Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Tournament Concept - Invulnerable Challenge

Please take a look at this... and let me know if it sounds interesting, or if there may be any barriers I may have overlooked in implementing it.

OVERVIEW
The Invulnerable challenge is open to any seasoned SEIV player looking for some abuse. Each player in the tournament will get one crack at winning a one-on-one match against a very tough AI opponent. The catch is that I will be playing the AI opponent for 100 turns or so, building up the toughest defense possible in their home system, before the game even starts. The tournament winner will be the player who captures or defeats the AI homeworld in the fewest amount of turns... if you live at all. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif
MAP
Will be the same for all players. Small quadrant. AI will have one warp point in their home system. (I'm contemplating disabling warp technology to force plaers to fight through the warp point. Not sure, though).
EMPIRE SETUP
All players will use the same empire file, to even the challenge, and facilitate game setup. At 100 turns, copies of the game files will be created for all tournament players so they have the exact same conditions at start. The player's 5000 point empire will be strong; a berserker race with +25 agressiveness/defensiveness, plus some special racial techs, to be determined. You'll need it.
PBW
The game file copies will be used to setup an individual game for each participant in the tourney.
COMPUTER / AI SETUP
You can bet I will be stringing together the toughest defensive I can think of using a 5000 point race. Suggestions are welcome via forum Messages. If you help with the defensive setup, you can't participate in the tourney.
STARTING TECH
High
COMPUTER BONUS
High
COMPUTER DIFFICULTY
High

What do you think? I'd like to try this in the summer.
http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

[ July 06, 2003, 05:02: Message edited by: Stone Mill ]

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Hmm, I like this idea alot. It should prove to be very tough to take out an empire 100 turns more advanced then you are. You can count me in if you do it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

by 100 i have all three colony techs and am working on the weapons and sheilds. and i'm hardly a micromanager. so since i don't have gold, that puts me in the suggestions? if it's gold, i got a few.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">That's no fun.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

missed that.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Cool, I’m in.
So what’s the price ? A title and a belt (David Gervais http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif ) would be nice http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Cool, thanks…

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">It’s Gold. I’d be happy to hear your ideas on how to set up the defense.

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">The object for this game is to allow players all available tech to come up with their best invasion force as quickly as possible. Research is beyond the scope of this game. The AI will have max tech as well so I can set up what I believe to be an ‘impossible’ defensive network.

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Cool. I think I can get what I want by turn 100. It’s going to be a b*tch to defeat. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">That is an excellent proposal. I think I’ll ask David to develop an Icon for the winner’s signature.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I'd be interested as long as I'm not competing against anyone that helped setup the AI's defense. That would definitely give those players an advantage. IMO anyone entering the tournament should have no knowledge whatsoever about the AI opponent except that they have a 100 turn head start...

</$.02>

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Just curious, is this going to be using custom AI files or a well known AI? I think custom could be a lot harder.

Also, make sure you can't trade star maps with the AI for its home planet http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

well, with one warppoint the obvious thing to do is dump mines, sats, bases, ships and the kitchen sink on the warppoint. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif we need some way to keep the players from reading the suggestions.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

narf poit chez BOOM,

you can simply use the "send private message" icon on the taskbar next to my name on one of my Posts. Neat feature in the forums.
I encourage anyone who can think of something nasty to do so...

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I am not a vet, but am interested anyway.

You said that everyone will have the same empire? who will design it?

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

And I guess we will all be playing the same empire ????

For equal footing

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

i am in. Race against the clock should be good.

I am guessing your going to place the game in stone at turn 100 and away we go...

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I will create a 5000 point race, with as many special techs as I can allow. I will diminish stats such as trade to beef up the more important ones.

That's right, everyone will use the same race empire to make it an even start. (I actually need to do this to fast forward 100 turns). Nevertheless, I will do my best to leave as many options open as possible for ship designs. You will have access to pretty much all tech areas to do with as you please.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I'm in too. Nice to see how I get along with that tough AI. I have never played against computer except some testing.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I just did it. I hope it will be some help http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

This oughta be fun. I'm sure I'll be one of those who either takes many, many more turns than most to win. Or more likely, I'll die in a brutal and swift execution.

