluggish. But interesting. AND, I think I may have an empire to be dealt with now. (of course, I COULD be wrong!) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Thermodyne

March 31st, 2003, 03:22 AM

Cheese vs. Thermodyne

The Thermolian Empire was peacefully colonizing some empty systems when we met another race. According to the recognized laws that govern galactic states, we set up some visa checking stations, and began to look for new worlds in other directions. We even sent some unarmed ships to make first contact at one of their worlds on the frontier.

Sadly, our hand that was extended in peace has been slapped away. These life forms, which are little more than plants, have attacked our colonies and tried to force their way past our border check points. They have even gone so far as to attack unarmed first contact ships. We have therefore been compelled to start fortifying our frontiers in an effort to contain the uncontrolled expansion of these evil weeds. Everywhere we send colonists, they find the systems infested with these deadly weeds. So today we have drawn a line in the sand, not one more system will we surrender to this evil empire of plants. We will contest every world; we will equip our ships with spray rigs, and drive back the uncontrolled spread of this infestation. We will meet their seedlings with mega-liters of 2-4D. And then we will bomb their home worlds with Lawn Boys.

In short, we are sparring and have both had some successes.

Stone Mill

March 31st, 2003, 03:46 AM

Thermo-

Don't forget to check the basements for pods and the little shops for singing plants. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Stone Mill

March 31st, 2003, 04:01 AM

King Match turn 67:

The vicious Black Hole Riders tracked down a substantial Mercator battle fleet that overextended it's supply line... the defenseless fleet of 25 was massacred.

The Mercator sister fleet quickly retaliated and avenged the atrocity, maintaining a foothold at the enemy front.

Asmala's massive technology edge is rearing it's head... battleships are whipping by against my light cruisers... My ships are very feisty, though.

Gas colonies are now popular in his systems (in addition to rock), but the new colonists boarding the ships have heard rumors of the recent Mercator raids... another Black hole system recently fell, one planet "re-liberated."

Cheeze

March 31st, 2003, 07:01 AM

Cheeze vs Thermodyne

The Great Block O'Cheeze, the "Most Blooming Exalted Onion" as it is referred to by a loving populace, had directed that the United Flora Empire must grow beyond its roots and explore the galaxy. Directing seed pods everywhere, they had encountered many great gas giants to colonize, some of the right atmosphere, most not. The peace-loving plants had begun to carefully nurture these new buds of Flora civilization when unexpectedly set upon by a Thermolian warship. On one planet, the Thermolians hovered overhead, blocking the life-giving sun from the passive Flora population, endangering their lives. The shrubbery devised a communications vessel with which to contact this Thermolian raider and persuade it to release the planet from shadow. The Thermolians responded by ramming the ship to ensure its destruction....in fact, the only victorious Flora battles that have followed have occured by surviving the ramming attacks of these lawless and savage Thermolians. In the confrontations between Flora peace vessels and Thermolian savagery have resulted in the untimely pruning of the Flora crew...generally in a hail of green-killing missiles. The Flora ships have on numerous occasions attempted to negotiate a peace by NOT FIRING their weapons at all, in hopes that the Thermolians would see this clear desire for peace. It is clear that the Thermolians only see an opportunity to despoil our gardens and tear up the Flora Empire all the way to its roots!

Stone Mill

March 31st, 2003, 05:57 PM

Something has been weighing on me, which I mean to rectify.

I formally apologize to Asmala for a remark I posted a while back. I gave the impression that may have been interpreted as an accusation of cheating.

I was just typing in "train of thought" mode; still reeling from losing a very critical battle. My intent was to express my surprise in his advancement... and actually compliment him. I have been in games before where a player has cheated, so I guess that lurks in the back of my mind.

But it is wrong for me to have even slightly insinuated that against Asmala, who is clearly an excellent and fair player. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

I may be silly and sarcastic, but I also try to be helpful and fun on the Boards. One thing I'd like not to be is an ***. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

I say this right now before our game is unfinished and still in the balance; win or lose.

Asmala, I'm sorry; I hope you accept my apology.

Asmala

March 31st, 2003, 11:20 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
Something has been weighing on me, which I mean to rectify.

I formally apologize to Asmala for a remark I posted a while back. I gave the impression that may have been interpreted as an accusation of cheating.

I was just typing in "train of thought" mode; still reeling from losing a very critical battle. My intent was to express my surprise in his advancement... and actually compliment him. I have been in games before where a player has cheated, so I guess that lurks in the back of my mind.

But it is wrong for me to have even slightly insinuated that against Asmala, who is clearly an excellent and fair player. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

I may be silly and sarcastic, but I also try to be helpful and fun on the Boards. One thing I'd like not to be is an ***. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

I say this right now before our game is unfinished and still in the balance; win or lose.

Asmala, I'm sorry; I hope you accept my apology.Of course I accept your apology. I have tried to be as fair as possible so you can't believe how good that makes me feel.

About that critical battle... after that battle I thought I'll win the match. I was so sure about it that I even thought what kind of crownd I'll add to my picture... Well, the higher your are the harder is the fall :-) Stone Mill really dropped me to the ground and I was and I'm still amazed, he's clearly the best player against I have ever played. He's the king. Asmala bows http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

I'm also very thankful to Slynky about his post. As he said my intentions wasn't flaunt with my technology, I just tried to explain why my ships were so overpowering. Unluckily the situation has evened out http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Cheeze

April 1st, 2003, 01:07 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
Thermo-

Don't forget to check the basements for pods and the little shops for singing plants. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif SSSSHHHHH!!! One species' potted planet is another's spy. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Slynky

April 1st, 2003, 02:02 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
Thermo-

Don't forget to check the basements for pods and the little shops for singing plants. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Good one, Stone, good one!

(beware of meteor showers, too)

Slynky

April 1st, 2003, 02:07 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
King Match turn 67:

Asmala's massive technology edge is rearing it's head... battleships are whipping by against my light cruisers... My ships are very feisty, though.

Gas colonies are now popular in his systems (in addition to rock), but the new colonists boarding the ships have heard rumors of the recent Mercator raids... another Black hole system recently fell, one planet "re-liberated."One thing for sure, if I were in your position, I'd be croaked by now! Sounds like it's a helluva game by any standards.

Slynky

April 1st, 2003, 02:27 AM

Originally posted by Cheeze:
Cheeze vs Thermodyne

The Great Block O'Cheeze, the "Most Blooming Exalted Onion" as it is referred to by a loving populace, had directed that the United Flora Empire must grow beyond its roots and explore the galaxy. Directing seed pods everywhere, they had encountered many great gas giants to colonize, some of the right atmosphere, most not. The peace-loving plants had begun to carefully nurture these new buds of Flora civilization when unexpectedly set upon by a Thermolian warship. On one planet, the Thermolians hovered overhead, blocking the life-giving sun from the passive Flora population, endangering their lives. The shrubbery devised a communications vessel with which to contact this Thermolian raider and persuade it to release the planet from shadow. The Thermolians responded by ramming the ship to ensure its destruction....in fact, the only victorious Flora battles that have followed have occured by surviving the ramming attacks of these lawless and savage Thermolians. In the confrontations between Flora peace vessels and Thermolian savagery have resulted in the untimely pruning of the Flora crew...generally in a hail of green-killing missiles. The Flora ships have on numerous occasions attempted to negotiate a peace by NOT FIRING their weapons at all, in hopes that the Thermolians would see this clear desire for peace. It is clear that the Thermolians only see an opportunity to despoil our gardens and tear up the Flora Empire all the way to its roots!Well, a masterful tale if ever I heard one. You know, Bud, if peaceful resolutions don't sprout, you can always pull out your big puns...errrr, guns and make them grown...errrr, (sorry), groan till (get it? till) their brains turn to vegetables. Of course, yew...errrr, you may have Ortho...errrr, other plants...errrr, I mean plans of your own that may lead to the "Great Harvest".

(sorry, the "Avacado of Despair" made me do it)

tesco samoa

April 1st, 2003, 02:27 AM

advance gandaph...

and put me at the bottom..

next game i want to play in a map where the lay out is even

Slynky

April 1st, 2003, 02:37 AM

(not that my game is of any interest...)

Update:

Was awakened by the sound of an email. It was a turn !

So, I did it and went back to sleep.

Game started 14 days ago. Currently at Game Date 2401.1.

(yawn....)

Gandalph

April 1st, 2003, 06:23 AM

Tesco got a bad start on this one and I was able to box him in early. He broke through with a surprise fleet of armed carriers and fighters which caught me off guard, but with the galaxy at my disposal, it did not take long to counter.

Good game Tesco, you are a good player to have Lasted as long as you did under the circumstances.

Nodachi

April 1st, 2003, 03:10 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo
Although, how do you define "even"? Introducing Nodachi's new KOTH map making service! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif I'll start with a small FQM paradise and tailor it to your hearts desire.

Drop me a line and I'll see what I can do to help.

DavidG

April 1st, 2003, 04:14 PM

Originally posted by tesco samoa:
advance gandaph...
Excellent. Looks like it's time for a rematch. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Kazarp

Gandalph

April 1st, 2003, 05:13 PM

Originally posted by DavidG:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by tesco samoa:
advance gandaph...
Excellent. Looks like it's time for a rematch. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Kazarp<hr /></blockquote>A rematch yes, but not with the same Gandalph. Much has been learned since Last we met.

DavidG

April 1st, 2003, 05:24 PM

Originally posted by Gandalph:
A rematch yes, but not with the same Gandalph. Much has been learned since Last we met.hehe ditto. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

geoschmo

April 1st, 2003, 05:38 PM

Kazarp and Gandalph, as you surmised you are matched next. If you two are on it to get started then be my guest and one of you set it up as game owner. If you need a third party I will get it this evening. I am a bit busy at work today.

