COLUMBIAD
STARDATE 02.23.22
PRE-HISTORY YEARS
Link to previous Columbiad Logs

"It's like a slice of Heaven."

The Landing Party gazed all around them, mesmerized by the surrounding countryside. There were rolling green hills, lush shrubbery, vibrant trees, and peaceful animals enjoying the warm sun. A dirt road surrounded by a thin wooden fence led to a small town nearby. The cool breeze felt invigorating underneath the bright sun. It was as if the world was young again.

Captain Adeena Dounia, Mister Octo, Doctor Amancia Bandoo, Communications Officer Liling Zhao, Troopmaster Etienne Chatelain, and Navigator Walker Wallabig stared at the first habitable world they have visited since leaving Terra Reserve. The sight was breathtaking.

Four individuals approached the Landing Party from the dirt road.

An older man with a beard held out both open hands as a welcoming gesture. "Welcome to Tray-Van-II. We don't get many off-world visitors here, but those that we do receive are treated as honored guests. I am Kristoff. This is Marlene, Torin, and Razel."

Kristoff motioned toward the three women beside him. Marlene was an older woman with braided grey hair. Torin and Razel were younger, attractive ladies who immediately took an interest in Walker Wallabig. The handsome Australian smiled at both of them.

Captain Dounia stepped forward, her head almost completely covered by a tight scarf. She wore her red and yellow Terra Reserve uniform. Captain Dounia was a short, petite woman.

"Greetings, Kristoff. We represent the Columbiad, a starship from a planet called Terra Reserve. Thank you for welcoming us to your world. We are quite excited to visit another habitable planet. Yours is the first we have encountered. Please let me introduce Mister Octo, my Science Officer, Amancia Bandoo, my Doctor, Liling Zhao, my Communications Officer, Etienne Chatelain, my Troopmaster, and Walker Wallabig, my Navigator."

Everyone in the Landing Party nodded and smiled. The four inhabitants of Tray-Van-II stared at Mister Octo for several long moments, stunned by his visual appearance. Never before had they beheld a seven foot tall humanoid Octopus with more than eight tentacles. Mister Octo stared back at them with his alien eyes.

"Come," Kristoff said. "Let us head back to our comfortable town. There we can settle in, relax, eat, and drink. I'm sure you have many questions and we have our own questions for you. It's not far."

The Landing Party walked along the dirt road, led by their four hosts. Kristoff walked beside Captain Dounia. Marlene walked side by side with Doctor Bandoo. Mister Octo, Liling Zhao, and Etienne Chatelain trailed after, walking by themselves.

AND AT THE REAR, WALKER WALLABIG ENJOYED HIMSELF WITH TORIN AND RAZEL WHO GIGGLED AND LAUGHED AS THEY EACH HELD ONE OF HIS ARMS.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, February 24, 2022 - 05:10 am: Edit

COLUMBIAD
STARDATE 02.24.22
PRE-HISTORY YEARS
Link to previous Columbiad Logs

"Long ago, my ancestors roamed the stars, but somewhere along the way, now lost to history, we lost that ability. Perhaps it was for the best."

Kristoff sat with Captain Dounia near a beautiful, small fountain. Clear, blue water poured down continuously from level to level, starting at the very top and culminating at the bottom. Miniature angelic statues decorated the structure. The sound of the water flowing and lightly splashing was refreshing, as was the smell of the misty air.

Etienne Chatelain, the Columbiad's Troopmaster, stood a short distance away with his back turned. His right hand rested on his Phaser, ready to draw it at a moment's notice. Every now and then, Etienne would glance back at Captain Dounia to make sure she was alright.

Kristoff stared into Captain Dounia's eyes, amazed by her natural beauty. He had never beheld a woman such as her.

"It's different for my world," Captain Dounia replied as she looked away toward the fountain. "Terra Reserve has always dreamed about visiting other planets and civilizations. The Columbiad is her first starship. We have more being constructed as we speak. I doubt we would ever lose the ability. It doesn't seem possible. We have worked so hard to attain what we have now. When something is precious to you, you don't ever let it go without a very good reason."

Kristoff nodded. Having finished their meal and drinks, Kristoff and Captain Dounia were relaxing in each other's company. The two had much information to exchange with one another. And, even though day was slowly turning to night, there was plenty of time left for their visit.

"Tell me, Captain Dounia, is there someone back on Terra Reserve who loves you with all of their heart? Who has pledged their life to be with you? You are a beautiful, intelligent woman. I cannot imagine you being alone."

Adeena looked downward sadly. "I'm afraid not, Kristoff. My duties take up my whole life. I have devoted myself to being a Captain. I have neither the time nor energy for a family or children. I made my choice a long time ago, when I was still young. I wanted to contribute my knowledge and talents for the betterment of all Terra Reserve. Now, I believe I am doing so."

Adeena looked at Kristoff. Although elderly, he was a handsome man with a neatly trimmed beard. "What about you?"

"Sadly, my wife died many years ago. She caught a deadly disease from Tray-Van-II for which there was no cure. She suffered a slow and agonizing death. I held her hand until the very end."

"I'm sorry for your loss, Kristoff."

"I know she would want me to be happy with someone else. No one should ever be alone."

Kristoff reached out for Adeena's hand, but the Captain pulled it away.

"Do I displease you?" Kristoff asked in a confused, hushed voice.

"No...it's not that. You are a charming man, Kristoff. It's just that my religion forbids me from having intimate relations with a man who will not be my husband one day. Marriage is sacred in Allah's eyes, as is the bond between a man and a woman."

"Allah?"

"The Deity I believe in. He is the one and only true God who watches over all of his followers. Even now, his eye is upon me."

"I...see," Kristoff said quietly with disappointment.

"And you, Kristoff? What do you believe in?"

"Oh, I used to believe in God and religion. But after my wife died, after witnessing her long and brutal suffering, my faith wavered. I came to believe in Naturalism, the idea that we are all part of nature, and that it is completely up to us to forge our own destinies in life."

Captain Dounia gave Kristoff a sympathetic look. "That must been difficult. Giving up your faith. I could never do so. But I understand why you did. Suffering in life is a hard concept to explain and accept. Especially within one's own heart."

Etienne looked over his shoulder to check on the Captain.

"Is there no one else here on Tray-Van-II that draws your interest? I see many attractive women roaming your town."

Kristoff looked around at the townspeople who passed by every now and then. "I'm afraid not, Captain. When you've lived with certain people for so long, they become...stale. But you are different, something new and exciting. Never before have I met anyone like you, Captain."

"I am flattered, Kristoff," Adeena said with a slight smile. She did not want to increase Kristoff's affection for her in any way or lead him on. She has made her position quite clear. "But let us put romantic interest behind us. Instead, let us simply enjoy each other's company, talk of our two worlds, relax in your peaceful environment, and..."

