THE YOUNG KINGDOMS
Link to the Young Kingdoms

The Young Kingdoms is a New Galaxy on RegenesisGalaxies.com that will feature V-Technology. Here, Young Kingdoms will explore strange, distant regions for the first time. These are empires that are still in their youth, a far cry from the seasoned and well established empires of the Alpha and Omega Sectors. They will forge their own alliances in time, betray one another, and go to war savagely against bitter enemies. The Young Kingdoms will include a plethora of New Empires, some minor, some major, and some in-between. Over the course of the Young Kingdoms Timeline, some of these Empires will die off or be eliminated. Others will thrive and fortify themselves.

The Young Kingdoms will draw from All Existing Technology, including Alpha, Omega, Magellanic, Simulator, Lost Empires, Stellar Shadows, and More. The Beginning Empires will closely mirror Alpha and Omega Empires. But over time, strange and wondrous New Empires will be introduced that bear little to no resemblance to any published empire.

One of the primary defining features of the Young Kingdoms is Limited Ship Classes (at least in the Beginning). All of the Young Kingdoms will have no ship larger than a Heavy Cruiser. The Heavy Cruiser will be seen as a type of Dreadnought and utilized as such. Light Cruisers and Destroyers will make up the bulk of each empire's fleets. This can also tie into the use of V-Technology, using some kind of technobabble to explain that constructing V-Ships from scratch resulted in strict limitations to ship size. In the latter part of the Young Kingdoms Timeline, Ship Classes larger than a Heavy Cruiser may be introduced.

Balance is an essential yet difficult area for the Young Kingdoms. Given the varying nature of V-Technology, it will be nearly impossible to Balance Weapons vs Weapons, Devices vs Devices, Phasers vs Phasers, Ships vs Ships, or even Empires vs Empires. In all likelihood, the best way to achieve Balance in the Young Kingdoms is probably with Fleet Capability vs Fleet Capability. But since the Young Kingdom empires vary in size (minor, major, etc.), their fleets will also vary in size. Still, I will do the best I can to strive for as much Balance as I can achieve with each Young Kingdom empire. It is also possible that Balance can be attained by thoroughly playtesting each Scenario and making sure each side has a nearly equal chance to succeed in terms of the Victory Conditions.

All in all, the Young Kingdoms presents an exciting prospect. This New Galaxy is a fresh, unexplored region, with eager, brash Young Kingdoms striving to create a name and legacy for themselves. They are the pioneers, the risk takers, the ones leading the charge. They are hungry. Some will be ultimately be destroyed by their recklessness. Others will not. The use of V-Technology throughout the Young Kingdoms with their limited Ship Classes provides tactical possibilities unheard of in the Early Years, General War, X-Technology, or X2 Technology. V-Technology represents countless different directions that Existing Technology could have taken, but didn't historically. It will be a wonder to explore all of these avenues full of new technology and tactics.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, January 20, 2022 - 07:33 pm: Edit

SOLSTICE - STARDATE 01.20.22
Link to previous Solstice Logs

EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT! FOREIGN INVADERS HAVE BREACHED THE HULL OF THE SOLTICE! ALIEN INTRUDERS WALKING THROUGHOUT THE INTERIOR OF THE SOLTICE! THE ENTIRE SOLTICE CREW HAS BEEN CAPTURED BY AN ALIEN FORCE! EMERGENCY ALERT! EMERGENCY ALERT!

The last of the Green Man's black and brown withered leaves fell off their rotting stems. His decaying roots splintered into pieces. The smell of death permeated the air. At last, at long last, the Green Man's spirit was severed from the remnants of his body, finally allowed to drift into Oblivion. Inwardly, the Green Man let out a sigh of relief and smiled widely. He could finally let go of his long, long life that was full of cruelty, failure, longing, and misery.

As the Green Man floated into Eternity, he heard voices. He shook his head, trying to rid himself of them, to no avail. His Father, his Mother, his Family, his Loved Ones, his Friends...they all spoke to him. Their words were like piercing projectiles.

"YOU WILL BE WITH US SOON, GREEN MAN, BUT YOUR TIME IS NOT YET."

"REMEMBER EVERY EXPERIENCE WE SHARED TOGETHER."

"REMEMBER HOW IT FELT TO BE ALIVE WITH ONE EACH OTHER."

"DON'T FORGET ALL THAT YOU ACHIEVED IN LIFE."

"DON'T FORGET THE GOOD TIMES THAT LIFE GAVE YOU."

"IT WASN'T ALL BAD, GREEN MAN."

"REMEMBER, WHO YOU TRULY ARE."

"THERE ARE STILL THOSE WHO NEED YOU."

"THERE ARE STILL THOSE WHO LOVE YOU."

"DON'T GIVE UP ON THEM."

"DON'T ABANDON THEM."

"RETURN TO THEIR AID."

"SAVE THEM."

"IT'S NOT TOO LATE."

"YOU MUST LIVE."

"DON'T THROW AWAY THE LIFE WE BOTH GAVE TO YOU. IT IS A PRECIOUS GIFT THAT SHOULD NOT BE CASUALLY DISCARDED."

"LIVE FOR US, GREEN MAN. LIVE FOR YOUR PARENTS WHO GAVE YOU LIFE."

"LIVE."

"LIVE."

"WE LOVE YOU WITH ALL OUR BEING. YOU MUST..."

"LIVE."

A heavily armed alien soldier walking through a corridor in the Soltice stopped at a storage shelf. He leaned close, his rifle held low in both hands, carefully inspecting the curiosity that had transfixed him. His eyes bulged so large they nearly popped out of their sockets.

IT WAS A TINY SEED THAT WAS GROWING AT AN EXPONENTIAL RATE.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, January 21, 2022 - 03:32 pm: Edit

ATLANTEAN LIGHT CRUISER SSD
Link to the Atlantean Light Cruiser SSD

THE YOUNG KINGDOMS

ATLANTEAN SHIPS
(YKR1.1) LIGHT CRUISER (CL):

The Atlantean Light Cruiser was one of the most sturdy, reliable, and powerful vessels in the Young Kingdoms. Equipped with V-Technology, the Atlantean Light Cruiser featured four V-Photon Torpedoes, Six V-Phaser-1's, and one Type G V-Drone Rack. Additionally, V-Technology enhancements augmented the Batteries, Laboratories, and Probes aboard the Atlantean Light Cruiser. The increased accuracy of the Atlantean Light Cruiser's weaponry, along with the increased speed of its V-Drones, made it a deadly and feared adversary.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Atlantean Light Cruiser sets the stage for the rest of the Young Kingdoms Light Cruisers (which they consider to be their Heavy Cruisers). Loosely based on the Federation NCL, the Atlantean Light Cruiser was created by examining a cross-comparison between the Gorn CL, the Kzinti CL, and the Romulan SPA. The Atlantean Light Cruiser quickly turned into its own unique entity.

Determining the effects of Atlantean V-Technology was not a simple task, because this would define exactly how this empire performed in combat on the battlefield. For the Atlanteans, I decided to go down the route of Accuracy instead of Damage or Other Areas. It made sense to me that an empire might focus their V-Technology Advancements toward making their weaponry more precise in battle. And I believe this fact alone makes the Atlanteans one of the best empires in the Young Kingdoms. They are able to hit you more often and at further range than the Federation ever could.

Increasing the Speed of the V-Drones was a minor change, but still a tactical advantage. V-Drones are only a secondary weapon compared to the V-Photon Torpedoes.

The Atlanteans received other V-Technology enhancements shipwide, all of which make sense given their "Federation" origins.

Overall, I like how the Atlantean Light Cruiser turned out. It is not a large ship, but it is effective and efficient. It is more advanced than a standard starship, but not so advanced as X-Technology. This is exactly what V-Technology is supposed to be. In combat, the Atlantean Light Cruiser performs quite differently than regular Light Cruisers, thanks to its embedded V-Technology. This will facilitate new tactics, which was the goal for V-Technology and the Young Kingdoms.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 01, 2022 - 09:40 pm: Edit

SECTOR 50
Link to Sector 50

Sector 50 was posted back in 2019, although the New Galaxy was not clearly defined at the time. Six starships were created and submitted to ADB. Since then, nothing new has been created for Sector 50 and I wasn't sure if Sector 50 would continue.

But now, three years later, I have made a decision about Sector 50. It will indeed continue and I will be working on it a lot. There is great tactical potential in Sector 50, but all the proper components need to be in place to stage the appropriate battles. Simply looking at a single SSD will not give you the full picture regarding Sector 50, for Fleet Engagements are where the true tactics lie.

The starting point for Sector 50 is to take Exactly Half of each Heavy Cruiser from every known empire. This will result in a Small Starship which is neither a Cadet Ship, a Frigate, a Destroyer, a Light Cruiser, or an Early Years Cruiser. The Halved Starship is something Different, for it will retain most of the systems from its larger version and its heavy weapons can still overload.

Slight modifications need to be made to the Halved Cruiser for the sake of Heavy Cruiser Consistency throughout Sector 50, but for the most part, the Half Starship retains its Fuller Essence. Heavy Weapons and Devices need to be split among multiple starships rather than remaining combined like on the Original Heavy Cruiser.

Once these Halved Starships are created, each empire in Sector 50 will take its own unique developmental path. They will build variants, larger starships, experimental starships, carriers, tenders, and more efficient starships. They will combine their technology in different ways, coming up with more effective designs. They will react to their neighboring empires and create designs suited to counter them. They will keep up with an ever escalating arms race among all the empires of Sector Zero. And they will grow into their own highly advanced, mighty empire which is quite different from the Original Heavy Cruiser they were based on.