Geoschmo

DavidG

April 1st, 2003, 05:59 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Kazarp and Gandalph, as you surmised you are matched next. If you two are on it to get started then be my guest and one of you set it up as game owner. If you need a third party I will get it this evening. I am a bit busy at work today.

GeoschmoThats soon enough for me since I too am at work. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif (although have trouble getting started today. )

Gandalph

April 1st, 2003, 07:29 PM

Well, I guess we all have other lives as I am also at work and would not even get around to it til after 6pm PST.

DavidG - We could begin email correspondance re: game setup.

Krsqk

April 1st, 2003, 07:32 PM

I guess that puts me playing...tesco?...at the bottom? Unless there was already someone else waiting for an opponent.

I have no objections to playing on an "even" map. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

geoschmo

April 1st, 2003, 07:41 PM

I'll have to check the bottom when I get home. I may have someone waiting that I haven't updated the page with. Not sure what the matches there will be.

Geoschmo

geoschmo

April 2nd, 2003, 02:11 AM

Originally posted by tesco samoa:
advance gandaph...

and put me at the bottom..

next game i want to play in a map where the lay out is evenYou will need to talk to your next opponent about that. Although I doubt it will be that hard a sell. Nobody wants to feel their win was because of the other guy getting a bad break. Although, how do you define "even"? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

Stone Mill

April 2nd, 2003, 06:44 PM

Originally posted by Asmala:

Of course I accept your apology. I have tried to be as fair as possible so you can't believe how good that makes me feel.

About that critical battle... after that battle I thought I'll win the match. I was so sure about it that I even thought what kind of crownd I'll add to my picture... Well, the higher your are the harder is the fall :-) Stone Mill really dropped me to the ground and I was and I'm still amazed, he's clearly the best player against I have ever played. He's the king. Asmala bows

I'm also very thankful to Slynky about his post. As he said my intentions wasn't flaunt with my technology, I just tried to explain why my ships were so overpowering. Unluckily the situation has evened out
I just have to thank you for your kind praise. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif You are very cool. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif I have to tell you now that the game has played out from that point- that I've never seen a player so organized, deliberate, and advanced with tech research in a 1-1 game At that point, I almost fell over when I saw what your fleet had... then Gas Colonization... now dreads.

I had to react quickly- I'm hoping my strat will take away that advantage... but we'll see. I can't wait for the debrief on this one.

Nodachi

April 3rd, 2003, 03:34 PM

Yes! The streak continues! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Geo, please elevate the outstanding Zarix.

Even though I held first place for a good chunk of the game Zarix changed tactics and caught me flatfooted. Another fun game! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

geoschmo

April 3rd, 2003, 03:58 PM

So what do you think guys? DO I need to add another level to the hill? Looks like we are starting to get a bit of a backlog at the top. Got two players waiting after the Asmala/Stonemill game finishes.

Geoschmo

Zarix

April 3rd, 2003, 05:18 PM

Nodachi, thanks for the game. I wonder who will be my next opponent.

I think adding one more level to the hill is a good idea. The top is getting too crowded. I guess the new level would be created under the current bottom level?

Ragnarok

April 3rd, 2003, 06:49 PM

Yeah, I'd say add another level to the hill. Although this will make it more challenging to make it to the top, it will slow down the back up towards the top that we have right now.

Thermodyne

April 3rd, 2003, 07:15 PM

Thermolia has suffered two invasions by the Evil weeds in the Last few cycles. In the first attack
in the north, the Weeds overran a frontier defense force, but have not advanced into Thermolian space. They have probed, but these have been destroyed by units of the Thermolian Home Fleet. It had been hoped that this invasion could be dealt with on ground that was favorable to Thermolia, but this does not seem to be the case.

In the second Invasion, a fleet of Thistle Class DD�s attacked a Thermolian border defense force in the central region. This force of 1 old DD and two ancient FF�s had recently been reinforced by four light cruisers from the Home Fleet. One of the ships was a new heavy gunned unit. In a hard fought fight, the Evil weeds were utterly decimated. With no loss of Thermolian units, the mass wave attack of the Weeds was turned back with 100% casualties. Our new weedkilling beams have proven to be most effective.

In the south, a condition of stalemate still exists. The lines are intermingled, and no offensive activities are expected any time soon.

[ April 03, 2003, 17:16: Message edited by: Thermodyne ]

Stone Mill

April 3rd, 2003, 09:47 PM

Sounds like Cheeze better research more levels in "Miracle Grow."

Sorry about the finish up... I think the differences in time zones did not help our progress... but we have managed 2-3 turns a day, more on weekends. Also, my April weekends will now be spent at Home Depot, now that I have just closed on a house purchase. Whoo-hoo http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

This one may be over soon, depending on what Asmala has turtled up in his interior defense. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif The Mercators blitzed two more systems, trying to clamp down the vice...

Slynky

April 5th, 2003, 06:29 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
So what do you think guys? DO I need to add another level to the hill? Looks like we are starting to get a bit of a backlog at the top. Got two players waiting after the Asmala/Stonemill game finishes.

GeoschmoToo much math for me http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif but it seems like (without thinking about it much) that since the bottom of the hill has positions for 8 games, and the next higher level has positions for 6 games, the level above it should have room for 4 games... or at least 3 games. Then, there wouldn't be a need for a "ladder-looking" thing listing 3 single contenders in a row.

Like I said, though, too much math for me http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif .

Thermodyne

April 5th, 2003, 05:33 PM

An expeditionary force from the Thermolian Home Fleet entered Weed controlled space this
day. And while the warp point was heavily infested with various types of weeds, the
outnumbered Thermolians carried the day. Weed forces consisted of 42 ships, 21 cruisers, 17
destroyers, two escorts and two transports. These were assaulted by 25 Thermolian
combatants, 4 decoys and various support ships. One weed ship escaped, and 9 Thermolian
warships were destroyed including the four decoys. Never has so much ordnance hit so little. Much space was holed by DP projectiles, while Thermolian beams wilted their cannons. The
superior long range gunnery of the Thermolian fleet was very much in evidence. After absorbing
the first volley from the Evil Weed Fleet, the Thermolians proceeded to remove the infestation.
After the battle, many Thermolian ships were decorated for superior valor in the face of a much
stronger enemy.

Cheeze

April 6th, 2003, 02:15 AM

The combination of the unpredictability of ship combat tactics and overly-obvious advantages produced an devastating defeat for the United Flora Empire. The despicable Thermolians launched an attack into Flora space, meeting a gathering of Flora ships that were in photosynthesis mode. Thermolian ships were equipped with superior weaponry, and generally all light cruisers, where the Flora were a mix of destroyers and light cruisers along with some escorts. Despite their position to await an incursion, the Flora ships were positioned about as far from the Thermolians as could be imagined for two large fleets at one warp point. The ship formation apparently was designed to minimize any actual shooting at enemy ships, and in spite of orders to close, Flora captains preferred to minimize their already-slight chances to hit by moving as far as possible from Thermolian ships, in order to present themselves as easy targets later. Since the Thermolians have a phenomenal natural advantage in combat, the additional incompetence of the Flora command made a predictable result even less damaging to the Thermolian barbarians. Far from "bravey in the face of a superior enemy", the Thermolians had the advantage in firepower, movement, accuracy and evasion.

One Flora ship, and only one, showed courage and intelligence in the entire battle. Somehow separated from the collective stupidity of the rest of the plants, one ship managed to manuever around the Thermolian fiends and attacked the minesweepers, severely damaging and destroying a number of them. Depending on future Thermolian movements, their victorious fleet should meet a slow yet steady diminishing death upon finding the floating Flora "fire blossoms".

[ April 06, 2003, 06:48: Message edited by: Cheeze ]

Slynky

April 6th, 2003, 02:32 AM

Whew! Awesome battle! (I don't see how you guys whip up so many ships)

Cheeze

April 6th, 2003, 07:46 AM

The vile Thermolians are hardy industrialists, and we gentle and peace-loving Flora grow ours with organic technology....it helps!!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

We lost the first battle of Neckron...and pretty much every other battle...but perhaps it won't be the Last...and the Flora Empire has not yet lost the war!!!!

[ April 06, 2003, 06:47: Message edited by: Cheeze ]

Asmala

April 6th, 2003, 12:33 PM

At the turn 2408.0 the Black Hole Riders Empire officially surrendered to the mighty Mergator Orbis.

The arrogant upstart noticed that he has bit off more than he can chew, the King was too good for him. In spite of the combat victory at the beginning of the game the King was able to produce awesome fleet of sixty top trained ships. The poor Black Hole Riders Empire had nothing which could have stopped that fleet.

1FSTCAT it's now your turn, I tried and failed. Good luck to both of you two.

I'd like to start scramble again towards the top of the hill. If the KOTH page is up to date there isn't a free opponent for me so I'm waiting...

Stone Mill

April 6th, 2003, 02:23 PM

The current sometimes too-full-of himself King is weary but grateful to Asmala for an excellent match. Asmala proved to be a frightening opponent, leaving the Mercator people with many scars. His opening tactics against me have really made me think... especially his research pattern- it is almost pristine for how he plays out his strategy. And he did it with a crappy start!

Highlights:
His early harassment was great- he sufficiently tied me up from further expansion, and claimed all but one border system, where we coexisted. He even (for the first time in my KOTH) conquered my population and used my breathers! I have never been able to pull this off. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

His use of fighters/carriers was stunning and deliberate. DUCs can't hit fighters, and he made sure he emphasized that point in-game.