DREAM OF WHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEN HAD DESTINY NOT GIVEN US TWO COMPLETELY DIFFERENT PATHS TO TRAVEL IN THIS LIFE.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, February 25, 2022 - 04:24 am: Edit

COLUMBIAD
STARDATE 02.25.22
PRE-HISTORY YEARS
Link to previous Columbiad Logs

Doctor Bandoo sat chatting with Marlene while Mister Octo conducted scientific scans and Liling Zhao discussed linguistics with some townsfolk.

"So yeh ah a moda wid three children?" Doctor Bandoo asked with a Jamaican accent. She held a glass of red wine in her right hand. The Doctor was a dark skinned woman with brown eyes and long black hair. She wore a long, white, medical coat.

"Yes, that is correct, Doctor," Marlene answered while sipping her own wine. "My children are forty-five, eighty-nine, and one hundred two years old."

Doctor Bandoo nearly spit out her wine. "Children dat old?!? Dat's not possible! How old ah yeh, Marlene?"

Marlene smiled at Doctor Bandoo. "I am nine hundred and fifty years old."

Wide eyed, Amancia asked in an uncertain voice, "How...how is dis possible?"

Marlene chuckled to herself. "We found out, in the fullness of time, that something on Tray-Van-II extends our life span. Our natural age is magnified many times. Sometimes it is a blessing. Sometimes it is a curse. I think there is a reason why people die at a younger age. To live too long can be a terrible burden at times. But it certainly changes your own perspective about things in life. Well, at any rate, it's not like any of us here have a choice. Like it or not, this is now how long we live."

Mister Octo, who was nearby running scans on his Tricorder, overheard the conversation. He approached Marlene and Doctor Bandoo. The tall, genetically evolved Octopus towered over the two ladies. His many tentacles swayed back and forth with a life of their own.

"Pardon my intrusion, Marlene, but I find your extended aging to be remarkable. I can run scans of your body here with my Tricorder, but the information would be limited. However, aboard the Columbiad, I can thoroughly examine your mutated biology with the proper equipment. The data would be invaluable to our mission of exploration. Would this be acceptable to you?"

Marlene nodded with a smile. "Yes, Mister Octo, that would be fine. I will simply have to inform my children before I leave. But let's finish our drinks and our conversation first. No need to rush into lengthy, boring scans."

"Of course. Thank you, Marlene," Mister Octo replied, clearly pleased with her answer. He bowed and then moved away to continue his scans of the town environment.

Marlene turned toward Doctor Bandoo once more. "Doctor, are you happy with what you do?"

"Vera much so. Ah've always wanted ta heal people. And ah've always been fascinated wid deep space an da mysteries dat it holds. Now, ah am fortunate ta have bod. Ah just hope dat mah knowledge of medicine will be enough for da challenges we may come across. Ah know we will encounta medical situations dat ah unheard of on Terra Reserve. Ah may have ta improvise or come up wid brand new treatments."

"I know you will be fine, Doctor Bandoo. If you lived on Tray-Van-II, I would want you to be my Doctor. You have a good head on your shoulders. And I can tell, your heart is full of kindness and compassion. The Columbiad is lucky to have you. It is very clear to me that..."

THE CREW'S HEALTH IS IN VERY GOOD HANDS.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Saturday, February 26, 2022 - 09:52 am: Edit

COLUMBIAD
STARDATE 02.26.22
PRE-HISTORY YEARS
Link to previous Columbiad Logs

In a secluded bedroom on Tray-Van-II, the Australian Walker Wallabig prepared to have the time of his life with Torin and Razel. All young, Torin had straight black hair, blue eyes, and tanned skin. Razel had curly red hair, green eyes, and fair skin. Walker himself was very athletic with yellow hair and a yellow mustache. The three of them bounced around on a large bed with more than enough room for all of them. Open bottles of alcohol sat on stands close by the bed.

"OI, YAH FINE LADIES AH'RE 'BOUT TAH FOIND OUT WHAH THEY CALL MEH WALLA-BIG!! CRIKEY, AH'VE NEVA HAD WOMEN LIKE YAH TWO THAT AH'R SO...WOILD!!!!"

"And it's been a long...long...long time since we've had a handsome outworlder like you!" Torin answered in a sultry voice.

Razel took a drink from one of the bottles of alcohol and then blurted out loudly, "And with such BIG muscles!!" She giggled maniacally.

Torin and Razel savagely ripped off Walker's shirt, revealing his hairy chest, then proceeded to pull down his trousers. They eagerly licked Walker's chest while letting their hands roam free. Their low moaning got progressively louder and louder.

Walker couldn't believe he was going to have two ladies at once. It had been far too long aboard the Columbiad, despite his many sexual advances toward the female crew members who served alongside of him. In particular, Aine O'Clery refused his suggestions, even though the two worked side by side closely every day. Walker had a burning passion for Aine that drove him mad at night. Now these two young, beautiful women of Tray-Van-II were eager to enjoy Walker's company...and he wasn't about to deny them their wish!

Walker took a big drink of alcohol and then let his own hands wander between the two scantily clad women. He was sure that Captain Dounia would not approve of his...interaction...with these inhabitants of Tray-Van-II, but right now, he didn't care about the consequences.

Walker was startled when he could have sworn that he saw Torin and Razel's eyes glowing red. He shook his head and dismissed the ominous vision as a product of the alcohol.

Razel and Torin's moaning turned into a loud hiss.

Suddenly, Walker Wallabig felt very weak. He was rapidly losing his strength. It felt like he was aging quickly, although he retained his youthful appearance. But he could barely move his body and limbs. Walker was completely helpless in the bed with Razel and Torin.

"OH!!! DELICIOUS!!!! WE'VE NOT HAD A YOUNG, STRONG SOUL SUCH AS YOURS FOR SO LONG!! MORE!! MORE!!! MORE!!!!"

Walker had trouble seeing. His vision became blurry to the point he couldn't tell one thing from another. And his mind became cloudy, causing confusion and disorientation.

"L...la....ladies...ah....doin't....feel...sah...well...maybe...we...should...postpoine...this...ah...noid...tah...see...mah...ship's....Doctor...ah...feel...terrible..."

Those were the last words that Walker Wallabig uttered before passing out completely.

WITH HOWLS OF DELIGHT, THE TWO ALIEN SUCCUBI CONTINUED TO DRAIN WALKER WALLABIG OF EVERY OUNCE OF HIS LIFE FORCE.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, March 03, 2022 - 12:13 am: Edit

EUROPA CA VS KRAKENFISH SNATCHER - SECTOR 50
PLAYTEST REPORT 3/2/22
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
Link to Game Pic of Turn 4

T1: Europa Speed 10. Krakenfish Speed 14. Both ships close. Krakenfish moves along top edge of map. Europa takes map center. Neither ship fires.

