Hi Warlord!!
"Interesting.. Could you describe the setup that causes them to expand slowly ?"
They doesn't expand slowly, they expand very very fast.
The problem (in my view), is that in games where they find aggressive races early (in games with small galaxy and 3 or 5 starting planets), while the Minbari are researching Applied Research II and III (and could take a lot of turns), the others are researching better techs for their warships... then, the Minbari could have problems (in fact, in my games they had) to survive the early game.
"They are also designed to use High-energy weapons when they have the tech. I chose DUC because they were cheap weapons that could hold their own (somewhat) until the Minbari get High Energy. When they develop a mix of both they are much more effective, though admittedly a bit under-gunned. I wanted them to be fast, and multi-role so they can carry solar sails, minesweepers, sensors..kind of a trade-off."
I can see your intentions, but the High Energy weapons take long time to research...
Honestly, still I like more the PPB weapons.
The good thing, is that the Duc cannons used in the Minbari fighters, are very good!
"Both the DUC and WMG have a short range. In theory, since I made research and propulsion such a high priority, the Minbari speed advantage should cancel out their lack of range. Are you not finding that this is the case ?"
True, but against ships with Ionic Disperser weapons (I love this weapon!), they have problems.
An example are the Aquilaeian Empire and the Pyrochette Empire (of course that both are my AI's! Remember you the old days?
).
"I'll have to look into this. I had them earlier up the line and found out that they really slowed down research. I have to find that perfect medium."
Ok.
"Great to hear from you MB, thanks for the help !"
Hehehe, thanks Warlord! I think that you could recognize my spell (or lack of), very fast!
Finally, want to say that I wrote my observations, not only because wanted to help you... also was... because I have enjoyed a lot the Minbari!