Wshew.
King rotates his hips, dons sequin jumpsuit, and nibbles on peanut butter and banana sandwhich.
First and foremost, thanks to Preacherman for the great game.
He harassed me very well in the center and the north... did well and produced a LOT of ships! Big economy; Excellent on this. Threw me out of a few systems early too.
Also checked my expansion and got to minesweepers rather quickly, although I would have really been in trouble if he got them even quicker.
I played this one
very carefully, and yes, that fleet was 20% and most of the ships were 20%. Most of those ships also had ECM III (60% defense). It took much patience, and he killed enough planets to start me worrying about riots- but training gave me a big edge. I went for combat stacking, got the edge, and never gave it up. This is the same game plan I used every greuliing fight up this hill.
So, I guess I am very happy and proud (for now), and I feel like I personified the very Clone I pointed out in my earlier thread:
KOTH: Attack of the Clones
Read it, it's pretty much what I'm doing. It's the way to win in KOTH. No surprises here, except for those who really did not grasp the impact of combat stacking.
Remember this: I had my royal rump handed to me by players who were sharper. But I learned from them, and did not give up. I kept adjusting my strategy, and kept on clawing. And, as your new King, I will continue the great tradition of community and sharing in this forum. I'll tell everyone exactly how I play. No secrets.
Secondly, kudos to Geo and the PBW team for all they do.
Thirdly... Asmala,
You ain't nuthin but a hound dog. Remember baby, it's another 3000 miles to Graceland! 