T2: Europa Speed 12. Krakenfish Speed 14. Krakenfish launches 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes. Krakenfish fires 3 2-point Bioelectric Bolts at R16. 1 Bioelectric Bolt hits scoring 2 damage to the Europa's Shield #6. Krakenfish turns toward F and moves away. 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes close in on Europa. Europa moves forward trying to catch Krakenfish. 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes reach R1 from Europa. Europa turns to face the Whipcrack Torpedoes directly. Europa fires 2 PH-1 at 1 Whipcrack Torpedo at R1, destroying it. Europa fires 1 PH-1 and 1 PH-3 at the other Whipcrack Torpedo at R1, destroying it. Krakenfish fires 1 2-point Bioelectric Bolt at R15. The Bioelectric Bolt hits, scoring 3 damage to Europa's Shield #6. Turns ends with Krakenfish facing F, Europa facing A, they are 13 hexes apart.

T3: Europa Speed 12. Krakenfish Speed 9. Europa closes on Krakenfish while Krakenfish turns around. Turn ends with Krakenfish facing C and Europa facing B. They are 6 hexes apart. Krakenfish fires 3 2-point Bioelectric Bolts at R6. 1 Bioelectric Bolt hits scoring 2 damage to the Europa's Shield #6. Europa fires 2 PH-1 and 1 PH-3 at R6. Phasers score 8 points of damage to the Krakenfish's Shield #2.

T4: Europa Speed 3. Krakenfish Speed 3. Krakenfish launches 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes. Europa cannot fire at the Whipcrack Torpedoes due to 8-impulse rule. 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes strike Europa, scoring 10 damage to Europa's Shield #1. Krakenfish fires 3 4-point Bioelectric Bolts at R6. 2 Bioelectric Bolts hit scoring 20 damage to Europa's Shield #6. Europa loses Shield #6, discharges Batteries, and takes 15 Internals. Europa loses 6 FHull, 2 Batteries, 1 Tractor, 2 Aft Hull, 1 AUX, 1 RWarp, 1 APR, 1 PH-3. Europa fires 2 Overloaded Photons, 2 PH-1s, and 1 PH-3 at R6. 1 Overloaded Photon hits, combined with Phasers, scores 21 Damage to Krakenfish's Shield #3. Krakenfish loses Shield #3, discharges 1 5-point Battery, and takes 4 Internals. Krakenfish loses 1 LWarp, 1 RWarp, 1 Aft Hull, 1 Tractor. T4 ends with Europa circling away to protect its Down Shield #6, Krakenfish chasing, protecting its Down Shield #3. Europa facing E, Krakenfish facing D, they are 5 hexes apart.

T5: Europa Speed 8. Krakenfish Speed 10. Europa moving away while trying to turn to face Krakenfish for recharged Photons on T6. Krakenfish chases and reaches R1 facing E while Europa facing A. Krakenfish fires 2 4-point Bioelectric Bolts at R1. 1 Bioelectric Bolt hits, completely knocking down Europa's Shield #3, but scoring No Internals. Europa launches 1 Suicide Shuttle at Krakenfish. Krakenfish launches 1 Suicide Shuttle at Europa. Krakenfish turns and moves away from Europa's Suicide Shuttle. The Suicide Shuttle will not catch the Krakenfish this turn. Krakenfish's Suicide Shuttle strikes Europa through its Down Shield #3 before it can move away. Europa suffers 18 more Internals.

* EUROPA PLAYER CONCEDES THE GAME *

COMMENTS:

The Krakenfish's Adrenaline Batteries are a huge advantage in Sector 50. Since most Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers only have 2 Batteries, having 10 points of available Adrenaline Batteries is remarkable, similar to the difference between X-Batteries and Normal Batteries. To make things worse, the Adrenaline Batteries receive Automatic Restoration every turn. The 10 points of Adrenaline Batteries (only 5 of which can be used at any one time) can be used to absorb damage (reinforcement), increase speed, or a variety of other functions.

The Krakenfish's Whipcrack Torpedoes are extremely useful as well. While they do not score a large amount of damage, they can be used to deter an approach or whittle down the enemy's Shields from afar. The only disadvantage with Whipcrack Torpedoes (and Plasma Whips) is their need to cool down for 1 turn after use.

The Krakenfish's Bioelectric Bolts proved to be more deadly than I thought. While the 1-point or 2-point Bioelectric Bolts were not much of a threat, the 4-point Bioelectric Bolt could take down a Sector 50 Shield with one shot. Again, the only disadvantage of the 4-point Bioelectric Bolt is its need to cool down for 1 turn after firing.

The Krakenfish's Firing Arcs played a major role in this battle. Its Firing Arcs are far superior to the Europa CA's Firing Arcs, allowing the Krakenfish to fire multiple Bioelectric Bolts at odd angles. Meanwhile, the Europa CA's limited Phaser Firing Arcs prevented it from firing all of its Phasers from certain positions.

Surprisingly, the Krakenfish Snatcher is a deadly, formidable opponent in Sector 50.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, March 03, 2022 - 11:36 am: Edit

Based on the Playtest Report above, I may need to modify the Krakenfish Snatcher SSD to bring it more into balance with the other Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers.

Probably subtracting 1 Adrenaline Battery (allowing only 5 points of Reserve Power to be drawn upon compared to other Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers having only 2 points of Reserve Power) makes sense. 10 points of Reserve Power is most likely too much for the Krakenfish Snatcher.

Taking away 1 Bioelectric Bolt is probably necessary as well. The Bioelectric Bolts, at the 4-point level, fire like a Heavy Weapon. Most other Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers only have 2 Heavy Weapons, while the Krakenfish Snatcher has 5 Bioelectric Bolts. Perhaps I will take 2 Bioelectric Bolts away, leaving the Krakenfish Snatcher with only 3 Bioelectric Bolts. The issue here is that the Bioelectric Bolts double for Phasers as well, so I can't take away too many. Of course, the Krakenfish Snatcher still has 2 Plasma Whips (and hence 2 Whipcrack Torpedoes).

I also noticed that the Life Support Info and the Reserve Power Info are not correct on the SSD. This will be corrected on an Updated SSD.

All these Revisions will be handled at the same time and a Version 2.0 Krakenfish Snatcher SSD will be Uploaded.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Thursday, March 03, 2022 - 03:19 pm: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 03.03.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

Starbase Alexandria. One of the largest and most fortified Starbases in all of Europa. It was here that the Gathering of Eagles took place. A multitude of starships were docked at Alexandria, including the Old Guard.

Captain Severick floated into the Assembly Room on his Anti-Grav Wheelchair. There was a moment of hushed silence as many of the members present stared at the Old Captain. Then the conversations continued with loud talk and laughter, as many of these people had not seen each other in ages.

A large group gathered around Captain Severick. These were old friends, friends that Captain Severick grew up with, friends that he had fought side by side with in life or death situations. Because they were each spread out throughout Europa with their own individual assignments, Captain Severick had not seen many of them in years. Present was Captain Doleson, Captain Krull, Captain Deshultz, Captain Monheim, Captain Dieckhaug, Captain Noberg, Captain Aikind, Captain Richalik, Captain Karroll, Captain McDonnachie, Captain Piley, Captain Lehack, Captain Melici, Captain Gartley, Captain Mitzer, Captain Gussberger, and More. Immediately, the jokes began. They were ruthless.

