Is MA ulm really for experts?

[jaif]

So, MA Ulm is sort-of for experts, but so is basically every other nation.

We agree. However, I think utilizing magic items fully only comes with experience. There is no real easy path that I can see (or maybe we are just an FAQ away, I don't know). With all other aspects of magic - battlefield spells, good conjures, good rituals - I think a little reading and a little intuition can really help. But with items, I don't think reading and intuition are that useful - you really need to get a bunch of games under your belt to learn.

Since Ulm becomes so dependent on items, I think they are ultimately a trap for the newbie. You play them because sending black steel plate at the AI is easy, but your magic game depends on extensive experience which takes a lot of time.

-Jeff