[parone]

one thing-don't worry about playing "right". i am an absolutely awful player. but i don't mind that. i play newb games(or did when i had the time), and if i am lucky enough to last to midgame, i get killed as i have no mid game plan.

i suggest you pick one nation, and learn their ins and outs in single player. mess around with them for a week. read a guide or two, and come up with a solid expansion strat with their troops. then look to join a newb game, with that expo strat in mind, and tailor it to your starting position. this way, you are learning to play one phase of one nation, you will have predetiermined research goals, and wont get overwhelmed by too many options.

i find the game is fun if i have a plan and am attempting to execute it. even if it is a lousy plan.