"Captain Severick, care to join me in a light Run around the Starbase?"
"Lost your Sea Legs, have ya?"
"Can you give me a ride on the back of your Wheelchair?"
"Captain Severick, you look Shorter than I remember!"
"Is your Wheelchair attractive to your Dates?"
"What Sports are you playing these days?"
"Does that Wheelchair have Phasers mounted on it?"
"Do you Sleep in that thing?"
"What's your Wheelchair's Top Speed?"
"Is there a built-in Toilet in your Wheelchair?"
"Can you mount a Disco Ball atop your Wheelchair?"
"Care to play some Basketball?"
"Captain Severick, why don't they just mount Rockets on your Back for Flight?"
"Would you like to Dance, Captain Severick?

Captain Severick stared at all of his old friends with a face of stone. There was no movement, no breathing, no blinking. He may as well have been a gargoyle.

Admiral Beddiax entered the Assembly Room. Immediately, all talking ceased. Everyone stood at attention. An elderly woman, Admiral Beddiax oversaw and disciplined each and every Captain present. There was a long running joke that all dissidents were fed to her two pet crocodiles.

Quickly, Captain Severick accelerated his Anti-Grav Wheelchair to intercept the Admiral before she started speaking. She was surprised, but pleasantly so.

"Admiral! May I have a word with you before we begin? It's important."

Admiral Beddiax stared at Captain Severick fondly. "Of course, Captain. I always have time for you. Now, tell me what's on your mind."

"It's my crew, Admiral. There have been rumors circulating about what this meeting is about. Please, Admiral. They are young, inexperienced, and naive in many ways. They are not ready for this type of mission. Please, Admiral, don't put them in the Jaws of Death just yet. Give them more time to become seasoned. They are not ready."

Admiral Beddiax was quiet for a few moments as she considered Captain Severick's request. She shook her head lightly.

"I'm sorry, Captain Severick. I need every available ship for this mission, including the Old Guard and her Crew. Yes, they may die. Yes, they may not be ready. But each of them knew what they signed up for when they joined Europa. Now, it's time for them to grow up. They must learn to rise and meet the challenges set before them. Now excuse me, Captain, but we must begin."

Captain Severick floated away from Admiral Beddiax, frustrated but silent. He held his anger within.

The lights in the Assembly Room diminished. A projector activated, displaying images behind Admiral Beddiax for all to see. With a dead serious tone, she addressed everyone present.

"Well, here we are. A Gathering of Eagles. You have all heard the rumors. Yes, they are True."

The crowd of Captains began to murmur among themselves. Whispers flew back and forth on an invisible breeze.

"Babylon is currently constructing a monstrosity called the P10A Battleship. This Battleship will be larger than anything we have encountered. It will carry Heavy Disruptors with twice the destructive force of a standard Disruptor Bolt. The P10A Battleship is a threat to every living being in Europa."

Admiral Beddiax paused with a sad look on her voice. "Many Bothans Died to bring us this information."

She continued. "We cannot allow this Battleship to be completed. It must be destroyed before it comes online. We will destroy it. No matter the cost. That is why all of you are here. Europa is launching a major offensive. We know the location of the shipyard where the P10A Battleship is being built. It is heavily guarded by multiple Babylon Fleets. We are going to smash through their defenses, drive toward the shipyard, and destroy that Battleship before it is completed."

There was a dead silence in the Assembly Room. At first, there was hesitation and doubt. But soon, these feelings turned into grim determination. All of the Captains present looked at each other, agreeing that they might perish in this conflict. And if that should be their Fate, so be it.

"Gentlemen and Ladies, nothing will be able to stop our concentrated effort. Europa is the light and Babylon will fail to spread its darkness. I know that each and every one of you will do your part to make sure this critical mission succeeds."

Admiral Beddiax's gaze fell upon Captain Severick for a moment.

"Now, the details of our offensive is being passed out to each one of you. We are going to examine in detail the role that each of your individual starships will play. Pay close attention to how your role fits into the larger picture of our assault. We can afford no mistakes or misunderstandings. Bring up any questions you have for clarification. If you don't think some part of the plan will work, say so. That is why you are here today. We need your wisdom, experience, and knowledge, Captains. You are the reason why this offensive is going to be successful."

Small electronic tablets began to be distributed among the Captains in the Assembly Room. The lights from their screens lit up the darkened room like fireflies in the night.

"Oh, and one other thing, Captains. The P10A Battleship has been given a Name by Babylon."

XERXES.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Saturday, March 05, 2022 - 07:05 am: Edit

ODRIUM HEAVY CRUISER SSD
Link to the Odrium Heavy Cruiser SSD

(50R.8.0) ODRIUM
(50R8.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

* DEDICATED TO SEAN J. YOUNG *

The primary driving force behind the Odrium fleet. The Odrium Heavy Cruiser was a solid, slow moving vessel reinforced with Armor for added protection. Its Dual Light Flash Cannons could continually hit the Same Shield, even when the target starship turned to attempt to protect its Shields. With a Variety of Phasers, the Odrium Heavy Cruiser was effective at many different ranges. But the most feared aspect of this capable combatant was the Sweeping Firing Arcs employed by both its Light Flash Cannons and Phasers. This was the edge that led to many a Victory for the Odrium Heavy Cruiser.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Odrium Heavy Cruiser is roughly Half of the Andrium Heavy Cruiser. The Andrium Kingdom was a New Empire introduced many, many years ago in the Core Worlds by Sean J. Young.

The focus of the Odruim is the Light Flash Cannon (and later the Heavy Flash Cannon). This heavy weapon fires over Two Consecutive Impulses. The question is: Is the Light Flash Cannon Balanced? To my surprise, it was remarkably well designed. The answer is: Yes.

The Light Flash Cannon is armed over two turns, requiring a total of 3 points of energy for standard mode. At Ranges 3-5, the Light Flash Cannon delivers 6 points of damage total. So the energy:damage ratio of 1:2 is correct. Overloaded Light Flash Cannons are the same. They require a total of 5 points of energy and, at Ranges 3-5, deliver a total of 10 points of damage. Obviously, at closer ranges, the Light Flash Cannon becomes more efficient in terms of energy to damage output, along the same lines as a Disruptor Bolt.

Upon my first read of the Original Light Flash Cannon Rules, I thought the Light Flash Cannon functioned similar to a PPD or Tachyosonic Beam. By this I mean that, if the target turned during the separate "pulses", the split damage would be scored on the New Facing Shield. However, upon rereading the Original Light Flash Cannon Rules, I found that the Light Flash Cannon continues to hit the Same Shield, even if the target turns. I had mixed feelings about this.

First of all, from a "working universe" perspective, hitting the Same Shield even if the target turns didn't make sense if it was a directed energy weapon firing over two separate impulses. If the target turns, the directed energy weapon should now hit the New facing Shield. But the Original Rules state that "it operates by manipulating energy into short flashes of unstable particles..." So perhaps it is these "unstable particles" that account for maintaining damage on the Same Shield? It's an interesting discussion, but in the end, any kind of Technobabble can be used to explain the workings of the Light Flash Cannon.