Asmala torched my fully trained invasion fleet- and responed with a devastating counter attack. His tech edge was so vast; it seemed like it was all over. He ripped through about 5 systems, but by sheer luck...
-- if he would have made a right turn at Alburquerque, (thanks Bugs Bunny http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ) he would have found my home system and it could have been BIG trouble.
-- My people were one turn away from riot status when I caught his fleet. One more loss surely would have locked up my production. Wshew. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif
-- The Riders only madaged to torch one critical resource planet. He killed a ton of research, but I was able to pay maintence. He chose to bypass my frontal systems, which had my critical assets. These systems, were, of course, heavily defended. I had just managed a massive retrofit to compete with his ships. But if he caught me while repairing... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif
-- My economy was hanging in the balance to allow me to add the latest components through retrofits. I barely had enough reserves in storage...
-- My counterattack was brutal; he had bigger ships, but sheer numbers of Mercator high-tech designs won the day. I hit him concurrently from many different directions to discourage force concentration. I ensured to keep him on the defensive, although, he made some Last minute strikes to test me, including a cloaked strike against my interior, which I'll never know how it got through?!? Almost looked like a random event.
-- I ensured that I whittled away at his economy while tightening the vice. I kept improving my economy so I could field more ships.
-- Aslama's choice of mid-late research was diverted into a few non-critical areas: Gas Giant, Dreadnaughts, etc. In my experience, you really should only do this when you are pretty sure your opponent can't beat your front line security. I think my retaliation surprised him a bit- I managed to retrofit those DUC V ships with PPBs.
-- I am an economic player, and although Asmala threw me many curveballs, I held to the fundamentals: strong economy (minerals, rads) and combat techs. Asmala went very heavy on research. For his type of play; he has a chance of exploiting his tech edge throughout the game if you are not seasoned. I did my best to use numbers against size in the long run.

So many great thank-yous to Asmala, who is awesome. A challenge match at the top worthy of many legends. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif My favorite match to-date!

[ April 06, 2003, 13:28: Message edited by: Stone Mill ]

Slick

April 6th, 2003, 06:12 PM

Explain please:

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
DUCs can't hit fighters, and he made sure he emphasized that point in-game.
I checked components.txt and they can target fighters. Are you saying that [generally] DUC's can't hit fighters because of range? or due to defensive bonuses? or what? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif

I love reading these "wrap ups". I sure sounds like it will be a long time before I should join such a tournament. Great game!

Slick.

Slynky

April 6th, 2003, 07:07 PM

THE KING MATCH: Stone Mill -vs- Asmala

Wow! Really interesting wrap-up!

One thing seems to more and more certain...I'm not King material. I suppose any advances I make up the hill will be due to a lucky spread of planets and not skill.

Congrats to both of you for completing the game on a good note, too! THAT says a lot about your character.

Asmala

April 6th, 2003, 08:07 PM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
He even (for the first time in my KOTH) conquered my population and used my breathers! I have never been able to pull this off. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif This had also its disadvantage: when I lost few planets all of my planets with Mercator people started rioting.

Asmala torched my fully trained invasion fleet- and responed with a devastating counter attack. His tech edge was so vast; it seemed like it was all over. He ripped through about 5 systems, but by sheer luck...
-- if he would have made a right turn at Alburquerque, (thanks Bugs Bunny http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ) he would have found my home system and it could have been BIG trouble.
Yep, this game could have went quite different way if I had chosen the right warp point.

I ensured to keep him on the defensive, although, he made some Last minute strikes to test me, including a cloaked strike against my interior, which I'll never know how it got through?!? Almost looked like a random event.
How it got through? Well, I think it got through because the ships were cloaked so you didn't see them http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

-- Aslama's choice of mid-late research was diverted into a few non-critical areas: Gas Giant, Dreadnaughts, etc. In my experience, you really should only do this when you are pretty sure your opponent can't beat your front line security. I think my retaliation surprised him a bit- I managed to retrofit those DUC V ships with PPBs.
You're right Stone, your retaliation really surprised me. I think the inordinate concentration to the research was the main reason why I lost the game. I should have been concentrated less at the research. It's no point have dreadnought tech when I have only a few ships. I have heard that one learns best from the losses and that's true: I won't do that mistake again (or at least I'll try to avoid it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif )

So many great thank-yous to Asmala, who is awesome. A challenge match at the top worthy of many legends. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif My favorite match to-date!Thanks, that's balsam to my wounds http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

DavidG

April 6th, 2003, 11:29 PM

OK now that that lovey dovey "your so good, no you are" King match is over someone get up there and kick that kings butt. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif I miss that old arogent SOB king that put the peasants in their place. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

primitive

April 7th, 2003, 01:17 AM

The old king retains the task of keeping the crown nice.
Do not get lax in your duties Stone Mill, for the primitive one will not be happy if he finds only the tiniest spot on the crown when he comes for it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Congrats to both players for a well fought and exiting game.

Hope the tradition of updates on the current King match continues.

Slynky

April 7th, 2003, 03:44 AM

Slynky -vs- Dreico (21 days, 21 turns)

Still no sign of Dreiko. Funny, my game with Primitive placed me right beside him. Now, I can't even FIND my opponent, or very many good planets. Somehow, managing to stay in 1st for several turns now, though.

(yeah, I know...yawn).

Ragnarok

April 7th, 2003, 04:02 AM

I know the feeling of a bad start. In my game with Rambie I had a horrible start. Lots of empty systems around me, and in the systems where there were planets there was hardly any good planets or ones that I coule colonize. But once I met rambie in game we thought it would be make things interesting to trade colony techs, ice for rock. That helped out a little bit not much though. I only have to hold off 4 choke points into my empire, (that I know of) and I only lost 1st place for about 3 turns there. But rankings never mean anything. Well, most of the time. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
Soon the battles will begin. Soon the cries of mercy shall be heard.

Turn 64 for us right now, btw.

Slynky

April 7th, 2003, 05:00 PM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:
I know the feeling of a bad start. In my game with Rambie I had a horrible start. Lots of empty systems around me, and in the systems where there were planets there was hardly any good planets or ones that I coule colonize. But once I met rambie in game we thought it would be make things interesting to trade colony techs, ice for rock. Well, I must say that is an interesting twist. Not to mention someone must have been in the lead who agreed to a trade that could possibly work against him.

Slick

April 7th, 2003, 05:08 PM

(Bumping my question)
Explain please:

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
DUCs can't hit fighters, and he made sure he emphasized that point in-game.
I checked components.txt and they can target fighters. Are you saying that [generally] DUC's can't hit fighters because of range? or due to defensive bonuses? or what? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif

I love reading these "wrap ups". I sure sounds like it will be a long time before I should join such a tournament. Great game!

Slick.

Ragnarok

April 7th, 2003, 06:27 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
Well, I must say that is an interesting twist. Not to mention someone must have been in the lead who agreed to a trade that could possibly work against him.Yup, it was a very interesting twist indeed. I almost didn't do it because I thought since I had the rock tech that it would give him a slight advantage in the trade since there are usually more rock planets on a map. But I think it has been pretty fair so far. We'll see in the end eh? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

geoschmo

April 7th, 2003, 07:15 PM

Gozguy v Geoschmo, 2407.5

Things have taken an interesting turn of late. After facing each other accross warp point between our home systems Goz has decided to flank my fleet and make a play for my homesystem. Not sure if he figured I would fall back to defend it, but I am not going to do it. I am going full speed ahead and going to do as much damage as I can to his homesystem at the same time. We both have some defenses in place, although it's unclear how much effect they will have on the attacking fleets. Chances are good that we will both lose our home systems. If only one of us does the game will likely be over soon. If both of us do we may be looking at MAD in action and a long period of rebuilding for both of us before we can go heavily on the attack again.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 7th, 2003, 08:02 PM

At 75 turns, I wouldn't think the loss of a homeworld would be such a crises. Now, getting deep in someone's territory with a viable fleet, that's a different story.

(but who am I to comment such things http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )

geoschmo

April 7th, 2003, 09:44 PM

No, losing the homeworld itself probably wont be such a problem. But if I manage to get his whole home system he's gonna be hurting a bit I think. He's got four planets there of the correct atmosphere beside his home planet. Likely they were all colonized early and are well developed. Of course that could also mean great gobs of defenses to contend with. Guess I'll find out soon enough.

Geoschmo

Suicide Junkie

April 7th, 2003, 09:55 PM

Originally posted by Slick:
(Bumping my question)
Explain please:

<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Stone Mill:
DUCs can't hit fighters, and he made sure he emphasized that point in-game.
I checked components.txt and they can target fighters. Are you saying that [generally] DUC's can't hit fighters because of range? or due to defensive bonuses? or what? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif <hr /></blockquote>Defensive bonuses, pretty much. Those fighters are tiny, and without the 50% attack bonus provided by those dedicated PD weapons, you're looking at a pretty sad hitrate.

Stone Mill

April 8th, 2003, 12:27 AM

Thank you S_J; that is what I was referring to. Without big bonuses, DUCs just don't do the job against fighters.

Stone Mill

April 8th, 2003, 12:43 AM

Lots of cool updates in here... sorry for not replying sooner. Four straight days working on the new house and I am one sore S.O.B. (removing wallpaper, repair, paint, agggh). http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

The King groans... even his right finger aches when clicking through the next SEIV turn. Perhaps he should delay his match (due to injury) against the next Barbarian at the gate? Nah...