The beginning Sector 50 starships are simple vessels, similar to Cadet ships, but with a little more depth and complexity. Their Ship Types will be numerous, and this will have a huge effect on Fleet Battles in Sector 50.

Because of their smaller size, Running Battles in Sector 50 will be much Quicker.

It should be noted that any Alpha or Omega Technology employed by Sector 50 empires will Remain Unchanged. This means that if a Weapon or Device is Unbalanced (in my opinion), I will not go in and change it to make it More Balanced. I will leave it as is (as it was published). This also means that Omega Range Brackets will remain unchanged, as well as their Overload Ranges. For Better or for Worse, Sector 50 seeks to retain the Flavor and Essence of the Original Starships they were Based On.

There will be New Empires and New Technology in Sector 50, but only after all the Original, Primary Empires have been established.

And there will be a Gargantuan Enemy, so powerful and deadly that they threaten ALL the Empires of Sector 50 at the Same Time.

So I raise my glass to the Future, to these Half Starships, to what they will Become, and to the Tribulations they will Endure. Here is to Sector 50.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 01, 2022 - 09:43 pm: Edit

EUROPA HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Europa Heavy Cruiser SSD

(50R.1.0) EUROPA
(50R1.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

The standard workhorse for the Europa fleet. The Europa Heavy Cruiser was a solid vessel, capable of standing up to any other heavy cruiser of the time period. Its dual Photon Torpedoes made the Europa Heavy Cruiser a feared opponent, primarily due to the high intensity energy levels that could be generated in a single firing. The Europa Heavy Cruiser possessed a powerful forward Phaser suite, supplemented by a single defensive Phaser which could fire in any direction. Also notable were the high number of labs, a quality that allowed the Europa Heavy Cruiser to perform countless exploratory missions.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Europa Heavy Cruiser is exactly Half of the Federation Heavy Cruiser. However, some decisions had to made about its systems, such as the Phasers. In particular, the Drone had to be handled in a certain fashion so it could fit into Sector 50. In totality, the Europa Heavy Cruiser is a solid vessel, just like the original vessel it is based on.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 01, 2022 - 09:46 pm: Edit

BABYLON P3A BATTLECRUISER SSD
Link to the Babylon P3A Battlecruiser SSD

(50R.2.0) BABYLON
(50R2.1) P3A BATTLECRUISER (BC):

The standard combat vessel for Babylon. The P3A Battlecruiser was known for its swift maneuvering, tight turn mode, and deadly wing Phasers. Double Disruptor Bolts allowed the P3A Battlecruiser to hammer its opponent relentlessly, without the need for excessive rearming time. Security Stations ensured that slaves did not rebel during combat. While the Phasers on the P3A Battlecruiser were not as powerful as the Phasers employed by the Europa Heavy Cruiser, the P3A Battlecruiser had more Phasers with wider firing arcs.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Babylon P3A Battlecruiser is exactly Half of the Klingon D7 Battlecruiser. Some decisions had to made about its internal systems, in particular its Drone Racks. Curiously, the Babylon P3A Battlecruiser retains its Security Stations and Wing Firing Arcs.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 01, 2022 - 09:49 pm: Edit

ROMAN HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Roman Heavy Cruiser SSD

(50R.4.0) THE ROMAN WAR MACHINE
(50R4.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

The mainstay for the Roman War Machine. The Roman Heavy Cruiser was proficient in battle, possessing four offensive Wide Phasers and two defensive Wide Phasers, all of which could fire forward. Twin Tachyon Guns could also fire forward, but each could fire off to the side as well. Overall, the Roman Heavy Cruiser was well designed with sufficient power, an acceptable turn mode, laboratories for scientific investigation, two shuttles, and strong shields.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Roman Heavy Cruiser is exactly Half of the Maesron Heavy Cruiser. Decisions had to made regarding its systems, particularly its Tachyon Missiles and Warp Engines (due to Omega CA's starting off with less than 30 Warp). Interestingly, the Roman Heavy Cruiser is one of the most powerful starships thus far in Sector 50, mainly due to its ability to focus all of its (Wide) Phasers and Tachyon Guns to the bow of the vessel. The Roman Heavy Cruiser can potentially generate an Alpha Strike greater than any other Sector 50 Heavy Cruiser (so far).

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 01, 2022 - 09:52 pm: Edit

KRAKENFISH SNATCHER SSD
Link to the Krakenfish Snatcher SSD

(50R.4.0) KRAKENFISH
(50R4.1) SNATCHER (SN):

The Krakenfish Snatcher formed the backbone of the Krakenfish fleet. A feared opponent, the Krakenfish Snatcher carried five Bioelectric Bolts and two Plasma Whips. Its Adrenaline Batteries provided a constant source of renewed energy. The Plasma Whips could generate Whipcrack Torpedoes, as well as wreak havoc on a ship with a down shield. Each Bioelectric Bolt could potentially generate more energy than the strongest Phaser on any vessel. Like all Krakenfish starships, the Krakenfish Snatcher was a living entity with needs far different than that of an ordinary starship.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Krakenfish Snatcher is exactly Half of the Alunda Huntship. Decisions had to made about its systems, particularly its Bioelectric Bolts, Attraction Repulsion Field, and Plasma Cloud Generator. Overall, the Krakenfish Snatcher is a worthy opponent for other Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers, able to generate a powerful Alpha Strike due to its Bioelectric Bolts.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, February 02, 2022 - 09:23 pm: Edit

MERLIN
STARDATE 02.02.22
PRIME SECTOR
Link to previous Merlin Logs

"Listen to me very carefully. There is no time for debate or questions. Carry out my orders immediately."

"Morgause, prepare to fire a combination of Overloaded Photon Torpedoes, Short Range Cannons, and Phasers at the Shielded Death Cult Base on Shrieketh-2. Synchronize all fire for maximum impact. Fire on Una's mark."

Captain Elizabeth pressed a button to speak with Engineering.

"Daedalus, begin transporting civilian slaves from the towns surrounding the Death Cult Base. Transport randomly and bring up as many people as you can. Give them accommodations in the Cargo Bays. Have Dusk provide security assistance to oversee all of our guests. I want to avoid conflict with them at all costs. They will be shocked from the sudden removal from their homes for certain. Delphi will assist with counseling concerns and explain the situation to them."

"Una, calculate exactly how long we have for the transportations before the Death Cult Fleet arrives. Merlin has to leave Shrieketh-2 with enough time to maintain a lead ahead of the Fleet. But we need every last second to save civilian lives. Send your findings with the exact calculations to Morgause. She will fire right before we leave orbit."

"We have less than two minutes before the Death Cult Fleet arrives. Every life counts. DO IT NOW."

Una began to feverishly work on the calculations. Her eyes were glued to her console without blinking. Yet the Fair Folk Science Officer retained her composure, even under the incredible pressure. She was done within moments. Instantly, her findings were sent to Morgause.

Morgause nodded. She now knew exactly when to fire her concentrated barrage. She double checked to make sure all weapons that the Captain ordered were ready to fire.

Daedalus began to transport Civilian Slaves up from Shrieketh-2. Dusk and a team of Security Officers quickly shuffled them into the Cargo Bays. There, Delphi did her best to explain the situation and keep everyone calm.

Captain Elizabeth had a look of stone on her smooth face. Her blue eyes didn't blink as she stared at Shrieketh-2 on the View Screen. She glanced at Doctor Sap, who was staring at her with great concern. The Grove Medical Officer was shaking. Her leaves rustled back and forth as her branches vibrated.

"Captain, the Townsfolk..."

Captain Elizabeth gave Doctor Sap such a stern look that she knew to stop talking. They both knew what the other was thinking. But now was not the time for discussion.

Within moments, the time came to fire and leave orbit.

Bolts of powerful photonic energy, red beams of light, and cannon fire shot out of Merlin. The concentrated barrage slammed into the Shielded Death Cult Base. Instantly, the surrounding mountain area was destroyed by the blast. The fourteen towns spread out around the Death Cult Base were incinerated, along with all remaining inhabitants.

"Fafnir! Take us out of here, maximum warp! Follow the escape route that Una has projected which will lead us back to Alliance Territory."

The small dragonoid swiftly acted as instructed. The escape course was already programmed into his computer system. Merlin flew away from Shrieketh-2 like a lost bird trying to return home to its nest.

"Daedalus, how many did we manage to save?"

"Sixty-three, Elizabeth," the Clockwork Engineer said in a defeated voice. "I'm sorry I couldn't do better."

"Don't blame yourself, my friend," Captain Elizabeth said as she cut off the Intercom. She turned to Una.

"Una, what are the estimated losses from the fourteen towns?"

The Fair Folk Science Officer already had her answer prepared. She answered instantly.

"Seven thousand four hundred and fifty two."

Doctor Sap gasped loudly.

Captain Elizabeth sat frozen, as if she had just been informed of the sudden death of a family member. She struggled to control herself.

"And the Death Cult Base?" Elizabeth asked in a hushed voice.

"From the sensor data I collected before we left orbit, it appears that the Death Cult Base was fully destroyed. All Brimdorian-2 that they were storing was also destroyed, although there are still other caches that can be mined in the future from different locations on Shrieketh-2. But that will take considerable time."

