Oolite Bulletins

Just a thought that occurred to me once I had upgraded to the XT. It's not purist but I like the extra touch of speed and energy bank on the new ship. However, I am concerned about "unbalancing" the game experience.

Is there a method of determining if a vessel is too powerful for the game mechanics?

Hullblazer wrote:

Is there a method of determining if a vessel is too powerful for the game mechanics?

It's a matter of personal taste and opinion, there is no 'formula' as such. My own method is to do a 'like for like' type comparison with core ships. If it has similar specs to core ships of similar type and size then it is probably OK. I would look for improvements to be offset somehow, such as a reduction in holdspace to allow for more/bigger equipment items, or less manoeverability for a higher top speed, that sort of thing.
In this case, the XT looks to be slightly larger than a Cobra 3, so a little bit more kit is not unreasonable, but it is for individual players to decide for themselves.
The other factor of course is that anything that makes the game easier also detracts from the game in some ways, so you will also need to decide if the trade-off is worth it.
If you are happy with it and feel the game is still essentially the same as you play then that's good

That's a good way of looking at it, thank you. In both the old and new Cobbie I can take on 2 vessels but still 3 end me (just a little slower...), so it's obviously not that high a swing!

What Smivs said, really - you gotta decide for yourself what your game balance is about.
Personally, I dislike ships that have large cargo capacities, but perform like fighters!

I agree, but I do like ships/'planes that fill dual roles (Mosquito, Lightning, Harrier) and the Cobbie (even the XT) seems to fill this role for me.

I've been flying a Cobra III-XT for a while now. It took me a fair while before I could afford it, so when I did finally get one I felt like I had earned the advantages that has given me.

Another good way of looking at it. You've put in the hours, you deserve the DeLux!