Thanks for the comments on the King match (esp. Slynky, Slick, Asmala), but as DavidG stated, I must go about kingly duties... you know, opressing the peasants, pilfering the tax coffers, surveying wenches, and whatnot. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geo- that is an awesome sounding game (I esentially ran into that decision a few times with a MAD strategy, comitting my fleet to end-game strategy... I was lucky enough to get there first, and not be challenged at home.) This sounds like a race against time. Can't wait to hear how this one plays out.

1FSTCAT, my friend, we've played in a bunch of games together, and taught each other many lessons... Good luck.

Just don't try and step on the blue suede shoes, baby. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

[ April 07, 2003, 23:48: Message edited by: Stone Mill ]

geoschmo

April 8th, 2003, 02:45 AM

Gozguy v Geoschmo, 2407.7

Gozguy continues to suprise me at every turn. He is either having trouble commiting to one strategy, or he is carrying out some long range, diabolical scheme that I simply am too dense to understand.

His attack fleet completed it's flanking manuver and entered my homesystem from the east Last turn. It made straight for the nearest undefended planet and glassed it. There sitting four sectors from my homeworld, he flinched? It can't be a flinch. He's too good for that. But it sure looks like a flinch.

His fleet passed by my homeworld and headed for the north warp point, back towards his own space. I think I got a glimpse of his ship crews pressing their derobed posteriors against the portholes as they flew by. Not sure if that has some cultural significance for his race or what.

Of course perhaps he just decided that he couldn't risk losing his fleet to my HW defenses. The fleet I had there was half the size of his, but perhaps he figured they would damage him enough that he would be in serious trouble even if he won the battle.

Meanwhile my attack fleet is on an inexorable course for his homeworld and their destiny, for good or bad. It appears my HW will live to see another day. However, if my fleet is dashed and fails to take his out though I will be in serious trouble anyway.

Geoschmo

geoschmo

April 8th, 2003, 06:01 AM

Gozguy v Geoshmo, 2408.2

The Last few turns have gone very well for me. Better then I could have hoped actually.

His attack fleet continued north and attempted to take out my frontline (What used to be the frontline anyway) construction and fleet assembly point. I had a small number of ships there being retrofit, and expected to lose the planet. Truth be told losing this planbet would have probably hurt worse then if he had taken out my homeworld as it was a huge, mineral rich, correct atmosphere world. Unfortunatly for him, I had time to make some preperations. I retorfitted a couple construction yards to be PDC platforms, and I had previously built several Weapons platforms on the planet.

His fleet, though quite large, was heavy in fighters and missle ships. Thanks to the previously mentioned PDC bases, nothing came close to scratching the planet. He did manage to wipe out most of my ships there, but I ended up with 3 or 4 combat ships after the first battle. All he had were minesweepers and some empty carriers.

The second battle was a turkey shoot. There were no survivors.

On the northern front things were going just as well. I glassed his homeworld at the cost of a half a dozen of my ships killed and a handfull damaged and recolonized it for my empire. Too bad I didn't have any troops handy, but we are both oxy breathers so I don't guess it would have mattered that much. I sent my fleet, minus the 3 or 4 most heavily damaged ships, to finish off the rest of his planets in the homesystem, totally ignoring the 5 enemy ships that had shown up too late to die in the defense of their homeworld.

Of course he tried to take out the recently recolonized homeworld, but I guess he wasn't counting on me having mines in the cargo bay of the colony ship. Poof.

All in all, the Last 10 turns he has lost over 60 ships, his homeworld, and 5 or 6 other quality planets. I have lost 2 bases, maybe twenty or so ships, and one minor planet. I most certainly have the edge at this point. I offered him an honarable surender, which he refused. Guess he's going to make me hunt him down.

Oh goody. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

[ April 08, 2003, 05:04: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

Ragnarok

April 8th, 2003, 06:32 AM

Ragnarok vs. Rambie - Turn 72.

Not much more information to be given. My mighty raging empire is still going strong getting stronger with each passing turn. Massive fleets are being assembled at different key points of my empire. No doubt the enemy is doing just the same. I plan on pulling out a few aces along the way as I hope that they will indeed trump any suprise cards he may pull. As always, only time shall tell. I'm guessing we'll see some dog fights within the next year or so.
I can hardly wait! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Cheeze

April 8th, 2003, 06:47 AM

United Flora vs The Wicked Thermolians, 2406.9

In the Last year, the pacific Flora have had to recover from the massive defeat at the Battle of Neckron. The distress of such damage was felt throughout the empire, and the many Gardens set about growing defenses. Much technology from long dead animal civilizations (no, not ruins people..stick with the story) was adapted to work upon the space-faring plantships of the Flora so they would have weapons. The skin of the ships was toughened, not only to resist the rigors of interstellar travel, but as proof against the firepower of the barbaric Thermolian death beams, and their Weedwacker and Weedkiller warships. The first battle taught the Flora to include better sensor technology as well, to avoid the fireworks show the Thermolians enjoyed at Neckron.

In the Hollifax system, the Flora had two colonies in system shared with the Thermolians. Not content to cease their tormenting the helpless plants, a Thermolian attack fleet swept aside the "fire blooms" and went after this Garden. Closing to their weapons range, the Thermolians were suddenly faced with a vegetable that could fight back, and the small number of Thermolian raiders were sent packing..those that weren't punctured full of holes. Further efforts at sending spores through space have convinced the greenery of several Thermolian planets to rise up against their fauna oppressors, and whole Thermolian colonies have been reduced to nothing due to bad eating habits and a failure to brush and floss. Now a Flora tendril has advanced, past a group of Thermolian warships and determined to wend its way into the Thermolian systems.

sparhawk

April 8th, 2003, 03:19 PM

Well...I played Last game against dreiko and I found him in turn 40.... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif
And when I saw his empire http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif .
Sorry to say, but it was an easy win http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif
and hopefully he learned from that.

sparhawk

[ April 08, 2003, 14:20: Message edited by: sparhawk ]

Phoenix-D

April 8th, 2003, 06:20 PM

"Yep, you guessed it, slowest game in KOTH history. No turns have been submitted by Dreico since my Last (boring) update."

I do belive I have that 'honor', sorry.
Current turn: 2403.3 (turn 34)
Date started: December 23

Phoenix-D

geoschmo

April 8th, 2003, 06:33 PM

Chocolatefro and Dreiko are on my list. I don't understand why they joined the league if they weren't going to play turns in a consistant manner. But whenever I have suggested a time lmiit in the past the consensus seems to always be against it.

I don't know how to fix it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

Slynky

April 8th, 2003, 07:16 PM

Originally posted by Phoenix-D:
"Yep, you guessed it, slowest game in KOTH history. No turns have been submitted by Dreico since my Last (boring) update."

I do belive I have that 'honor', sorry.
Current turn: 2403.3 (turn 34)
Date started: December 23

Phoenix-DThere's a saying that goes (something like):

"I felt sorry for myself because I had no feet. Then I saw a man with no legs."

(I guess I don't know how good I have it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )

geoschmo

April 8th, 2003, 07:24 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
There's a saying that goes (something like):

"I felt sorry for myself because I had no feet. Then I saw a man with no legs."

(I guess I don't know how good I have it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )I think the saying is "I felt sorry for myself because I have no shoes..." Not having any feet is pretty much just as bad as not having legs. While not having shoes is just a minor discomfort by comparison. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

[ April 08, 2003, 18:24: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

Slynky

April 8th, 2003, 07:28 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
But whenever I have suggested a time lmiit in the past the consensus seems to always be against it.

I don't know how to fix it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif I hear ya, geo. And I agree with you a bit. KOTH defaults were taken for my game and the turnaround time is 120 hours (!). I would expect a time of 48 to be suitable (with the stipulation) that a business trip or vacation need could be a legitimate reason to extend the deadline. (of course, that puts you in the position of having to "mess" around with games all the time...and who wants that? Too bad a game can't be created and then "handed off" to one of the players).

The part that gets me is it takes about 1 minute to do a turn in KOTH for the 1st 5-10 turns. Now that I'm up to turn 21, it takes about 6 or 7 minutes (and 20 seconds for upload). Dreico mentioned to me that he was a student and didn't have much time to play. While I applaud anyone going to school, if his complaint is that he has so much schoolwork to do that he can't take 15 minutes to do 2 turns each day, he shouldn't have signed up. It's not like he's traveling (as far as I know) or on vacation. And, lots of players do multiple turns on weekends. Even though there was a big time difference, take a look at my game with Primitive...61 turns in, what, 5 days?

So, I just don't get it.

But back to the dilemma. What turnaround time to you choose? If we make the T/A time long (to attract players) do we really want people in a tournement who will only manage 1 turn every 2 or 3 days? If the concern is to make a tourney (or KOTH) sort of thing, perhaps dividing the people up in to 2 different tourneys is worth exploring...a fast and slow tourney.

(OK, I'll shut up.... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )

Slynky

April 8th, 2003, 07:37 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Slynky:
There's a saying that goes (something like):

"I felt sorry for myself because I had no feet. Then I saw a man with no legs."

(I guess I don't know how good I have it http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )I think the saying is "I felt sorry for myself because I have no shoes..." Not having any feet is pretty much just as bad as not having legs. While not having shoes is just a minor discomfort by comparison. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo<hr /></blockquote>Yeah, that's it...having no shoes till I saw a man with no feet (to put shoes on). Tks, geo!

primitive

April 8th, 2003, 08:21 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Chocolatefro and Dreiko are on my list. I don't understand why they joined the league if they weren't going to play turns in a consistant manner. But whenever I have suggested a time lmiit in the past the consensus seems to always be against it.

