[Slynky]

You are in a tough Category! Your poll doesn't provide enough choices, I think, and I don't know how to do it better.

Problem is, early game location can dictate what your choice will be. Aside from all that, games start with 1 planet, 3, 5, or 10. THAT can make quite a difference in early game choice (where someone might skip DUCs). Then, there is the full-tech games...which all have an early part. So....you get my drift.

But, in general, I've heard it said that PPBs can be a weapon to use the entire game! And while some really like APBs, I hate them (unless I have the Talisman). They are darned expensive to research to surpass the PPBs. And without the Talisman (given all ships/fleets are trained), darn hard to hit from ship to ship at full range (so why bother?).

Also, you missed my favorite weapon! Those who play me know if I can get them I'll put Ripper 1V's on a ship that can close in on you fast in a heartbeat! Pound for pound, there aren't many that beat it. Not to mention rigging them on a large sat with extended range! Someone has a proggy out that does an extensive analysis of the weapons and the Rippers did quite well.

So, my 2 cents worth.