Captain Elizabeth let out a sigh. Her tense, rigid body began to relax at last.

The immediate threat was taken care of. She had saved as many lives as she could. But there was still heavy collateral damage from the fourteen towns that had been destroyed by Merlin's assault.

And now Merlin would have to contend with the Death Cult Fleet in pursuit. This would not be an easy task. But it was vital for Captain Elizabeth to save her crew and the rescued civilians.

Elizabeth thought of all the lives that had been lost on Shrieketh-2. Their lives were hard enough as slaves of the Death Cult. Then suddenly, their existence was snuffed out without warning or explanation by a foreign starship in orbit. Do their Souls cry out for vengeance? Are there countless Ghosts now forever haunting that mountain range, because they refuse to move on to the next realm of existence?

Captain Elizabeth's hand clenched into a tight fist. Her blue eyes formed a look so intense that it could burn through stone.

Alliance Command. You sent me on this mission without full knowledge. You used me and my crew. You caused the deaths of thousands of lives. Get ready. Because when I return...

THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 08, 2022 - 09:34 am: Edit

EAGLE'S EGG - STARDATE 02.08.22
Link to previous Eagle's Egg Logs

The long night has come. The greatest civilization in history has fallen. Now one ship, one crew, have vowed to drive back the night and rekindle the light of civilization. On the Eagle's Egg... Hope lives again.

THE HORDE OF ATRINIANS DESCENDED ON THE LANDING PARTY LIKE A PLAGUE OF LOCUSTS. THERE WERE OVER A HUNDRED OF THEM.

"Form a Circle!" Captain Zeno shouted. "Protect each other's backs! We have to hold out as long as we can! Keep the Crown of Kings in the center of us!!"

The Landing Party was inside of a large cement building, similar to a parking garage, with open interior areas and columns. Right after transporting down to Atrin IX's Capital, Captain Zeno knew there was something terribly wrong. The place was deserted and there were bodies strewn about randomly. No one responded to hails or attempts at communication. And then the attacks started.

It began with only a random individual or two, charging at the Landing Party while yelling crazed words. They were easily neutralized with Phasers set on stun. Then the numbers gradually increased until soon, the Landing Party found themselves on the defensive. Captain Zeno quickly sought a location that offered protection. Little did he know that this large cement structure had some kind of Anti-Energy Device operating. Their Phasers stopped working inside of it.

It turned out that the Crown of Kings didn't just keep Atrin IX prosperous and bountiful. Somehow, it also kept the populace sane. With its removal, it was only a matter of time before everyone on the world went mad. The two Universal Order representatives, Babo Bado and Ilica, indicated that the Crown of Kings must be returned to the Throne Room, which wasn't far from their current location.

Captain Zeno sent Moult, his Super Sensors Officer, ahead on a scouting mission right before the horde attacked. The large green insectoid silently scaled the concrete walls, moving along the ceiling for safety until he was out of sight.

Security Officer Demitri was the first to fall. Three mad Atrinians pulled him down, shouting that they were sacrificing their buffalo to their deity. His red shirt was ripped to ribbons right before he was strangled to death.

Gray unveiled a ferocity seldom seen in the Shield Officer. Barking and howling with each strike, the large humanoid wolf slashed and bit at any assailant that came close to him. Blood sailed into the air in all directions. The white and grey wolfen stared at his victims with pulsating blue eyes.

Komodo, the Tactical Officer aboard the Eagle's Egg, was in little danger from the chaotic and disorganized assault. The huge reptilian had thick scaly skin that could easily withstand a physical punch or kick. Standing right next to Captain Zeno, Komodo threw mad lunatics violently back into their own crowd with his tremendous strength. Anyone that got too close was bitten by Komodo's jaw full of razor sharp teeth.

Doctor Purr, Babo Bado, and Ilica stood in the center of the protective circle. Ilica clung tightly to the box containing the Crown of Kings with both of her ivory hands. Babo Bado, standing only two feet high, hid next to Ilica's feet. The alien creature looked like a hairy wig on the ground.

Doctor Purr's yellow eyes darted about, looking for any sign of an attacker penetrating the outer circle. The silver humanoid feline with black spots was loathe to violence due to her profession. But this was an extraordinary circumstance. When one insane Atrinian leaped over Gray, Doctor Purr had no choice but to rake his face with her sharp claws. Babo Bado and Ilicia were shocked by the loud hiss that came out of Doctor Purr.

T'Peve had no problem defending herself in the brawl. Trained in the barbarous martial ways of their ancestors by her Father, the Elder, she smashed jaws, broke limbs, and crushed ribs. Strangely, the beautiful Science Officer with light orange hair, violet eyes, and fair skin felt an exhilarating rush of adrenaline during the conflict that heightened all of her surging emotions.

Major Ubra was merciless in combat. Augmented by genetic breeding and enhanced to be superhuman, Major Ubra was the only one to take the fight to the horde of crazed Atrinians. Her long black braided hair whipped through the air as she leaped from target to target. A trail of bodies soon littered her path. Standing seven feet tall, the Military Commander aboard the Eagle's Egg was a Superwoman. The pupils in her eyes were genetically engineered to resemble skulls.

Captain Zeno smashed an oncoming assailant with descending double fists. A karate chop to the neck felled another. A jumping double kick sent yet another flying backward. Captain Zeno was highly proficient in hand to hand combat, having been personally tutored by Admiral Tiberius. His jet black skin made him difficult to see in the dim open area of the cement structure. He peered through the darkness with his milky white eyes, looking for Moult.

Finally, Moult returned, but not before Security Officers Perez and McDonald lost their lives. The Landing Party was in grave danger of being overwhelmed. They were beginning to tire while the mad horde of Atrinians seemed as fresh as ever.

"Captain!" Moult yelled while clinging to a nearby wall like a mosquito. "I've located the Throne Room! It's this way, about a hundred feet down the east corridor. But there's a big problem...."

Captain Zeno slammed his right knee into the face of an insane Atrinian before shouting a response, "What is it?!?"

REAVERS ARE GUARDING THE THRONE ROOM.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 08, 2022 - 03:36 pm: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 02.08.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

Captain Severick sat in his anti-gravity wheelchair, dreaming of better days. He was a balding, elderly man whose legs had finally given out due to a degenerative disease that he had fought off for years with medication. Now, that medication was no longer effective. The years had finally caught up to Captain Severick. And like any hunter that has finally caught up to its elusive prey, the years were vicious indeed.

But Europa Command refused to allow Captain Severick to retire on a comfortable homeworld. With his countless years of combat experience and knowledge, he was invaluable, even without the use of his legs. Captain Severick was there at all the major battles: the March of the Delta Stars, the Death of the Morning Sun, the Clash of Fifteen Fleets, the Battle of Emperor Ramses, the War of Midnight Dawn, and More. No matter what was happening with Captain Severick's body, it was Captain Severick's mind that Europa Command was interested in, and that they refused to let go of.

But Captain Severick was not the man he used to be. The truth was, his spirit was broken. He remembered his youth, when he was able to do so many things, so effortlessly, so efficiently, so perfectly. He recalled a different time...with different people, with different technology, with different procedures, with different worlds, and with a different fleet. Europa was still young back then, an empire only beginning to explore the stars. Now, Captain Severick barely recognized all the ships around him and all the Captains that commanded them. His time was past. And, although it pained him to accept it, Captain Severick knew it was true.

The harsh bitter truth was that Captain Severick wished he died heroically in one of the battles of old, fighting for a noble cause that was worthy of his life. He desperately did not want to become a burden to anyone, to lack the capability to stay independent and functional, to become a liability to Europa Command instead of an asset. He needed to have meaning, value, and purpose in his life. But how could he possibly do that when he could not even walk? The answer evaded him like an ethereal ghost which haunted his mind with every passing moment.

And now there was this young crew aboard the Old Guard. These brave, new souls who yearned for adventure and the discoveries that deep space held. They yearned for guidance, for tutelage, for mentoring, and it was to Captain Severick that they looked to as the source of these things. He could not fail them. He would not fail them. No, no matter what it took, Captain Severick would impart everything he had learned upon them, making sure they would grow into the best persons they could be once he was gone. Captain Severick would lead them into the dark, mysterious beyond so that they could find their destiny. And if that shadowy realm would claim Captain Severick's soul in the process, so be it. He could finally rest in peace...

"Captain! Two Babylon P3A Battlecruisers on an Attack Run!"

It was Descry Brookside, Captain Severick's First Officer. She would be the one to take command should anything happen to Captain Severick.

Captain Severick dismissed his thoughts and focused on the moment. He turned toward his Navigator.

"Mr. Catharnaigh, distance to the Battlecruisers?"

The young Irish Navigator examined his console. "Five hundred forty thousand kilometers ah'n closing fast, Captain!"

Hmmmm. Two Babylon Battlecruisers against one old Europa Heavy Cruiser? I've been in worse situations...

"Red Alert! Raise Shields. Charge Phaser Capacitor to maximum."

AND ARM THE PHOTON TORPEDOES.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, February 09, 2022 - 09:56 pm: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 02.09.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

The Old Guard circled around the wounded Babylon Battlecruiser like a Gladiator circling an injured opponent in the Arena.

"Mr. Bacchia, Heading 348 Mark 10. Keep our Third Shield to the other Battlecruiser, but do not give them our Fourth Shield."

"Yes, Captain. Coming Around."

The Old Guard tilted like a bald eagle soaring high in the sky with its wings spread. But its prey turned as well.

