Well, I kind of like those Core Shield Generators. I guess I called them data centers because they reminded me of that set of structures that gives you AIP when you eliminate them, until you kill the last one, then you get a huge AIP reduction. I am not gonna turn CSGs off, that is for sure.
And yes, I found out about hacking, I see this is one of the big things now. I was very opposed to the elimination of knowledge raiding, but now, when knowledge hacking is in place, I think it is a far better mechanic. Far more challenging. I am looking forward to figuring out how, when and where to use which hack.
The wiki is great, it always was, but it is much more comprehensive now. Kudos to the guys and gals that maintain this invaluable data center. I also find the in-game documentation a lot better than it was.
Back in 2011, when I participated in a lot of beta testing, I experienced the design progress in an incremental way, ie. I didn't really see it. Now, after a long break, I can really appreciate how the game has progressed. It is still the same game, I didn't have to learn everything over again, but I had to change my ways, because so many things have changed.
Which is a good thing, imo. After all, when I play a video game, my opponent really isn't the computer, but the designer of the game. He is the guy who has put up all those obstacles. And if/when I find an easy way to overcome those, it is only appropriate that the designer changes things so they become harder. If things become too hard, I can always lower the ai level. Or turn off that feature. Or, if it cannot be turned off, complain to the devs
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I cranked the ai level back up on 7, and now I am trying out the Spire campaign. I don't expect to win, but it is okay, loosing is fun!
I see you have got yourself another daughter, Keith, congratulations! But seeing this is your third child, I don't feel sorry for you, you will have learned by now how to sleep with your eyes open
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PS to Pablo: I found out that you are not the guy pulling the guitar strings, but someone named Ted. Please tell him that he has made a great impression on an old professional guitarist. I almost cried, I thought nobody played that kind of guitar anymore, except old people like me. But kudos to you for finding him and using him in your compositions. And, of course, kudos to you for your compositions. Your minimalist approach is the perfect counterpoint to this complex game.