Either way, it could be interesting for spectators!

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

you know what would be cool.... The winner ( least amount of turns ) designs the next challenge http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I just did it. I hope it will be some help http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif </font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">BBegemott, your suggestions are great. I just wrote you back.

I feel sorry for you fools who are going to try this. This Tournament will just be plain abusive.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I just did it. I hope it will be some help
</font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">BBegemott, your suggestions are great. I just wrote you back.

I feel sorry for you fools who are going to try this. This Tournament will just be plain abusive.
</font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Yeah, there will be no winners http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif sorry guys. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I could use some abuse, count me in!

I like Tesco's idea of having the winner design the next challenge. Challenge league anyone?

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">This is a fine idea. By all means the winner will have the right to design the next one.

FYI: I've gotten some pretty harsh suggestions. I almost feel guilty about using some of this stuff. Almost . http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

But I'm not kidding. I'm going to try and playtest it first to ensure there is at least a sliver of hope for victory. As of right now, I would be very impressed with anyone who could beat this.

If you think you are one bad SEIV player... I dare you to take the challenge! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Status: concept still under development

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

and i'm glad to say, nodachi,
Short ranged nuclear artillery. Am I the only one who sees a problem here? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif
you aren't the only one. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Good!! I see this as an excellent training tool for players, newbie and vet alike.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Stone Mill Remember only you play like you http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

The rest of us will attack the problem from different angles.....

Perhaps you might be surprised at the tatics.

I suggest that the games be set up on PBW.

That way they can be kept track of... Or are you saying....

here is the game....

Go !

P.S.

Set a time line for when the challenge ends !

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

If I understand the concept behind this, the only real reason to put it on PBW is to prevent players from going back a few turns every time something happens they don't like. If you think that will be a problem then PBW is the way to go.

Geoschmo

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Geo,

I would very much like to set this up on PBW. I think that it would help tracking, administration, and help promote a level playing field.

If you see any barriers to what I propose, please let me know.

Also I am considering setting up a simple tournament web page just for fun when this kicks off.

Tesco- you have good points. Glad to see the fighting spirit. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Nodachi- Hmmm... this may be a learning experience for newbies... if newbies want a learning experience that makes them say "What the F?!?!" and scream incessantly while they run up and down the street banging their heads on random objects. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Stone Mill- That's my point. Getting your butt handed to you is one of the best ways to learn! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

you sure nod... you seem to buck the trend http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Gee, thanks Tesco. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif

Actually, I have learned from getting my butt handed to me, How many games am I your ally instead of your opponent? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Yes I have fond memories of declaring war on you in every game we were playing together in a span of one week

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Yeah, I remember one (Adamant 5, I think) where I was glad that you finally finished me off, I was running out of creative ways to tell the galaxy that your race was evil!

In truth there have been only a few games that have really taught me about how to play. The Koth games have taught me how to build my empire and expand (although I'm still working on that http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif ). I think the pace of the KOTH games is what helps, the turns come in so quickly that you don't have time to lose focus of what you're doing. I just wish more people would be willing to try different and unusual settings.

I play for fun, as a way to relax. I don't care if I win or not (not that I lose on purpose, beleive it or not http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif ), I just want to have a good time. Now if I can just get RL off my back for awhile I'd be good to go! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon9.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Hey Stone, how's this coming along? http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

The concept is coming along pretty well. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif I think this will be fun.

I will try to come up with a good estimate of when I will roll this out.

I need to finish one more strategy article. Then I will get on the Invulnerable Challenge.

Also, I'm somewhat cursed by my own KOTH victories... As long as I win there is a fresh contender immediately trying to pull me off!

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Update:

Intel will not be part of this challenge.

I don't think the AI handles it well enough; and in order to give the AI some defense, I need to load it up with some intel points. Because of this, there is a very large chance that the player will be bombarded unrecoverrably upon making contact.

I'm not sure that I could set it up in a fair manner... and I'm not sure it should end via Puppet Political Party.

This challenge will revolve around traditional forces. Hope this is ok. If you feel different, let me know. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

sounds good. no intel is fine by me.