"Captain Severick!" Garrett Catharnaigh exclaimed. "They're matching ah'r turn tah protect their down shield!"

"Stay with them. We'll catch them because their Warp Drive has been damaged. Remain calm everyone."

Captain Severick pushed a button to activate the Intercom to Engineering. "Mr. Freeman. Increase our Warp Speed. We need a boost to reach the proper firing position."

"Ja, Captain," the German Engineer responded. "Ze engines are running hot, but I think I can get a little more out of zem."

"I expect no less," Captain Severick replied sternly. "Did you make the preparations I ordered, Mr. Freeman?"

"Ja, Captain. All iz ready. Reserve Power iz standing by."

"On my command and no sooner," Captain Severick said as he shut off the intercom.

The battle-hardened Europa Captain stared at the View Screen, noting the position of both Babylon Battlecruisers. His eyes squinted with grim determination. Both of Captain Severick's sleeves were rolled up, revealing the two tattoos on his forearms. On his right forearm was a tattoo of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. On his left forearm was the Twilight Tattoo. Underneath his shirt, tattooed across his chest, were the words "Noli Me Tangere," which meant "Touch Me Not."

The engagement with the two Babylon Battlecruisers started off well enough. The Old Guard immediately ended up in an advantageous position. Both Babylon Battlecruisers were unaware of the Refit the Old Guard received six months ago. Apparently, their information networks had failed them. The 360 Degree Defensive Phaser was removed and replaced with one of Europa's new Drone Racks. This allowed the Old Guard to launch a surprise Scatterpack as the two Babylon Battlecruisers closed in. Caught completely off guard, the targeted Battlecruiser tried desperately to shoot down the incoming Drones before they struck. They were only partially successful. The remaining Drones slammed into the Battlecruiser, knocking down one of their Shields and scoring internals which damaged their Warp Drive.

Now, the Old Guard was in a race to capitalize on the vulnerability.

The Old Guard shook from Phaser Fire. Her Shields stood firm against the assault.

"Third Shield down to seventy percent," Magia Diabolos, the Science Officer, reported. The Horned Alien's Red Arrow Tail flipped back and forth in an animated fashion.

"Return fire, Captain?" the Tactical Officer asked loudly.

"Negative, Mr. Schuler. Reserve our Phasers for a concentrated strike against our current target. Hold the Overloaded Photons until we reach our position."

"Yes, Captain Severick," William Schuler replied. His hands stood ready on his console, quivering with anticipation of the coming command.

The wounded Babylon Battlecruiser could not win the circling race. Finally, it gave up its Down Shield.

"Now, Mr. Shuler. Fire All Phasers and Overloaded Photon Torpedoes at the First Babylon Battlecruiser!!"

Red beams of light combined with two bolts of glowing white energy. They dug deep into the Battlecruiser's hull, ravaging its systems, weapons, and engines. After several explosions, the Battlecruiser's lights went dark. It floated silently through space like a dead whale at sea.

"Captain!" Descry Brookside reported from a nearby station. "The second Babylon Battlecruiser is on an oblique attack course. She's at thirty thousand kilometers and closing! Her Disruptor Bolts are Overloaded!"

"Take the hit on our Fifth Shield!" Captain Severick instructed. His bulging eyes stared at the Babylon Battlecruiser that was large on the View Screen. "All Crew, brace for impact!!"

The second Babylon Battlecruiser unleashed its Overloaded Disruptor Bolts at close range, collapsing the Old Guard's Fifth Shield. To the Battlecruiser's surprise, the Old Guard absorbed the blow quite well due to the amount of extra Armor it had built up from years and years of battle damage. Having already spent its Phasers, the Babylon Battlecruiser had no other weapons to fire through the Old Guard's Down Shield.

Suddenly, the Old Guard spun around like an agile dancer on ice skates. Its fresh Forward Shield was now directly facing the second Babylon Battlecruiser. Once its High Energy Turn was completed, the Old Guard attached a Tractor Beam onto the Babylon Battlecruiser. The Battlecruiser tried desperately to get away.

"Captain, they are trying to break our Tractor Beam," Mr. Diabolos reported while staring into a binocular device attached to his Science Station.

Captain Severick quickly communicated with Engineering. "Mr. Freeman, Reserve Power to the Tractor Beam. Do not let them break free. Launch the Suicide Shuttle and one Drone. Well done with the High Energy Turn."

A Shuttle and a Drone flew out of the Old Guard. Desperately, the Babylon Battlecruiser tried to escape, but it was caught like a fly in a web. It had no more weapons to fire at the incoming Seeking Weapons.

The Drone knocked down the Battlecruiser's Shield while the Suicide Shuttle seriously damaged the Battlecruiser, reducing it to only a minor threat. The Old Guard dropped its Tractor Beam.

Captain Severick turned to his Communications Officer. "Mr. Symski. Open a channel to the Babylon Battlecruiser. Audio only."

"This is the Europa vessel Old Guard. We both know this fight is over. Our Overloaded Photon Torpedoes and Phasers will completely destroy your vessel. But I have no wish to extinguish your lives. Signal your Surrender now, and I will transport your remaining crew over to the Old Guard. They will be treated well and delivered to a Babylon Base where you can live to fight another day. Your damaged Battlecruiser, however, is now the property of Europa."

YOU HAVE TEN SECONDS TO DECIDE. LIVE OR DIE...IT'S YOUR CHOICE.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, February 10, 2022 - 07:38 pm: Edit

DRAGONFLIAN HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser SSD

(50R.5.0) THE DRAGONFLIAN SKIMMERS
(50R5.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

The Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser was a sleek, agile vessel capable of performing an abundance of "impossible" Warp Maneuvers. This was due to the strange Hoverwarp that was embedded into each Dragonflian starship. Armed with Two Hyperdrone Racks, a Battery of Forward Offensive Phasers, and Dual Defensive Phasers, the Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser was a match for any other Sector 50 Heavy Cruiser. A special Cargo Bay housed an abundance of Reloads for the Hyperdrone Racks.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser is roughly Half of the Flivver Heavy Cruiser. Some choices had to made regarding the PH-3's, the Hyperdrones, and the Cargo Boxes.

It was vital that the Dragonflian Skimmers be a real, actual empire in Sector 50 utilizing Flivver technology. This will massively expand the strategy and tactics utilized by the Dragonflian Player. No longer will Flivver technology be restricted to opponents of the Klingons and the Federation. But the goal is not simply to turn a simulator empire into a real empire for the fun of it. Instead, the goal is to take the Essence of the Flivvers, which is Hoverwarp and Hyperdrones, and expand their tactical applications exponentially.

The first task was to make sure that Hyperdrones were their own unique, viable heavy weapon in comparison to other similar heavy weapons. It was therefore necessary to do an in-depth comparison between Hyperdrones, Ultrawarp Missiles, Mass Drivers, and Regular Drones. Fortunately, Hyperdrones proved that they could stand on their own in the tactical sense, with completely different game details than the other similar heavy weapons.

Hyperdrones move 20 Hexes per impulse, while Ultrawarp Missiles move 4 Hexes per impulse (Speed 128). Hyperdrones score 8 points of damage upon impact and require 6 points of damage to be destroyed. Ultrawarp Missiles score 2 points of damage upon impact (outside of the Qixavalor Cloud) and require 4 points of damage to be destroyed (Pre-Y215). Of course, there are other types of Ultrawarp Missile Warheads.

Mass Drivers move immediately in a straight line toward the target, stopping 2 hexes away (the terminal approach hex). The Basic Anti-Ship Missile (ASM) scores 5 points of damage and requires 3 points of damage to be destroyed. There are many different types of Mass Drivers. Clearly, Mass Drivers are much different than Hyperdrones.

The Basic Type-I Drone scores 12 points of damage and requires 4 points of damage to be destroyed. The Type-I Drone moves at Speed 8. Again, we can see a clear difference between the Basic Type-I Drone and the Hyperdrone.

There are other details, such as Arming Cost, Launching Frequency, Reloads, and More, but those details can be looked up individually at the Player's discretion. Suffice it to say that Hyperdrones are their own unique tactical entity worthy of game exploration.

What else can be done with Hyperdrones in the future? What types of different Hyperdrone Racks will be developed? Will different Hyperdrone Warheads be created? Will there be some kind of Hyperdrone Scatterpack? Can Hyperdrones be carried by Fighters? Can Fast Patrol Ships carry Hyperdrones? What types of Advanced (X) Technology will be created for Hyperdrones? These are all new areas to explore in the future for Hyperdrones and the Dragonflian Skimmers.

The next task was to make sure that Hoverwarp was not too unbalancing, overpowered, or game breaking. The Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser can generate up to 5 Hoverwarp points based on its Center Warp. These Hoverwarp points can be used to Slip in Any Direction when Not Scheduled to Move, Counteract a Scheduled Move, or Turn an Additional 60 Degrees. While all of these things are extremely useful in a tactical sense, I don't believe any of them create a game-breaking function. Hoverwarp therefore turns into an intriguing tactical device with countless applications, depending on the opponent and the heavy weapons it is being used against.

