[geoschmo]

Originally posted by Wardad:
this is as clear as mud... but important...

Yes, it took me a bit to get my mind around it as well, but I think I can explain it.

Alpha fleet is at point A with orders to move to point B. Beta fleet is at point B with orders to attack Alpha Fleet. Assuming both fleet have the same speed...

If Point A and B are an odd number of sectors apart, both fleets move towards each other until they both move into the same sector, at which time combat occurs.

If Points A and B are an even number of spots apart, both fleets move towards each other one sector at a time until they are in adjoining sectors. At this point they move simultaneously and cross paths because Fleet B is moving to the sector being vacated by B and B is moving into he sector being vacated by A. Since combat cannot occur between sectors, no combat occurs because they never occupied the same sector at any particular point in time. Now Alpha is past Beta and can continue moving towards spot B with Beta fleet persueing, but never quite catching up. Always staying one behind. Unless of course Beta fleet reaches point B and Alpha fleet still has movement remaining, as occured in the example given at the begining of this thread.

So if your fleets are an even number of sectors apart and you believe the enemy is attempting to get past you, by scooting one space to the side first and then giving the order to attack will allow the enemy to close the gap one space and get you to an odd number of sectors apart. Of course this assumes you are correct in the enemies direction of movement. If they are moving anyway but towards you you have only allowed them a head start in getting away.

Also note, saying they have to have movement remaining to initiate combat is not technically correct, as they could expend their Last movement point entering the sector with the enemy and combat would happen, as long as the enemy wasn't moving out of that sector at the same time. This is not always clear from watching the simultaneous turn replay as you don't actually see the ships all moving at once. You have to remember everything is broken up into phases.

Geoschmo

[ June 17, 2002, 19:11: Message edited by: geoschmo ]