[rdouglass]

Raynor, I always play with race-specific traits, but even if I did not, the range factor discourages me from using PPB's. Even if an AI had PPB V's and I had WMG's, I could stay ouside his range and just hit him every 3rd turn (in tactical combat). That is the generic weapon I would suggest. (A side question - does the WMG get a 60% to hit bonus like it did in SE3??) Also IMO missles are a good choice if you want to decimate the AI (I kinda' feel this is cheating tho and don't use them often) They get a range up to 16. I personally feel range is a big factor unless of course you use strategic battle. I rarely ever do - I like the micromanagement of tactical. Of course, if you're playing Simultaneous, you don't get the tactical combat option, so PPB's may be a better choice - I don't know.

As to the huge galaxy question, I read it on another post and did it. I remember something like editing the Systems.txt file and changing the line from 100 to 250 (I think 255 is the max). If I'm wrong, someone please correct me. Of course, if you do this, you'll probably want to get someone's system names file or you'll end up with a lot of systems with no names and that becomes confusing.

And as to game length, my games easily Last 300-400 turns. EPIC GAMES!!!

[This message has been edited by rdouglass (edited 29 January 2001).]