Ultimately, the Dragonflian Heavy Cruiser turned out to be fine conversion of the Flivvers into Sector 50. It is quite different than the Europa Heavy Cruiser and the Babylon P3A Battlecruiser which are the base vessels of Sector 50. Flying the Dragonflier Heavy Cruiser has its own unique feel, thanks to the Hoverwarp, and victory depends on successfully scoring hits with the long-range Hyperdrones. This is easier said than done, because the Dragonflian adversary can easily counter each Hyperdrone with Phasers as they only require 6 damage points to be destroyed before impact. Luckily, each Hyperdrone Rack can launch 2 Hyperdrones per turn (not within 8 impulses of one another).

Consider yourself fortunate, for you have just witnessed the Birth of the Dragonflian Skimmers!

By Mike Grafton (Mike_Grafton) on Friday, February 11, 2022 - 08:15 am: Edit

MC=1, but only has 15 warp?

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, February 11, 2022 - 10:30 am: Edit

Yes, that's correct Mike.

The first Sector 50 Starships move slowly, somewhat similar to Early Years. This will increase over time, but it's a starting point.

Remember that the Initial Starships in Sector 50 are Exactly Half of Original Starships, so Warp 30 divided by 2 = Warp 15.

I didn't want to give the smaller starships 1/2, 1/4, or 3/4 movement because they would be zipping around the board at Warp 30.

There's no reason (yet), for high speeds such as Warp 30, but this will change as technology and starship designs advance in Sector 50.

This is also means that the starting Sector 50 starships will have to make a hard choice between Firing All Weapons on Overload, Moving their Maximum, or Something In-Between. These are Good Choices for Starship Captains to have to make.

Thanks for the question.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, February 11, 2022 - 07:04 pm: Edit

THE SLEEPER AWAKENS GENERAL SCENARIO SECTOR 50
Link to the Sleeper Awakens General Scenario

(50SG1.0) THE SLEEPER AWAKENS

When tensions erupt over a hotly contested area of space, Europa and Babylon each send a starship to claim the territory. However, as the two ships are about to begin their duel, an ancient satellite that has long remained inert suddenly comes to life.

DESIGNER NOTES:

I wanted to create a basic, introductory scenario for players to gain familiarity with Sector 50 starships. However, to make a Duel even more interesting, a third component has been added. This third component is quite predictable and its regular actions can be countered in various ways. But one thing is for certain, the third component puts a time clock on the Duel, hastening the end that must surely come to one of the starships.

(50SG1.1) NUMBER OF PLAYERS: 2; Player A and Player B

(50SG1.2) INITIAL SET UP
SHIP A (EUROPA CA OR EQUIVALENT): In 0926, heading B, speed 10, WS-III
SHIP B (BABYLON P3A BATTLECRUISER OR EQUIVALENT): In 3405, heading E, speed 10, WS-III
ANCIENT SATELLITE: In 2215, remains stationary throughout the entire scenario
YEAR: Players must select a year for the scenario as this will define available ships, refits, fighters, weapons, etc.

(50SG1.3) LENGTH OF SCENARIO: The scenario continues until all forces belonging to one side have been destroyed, captured, or have disengaged.

(50SG1.4) SPECIAL RULES
(50SG1.41) MAP: The map is fixed; it does not float. Any unit leaving the map has disengaged and cannot return.
This is the only method of disengagement allowed in this scenario.
(50SG1.42) SHUTTLES AND PFs: There are no fighters in this scenario. In a variant in which fighters are present, use the standard deployment patterns.
There are no PFs in the basic version of this scenario, but casual PFs may be added to the ships, or the players might use entire flotillas in place of the ships.
(50SG1.43) COMMANDER'S OPTION ITEMS
(50SG1.431) Each ship can purchase additional or special equipment as Commander's Option Items (e.g., T-bombs, extra Marines, etc.) up to 20% of its Combat BPV. See (S3.2) for details and exceptions.
(50SG1.432) All drone speeds and types are available subject only to the year selected for this scenario.
Each drone-armed ship can purchase special drones up to the historical racial percentages as part of the Commander's Option Items. Note that (S3.2) allows drone ship's extra points for this purpose.
(50SG1.44) REFITS: All refits are available depending on the year of the scenario.
(50SG1.45) THE ANCIENT SATELLITE
The Ancient Satellite will attack each starship equally without regard to which empire they belong to.
(50SG1.451) On Impulse 1 of every turn, the Ancient Satellite will launch one Type-I Drone at each of the starships.
(50SG1.452) On Impulse 1 of every turn, the Ancient Satellite will fire one PH-1 at each of the starships, regardless of distance. This PH-1 is 360 degrees.
(50SG1.453) The Ancient Satellite can absorb 200 points of damage before being destroyed. It does not have any built-in defenses such as Anti-Drones, MCIDS, etc.

(50SG1.5) VICTORY CONDITIONS:
LEGENDARY: The Player destroys or captures both the Ancient Satellite and the Opposing Starship.
DECISIVE: The Player destroys the Ancient Satellite but not the Opposing Starship.
TACTICAL: The Player destroys or captures the Opposing Starship but not the Ancient Satellite.
MARGINAL: The Opposing Starship Disengages but is not destroyed. The Ancient Satellite is not destroyed.
DEFEAT: The Player's Starship is Destroyed or Disengages. Neither the Opposing Starship or the Ancient Satellite is destroyed.

(50SG1.6) VARIATIONS: The Europa Heavy Cruiser and Babylon P3A Battlecruiser can be replaced with any other Sector 50 Heavy Cruiser. Alternatively, they can be replaced with larger ship classes or smaller ship classes. Finally, each ship can be replaced with a Carrier or PF Tender.

(50SG1.7) BALANCE: The scenario can be balanced between players of different skill levels by one or more of the following:
(50SG1.71) Increase the number of drones launched by the Ancient Satellite at one or both of the empires.
(50SG1.72) Increase the number of PH-1's fired by the Ancient Satellite at one or both of the empires.
(50SG1.73) Increase or decrease the amount of damage that the Ancient Satellite can sustain before being destroyed.
(50SG1.74) Apply random damage to one or both of the empires at the start of the scenario.

(50SG1.8) TACTICS: Standard Tactics apply for a Duel between two Sector 50 empires (ex. Europa vs Babylon). So it is obvious that the key to victory is the Ancient Satellite. Somehow, each opposing side has to find a way to use the Ancient Satellite to their own advantage and to the disadvantage of the opponent. This could take the form of distance from the Ancient Satellite, maneuvering in specific ways on the map to keep the opponent closer to the Ancient Satellite than your own ship is, using a tractor beam on the opposing vessel, and more. Creativity is your own limitation in this regard.
It will be nearly impossible to destroy the Ancient Satellite due to the high number of damage points it can sustain. Only a prolonged, multi-turn assault has a chance of success, and only if that assault is undisturbed by an enemy vessel. Carefully take this into account when striving to meet the Victory Conditions.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 - 03:19 am: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 02.15.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

In a small, dimly lit room aboard the Old Guard, a Counselor interviews Captain Severick for the record. The two are good friends, and yet the task has to be completed as a matter of procedure. They both know the answers that are forthcoming, but the questions still need to be asked.

"And so you felt nothing?" Mitch East asked while staring down at a computer tablet where he was jotting down electronic notes.

"No, nothing," Captain Severick replied coldly. His stern gaze met Mitch's eyes whenever they looked up.

"Do you consider that normal when you have just ordered the deaths of hundreds of lives?"

Captain Severick paused for a moment before answering. "Mr. East. Europa is at war with Babylon. As Captain, I did what had to be done. My superiors would expect no less. As a matter of honor, I gave the damaged P3A Battlecruiser a chance to surrender. Their remaining lives would have been spared. We would have transported the survivors to a Babylon Base. But the Babylon Battlecruiser refused to surrender. That is the choice they made. I respected that. So I gave the order to fire."

Mister East was quiet as he scribbled down more notes. He looked up at Captain Severick.

"Captain, I understand why you gave the order to fire. It has been well documented in the Log. But I am more concerned with how the order affected you internally."

Captain Severick stared at Mister East without blinking or saying a word. Moments later, he finally spoke.

"I'm not sure what you mean, Counselor."

Mister East formed a sympathetic look on his face. "Captain, you just took hundreds of lives. Enemy or not, doesn't that...bother you...at all?"

This time Captain Severick was quick to respond.

"Mr. East. I have taken lives in the past. Many of them. And I will take more in the future. It is not the Captain's prerogative to pick and choose which lives to take. When the time comes, the Captain must do his duty, as must each member of his crew. If that duty calls for me to take hundreds of enemy lives, so be it. If it requires for me to take thousands of enemy lives, so be it. If it requires for me to take millions of enemy lives, so be it. I will do what must be done."

Mister East's eyes bulged slightly. He continued his questioning.

"I understand that, Captain. And your long record confirms your words. But you didn't answer my question. Does it bother you internally when you take lives?"

Captain Severick paused once more. His stare remained fixed on Mister East.

"In combat, does a soldier regret having to shoot an enemy soldier that is about to shoot him? Does the crew of a tank regret having to blast an enemy tank bearing down on them? Does a fighter pilot regret having to shoot down an enemy jet that is attempting to lock missiles on them? No, Mr. East, they do not. They know that if they do not do their duty, if they do not act, lives will be lost. And so it is with a starship. If a starship destroys an enemy starship that is trying to destroy them, does the Captain feel regret for having given the order to fire? The answer is No."

This time it was Mister East who went quiet for a few moments. He quickly wrote down the Captain's response on his electronic tablet. Then he met Captain Severick's gaze once more.