I don't know how to fix it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif Add EMPerror to your list also. He has been AWOL since April 1, and do not answer e-mails.

Current status of Primitive VS EMPerror game: Turn 28, EMPerror controls 2 1/2 systems and are blocked in (he had an extremly lousy starting position). Primitives valiant forces are currently laying mines in his systems and the game can only end one way. With 1 turn every 120 hours, it will take me about 2 months to finish him off.

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 01:10 AM

Originally posted by Slynky:
Slynky -vs- Dreico (21 days, 21 turns)

Still no sign of Dreiko. Funny, my game with Primitive placed me right beside him. Now, I can't even FIND my opponent, or very many good planets. Somehow, managing to stay in 1st for several turns now, though.

(yeah, I know...yawn).Update: (23 days, 21 turns)

Yep, you guessed it, slowest game in KOTH history. No turns have been submitted by Dreico since my Last (boring) update.

YAWN.......

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 03:50 AM

(just seeing who will get/take the "666" thread... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Pablo

April 9th, 2003, 08:06 AM

Slynky,
Me and Dreiko are in one 2003 PBW Open Tournament game and he seems to play at least 1 turn per day. In your KOTH game he's probably trying to p**s you off and loose your guard http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

geoschmo

April 9th, 2003, 02:03 PM

Actually, looking at the history, Drieko's not been doing too badly. He manages to average a turn a day by visiting the site every other day and playing consecutive turns. Now if we could just get him to play at least once every day you guys could average two a day. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 04:52 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Actually, looking at the history, Drieko's not been doing too badly. He manages to average a turn a day by visiting the site every other day and playing consecutive turns. Now if we could just get him to play at least once every day you guys could average two a day. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

GeoschmoWell, as I said earlier (kind of), until I become the worst off, I don't think I'll complain anymore. I'll just have to endure it.

(and if KOTH is still going when my game gets done, I'll request someone who plays a bit more frequently and cross my fingers)

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 04:55 PM

Originally posted by Pablo:
Slynky,
Me and Dreiko are in one 2003 PBW Open Tournament game and he seems to play at least 1 turn per day. In your KOTH game he's probably trying to p**s you off and loose your guard http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Actually, he's more likely to get me off my guard by submitting fast turns. As it is now, I've not much to do but tweak the s--t out of every turn in order to get my "fix". http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Which brings to mind the Tourney now running. Round 2 can't begin till round 1 finishes completely. So, the whole thing is moving as fast as the slowest game. One game was near turn 60 and, I think, 2 others were in the teens. They guys in the game at 60 turns are going to have more than a month's wait (if not 2 or 3 months) till all round 1 games are done.

geoschmo

April 9th, 2003, 05:01 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
Which brings to mind the Tourney now running. Round 2 can't begin till round 1 finishes completely. So, the whole thing is moving as fast as the slowest game. One game was near turn 60 and, I think, 2 others were in the teens. They guys in the game at 60 turns are going to have more than a month's wait (if not 2 or 3 months) till all round 1 games are done.That is possible. Although I haven't actually said or even decided what round two is going to look like, so you are making some assumptions there. Since it's a double elimination tournament it would be possible to start round 2 before round 1 is complete. In fact I was thinking of doing just that. Just haven't totally made up my mind yet.

Geoschmo

geoschmo

April 9th, 2003, 05:03 PM

By the way Slynky, there is nothing stopping you from playing other games that aren't Koth games. If you need a fix I could play you an exhibition match. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

tesco samoa

April 9th, 2003, 06:05 PM

UPdate on my new koth game.... Nice map... I believe i will meet my opponent within the first 10 turns.... I think there is 20 systems for us to fight in... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

geoschmo

April 9th, 2003, 06:08 PM

What? That's not enough for you? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

I've been using small spiral maps for a while now. I guess some are just smaller than others.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 10:53 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
By the way Slynky, there is nothing stopping you from playing other games that aren't Koth games. If you need a fix I could play you an exhibition match. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

GeoschmoWell, I am in 2 other games (the Tourney and Adversary). So, I do get a fix periodically http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif .

However, your offer of an exibition game is intriguing. What do you have in mind?

Slynky

April 9th, 2003, 11:04 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
That is possible. Although I haven't actually said or even decided what round two is going to look like, so you are making some assumptions there. Since it's a double elimination tournament it would be possible to start round 2 before round 1 is complete. In fact I was thinking of doing just that. Just haven't totally made up my mind yet.

Geoschmo

Without going back to the Tourney thread, I was under the impression that round 2 would be played against people you haven't played before. In order for that to happen, don't there have to be a minimum of 5 Tourney games finished? Any less and some people would be playing someone they alreay played against (I think...but my brain does fart some times).

If this is correct, then waiting for 5 games to finish so that there can be such a second round leaves only 2 (slow) games to mix up for their 2nd round...not enough to play aginst all new people.

So, I think, the only way to do that would be to wait till all games are finished. (or else just let people be in a game with a person--or persons--they have already been in with).

geoschmo

April 9th, 2003, 11:17 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
So, I think, the only way to do that would be to wait till all games are finished. (or else just let people be in a game with a person--or persons--they have already been in with).No. You are missing an obvious option. People can play in more than one game at the same time. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Regarding the exhibition game, I just meant a 1v1 game that wasn't an official koth game or anything. It could be koth settings, or something different if you prefer.

Geoschmo

[ April 09, 2003, 22:17: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

Thermodyne

April 9th, 2003, 11:56 PM

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 12:49 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Slynky:
So, I think, the only way to do that would be to wait till all games are finished. (or else just let people be in a game with a person--or persons--they have already been in with).No. You are missing an obvious option. People can play in more than one game at the same time. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif <hr /></blockquote>DOH! That's what they all say! (is that plagerism? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif )

Regarding the exhibition game, I just meant a 1v1 game that wasn't an official koth game or anything. It could be koth settings, or something different if you prefer.

GeoschmoKOTH settings are fine with me. It's fast and dirty. But you have to sign a non-disclosure http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif agreement to not divulge my empire setup...the surprise I have in it (well, perhaps a surprise) is my only chance at a path up the hill besides an incredibly lucky planet layout...which I probably need also http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ).

Stone Mill

April 10th, 2003, 01:10 AM

Give the Big Cheese access to the next level. I have conceded that my position is not viable,
no need to hold him up with 25 turns worth of battles that will not change the out come.

Congrats on the win Cheese. If you did what I think you did, then that was a gutsy move.
Congratulations to the Cheezy one? What did he do? Hit you with a huge chunk of fertilizer? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Seriously, someone tell me how this ended? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 01:27 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
<blockquote>quote:<hr /> Give the Big Cheese access to the next level. I have conceded that my position is not viable,
no need to hold him up with 25 turns worth of battles that will not change the out come.

Congrats on the win Cheese. If you did what I think you did, then that was a gutsy move.
Seriously, someone tell me how this ended? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif <hr /></blockquote>Yeah, I'd like to hear about the gutsy move.

Cheeze

April 10th, 2003, 02:14 AM

My thanks to Thermodyne for a very tough and very fun game! I'm honestly not sure what the "very gutsy move" was, so I definitely look forward to hearing the Thermolian side of things.

I was surprised to see Thermodyne yielding the game but I had no time to say anything here. I thought I was doing well, but I didn't think I was that strong. I spent most of the game in fear and terror of Thermodyne's ships appearing anywhere and everywhere, and moved in a slow, deliberate manner to victory....the way of the plant, you might say.

Everything was as I said during my Last update. One of my southern colonies weathered a serious attack and eliminated the Thermolian ships that probably could have done at least some damage in nearby systems. That allowed me a little extra time to move a force of my own in that area. Much of this match was a waiting game, with both us of preparing for battles.

I played a slow, deliberate game. It was funny that I was moving a sizeable fleet through Neckron (where my first major defeat occurred) and so was Thermodyne, and they just passed right by each other. I had a secondary fleet I was preparing in Yoshri, the neighboring system with one of my homeworlds. Since my Neckron fleet couldn't catch the Thermolians, I moved the Yoshri fleet to defend the warp point. I wanted to change that turn and send my Neckron fleet back, guessing that if I would lose the fight but at least do enough damage to slow his fleet and allow my Neckron ships to catch up. However, I didn't get a chance to undo my turn, and it proved unnecessary. My Yoshri fleet scored a massive victory over some tough ships. I rather regret having to win by being assured the first shot at the warp point, but I feared the Thermolian fighting advantage (bezerker and max aggressiveness/defensiveness) and didn't think my Flora ships would perform as well in open space.

All the while this was happening, I had developed a sizeable intel base, and had spent many turns hitting the Thermolians with Food Contamination, eliminating the population of approximately 8-10 Thermolian planets. I also used intel to gain star charts of Thermolian systems, and in one instant I hit one of his sweepers in that final fleet with ship bombs because I KNEW I had to stop it!

geoschmo

April 10th, 2003, 02:32 AM

Originally posted by Cheeze:
I rather regret having to win by being assured the first shot at the warp point, but I feared the Thermolian fighting advantage (bezerker and max aggressiveness/defensiveness) and didn't think my Flora ships would perform as well in open space.This is no reason for regret. Strategy is all about maximizing your strengths and minimizing your weaknesses. Seeking after and acchieving the "high ground" in a battle is something to be proud of.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 02:35 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Cheeze:
I rather regret having to win by being assured the first shot at the warp point, but I feared the Thermolian fighting advantage (bezerker and max aggressiveness/defensiveness) and didn't think my Flora ships would perform as well in open space.This is no reason for regret. Strategy is all about maximizing your strengths and minimizing your weaknesses. Seeking after and acchieving the "high ground" in a battle is something to be proud of.