Secondly, it seriously reduces the Effectiveness of a Single Impulse Heavy Weapon to take its Total Damage and Split It in Half. This is reminiscent of the Particle Cannon and the Particle Beam. They fire multiple times per turn, but each shot has a minimized effect. So, Tactically, this is not the best function, even if the split damage hits the Same Shield when the target has turned. The damage has still been split in half. However, this is clearly how the Original Flash Cannon was designed. I wanted to change the heavy weapon into something like a PPD, but in order to stay True to Sean J. Young's Original Vision, the Light Flash Cannon must remain the same in terms of function.

Still, there are Three Positive Elements that result from the Dual Barrage on the Same Shield. First of all, there is Flavor. As there is no Heavy Weapon in the SFB Universe that functions like this (to my knowledge), the Light Flash Cannon becomes something Unique. It gives the Odrium a Flavor that will forever stand on its own when compared to everything else.

Next, the way the Flash Cannon works leaves room for all kinds of interesting Future Developments. Will the Number of Impulses Increase in the Future? Can the Total Damage be Split among Different Shields at the Owning Player's Discretion? Can the Interval Between "Pulses" be Lengthened? Is it possible to simply fire One Impulse of Damage as a type of "Light Firing Mode?" All of these things are moving toward X-Technology, but they hint at curious and intriguing Future Possibilities for the Flash Cannon.

Third, having the Split Damage hit the Same Shield has an added Tactical Benefit. In terms of the DAC, it creates a Mizia Effect for Internals. This can be Crucial for gaining an Advantage in Combat. Does the Mizia Effect justify Splitting the Overall Heavy Weapon Damage? Perhaps, Perhaps Not. But it is certainly something Different.

The Andrium CA also had numerous other subtle design features built into its SSD. The starship utilized Three Different Sets of Phasers (PH-1, PH-2, PH-3), giving it a unique assortment of Phasers to draw from on the battlefield (hence giving it Unique Tactics). The ship also possessed a section of Center Armor that acted as a 360 Seventh Shield. Lastly, both the Flash Cannons and the Phasers had Wide Firing Arcs, perhaps to offset the Split Damage caused by the Flash Cannons. I felt all of these Design Elements were essential for the Flavor of the Original Andrium, so they were all retained for the Odrium.

Ultimately, the Odrium Heavy Cruiser does justice to the Original Andrium Design. The Light Flash Cannon is a Unique, Balanced Heavy Weapon that differs from the PPD and Tachyosonic Beam. The Design Elements of the Odrium CA SSD lead to Different Tactics on the Battlefield. And the Odrium has room for plenty of intriguing Future Technological Developments for the Flash Cannon. Lastly, I will have to later Design a Secondary Heavy Weapon/Device for the Odrium, perhaps something based on their "Flash" Technology.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, March 06, 2022 - 11:52 am: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 03.06.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

Captain Severick floated out of the Assembly Room in his Anti-Grav Wheelchair. He was one of the last ones to leave the meeting. The briefing had taken all day and he was exhausted. The Europa Offensive to destroy the P10A Battleship was a complicated plan, but it had a good chance of success. Much of it depended on how Babylon would respond to their assault and what countermeasures they would implement in advance. There was much to be done aboard the Old Guard before the Offensive launched.

In the hallway outside of the Assembly Room, Captain Severick literally bumped into Captain Melina Dequest, an old flame of his. Immediately, long buried emotions surged to the surface within Captain Severick. If anyone was to be the One for him, it would have been her.

"Oh! Captain Severick! I apologize. I didn't mean to run into you like that."

Captain Severick answered promptly. "No need to apologize, Captain Dequest. The fault is mine. Sometimes I fail to see certain areas around my Wheelchair...blind spots if you will. How are you doing?"

"I'm...fine," Captain Dequest replied in a soft voice as she tucked in her hair behind her ears. When Captain Severick had known her, many years ago, her hair was blonde. Now it was colored black. It was a refreshing change. Her deep blue eyes were still unmistakable, as was her voice. The years had been kind to Captain Dequest, kinder than they had been to Captain Severick, for her skin showed few signs of wrinkles. She looked almost exactly as she did back when she and Captain Severick were together. Her body was slightly larger, but this was normal for a woman her age. Typically, Captain Severick would have towered above Captain Dequest. But since he was now in a Wheelchair, it was she who was looking down at him. It was unsettling for Captain Severick, although he would never admit it.

Captain Dequest quickly tried to shift the conversation away from herself. "I'm so sorry to hear about your legs, Stephanos. I know it must have been so difficult for you to adjust to a Wheelchair. I would have come immediately if I wasn't so far away. My assignment was on the other side of Europa. But I really wanted to be by your side. You must believe me."

"I do," Captain Severick replied as he looked downward momentarily. He recalled the first few days of using his Anti-Grav Wheelchair. It was not pleasant. "But you have your own Ship and Crew that you are responsible for, Captain Dequest. Your first duty is to them, not me."

Captain Dequest went quiet as she studied Captain Severick's facial features. Although weathered, she still found him handsome. She remembered all the times they spent together.

"Please Stephanos, call me Melina. You are not my subordinate and I am not yours. After all we've been through, I think we have earned the right to call each other by our first names."

"Of course...Melina," Captain Severick said hesitantly. "So...what is your impression of Europa's Offensive Plan?"

"I think it is foolishness," Captain Dequest stated plainly. Captain Severick was surprised by her candor, but then again, Melina never had a problem openly speaking her mind. It was one of the qualities he admired about her.

Captain Dequest continued, "To risk so many ships, so many lives, just to destroy one Battleship? I don't see the justification behind the decision. There must be more to this Offensive than we are being told. Surely there are more efficient ways to destroy the Behemoth? And really, how much of an effect can one ship have on the War with Babylon in general? A limited amount, I would say."

Captain Severick thought to himself. He rubbed his beard out of subconscious habit. "You may have a point, Melina. But it is not our place to question Orders. Like those under our Command, those Orders must be obeyed, whether there is agreement or not. I will do my part."

Melina was always impressed by Captain Severick's devotion to duty. "And I will do mine, Stephanos. But surely Captains are allowed to think, aren't they? We are not simple robots following commands. That is why we have our positions. To question, to analyze, to conclude, to ponder, to wonder, to formulate. You think the same thoughts as I do, you simply don't voice them."

Captain Severick went silent. Melina knew him well. Perhaps too well. He did not dispute her claim.

"Where were you anyway in the Assembly Room, Stephanos? I didn't see you in the large crowd. You weren't avoiding me, were you?" She giggled softly.

"Of course not!" Captain Severick answered as if he got caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Few could make him feel embarrassed as Melina could. "Like you, I was simply engrossed in our mission plan. There can be no room for error when executing our roles."

"Yes," Captain Dequest said in agreement. She reached down and put her hand on Captain Severick's cheek. Again, he was surprised by her maneuver. She looked into his eyes deeply.