"Captain, I am very concerned. It is perfectly normal for a human to feel some kind of emotion after claiming another's life, even if it is the life of one's enemy. Some struggle with those emotions, some do not. But to deny that you feel such emotions, to suppress them, to bury them deep within your psyche, that is very unhealthy. Over time, it can be extremely self-destructive. Now, as your Counselor, you can confide fully in me. I am here whenever you need to talk. And you can be completely honest with me. I will not judge you. There's no need for fake facades or tough egoism. It is alright for you to feel emotions."

"I disagree."

Mister East choked and coughed, caught completely off-guard by the Captain's reply. "Ex...excuse me?"

"Counselor, the Captain does not have the luxury of feeling emotions as a normal civilian does. There are lives on the line. My crew is depending on me. I cannot let emotions affect my orders or decision making. To do so would be a tragic mistake. Every situation must be examined rationally, logically, and objectively. Then the best decision possible must be reached. But that decision is not based on or influenced by emotions. Emotions are erratic, unpredictable, fleeting, and chaotic. So, no. As Captain, I cannot allow myself to feel emotions. I dare not, I shall not, I cannot. I refuse to."

Mister East stared silently at Captain Severick, wondering what kind of man he was interacting with.

"Now, if there is nothing further, Counselor, I have duties to attend to. I will consider this session ended."

Captain Severick adjusted his uniform, activated the Anti-Grav in his Wheelchair, and then floated out of the room. Mister East was left alone with his thoughts and his tablet.

AND DEEP...DEEP...DEEP WITHIN CAPTAIN SEVERICK, THE SOULS OF HUNDREDS OF BABYLON CREW MEMBERS CRIED OUT FOR RECOGNITION.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, February 17, 2022 - 06:08 am: Edit

BLACK FLOCK HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Black Flock Heavy Cruiser SSD

(50R.6.0) THE BLACK FLOCK
(50R6.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

The Black Flock Heavy Cruiser was a raiding vessel. Armed with Two Quantum Wave Torpedoes, Three Forward Offensive Phasers, and One Rear Defensive Phaser, the Black Flock Heavy Cruiser specialized in hit-and-run assaults. The starship possessed excellent maneuverability, but was not adept at high energy turns. Of great concern was the sheer amount of Power that the Black Flock Heavy Cruiser could generate, which was greater than the typical Sector 50 Heavy Cruiser. Finally, the Black Flock's victims soon realized that the Heavy Cruiser was outfitted with multiple transporters for their numerous boarding parties and crew units.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Black Flock Heavy Cruiser is roughly Half of the Paravian Heavy Cruiser. Some decisions had to made about the Shuttles, APR, Transporters, and PH-3's.

The original Paravian Heavy Cruiser had the ability to land on a planet, so I retained this feature for the Black Flock.

I was surprised to find out that the Paravian Heavy Cruiser possessed so many Crew Units and Boarding Parties, along with numerous Transporters. I suppose this was due to their "raiding" aspect. I therefore included this feature into the Black Flock, reducing the quantities appropriately for Sector 50.

The Paravian Heavy Cruiser also had odd Shields. While it had a Strong Forward Shield (more than most Heavy Cruisers), the other Five Shields were Weak. Again, I made sure the Black Flock Heavy Cruiser kept this attribute.

But the heart of the matter is the Quantum Wave Torpedoes. Heavy Weapons define the starship and Quantum Wave Torpedoes are no different for the Black Flock. Can Quantum Wave Torpedoes stand on their own in a tactical sense when compared to other Heavy Weapons? With the amount of playtesting and feedback that has been completed since Module C6 was published, I believe the answer is Yes. Quantum Wave Torpedoes are quite different from Plasma Torpedoes in that they Arm More Frequently, have a Splash Damage Effect, use a Different Range Bracket, and are Damaged Differently than Plasma Torpedoes. The issue with Quantum Wave Torpedoes is that they lack crunch power, and this greatly affects their tactical use.

Curiously, the Paravians are missing a Secondary Heavy Weapon/Device, although I noticed that the Motherships had large Cargo Areas and the ability to carry Pods Without Penalty. This will not do for the Black Flock, as most other empires (in the future of Sector 50) will have a Heavy Weapon and a Device (ex. Disruptor/ESG) or Two Heavy Weapons (ex. Disruptor/Drone). So I will probably have to come up with something for the Black Flock, a New Secondary Heavy Weapon/Device (or an Existing One), which compliments their tactics and play style.

It should be noted that the Black Flock is a Real, Historical Empire in Sector 50, not a Hypothetical, Non-Historical, Lost Empire.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, February 18, 2022 - 09:54 pm: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 02.18.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

In an isolated room aboard the Old Guard, Captain Severick sits across from William Schuler, his young Tactical Officer. Before them both, a computer projector displays moving images on the wall showing the Old Guard's most recent battle. There is a certain tension in the air, so thick you could cut it with a knife. The Tactical Officer is nervous.

"Mr. Schuler, your analysis of our recent engagement with the Two Babylon P3A Battlecruisers?"

Mr. Schuler was quiet for a few moments as he gathered his thoughts. "The whole battle was based on luck, sir. The Old Guard was simply lucky. But one day, our luck will run out."

"Lucky?" Captain Severick asked with curiosity. "Why would you claim something like that, Mr. Schuler?"

This time the young Tactical Officer was quick to answer. "Because we won only because the Babylon Battlecruisers were not aware of our Drone Refit. If they had known, the engagement would have ended quite differently."

Captain Severick rubbed his chin. He stared at Mr. Schuler with intense eyes. "And what exactly would have happened, Mr. Schuler?"

"The Two Babylon Battlecruisers would have been prepared for our Scatterpack. They probably would have had Wild Weasels prepared, possibly two each. They may have countered our Drones with Tractor Beams, although that wouldn't have stopped the assault. But combined with Phaser Fire, they would have minimized the damage from our Scatterpack."

A slight smile formed on Captain Severick's rough face. "If they had employed Wild Weasels, what would have been the disadvantage?"

"Speed, sir. They would have had to slow to a crawl. That would have given us the advantage of initiative. However, there were two of them. The other Battlecruiser could have covered the Battlecruiser that slowed down to deploy the Wild Weasel."

"Correct, Mr. Schuler. In the latter part of the engagement, we had the second Babylon Battlecruiser in a Tractor Beam. How important was that?"

"Critical, sir. Without the Tractor Beam, our Suicide Shuttle and Drone would not have been guaranteed to impact."

"And how would they have countered our Tractor Beam?"

"With greater power diverted to their Tractor Beam. Again, the Old Guard was lucky that the Tractored Battlecruiser did not have available power to boost their Counter-Tractor Beam. Their Captain failed to plan ahead appropriately."

"What else, Mr. Schuler?"

"The Old Guard boosted our Tractor Beam with Reserve Power. If that Reserve Power was used for some other prior function, we would have lost the Tractor Beam on the Second Babylon Battlecruiser."

"Your thoughts on the Babylon Battlecruiser in general?"

"The Babylon Battlecruiser is a swift vessel, more maneuverable than the Old Guard, but with key weaknesses. Notably, their Offensive Phasers are weaker than the Old Guard's. Their Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Shields are weak. Those Shields are prime targets for an Alpha Strike from the Old Guard. Babylon Battlecruisers possess slightly more overall Power than a Europa Heavy Cruiser, but we have the same amount of Reserve Power. We both have the same amount of Administrate Shuttles, which can be converted during battle into Suicide Shuttles and Wild Weasels. Their Disruptor Bolts fire more frequently, but are less effective than our Photon Torpedoes."

"Very good, Mr. Schuler. Always study and know your opponent. It could mean the difference between life and death for you and your Crewmates. Never forget that."

"Yes, sir."

"How essential is it that the Crew perform at the top of their abilities during the engagement?"

"Critical, sir. When we need to fire, when we need to launch Drones, when we need additional speed, when we need Reserve Power, when we need to reinforce Shields...these things must happen immediately upon command. There can be no delay. The Crew must perform at the height of their abilities throughout the entire conflict."

"And if they don't?" Captain Severick asked with one eyebrow raised.

"People die. People we know. People we work with side by side everyday. People we call friends. People we call family."

"Correct, Mr. Schuler. That is the price of failure. Never forget that."

"Yes, sir."

"During the engagement, the Old Guard performed a High Energy Turn after taking a blow to her Fifth Shield. How important was that?"

"Again, sir, critical. If the Old Guard had not performed a High Energy Turn at that moment, she would not have been able to bring her Photon Torpedoes and Phasers to bear on the second Babylon Battlecruiser."

"But isn't it true that the Suicide Shuttle and Drone did not require the Old Guard to be facing the second Babylon Battlecruiser?"

"Yes, sir. But right after we hit her with the Suicide Shuttle and Drone, the second Babylon Battlecruiser was vulnerable due to the Down Shield and Internal Damage. That is the point in the engagement where you demanded their surrender. Without our Photon Torpedoes and Phasers pointed at the enemy vessel, we would not have had that card to play."

"Excellent, Mr. Schuler. Any last thoughts on our engagement with the two Babylon Battlecruisers?"

Mr. Schuler went quiet. In his head, he struggled with whether he should say what was on his mind or not.

"Mr. Schuler?"

"I mean no disrespect, sir. You are the Captain and I am the Tactical Officer. But in my opinion, the Old Guard should never have engaged those two Babylon Battlecruisers."

Again, Captain Severick formed a slight smile on his worn face. "Oh? And what should we have done, Mr. Schuler?"