Geoschmo<hr /></blockquote>I agree. That's part of strategy. Anytime you go through a warp hole, you're taking a chance that you can take the first shot of what's on the other side. I'm sure every good player takes advantage of it and every good player realizes the dangers.

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 02:41 AM

OK, geo, the game is afoot. If you need to test an empire, go for it.

As to my empire...

I've tested it against 4 games with same settings of KOTH against the AI on highest settings (except for low number of AI) in simultaneous game (to simulate combat the correct way)...and kicked ***. Of course, that's easy.

I won another test of the empire against Lord Chane in a PBEM game simulating KOTH. Lord Chane is pretty good...he just joined KOTH at my urging and is playing against SparHawk right not.

I was in 1st place against Dreico for 8 or 10 turns or so with it (in what I might call somewhat of a crappy positional start) but I fell to 2nd on turn 24.

So, I'm anxious to try it out against a "heavyweight" such as you. Just wish I could get my ships to fight right... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Cheeze

April 10th, 2003, 02:48 AM

You would notice I didn't feel so badly about a warp defense that I avoiding setting up that one. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif I do wish I could have taken down the Thermolian fleet in open space, and seen if my ship designs and strategy really resulted in a superior performance.

Does this mean I face The Great One, Geo, in my next match? By twig and stem, that will be exciting! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Stoney keeps throwing little barbs my way because he fears me and the "Shake, Rattle and Roll" I'll hit him with if I get my shot at the crown. He's just holding that crown for me until I get to the top of the hill. (hmmm...that gives me an idea to run past Gervais for a "King" avatar)

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 02:59 AM

Originally posted by Cheeze:
You would notice I didn't feel so badly about a warp defense that I avoiding setting up that one. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif I do wish I could have taken down the Thermolian fleet in open space, and seen if my ship designs and strategy really resulted in a superior performance.

Does this mean I face The Great One, Geo, in my next match? By twig and stem, that will be exciting! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Stoney keeps throwing little barbs my way because he fears me and the "Shake, Rattle and Roll" I'll hit him with if I get my shot at the crown. He's just holding that crown for me until I get to the top of the hill. (hmmm...that gives me an idea to run past Gervais for a "King" avatar)(and hope no one brings a cheese grater...good luck to you!)

tesco samoa

April 10th, 2003, 04:02 AM

cheese... watch that geo.... He can be a tricky one...

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 04:08 AM

Originally posted by tesco samoa:
cheese... watch that geo.... He can be a tricky one...I guess I should take that to heart since I'm testing his "schmo-ness" in a "pick-up" game.

Ragnarok

April 10th, 2003, 04:19 AM

Originally posted by Slynky:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by tesco samoa:
cheese... watch that geo.... He can be a tricky one...I guess I should take that to heart since I'm testing his "schmo-ness" in a "pick-up" game.<hr /></blockquote>Yes, take it to heart. He's tough. I played him once in a pick-up game. I got my arse handed to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But we met at turn 2 so I was thrown off guard by that. I will be prepared next time. I hope. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 04:29 AM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:

Yes, take it to heart. He's tough. I played him once in a pick-up game. I got my arse handed to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But we met at turn 2 so I was thrown off guard by that. I will be prepared next time. I hope. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Well, I've always been one that thinks you learn by playing against good people. (of course, one has to be able to comprehend what was done... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif )

I just wish I could master adjusting strategies!

geoschmo

April 10th, 2003, 04:58 AM

Cheeze, can't say you'll be facing me. My game with Gozguy has not been decided yet. I probably don't have as much of an advantage as my latests Posts indicate. Some of that might be propaganda for the benefit of my opponent. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Geoschmo

Krsqk

April 10th, 2003, 05:51 AM

UPdate on my new koth game.... Nice map... I believe i will meet my opponent within the first 10 turns.... I think there is 20 systems for us to fight in... Yeah, I spent 20 minutes adjusting my monitor settings and cleaning my glasses, wondering when those "missing" systems would show up. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif Tesco, looks like this one's going to be fast and furious. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Hold on for the ride!

Of course, having said that, I should probably make preparations to surrender--even though we're only on turn 3. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Thermodyne

April 10th, 2003, 07:42 PM

Originally posted by Cheeze:
My thanks to Thermodyne for a very tough and very fun game! I'm honestly not sure what the "very gutsy move" was, so I definitely look forward to hearing the Thermolian side of things.

Seems to me that you risked it all early so that you could have more later.

Slynky

April 10th, 2003, 10:46 PM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:

QUOTE]Yes, take it to heart. He's tough. I played him once in a pick-up game. I got my arse handed to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif But we met at turn 2 so I was thrown off guard by that. I will be prepared next time. I hope. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Well, we're right at turn 30 and I'm still holding my own. 'Course, score isn't everything and he may have gotten a bad start. But, it seems whatever I fight with does poorly so I'm really looking forward (not) to that...if I ever find him http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif .

Stone Mill

April 10th, 2003, 11:31 PM

Stoney keeps throwing little barbs my way because he fears me and the "Shake, Rattle and Roll" I'll hit him with if I get my shot at the crown. He's just holding that crown for me until I get to the top of the hill. (hmmm...that gives me an idea to run past Gervais for a "King" avatar)
Now that does it!!! I'm the only Honky Tonk Man in here, and I have a powder-filled guitar waiting for the upside of your yellow nugget!! Why, I ouggta... knock the cheeze-wiz outta ya! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Krsqk

April 11th, 2003, 02:40 AM

Well, it's just as we thought. Turn 5, and Tesco and I have met. Suffice it to say we're within 5 systems of each other. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif

Slynky

April 11th, 2003, 04:04 AM

Well, turn 35: geo and I finally met (in our pick-up game--KOTH settings but not official KOTH game). I see his frigate and he sees 2 carriers and assorted colony ships. (well, not assorted colony ships but, sordid colony ships...we sent all our vulgar population out to sew vulgarity in the galaxy).

Should get interesting now.

Nodachi

April 11th, 2003, 06:22 AM

2400.3 - First contact. One of Asmala's colony ships warped into one of my home systems.

I'm in sooo much trouble!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Slynky

April 11th, 2003, 06:27 AM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
2400.3 - First contact. One of Asmala's colony ships warped into one of my home systems.

I'm in sooo much trouble!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif "one of my home systems"

How many home systems do you have?

Also, I know you have been reading this thread... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif , Asmala probably has PPBs on it... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif .

Ragnarok

April 11th, 2003, 07:03 AM

I was bored so I thought I'd do a little something to find out the average number of turns I have done with my 5 games so far. Too bad I lost 4 of those 5. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif Here is what I did...

Zarix def. Rags 104 turns. 13 days.
Rag def. Darkhorse 107 turns. 25 days.
Cheeze def. Rags 99 turns. 11 days.
Phoenix-D def. Rags 103 turns. 3 days.
Thermodyne def. Rags 122 turns. 15 days?

Total = 535 turns. 67 days.
Average = 7.9 turns per day

Geo, if you want, I can do this with each of the people on the Hill. This could give the person who will play whoever in the next game sort of an idea on how many turns they expect a day if schedules work together. What do you think?

Ragnarok

April 11th, 2003, 07:09 AM

I did our current Kings just for the fun of it too. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Here are the results.

Stone Mill
SM def. Asmala 79 turns. 26 days.
SM def. Preacherman 42 turns. 16 days.
SM def. Kazarp 39 turns. 4 days.
SM def. Geo 42 turns. 4 days.
SM def. Termodyne 58 turns. 13 days.
Rollo def. SM 37 turns. 11 days.
1FSTCAT def. SM 76 turns. 28 days.
SM def. Pablo 55 turns. 8 days.

Total = 428 turns. 106 days.
Average = 4.03 turns per day.

Nodachi

April 11th, 2003, 07:53 AM

Originally posted by Slynky

How many home systems do you have? We went with a three planet start to speed things up.

And yeah, I read this thread, that's why I know I'm in trouble! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Baron Grazic

April 11th, 2003, 08:27 AM

K.O.T.H. Gecko vs Grazic Update.

Fleet Commander EEE4255EEE considers the situation, especially now that the new orders have arrived.

Things are looking hopeless for the EEEvil EEEmpire. We are falling back on all sides, our small number of Ice colonies are all domed, the few undomed planets are all on Slow build, Intelligence projects are usurping our ships, all money to replace lost ships has been spent, technological deficit, and now Insanity from our leaders.

Fleet Commander EEE4255EEE looks at the orders he has just received to 'Warp' once more. He knows that the SpaceSharks have Mined the other side, with their Large, Technological Advanced Fleet located directly on the other side.

But an order is an order and no more delay is permitted. Fleet Commander EEE4255EEE informs all ships of the new orders, he closes shuts down his external displays and engages.

Missiles launch, Point-defence whine in reply, Canons fire, Fighters deploy, Explosions are all around, and still Fleet Commander EEE4255EEE waits for the big one.

Slowly the noises die down. Fleet Commander EEE4255EEE opens the external displays and sees two SpaceSharks vessels directly in front, but instead of firing they open comm channels. It's Marines EEE7731EEE and EEE7387EEE in command of the vessels. He check the displays, the only other SpaceSharks vessels are fleeing, only 1 EEEvil ship is missing. How did this happen? He missed the whole show, and what have the marines being saying, the ships contain...empty Gas Colony modules...

Perhaps things are starting to look hopeful.