"You know, Stephanos, I never maintained a steady relationship after you. Oh, I tried, but they all fell short. What we had was something special. So special. And we were so young. So stupid! It just wasn't meant to be between us, Stephanos, as much as we both wanted it. But there are nights...when...when I would have given up my entire command just to be with you."

A tear fell from Melina's eye. It slowly dribbled down her right cheek.

Captain Severick quickly wiped the tear away and then grasped Melina's hand with his own. His heart ached with memories of the past.

"Don't say such things, Melina. We both made our choices in life. And each of our roads has led us here. We should accept that, not wonder about what might have been. That will only lead to heartache. Just know that you are often in my thoughts, a priceless treasure I keep locked within me for the world to never know. You will Always be there."

Captain Dequest smiled. She stood straight up again, withdrew her hand, and regained her composure as a Europa Captain.

"Stephanos...we both might die in this Offensive. Should it come down to a choice between Me and your Duty..."

"I will do my Duty," Captain Severick answered coldly with a hard stare. "For Certain."

"Of course, Stephanos. I know you will. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must prepare my ship. I wish you all the best, Captain."

Captain Melina Dequest kissed Captain Severick lightly on the lips. Then she moved away down the corridor and disappeared into darkness.

AND DEEP WITHIN CAPTAIN SEVERICK'S SOUL, HE WONDERED WHAT DECISION HE WOULD REALLY MAKE IF IT CAME DOWN TO A CHOICE BETWEEN MELINA OR HIS DUTY.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, March 09, 2022 - 11:48 pm: Edit

ORSIAN HEAVY CRUISER SSD
SECTOR 50
Link to the Orsian Heavy Cruiser SSD

* DEDICATED TO JESSICA ORSINI *

(50R.9.0) ORSIAN
(50R9.1) HEAVY CRUISER (CA):

The foundation for the Orsian fleet. The Orsian Heavy Cruiser was a powerful starship armed with a Plasma-G Torpedo, a Drone Rack, and Array of Phaser-2's. The vessel was noted for its poor maneuverability. Many an opponent fell prey to the Orsian Heavy Cruiser's Scatterpack and Pseudo Plasma Torpedo, resulting in their ultimate destruction. The Orsian Heavy Cruiser was also famous for employing the Gorn Anchor, trapping its adversary so that both of its Seeking Weapons could find their mark.

DESIGNER NOTES:

The Orsian Heavy Cruiser is roughly Half of the Peladine Heavy Cruiser. Important decisions had to made regarding the Plasma Torpedo, the Drone Rack, the Shuttles, the Center Hull, and the Phasers.

Typically in Sector 50, the Base Heavy Cruiser operates only One Type of Heavy Weapon/Device. This could be a Photon Torpedo, Disruptor Bolt, etc. But in some rare cases, in order to maintain the Flavor of the Specific Empire, it is necessary to Allow Two Types of Heavy Weapons/Devices. One such case is the Krakenfish, which utilizes Plasma Whips and Bioelectric Bolts in its Base Cruiser Design. This is also the case with the Orsian, which must possess both Plasma Torpedoes and Drones in order to retain its Original Flavor.

However, great care had to be taken to ensure that these Two Heavy Weapons/Devices were not Overpowered when compared to other Sector 50 Heavy Cruisers. During the conversion process to Sector 50, I desperately wanted to keep the Original Plasma-S Torpedo. It felt like it should be there. Unfortunately, when the PL-S (30 points of damage) was combined with the Drone (which can potentially become a Scatterpack of 6 Drones), the Damage Output was too great for Sector 50.

Consider that the Europa CA can generate 36 points of damage with its Two Overloaded Photon Torpedoes, which take 2 Turns to Arm. The Babylon BC can generate 20 points of damage in 1 Turn with its Two Overloaded Disruptor Bolts. Now compare that to the Orsian CA with a PL-S and a Drone which can deliver a stunning 42 points of damage in a single strike (Armed over 3 Turns)! Even when considering that the PL-S and the Drone are Seeking Weapons that must cross a distance to hit their target, this 42 points of potential damage is simply too high compared to the Europa CA and the Babylon BC. Remember that Sector 50 Shields are not as strong as the Alpha Sector since they are only Half Strength.

So I made the tough decision to Reduce the PL-S down to a PL-G. This reduces the Orsian's Damage Output to 32 points of potential damage, which is much more in line with the Europa CA and the Babylon BC. Of course, the Orsian CA is going to have to actually hit with both of its Seeking Weapons, and this is no easy feat. But that is the challenge of flying the Orsian CA and its Captain must find a way to make it work.

Let us not forget that the Plasma-G can also be Bolted as a Direct-Fire Weapon and launched as an Enveloping Torpedo.

In addition, the Orsian CA has 4 PH-2's which it can utilize in combat. Two of these PH-2's are RX (like the Original Design), which means the Orsian CA must capitalize on Oblique Approaches. To charge at the opponent head-on will only mean that two of the PH-2's will not be able to fire, which would be a fatal mistake.

The potential impact of a Scatterpack during a battle is not to be underestimated. This can easily tip the balance of the combat in the Orsian's favor.

Other ship details which translated from the Original Peladine Design to the Orsian CA are Plentiful Shuttles, Abundant APR's and Impulse, a Strong Forward Shield, and a Unified Center Hull. All of these help to retain the Flavor of the Original Peladine.

It has been said by some that Peladine Tactics are simply Orion Tactics. If this statement is true, it must also apply to the Orsian CA. However, I disagree. When you look at the Totality of the Orsian Heavy Cruiser, including its Firing Arcs, Total Power, Shields, Hull, Phaser Suite, Shuttles, Turn Mode, Pseudo Plasma Torpedo, and More, you will find that the Orsian is Unique Enough to stand on its own in terms of Tactics. Furthermore, the Orsian (and the Peladine) do not have Option Mounts or the Ability to Double Engines. One could also say that Orion Ships are Smaller Overall.

And so the Orsian Heavy Cruiser completes the Peladine conversion into Sector 50. It is a slow moving starship with poor maneuverability. Utilizing Two Different Kinds of Seeking Weapons at Once requires Specialized Tactics by the Sector 50 Captain, especially when Scatterpacks are involved. The Oblique Phaser-2 Arcs must also be mastered in combat as well. Plentiful Shuttles are yet another Tactical Asset at the Captain's disposal. Lastly, the Orsian Heavy Cruiser possesses one Pseudo Plasma Torpedo which can easily turn the tide of battle if it is properly employed to fool the enemy.

The Orsian Fleet is a Real, Historical Empire in Sector 50, not a Playtest Empire or a Conjectural/Simulator Empire.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, March 11, 2022 - 06:58 am: Edit

ROMAN HEAVY CRUISER VS BABYLON P3A BATTLECRUISER
SECTOR 50
PLAYTEST REPORT 3/10/22-3/11/22
Link to previous Playtest Reports
Link to Game Pic of Turn 1
Link to Game Pic of Turn 3
Link to Game Pic of Turn 4
Link to Game Pic of Turn 5
Link to Game Pic of Turn 6

T1: Roman Speed 12. Babylon Speed 15. Both ships close. No shots fired. They are 22 hexes apart.