"We were overmatched, sir. The smart play would have been to retreat and seek reinforcements. Both Cruisers, the Colosseum and the Parthenon, were four hours away at maximum warp. Our Dreadnought, Stonehenge, was six hours away but in an opposite direction. The point is, sir, that there were other options for the Old Guard. We did not have to engage two Babylon Battlecruisers by ourselves."

Captain Severick's eyes met Mr. Schuler's eyes without blinking. Both men saw what was deep inside the other's Soul.

"Well said, Mr. Schuler. Excellent analysis of our battle. My respect for you grows every day. Always remember, becoming tactically brilliant requires knowledge, wisdom, foresight, analysis, planning, perfect execution, timing, coordination, study, and constant review. It won't happen overnight. But one day, Mr. Schuler, you will be unbeatable on the battlefield. Of this, I have no doubt."

"Yes, sir, I will. I will make you proud of me."

Captain Severick stared intently at Mr. Schuler. Ah, the naivete of youth. It must be smashed into pieces immediately.

NEVER FOR ME, MR. SCHULER. IS THAT UNDERSTOOD? DO IT FOR YOURSELF. AND FOR THE CREW. ALWAYS.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, February 20, 2022 - 10:00 am: Edit

EUROPA CA VS BABYLON BC
PLAYTEST REPORT 2/20/22
Link to previous Playtest Reports
Link to Game Pic of Turn 1
Link to Game Pic of Turn 2
Link to Game Pic of Turn 3
Pink to Game Pic of Turn 4

T1 - Europa Speed 10. Babylon Speed 15. Both ships close on each other.

T2 - Europa Speed 8. Babylon Speed 11. Ships are facing each other but off center. Babylon fires 2 Disr at R15. Both hit. Minus reinforcement, Europa takes 4 Dam to Shield#1. Babylon turns toward C to circle around. Europa chases for rest of the turn.

T3 - Europa Speed 8. Babylon Speed 10. Babylon facing D and circling around. Europa closing. Babylon fires 1 OL Disr, 1 Standard Disr, 3 PH-2 at R6. Both Disr hit + PH-2's totals 13 Damage. Minus reinforcement, Europa takes 9 Dam to Shield#1. Europa has 2 left on Shield#1. Europa does not return fire. Babylon turns in to face Europa. Europa turns to protect Shield#1. Reserve Power has been used by both ships. Ships end at R3 from each other. Babylon facing B. Europa facing D.

T4 - Europa Speed 6. Babylon Speed 7. Babylon fires 2 OL Disr, 2 PH-2 at R3. 1 Disr Missed, 1 Disr Hit + PH-2's totals 16 Damage. Europa loses Shield#2 and takes 4 Internals. Europa loses PH-3, 1 Photon, 1 Aft Hull, 1 F Hull. Babylon launches 1 SS. Europa launches 1 SS. Babylon turns toward A, while Europa turns toward E. Babylon fires 2 PH-2 at R2 through Europa's Down Shield#2. Europa suffers 8 more Internals. Europa loses 1 Aft Hull, 1 APR, 2 Shuttles, 1 PH-1, 1 FHull, 1 LWarp, 1 Tractor. Europa fires 1 OL Photon and 2 PH-1's at R2. OL Photon hits + PH-1's totals 25 Damage. Babylon loses Shield#3 and takes 14 Internals. Babylon loses 5 AHull, 4 PH-2, 1 RWarp, 1 Disr, 1 FHull, 1 LWarp, 1 Impulse. Babylon circles around while Europa runs from Suicide Shuttle. T4 ends with Babylon facing D, Europa facing C, 7 Hexes apart. Each Suicide Shuttle is 1 Hex away from each ship.

T5 - Europa Speed 9. Babylon Speed 9. Babylon fires 1 PH-2 at Suicide Shuttle, crippling it (Speed reduced to 3). Europa fires 1 PH-1 at Suicide Shuttle, crippling it (Speed reduced to 3). Babylon fires 1 Disr at R6. Europa takes 3 Damage to Shield#5. T5 ends with Babylon facing B, Europa facing A, 6 Hexes apart.

T6 - Europa Speed 5. Babylon Speed 8. Both Suicide Shuttles trail behind. Babylon closes on Europa while Europa turns to face Babylon. Babylon reaches R2 facing B while Europa faces F. Babylon fires 1 OL Disr at R2 and misses. Europa fires 1 OL Photon and 2 PH-1's at R2. Photon hits + PH-1's totals 25 Damage. Babylon loses Shield#1 and takes 10 Internals.

* BABYLON PLAYER FORFEITS MATCH *

COMMENTS: Sector 50 provides simpler ships and faster combat, while maintaining the tactics utilized by larger starships. The Europa CA and Babylon BC feel evenly matched. It could have gone either way.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Monday, February 21, 2022 - 06:05 am: Edit

WHITE WOLF
STARDATE 02.21.22
HIGH GUARD/INTERGALACTIC ASSEMBLAGE OF SYSTEMS
Link to previous White Wolf Logs

Ichaborn floated through the corridors of the White Wolf like a wraith, his flowing black robe in stark contrast to his bone white skin. The gaze of his blood red eyes was ahead of him, yet there was an exhaustion to them. Lupa had woken him up in the middle of the night due to a matter of urgency. Begrudgingly, Ichaborn rose out of bed, irritated that his deep slumber had been interrupted. Even worse, he had to leave the side of his sweet Melia, who he left resting peacefully in their bed. Being with her was like living in the Garden of Paradise; you never wanted to leave the eternal bliss. Yet here Ichaborn was, meandering through the halls of the White Wolf at an ungodly hour, his red eyes drooping downward from lack of sleep. What few crew members who saw him quickly got out of his way.

Ichaborn entered the Bridge of the White Wolf. He moved directly to the Science Station.

"Kelpie, what is it?"

Sitting at the Science Station was a Humanoid Sea Horse. This was a highly evolved creature, the product of a millennia of evolution. No longer bound to the sea, the Humanoid Sea Horse could now "walk" on land, using its prehensile tail for balance and movement. These advanced Sea Horses were known for their keen intellect and calculating minds. Kelpie was no different.

"Oh, Captain!" Kelpie said in a high pitched voice. Her bony, thin body wiggled back and forth from excitement. Her flat, blue eyes focused on Ichaborn. "I didn't expect you so quickly. Forgive me, the computer is finishing a set of complex calculations. It should be finished momentarily. I hope I didn't wake you from a deep sleep."

Ichaborn stared at the Humanoid Sea Horse with unforgiving red eyes. He said nothing. For some reason, Ichaborn thought of Kelpie's people.

"Don't worry about it, Kelpie. I'm sure your matter is important. While we are waiting, if you wouldn't mind telling your Captain, is it true that your people are hunted for food and medicine?"

Kelpie immediately formed a sad look on her face. Her snout sagged downward.

"Yes, Captain. I'm afraid so. Many cultures believe that the organic components of my species provides medicinal value, although there is no scientific evidence to support this theory. Sadly, it's all based on superstition and conjecture. When I was young, my two sisters, an uncle, and an aunt were captured by one of the many hauling nets."

Kelpie's voice quivered. "I never saw them again."

Ichaborn could feel his Science Officer's pain. He gently placed his pale hand on Kelpie's armored shoulder.

"I'm sorry for your loss, Kelpie. I too have lost loved ones close to me, people I cared deeply about. I too have thought about all the possibilities regarding their loss and wondered if there was any way they might have been saved. I too have wondered why I live and they do not. It is a terrible burden to carry and the pain runs deep. But there are others around you who can help you to carry your burden. Let us be your strength during those times when you feel too weak to carry it."

Kelpie looked at Ichaborn with her big, round, flat eyes. They did not blink. She knew that Ichaborn spoke the truth.

Suddenly, Kelpie's Science Station lit up with flashing lights. A loud beeping could be heard. Quickly, Kelpie examined her findings. She murmured to herself. Her curved body began to shake.

"Captain! It's as I feared. I've never seen anything like this before. We have to change course immediately!"

Ichaborn naturally kept his composure. "Explain, Kelpie."

Kelpie's thin, tube-like fingers danced across her console. As she worked, she answered her Captain.

"As you know, the White Wolf is headed toward the Black Hole known as Charybdis. Two freighters and one destroyer recently went missing near the singularity."

ichaborn was slightly annoyed. "Yes, yes, I know Kelpie. We have been sent to investigate their disappearances. What of it? What is so important that you summoned me in the middle of night?"

"Long range scans indicated that Charybdis had moved positions. That is impossible. So I ran more scans. The data that came back was unnatural, highly irregular, and inconsistent. None of it matched what was previously recorded about this Black Hole."

Ichaborn's mind raced to reach a conclusion. But he didn't know enough. "Is that what happened to the missing starships? Is this 'irregular behavior' somehow the cause?"

Kelpie turned to face Captain Ichaborn. On her face was a grave look.

"I'm afraid so, Captain. You see, my final calculations have confirmed my theory."

CHARYBDIS IS ALIVE.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 - 06:12 am: Edit

I noticed that the Alpha Strike calculation was not correct on the Europa CA SSD.

A Revised Europa CA SSD has been uploaded.