Geckomlis

April 11th, 2003, 10:55 AM

K.O.T.H. Gecko vs Grazic Update: Gecko’s POV.

The Shark Elementals Expeditionary Fleet, after scorching and then salting the earth of every EEEvil EEEmpire planet in the Resshrak system, holds a guard position on the exit warp point used by the routed and retreating EEEvil forces. The offensive halts, supposedly to facilitate a massive resupply operation. In truth, the fleet is obsolete and can not engage and prevail at the knife-fighting ranges associated with a warp point defense. What the fleet can do is focus and hold the attention of the enemy’s mobile forces – an obsolete fleet in being is still a fleet in being. The enemy can not safely ignore the 40 long-range ships poised on his border.

On other fronts, the Northern Star Fleet and the Southern Cross Fleet complete the cleansing of the Sutran system and depart for the scheduled sterilization of the Zanthris system. Colonizers follow closely behind to quickly construct forward fleet bases.

Shark Elementals commandos bomb EEEvil ships with impunity and, between missions, philosophically ponder the EEEvil doctrine that emphasizes the production of new vessels at the expense of the repair, refit, and security of already operational ships.

Suddenly, in what can only be described as a complete breakdown in the command and control elements of the EEEvil EEEmpire, an EEEvil surrender is tendered simultaneously with an EEEvil offensive into the Resshrak system. The Shark Elementals Expeditionary Fleet is (anticlimactically) annihilated. The EEEvil EEEmpire quickly reneges on its offer to surrender and shouts defiance at the Shark Elementals Army.

Leader Gecko smiles. Without the need to maintain Expeditionary Fleet, massive numbers of resources are now free to be redirected. The Mothball Fleet, slowly accumulated over many years, is reactivated and then refitted with bleeding-edge technology at the huge orbital works above Ikrod V. Shipyards on 30+ worlds are ordered to complete the final outfitting of ships on hold. Entire worlds devoted solely to the storage of resources are emptied, but there are many, many more such worlds in reserve.

Leader Gecko Boards his Predator-Class flagship “Hammerhead”, and orders the smaller, leaner, and very much meaner new Expeditionary Fleet to engage their cloaking devices. This fleet will bypass the current forward edge of battle and any roving ships to target and destroy strategic resource production facilities.

As other fleets come Online, operations will conform to an entropy-based warfare model.

geoschmo

April 11th, 2003, 03:36 PM

Slynky, math equation:

Stealth ship + minefield = -1 Stealth ship http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Stone Mill

April 11th, 2003, 03:53 PM

I did our current Kings just for the fun of it too. Here are the results.

Stone Mill
SM def. Asmala 79 turns. 26 days.
SM def. Preacherman 42 turns. 16 days.
SM def. Kazarp 39 turns. 4 days.
SM def. Geo 42 turns. 4 days.
SM def. Termodyne 58 turns. 13 days.
Rollo def. SM 37 turns. 11 days.
1FSTCAT def. SM 76 turns. 28 days.
SM def. Pablo 55 turns. 8 days.

Total = 428 turns. 106 days.
Average = 4.03 turns per day. Very interesting, Rags. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif
Darnit, though, by official decree- anyone publicizing the King's past losses shall be tarred and feathered! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Now, to get to the scribes at the official library to rewrite... ahem (cough, cough) correct the official records... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif

On a serious note, you can really expect 2-3 turns a day from me minimum. As many others have pointed out, it does not really take too much time to cycle through them in the beginning and the end of the day.
Time zones are sometimes the biggest hurdle to getting together to zoom through extra turns... I'm usually up for this on the weekends, if I'm not tied down doing home stuff.

<*whip crack!*> Yes, Dear... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

tesco samoa

April 11th, 2003, 03:55 PM

5 turns.... It was 4 turns....

Which on average is when I meet people. I have beers cooling by the beach for us.

Slynky

April 11th, 2003, 04:08 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Slynky, math equation:

Stealth ship + minefield = -1 Stealth ship http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Yeah, but how many stealth ships have you not seen? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Asmala

April 11th, 2003, 09:22 PM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
2400.3 - First contact. One of Asmala's colony ships warped into one of my home systems.

I'm in sooo much trouble!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif We started close to each other so the game could be short. No combats yet, mostly because all of his ships I have seen were colony ships.

DavidG

April 12th, 2003, 02:55 AM

Originally posted by Stone Mill:
Darnit, though, by official decree- anyone publicizing the King's past losses shall be tarred and feathered! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Now, to get to the scribes at the official library to rewrite... ahem (cough, cough) correct the official records... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif
I agree and anyone posting the future Kings one and only loss shall be sent to the dungeons when the true king takes his rightfull place!!

- Kazarp

DavidG

April 12th, 2003, 03:01 AM

Originally posted by Ragnarok:
SM vs. Kazarp 39 turns. 4 days.
What the??!! Looks like the King is already suppressing the scribes and changing the records. This game took 5 days. (or maybe Rags just forgot to count both the start and the end day. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif )

- Kazarp

Ragnarok

April 12th, 2003, 03:34 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Ragnarok:
SM vs. Kazarp 39 turns. 4 days.
What the??!! Looks like the King is already suppressing the scribes and changing the records. This game took 5 days. (or maybe Rags just forgot to count both the start and the end day. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif )

- Kazarp<hr /></blockquote>Maybe I misstyped too.
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif Either way it doesn't change his average much. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/tongue.gif 4 days, 5 days. It's all the same! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Slynky

April 13th, 2003, 07:52 AM

Geo -vs- Slynky: ("pick-up" KOTH game for fun)

At turn 64, I'd like to offer geo the opportunity to resign the game. It's a gentleman's offer. It may sound a bit pompus and I don't mean it to (read ahead before you decide).

His ships fight well and he does well against my ships even though he has inferior tech in almost every degree. If he had tech equal to mine, I'd be dead fast! The only problem is, it seems, that my empire design and starting location seems to have given me an insurmountable lead. It's hard to overcome someone who can throw "numbers" at you (though not being able to design and fight well).

At turn 64, I have nearly 200,000 minerals and 300,000 rads. I put 120,000 into tech a turn and will be getting another colony type in 2 turns. That's from 66 colonies in 18 systems. 51 ships, most of which are battle cruisers or cruisers. (and 12 more in SY's).

So, unless I am wrong, it seems pointless to continue and I would rather end it with a "handshake".

I would have him on my team in any contest...though I suspect he would choose many others before he chose me.

So, geo, what say you to calling an end to this game (which I REALLY enjoyed)?

PS: Remember, my empire design is a secret... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

[ April 13, 2003, 11:16: Message edited by: Slynky ]

Slynky

April 13th, 2003, 03:31 PM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
Quick update:

Asmala is stomping me into the dirt! I've never had so many "what the.." or "holy sh*#" moments than in this game. This gentleman is amazing!

Looks like my streak will continue! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Try a little tar on your ships...errr, heels. Maybe that's it. North Carolina curse! (I'm from NC, too).

Nodachi

April 13th, 2003, 10:27 PM

Slynky: http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

2402.0 - Nodachi surrendered to Asmala.

What did I learn from this game? Don't step out in front of a speeding truck!! Still had fun though, got slaughtered, but had fun.

Stone, watch out, he coming back up! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Gandalph

April 14th, 2003, 12:00 AM

DavidG gets to move on up. I surrendered to him on stardate 2407.7. He had me outresearched by far, killing me quickly with a combo of large trained fleets and intel. I will start my climb again from the bottom.

Good luck on the way to the top Kazarp!

Nodachi

April 14th, 2003, 01:44 AM

Quick update:

Asmala is stomping me into the dirt! I've never had so many "what the.." or "holy sh*#" moments than in this game. This gentleman is amazing!

Looks like my streak will continue! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Slick

April 14th, 2003, 03:07 AM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
Slynky: http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

2402.0 - Nodachi surrendered to Asmala.

What did I learn from this game? Don't step out in front of a speeding truck!! Still had fun though, got slaughtered, but had fun.

Stone, watch out, he coming back up! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Amazing that he could have researched "Trucks" and "Speeding Engines" by 20 turns into the game!

Slick.

Slynky

April 14th, 2003, 03:18 AM

Originally posted by Slick:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Nodachi:
Slynky: http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

2402.0 - Nodachi surrendered to Asmala.

What did I learn from this game? Don't step out in front of a speeding truck!! Still had fun though, got slaughtered, but had fun.

Stone, watch out, he coming back up! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif Amazing that he could have researched "Trucks" and "Speeding Engines" by 20 turns into the game!

Slick.<hr /></blockquote>http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif (good one, Slick!)

sparhawk

April 14th, 2003, 07:41 AM

Sparhawk vs Lord Chane

me is also history http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif ,
Got both a nice start and establish a hold on two warpholes. Both were building up, I gambled one and he on the other one. But he got beter values for attack and defence (armor etc) and because of that my bigger ships were slaughtered http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif
Not ones, but numbers of times...
So in the end he was moving trough my systems with a small fleet and I couln't stop him anymore...even a big fleet that was moving trough his systems was slaughter by a inferior fleet, many good ship/people were killed in this attempt.
But the end was near by..and the spar allaince was no more.

congratulation lord chane.

Sparhawk

please goeschmo give me another player,
any one in for an easy game/player to play against http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

geoschmo

April 14th, 2003, 02:56 PM

Guys, sorry but I have been really sick all weekend. Just able to do the absolute minimum and check for emergencies and whatnot. Hopefully by this evening I will be able to get caught up on the games that have ended.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 14th, 2003, 02:59 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Guys, sorry but I have been really sick all weekend. Just able to do the absolute minimum and check for emergencies and whatnot. Hopefully by this evening I will be able to get caught up on the games that have ended.