T2: Roman Speed 9. Babylon Speed 11. Both ships get closer. Babylon is angling off-center. Babylon fires 2 Disruptors and 2 PH-2's at R14. Both Disruptors hit, Both PH-2's miss. 4 points of damage scored to Roman Shield #6, after subtracting reinforcement. Roman does not return fire. Babylon circles away from Roman. Roman chases. At end of turn, Babylon fires 2 PH-2's at R13. 1 PH-2 hits scoring 1 point of damage to Roman Shield #1. T2 ends with both ships facing A, 13 hexes apart.

T3: Roman Speed 7. Babylon Speed 7. Babylon circling around, Roman closes distance. Babylon fires 2 Disruptors and 2 PH-2's at R10. 1 Disruptor and 2 PH-2's hit, scoring 4 damage to Roman Shield #1 after subtracting reinforcement. Roman does not return fire. Both ships are heading at each other, off center, Babylon facing D, Roman facing A. End of turn, Roman fires 1 Tachyon Gun at R8 scoring 6 damage to Babylon Shield #1 after subtracting reinforcement. T3 ends with Babylon facing D, Roman facing A, 8 hexes apart.

T4: Roman Speed 10. Babylon Speed 7. Roman fires 1 Tachyon Gun at R7, hitting, scoring 8 damage to Babylon Shield #1. Babylon Shield #1 has 1 box left. Babylon closes on Roman. Babylon launches 1 Suicide Shuttle. Babylon fires 2 Overloaded Disruptors and 3 PH-2's at R3 scoring 25 damage to Roman Shield #6. Roman loses Shield #6 and suffers 16 Internals. Roman loses 1 Left Warp, 2 Aft Hull, 2 Batteries, 1 Transporter, 1 Tractor Beam, 4 Forward Hull, 1 Center Warp, 1 PW-3, 1 PW-1, 2 Right Warp. Roman returns fire with 4 PW-1's and 1 PW-3 at R3 scoring 16 damage to Babylon Shield #1. Babylon loses Shield #1 and takes 15 Internals. Babylon loses 1 Left Warp, 2 PH-2's, 1 Lab, 2 Batteries, 3 Aft Hull, 3 Impulse, 2 Forward Hull, 1 Right Warp. T4 ends with Babylon facing E, Roman facing C, 7 hexes apart, Suicide Shuttle moving slowly after Roman.

T5: Roman Speed 4. Babylon Speed 7. Babylon fires 1 PH-2 at R7 scoring 1 damage to Roman Shield #4. Babylon swings around while Roman circles away. Babylon fires 2 Disruptors and 2 PH-2's at R2 scoring 11 damage to Roman Shield #1. Roman loses Shield #1 but suffers No Internals. Roman returns fire with 2 PW-1's at R2. Roman scores 8 damage to Babylon Shield #6. Babylon turns to protect Shields and swing around. Roman chases. Suicide Shuttle gets closer to Roman. T5 ends with Roman facing F and Babylon facing E, 3 hexes apart.

T6: Roman Speed 0. Babylon Speed 0. Babylon performs HET. Babylon Shield #2 is now facing Roman. Roman launches Suicide Shuttle. Babylon fires 2 Overloaded Disruptors at R3 through Roman Down Shield #1 scoring 16 Internals. Roman returns fire with 1 Tachyon Gun at R3 which scores 12 damage to Babylon Shield #2. Babylon loses Shield #2 and takes 1 Internal. Roman perform 1 Tactical Maneuver. Babylon Suicide Shuttle hits Roman. Roman loses Shield #3 and takes 6 Internals. Roman fires 1 Tachyon Gun at R3 through Babylon Down Shield #2 scoring 12 Internals. Roman Suicide Shuttle impacts through Babylon Down Shield #2, scoring 18 Internals. Roman has taken 22 Internals on T6. Babylon has taken 31 Internals. Roman has 11 Internals left. Babylon has 6 Internals left.

Although it could be argued that the Roman Heavy Cruiser won, both ships are badly damaged.
* THIS DUEL IS DECLARED A DRAW (NO CLEAR WINNER) *

COMMENTS:

This felt like an even match up. As expected, the Roman Heavy Cruiser has a lot of firepower due to being able to concentrate 4 Wide Phaser 1's in its FA (in addition to 2 Wide Phaser-3's). However, this is mitigated by the fact that its 2 Tachyon Guns are LF+L/RF+R, which makes it difficult to focus both Tachyon Guns into a single strike. That definitely played a factor in this game.

The charging and holding cycle of the Tachyon Guns was another huge factor in this match. Tachyon Guns are quite different than Photon Torpedoes. One could certainly say that Tachyon Guns are "Power Hungry."

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, March 11, 2022 - 07:21 am: Edit

I discovered that the Babylon P3A Battlecruiser SSD has 1 APR too many.

I will delete this extra APR and upload a Revised SSD in the future.

The Total Power on the Babylon P3A Battlecruiser SSD is correct.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Friday, March 11, 2022 - 09:22 pm: Edit

THE OLD GUARD
STARDATE 03.11.22
SECTOR 50
Link to previous Old Guard Logs

Captain Severick worked closely side by side with his First Officer, Descry Brookside, in his Ready Room. The two had been working for hours non-stop reviewing the Assault Plan on the Babylon P10A Battleship. It was crucial that Descry be just as familiar with the Plan as Captain Severick, should anything happen to him during the battle. The two were extremely weary. Suddenly, a chime indicated someone wanted to enter the Ready Room.

"Enter," Captain Severick said through an Intercom so the person outside the door would hear it.

In walked Angelica Ursinus, the Old Guard's Chief of Security. She was a young, athletic woman with broad shoulders. Her jagged facial features seemed to have been carved from a rockface. Short black hair curved around her head.

Captain Severick and Descry Brookside paused to give Angelica the proper attention. They were both caught off guard by her sudden appearance.

"I'm surprised by your presence, Security Chief," Captain Severick stated. "We were just reviewing the Plan for the Europa Offensive. I trust this is important?"

"Very, Captain," Ms. Ursinus responded gruffly. She was not known for beating around the bush. The Security Chief was always direct whenever possible. "We have a Critical Situation aboard the Old Guard that the two of you must be aware of."

Captain Severick glanced at his First Officer. She returned the look of concern.

Ms. Ursinus placed a tablet in front of the Captain and the First Officer. The display showed a summary of data from several different sources. Captain Severick and Ms. Brookside stared at it while they listened to Ms. Ursinus explain.

"Note the Encrypted Information being transmitted in the Logs at specific times. Also notice the different workstations being used, along with the Personal ID's. It will alarm you to know that these workstations were only the end source. The person using them bounced the data through many different terminals, effectively hiding their tracks. I traced the pathways, but they led to dead ends. Whoever did this knew exactly what they were doing to avoid detection."

A grim look formed on Captain Severick's weathered face. His brow furrowed.