Link to the Revised Europa Heavy Cruiser SSD.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 - 06:25 am: Edit

PYRIAN BATTLECRUISER SSD
Link to the Pyrian Battlecruiser SSD

* DEDICATED TO FRANCOIS ANGERS *

(50R.7.0) PYRIAN
(50R7.1) BATTLECRUISER (BC):

The Pyrian Battlecruiser was one of the most deadly and feared Battlecruisers in Sector 50. Armed with Four Offensive Phasers, One 360 degree Defensive Phaser, and Two Variable Fireburst Torpedoes, the Pyrian Battlecruiser was capable of matching any opponent of the same ship size. Increased Auxiliary Power Reactors provided additional power for the Heavy Weapons, but the Warp Engines had to be reduced as a result. The dreaded Fireburst Torpedoes instilled panic in many an opposing Captain due to their ability to quickly strip away all of a starship's Shields at the same time.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Pyrian Battlecruiser is roughly Half of the Bizian Hegemony Dictatorial Heavy Cruiser by Francois Angers. The Bizian CA was part of Francois' Original New Galaxy Games, long before Triangulum was published. I always thought the Bizian CA Design had a lot of potential, but Major Balance Modifications needed to take place to make it fit into Sector 50. The Sector 50 Design Paradigm does not normally call for Heavy Weapon/Device Revision, but this was a special case.

The Original Bizian CA utilized a Fireburst Torpedo for a Heavy Weapon. This Heavy Weapon could be armed from 1 Turn to 4 Turns and fired in either Standard or Overload Mode. At 4 Turns of Arming, the Standard Fireburst Torpedo could score as much as a PL-S Torpedo (30 Points of Damage). When Overloaded, the Fireburst Torpedo damages All 6 Shields with an Enveloping Effect, similar to the Fireballs of the Loriyill. The damage listed is Doubled during Overloads and then Distributed among All 6 Shields of the target. Note that the Fireburst Torpedo is a Direct-Fire Weapon, Not a Seeking Weapon.

One can already see the Balance Issues with the Original Fireburst Torpedo. Scoring 30 Points of Damage is nearly Double what an Overloaded Photon can achieve. This is specifically in regard to the Energy to Damage Ratio, which should always be 1:2 (for the Alpha Sector). Still, even if the Energy to Damage Ratio is justified for a whopping 30 Points of Damage, you have to consider Alpha Strike Capability. The Original Bizian CA had 4 Fireburst Torpedoes. That means that, at 4 Turns of Arming, the Bizian CA can deliver a staggering 120 Points of Damage with its Heavy Weapons alone, which are Direct-Fire Weapons. Compared to a Federation's 64 Points of Damage from 4 Overloaded Photon Torpedoes, we can see the Bizian's Alpha Strike Potential is far too much (in my opinion). Even with the 4 Turns of Arming, as opposed to the Federation's 2 Turns of Arming, the Single Impulse Alpha Strike Capability is Far Too High.

Another basis for comparison for the Firebust Torpedo is the Trobrin's Implosion Bolt, which can score up to 20 Points of Damage versus the Federation's Photon Torpedo which can score up to 16 Points of Damage. Note that the Implosion Bolt is a Direct Fire Weapon as well.

I liked the Fireburst Torpedo's Overload Function of Doubling Damage and Distributing Among 6 Shields. This is a More Powerful Version of the Loriyill's Fireball. Additionally, the Fireburst Torpedo does a Set Amount of Damage, while the Loriyill's Fireball does Random Damage (throwing a die to determine the amount of damage).

So the key to Balancing the Fireburst Torpedo for Sector 50 lay in Revising the Standard Damage Amounts. 4 Turns of Arming seemed Excessively Long to me, so that was immediately Deleted. That means the Revised Firebust Torpedo can be armed from 1 Turn to 3 Turns. That Third Turn of Arming is part of what makes the Fireburst Torpedo different from a Disruptor, Photon Torpedo, and other Heavy Weapons.

Reducing the Standard Damage Amounts, I made the 1 Turn Fireburst Torpedo slightly better than a Standard Disruptor, the 2 Turn Fireburst Torpedo slightly better than an Overloaded Disruptor, and the 3 Turn Fireburst Torpedo slightly better than an Overloaded Photon Torpedo. Note that, at Close Range, the Fireburst Torpedo's Energy to Damage Ratio Improves, reaching 1:3. This is another advantage of the Fireburst Torpedo.

Determining the To-Hit Probabilities was very important for the Fireburst Torpedo. Francois had the Original Fireburst Torpedo hitting somewhat like a Photon Torpedo and I thought this was appropriate for a weapon that could Overload to hit All 6 Shields at Once. So only slight modifications were needed for the Revised Fireburst Torpedo's To-Hit Chances.

When examining the Overload Capability to hit All Shields at Once, comparisons were made between the Revised Fireburst Torpedo, an Enveloping Plasma Torpedo, the Hellbore, the Fireball, the Hypercannon, and the Energy Howitzer. EPT's were crucial for the comparison. EPT's require Twice the Energy resulting in their Warhead Strength being Doubled. A Standard Hellbore requires 6 Points of Energy (over 2 Turns) and yields a maximum 20 Damage Points (to be Distributed Among Shields). An Overloaded Hellbore requires 9 Points of Energy (over 2 Turns) and yields a maximum of 30 Damage Points (to be Distributed Among Shields). Note that Hellbores target the Weakest Shield, so they are slightly different than the Fireburst Torpedo and Fireballs.

A 1 Turn Overloaded (Revised) Fireburst Torpedo requires 3 Points of Energy and yields a maximum of 12 Damage Points (to be Distributed among 6 Shields). A 2 Turn Overloaded (Revised) Fireburst Torpedo requires 6 Points of Energy and yields a maximum of 24 Damage Points (to be Distributed among 6 Shields). A 3 Turn Overloaded (Revised) Fireburst Torpedo requires 9 Points of Energy and yields a maximum of 36 Damage Points (to be Distributed among 6 Shields). These numbers are very close to the Hellbore's numbers. Again, note that the Revised Fireburst Torpedo does Not target the Weakest Shield like the Hellbore.

Overall, I believe the Revised Fireburst Torpedo works. With To-Hit Probabilities similar to a Photon Torpedo, the Revised Fireburst Torpedo can hit like a Disruptor, an Overloaded Disruptor, or an Overloaded Photon Torpedo, depending on the Arming Length. Additionally, the Revised Fireburst Torpedo can Overload to hit All 6 Shields at Once, slowly stripping the target of its Shields and making it vulnerable from a variety of angles. This means that, Tactically, the Revised Fireburst Torpedo is something new, something to be mastered, and something which is not a duplicate of existing Heavy Weapons. The Revised Fireburst Torpedo stands on its own on the battlefield. And the Revised Fireburst Torpedo is Not, in my opinion, Overpowered.

The Original Bizian CA also utilized a variety of Proton Pulse Emitters, which were definitely part of its offensive arsenal. However, upon close inspection of the various Proton Pulse Emitters, I found that the PPE-A was like a PH-3 with More Damage, the PPE-B was like a Short-Ranged PH-2, the PPE-C was like a Long-Ranged PH-2, the PPE-D was like a PH-1, and the PPE-E was in-between a PH-1 and a PH-4. While intriguing, I didn't see the need to include the various PPE's into Sector 50, primarily for Balance Reasons. In particular, the PPE-A and the PPE-E looked Overpowered to me (I could be wrong; playtesting would determine that). Therefore, I opted to stick with Standard Phasers (PH-1 through PH-4) instead of using PPE's.

When designing the Pyrian Battlecruiser, some interesting elements were incorporated. The Shields were left as on the Original Bizian CA, but scaled down for Sector 50. The PPE's had to be converted into PH-1's and PH-3's. The Pyrian Battlecruiser possesses more APR, but less Warp, meaning a slower overall Speed. The Increased APR makes sense to me to power the Fireburst Torpedoes. The Pyrian Battlecruiser has a mediocre Turn Mode and less than perfect Firing Arcs.

Overall, the Pyrian Battlecruiser is an intriguing addition to Sector 50. It is a powerful ship, with one of the greatest Alpha Strike Potentials (due to its PH-1's, not the Fireburst Torpedoes) compared to other Heavy Cruisers. The Pyrian Battlecruiser's slow and cumbersome movement makes it challenging to fly. But it is the Revised Fireburst Torpedo that makes the Pyrian Battlecruiser different from other Sector 50 empires. This Heavy Weapon, which can fire frequently or arm over several turns, can directly strike the opponent or envelop All 6 Shields at once. However, it could be argued that the Disruptor and the Photon Torpedo are better because they can generate as much damage (while overloaded) in a shorter period of time.

Lastly, the Pyrian Battlecruiser lacks a Secondary Heavy Weapon or Device. Such a Heavy Weapon/Device will have to be developed as more Pyrian Vessels are introduced for Sector 50.

By Nick Samaras (Koogie) on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 - 12:21 am: Edit

The Pyrian BC had two sets of forward hull. Should one he aft hull or was this intentional?

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 - 04:38 am: Edit

It was intentional. As I've made SSD's and studied the Original SSD's from many different empires, I've noticed that some of them have All Forward Hull, All Aft Hull, and some have Half Forward Hull and Half Aft Hull (or some percentage thereof).

From a Gameplay Standpoint (you could argue from an R-Section point of view regarding ship construction), I surmise that this is for varying effects when rolling up internal damage on the DAC. The different designations of Hull will affect how those internal damage points are distributed.

And, of course, the Different Hull Designs add to the Flavor and Uniqueness of each empire (like the Hydrans with their Center Hull).

You have a sharp eye for noticing that! Thanks for the question, Nick.