GeoschmoWell, it sure sucks getting sick on a weekend. (not to mention getting sick in springtime).

Asmala

April 14th, 2003, 06:02 PM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
Slynky: http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

2402.0 - Nodachi surrendered to Asmala.

What did I learn from this game? Don't step out in front of a speeding truck!! Still had fun though, got slaughtered, but had fun.

Stone, watch out, he coming back up! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif That was the fastest game I have ever played http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Geoschmo, when you're recover please bump me up. I'm waiting eagerly my next opponent...

DavidG

April 15th, 2003, 02:28 AM

Well looks like I'm now in the long queue to fight the King. Since it may be a while till my next game, anyone feel like an exhibition game?

- Kazarp

Ragnarok

April 15th, 2003, 04:10 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
Since it may be a while till my next game, anyone feel like an exhibition game?

- KazarpDavid, I'll play you if you want me to. I'm in a game for KOTH right now but it is a slow mover so I could take up another game. I'm not the best but hey. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif
And if you want someone else that's cool too.
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

[ April 15, 2003, 03:11: Message edited by: Ragnarok ]

Stone Mill

April 15th, 2003, 08:45 PM

Originally posted by Nodachi:
Stone, watch out, he coming back up!
Hey Asmala, take your time... sheesh! Looks like I ticked him off and he took it out on you!!! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

King Title Defense II Update:

1SFTCAT and I are next door neighbors. This should be fun. I was the first one through the warp point and stumbled onto his ungracious fleet of planet destroyers. Now, that's not neighborly at all. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

Slynky

April 16th, 2003, 06:26 PM

Slynky -vs- Dreico:

Turn 36. Met Dreico. (yawn...)

geoschmo

April 16th, 2003, 06:52 PM

Koth page is updated, I think. Let me know if your game is finished and I missed it. I am still a little medicated.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 18th, 2003, 09:44 PM

Slynky -vs- Dreico:

(yeah, yeah, I know...boring)

Turn 38 and we have now met each other at 3 different locations around the "spiral hole". Now, where will the concentrated probes be?

(well, if nothing else, the thread has moved to the top again... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif )

DavidG

April 19th, 2003, 03:38 AM

Hey Geo how many contenders do we have now? I see the guy the programmed that auto update thing for the web page didn't allow for a #3, #4 contender etc etc. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif

geoschmo

April 19th, 2003, 03:47 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
Hey Geo how many contenders do we have now? I see the guy the programmed that auto update thing for the web page didn't allow for a #3, #4 contender etc etc. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif We have 3 contenders right now. # 3 is some guy named, uh, Kazarp or something. Whatever that means. Sounds like the call letters for a radio staion in Little Rock to me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Geoschmo

Asmala

April 19th, 2003, 08:51 PM

My game against Lord Chane will probably be very short, because just like my previous game we started at adjacent systems. I had concentrated only building colony ships so Lord Chane's two escorts and two frigates which entered to my home system really caught me of my guards. We'll see if I recover for that sudden strike...

Fyron

April 19th, 2003, 09:19 PM

Thats why you should always make a few CSM weapon platforms very early on on your HW. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Asmala

April 19th, 2003, 10:02 PM

Originally posted by Imperator Fyron:
Thats why you should always make a few CSM weapon platforms very early on on your HW. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif Those CSM platforms don't help much when enemy ships fire their missiles and then move out of the platforms range. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

Stone Mill

April 20th, 2003, 01:04 AM

Sounds like the call letters for a radio staion in Little Rock to me.

You mean that's not a discount outlet for mothballed ships? Blue Light special on a frigate in aisle 23...
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Krsqk

April 20th, 2003, 01:45 AM

Tesco and I are having an interesting time. We started near each other. I sent some brief exploratory probes into his home system (brief because they were killed http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ), then settled down to some serious gaming. A fleet of eight frigates entered his system and managed to blockade his homeworld, with only one death (stupid strategy errors let his colony ship ram two of my ships) http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/smilies/rolleyes.gif . Next month I destroyed his four weapplats, but it cost me three more ships and two heavily damaged. HW still blockaded, reinforcements on the way.

I was pretty sure I was going to lose when I entered his home system so quickly and saw three BSYs around his HW, when I was just wrapping up my first one. I was even more freaked out when I replayed combat and saw his missile boats set to "Kamikaze" strategy. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif Now, I'm not sure who'll win. I'm in first place, but he's colonized three other planets in his system, and probably more elsewhere. Glassing his HW will be satisfying, but probably not a game-breaker for him.

Impatiently waiting for the next turn to show up... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif *tap tap tap tap tap on the desk*

[ April 20, 2003, 02:59: Message edited by: Krsqk ]

geoschmo

April 21st, 2003, 02:07 PM

Gozguy vs Geoschmo, 2412.5

Apparently Gozguy will require me to seek out and destroy every Last remnant of his empire. This is fine with me. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

I clearly have the advantage at this point. However his excellent use of hit and run tactics and flanking manuvers does slow my advances considerably. I have to spend time and resources protecting my flanks, and defending the planets that I take from him. No more rolling through systems taking 3 or 4 planets at a time as I did earlier in the war. Doing that now only guarantees that Goz will return and glass the recently liberated populations, and in the process leaving my fleet well in advance of any repair and refuel facilities.

Goz has shown an ability to recolonize glassed planets quickly, so I can't simply fall back to refuel. Doing so only guarantees that I will have to fight again for the same piece of ground. My strategy is advance and hold, consolidate, and advance again. It is slow, but it gets the job done with a minimum of risk to my crews.

So it's become a methodical process of taking a planet at a time. Defending them and cleaning out pockets of resistance in system. Building up sufficent reserves to block the warp points from flanking counter attack. And then finally moving on to the next system. At this rate we may get to 200 turns before it's done. I love it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Geoschmo

[ April 21, 2003, 13:26: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

tesco samoa

April 21st, 2003, 02:33 PM

very lucky.

THe bases were just about to drop out defencive ships... But now they cannot... That really hurt...

Krsqk

April 22nd, 2003, 12:14 AM

I assumed those bases would be working overtime on WPs or something special. Had I worked my strategies right (again), I probably could have taken them out Last month. Now, I have to wait another month. Well, time for some S&D missions. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Asmala

April 23rd, 2003, 05:11 PM

Lord Chane surrendered to me in turn 2403.1 so Geo please bump me up. According to the KOTH page my next opponent is Cheeze http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon6.gif

There's a little bit queue in the top of the hill so I hope my next match will be longer. In the two latest matches I have started next to my opponent.

Stone Mill

April 23rd, 2003, 07:38 PM

King Match Turn 24

We have met at both ends of the universe, soon to be a second front. Still tension back at the warp point that links both our homeworlds.

1FSTCAT is using Gas Giant, and appears to have the advantage with number of systems and breathable planets. I just have a bunch of rocks. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

I was able to drop a foothold in one of his frontier systems, but he is colonizing like crazy; and I did not arrive so early as to really interrupt things.

The way I see it, this one probably won't Last too long. One of us is going to make a move in force. If it breaks through, it probably will be hard to stop. If it is defeated, the empire will be swallowing hard. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/confused.gif

Slynky

April 23rd, 2003, 07:52 PM

Originally posted by asmala:
In the two latest matches I have started next to my opponent.Considering you won both of them, I'm keeping my fingers crossed I don't find myself in a game with you AND beside you! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

geoschmo

April 23rd, 2003, 08:19 PM

Gozguy Vs Geoschmo 2413.2

Another Chin system assimilated. Flanks are fortified and relativly secure now. I am going to try and pick up the pace a bit. Might try to move forward on the flanks and in the center at once. Simultaneous pressure from multiple directions should accelerate the crumbling of the Chin Empire.

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

Geoschmo

Slynky

April 23rd, 2003, 08:36 PM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
Gozguy Vs Geoschmo 2413.2

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

GeoschmoWhen did you start that game?

geoschmo

April 23rd, 2003, 09:56 PM

Originally posted by Slynky:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by geoschmo:
Gozguy Vs Geoschmo 2413.2

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

GeoschmoWhen did you start that game?<hr /></blockquote>March 14th.

DavidG

April 24th, 2003, 12:59 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

GeoschmoAww No fair if you drag it out. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif In my game with Zarix (which I think is the longest) on turn 132 I for one did not know who was going to win. In fact if I had to guess a winner at that point I would have been wrong. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Slynky

April 24th, 2003, 01:50 AM

Originally posted by geoschmo:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by Slynky:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by geoschmo:
Gozguy Vs Geoschmo 2413.2

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

GeoschmoWhen did you start that game?<hr /></blockquote>March 14th.<hr /></blockquote>Well, that's not a bad record of turn submittals at least. Let's see, my opponent submitted 3 whole turns on the weekend (this past weekend), another single turn on Tuesday (yesterday), and nothing today. That's 4 turns submitted in 5 days.

I sure hope my game doesn't go 132 turns!!!

geoschmo

April 24th, 2003, 02:18 AM

Originally posted by DavidG:
<blockquote>quote:<hr />Originally posted by geoschmo:

The end is in sight. Might make the record for most turns for a Koth game though.

GeoschmoAww No fair if you drag it out. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif In my game with Zarix (which I think is the longest) on turn 132 I for one did not know who was going to win. In fact if I had to guess a winner at that point I would have been wrong. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif <hr /></blockquote>Well, considering Goz just came through a warp point with a large fleet in a system I was not expecting my game might not be as over as I thought. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Geoschmo