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Fine by me as well. I look forward to finally getting my arse handed to me on a silver platter by the AI. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

HISTORY

Many years have passed since your people have left behind the terrible truth. As a powerful and extraordinarily advanced race, your people have mastered all known scientific and racial technologies. But the fruits of research were reaped only through the scourge of war. You now live in peace; a peace that has been so pleasant and long Lasting, the terrible history of vicious conflict is but a vague memory. Until now.

A monstrous race of pirates has razed your fringe colonies, killing every Last citizen. The raiders shocked your high leadership because of the relative ease they sliced through defenses. They are backed by technical apt and vicious prowess only known to one other race… yours. Panic spread throughout your worlds. Citizens demand that something be done… and questions surface about these attackers, who seem strangely familiar.

The high council has appointed you as the military commander to address this threat. During your briefing, you are privy to information that chills your bones. Your people originated on a distant paradise far away. After centuries of clan fighting and contests with other races in the quadrant, your peoples united under a single rule. Your homeworld paid the price, however, and was abandoned via a mass exodus that is described loosely in legends. The shock lies within the details revealed only to you now:

In the process of creating the perfect warrior and elevating scientific knowledge, your people commonly toyed with genetic tests, especially on prisoners from other clans. These horrific tests often resulted in great success, but eventually erupted to a tragedy that could no longer be controlled. The Invulnerable monstrosities created by your scientists turned on their masters and plagued society, slaughtered millions, and poisoned the planet. They could only be stopped by making a drastic choice… to leave home and annihilate anything left behind. Your people did not look back.

The very threat you left behind centuries ago has proved stronger than the final measure employed to stop them. Your currently peaceful race must once take up arms and destroy this danger once for all before it consumes all life as you know it. You must be strong enough to take… The Invulnerable Challenge!

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Too cool! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Great work Stone Mill!

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I soiled my pants a couple times just readnig the History of the game. I don't want to know what I'll do when I actually play it. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/shock.gif http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/rolleyes.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

The Nindra's stand in awe of the ghosts from their past who has come to haunt them. Too long they have lived in peace, growing soft and complacent with their achivements.
Only one man has been true to the old warrior code, only one man can lead them. Will the Irresistible force wielded by the man called Primitive be enough ?

Nice work Stone.
What sort of race should we prepare ?

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Thanks guys. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Primitive, unfortunately, to forward the game 100 turns and build up the AI empire, I need to use the same player empire for all players in the tournament.

I will post the details of the player file shortly. I will say that it has all racial techs. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

[ June 09, 2003, 18:50: Message edited by: Stone Mill ]

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Got a Web page up now: Invunerable Challenge

Making good progress... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

I'm up for a little abuse!!

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Looks nice Stone Mill! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif I am getting goosey pimples* just thinking about playing this AI you are putting together. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon12.gif

*) Movie referance. Can anyone name it?

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Rags- thanks! I'm sure I heard the movie reference... but can't seem to place it. I'm stumped. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/image...s/confused.gif

Rextorres, glad to have you aboard. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Also added Joachim as a contender. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

I'd love to give an ETA on this, I am near running a test session on PBW to ensure everything works out. Hopefully we'll have kickoff within 2 weeks... http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Just when I thought I would start cutting DOWN on the number of SEIV games I was playing..oh well! http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon10.gif

With all the doom and fear, the terrorized populace hears some music start playing:

When it comes crashing down, and it hurts inside,
ya' gotta take a stand, it don't help to hide,
Well, you hurt my friends, and you hurt my pride,
I gotta be a man; I can't let it slide,
I am a real American, Fight for the rights of every man,
I am a real American, fight for what's right, fight for your life!

A familiar figure clad in red and yellow appears to answer the challenge!! "Well let me tell you something brother!! Whatcha gonna do, when the most powerful force in the universe runs wild on you?" [insert series of muscular poses and holding a hand up to the ear here]

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

<font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Answer: Rat Race. http://forum.shrapnelgames.com/images/icons/icon7.gif

Re: Tournament - Invulnerable Challenge
 

Thank history won me over Stonemill.
Tell the AI to come on over and stomp me...