"Also note that this was done during peak hours, when there was a influx of massive personnel and data transmission throughout the Old Guard," the Security Chief added. "This helped to mask their activities."

"Have you been able to Decrypt the transmissions?" Captain Severick asked in a tone laced with anger.

"Not yet, Captain," Ms. Ursinus answered. "It will take time, perhaps more time than we have before the Offensive begins. But I was able to determine where the Encrypted Transmissions were sent."

Captain Severick and Descry Brookside stared at Angelica with bated breath.

"Babylon Space."

Captain Severick's hands clenched into fists.

"Yes, Captain. I'm afraid it's true. I couldn't believe it either. But we have to face facts."

THERE IS A BABYLON OPERATIVE ON BOARD THE OLD GUARD.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Monday, March 14, 2022 - 10:22 pm: Edit

Ken Kazinski asked me some interesting questions about the Regenesis Galaxies.

I believe my answers may help anyone else, now or in the future, that has the same questions.

So I am posting everything here in this Thread for others to read. Hope it helps!

* Special Thanks to Ken Kazinski for the Inquiries *

QUESTIONS:

Do you have a single PDF of the SSD Book and a G3 like book?

Have you thought about putting using a rule prefix for all the Regenesis Galaxies units and rules (e.g. RG1.0 to RGxx.0) for each of the empires or put the projects into a rule grouping (RG100.0 - Z-technology, RG200.0 - Intergalactic Assemblage of Systems, etc.)? Withing each project you could then put the individual empires (RG101.0 for the High Guard).

For the weapon systems you have modified you could use RG[A-Z] for the systems rules.

ANSWERS:

Sorry I don't have a single PDF for all the SSD's. As they are still all technically in Playtest and Subject to Change, I didn't want to make anything permanent.

There is no G3 like book at present. Once the empires are more finalized, I plan on creating all the tables for them. But there is really no point if the empires undergo revision and change due to Playtesting.

Once everything is more finalized, I plan on writing up Official Rules (in the Same Format as the Master Rulebook), along with the Rule Prefixes. But to do so now, while everything is still in Playtest, would be Premature. This will come much later.

Thanks again for your interest.

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 - 04:56 am: Edit

I just realized that the Roman Empire from Sector 50 sounds much too similar to the Romanus Empire from the Proto Sector. While I could technically leave them as is, the similarity could cause future confusion. So I will have to change the Romanus to something else.

For those who don't remember, the Proto Sector seeks to create Balanced Alpha Sector Level Starships (30 Warp, 4 Batteries, 30 Front Shield, etc.) from Omega Designs

Sector 50 creates Half of Alpha + Omega Heavy Cruisers and Builds New Empires from that Base Design

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Sunday, June 05, 2022 - 04:19 am: Edit

starfleetbattlesthegenesisproject.com

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, June 07, 2022 - 10:50 pm: Edit

StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com is the latest incarnation of the Genesis Galaxies. From this New Website, I will continue my work on The Genesis Project.

All Copyright Info on the SSD's will be updated to reflect the New Website. The Date Submitted will remain the same. Links have been created to the ADB Website and to the Online Web Policy.

It will take time to upload all the material from Previous Websites. I will upload it all little by little, day by day, and build up the New Website piece by piece.

StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com will feature the Return of Old Galaxies, Galaxies that were Never Posted, as well as New Galaxies, New Empires, New SSD's, New R-Sections, New Tactical Analysis, New Weapons/Devices, New Maps, New Timelines, New Fiction, Playtest Reports, and More. Of course, Galaxies Already Existing will be Expanded Upon.

Outdated and Non-Functional Galaxies have been Deleted and will Not be Posted to the New Website. Only current material will be presented.

I have a ton of Playtest Reports from the Prime Sector and Sector 50 that I need to write up in a more official manner. They will be uploaded as time permits.

One of the New Galaxies that I am looking forward to working on is the Ultimate Sector. The Ultimate Sector is a Massive Region of Space (6-8x the size of a Normal Galaxy) that developed extremely similar to the Alpha Sector, Omega Sector, LMC, Triangulum, and Others. But the Ultimate Sector developed in key different ways designed to promote New Tactics. This will take the form of New Weapons/Devices, New Technology, New Ship Designs, New Ship Classes, New Rules, New Systems, and More. The Ultimate Sector combines ideas from two Old Galaxies: Opus and Version 2.0.


New Beginnings are Always Exciting...

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, June 07, 2022 - 11:09 pm: Edit

Uploaded Material for the Following to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Z-Technology Designer Notes

High Guard Heavy Cruiser SSD

V-Technology Designer Notes

Young Kingdoms Designer Notes

Atlantean Light Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, June 07, 2022 - 11:31 pm: Edit

Uploaded Material for the Prime Sector (Representation of Existing Published Material in New, Combined Ways, Sometimes with New Technology. Heavy Cruiser Smaller than Standard Heavy Cruisers) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Prime Sector Designer Notes

Alliance of Lords Heavy Cruiser SSD
Alliance of Lords Missile Cruiser SSD
Guardian Knights Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, June 07, 2022 - 11:47 pm: Edit

Uploaded Material for the Graw Project (Omega Sector Design Paradigm with Brand New Phasers, Weapons/Devices, Technology, Empires) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Graw Project Designer Notes

Warrior Poet Heavy Cruiser SSD
Centi Winchester Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Tuesday, June 07, 2022 - 11:52 pm: Edit

Uploaded Material for the Proto Sector (Balanced Omega Sector Empires with Alpha Sector Phasers and Revised Weapons/Devices/Technology) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Proto Sector Designer Notes

Romanus Heavy Cruiser SSD
Newtling Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, June 08, 2022 - 12:03 am: Edit

Uploaded Material for Mitosis (FX/RX Alpha Sector Heavy Weapons, Heavy Cruisers the Size of War Destroyers, No Overloads for Heavy Weapons) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Mitosis Designer Notes

Brittani Heavy Cruiser SSD
Brittani Heavy Cruiser II SSD
Gallia Heavy Cruiser SSD
Germania Heavy Cruiser SSD
Hispania Heavy Cruiser SSD
Thrace Heavy Cruiser SSD
Visigoth Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, June 08, 2022 - 12:07 am: Edit

Uploaded Material for Meiosis (Same Design Paradigm as Mitosis except "Eastern" Equivalent featuring Omega Heavy Weapons/Devices/Phasers) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Jomon Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, June 08, 2022 - 12:11 am: Edit

Uploaded Material for Gargantua (Heavy Cruisers the Size of Battleships, Drones Replaced with Shriek Missiles, Rotating Shields) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Prometheus Heavy Cruiser SSD

By Norman Dizon (Ichaborn) on Wednesday, June 08, 2022 - 12:18 am: Edit

Uploaded Material for Line of Battle (Slow Moving Starships with Side Firing Heavy Weapons/Plasmas/Drones/Phasers, Heavy Weapons/Phasers Specially Modified for Long Range Combat) to StarFleetBattlesTheGenesisProject.com:

Line of Battle Designer Notes

Espana Heavy Cruiser SSD