quote:
Originally posted by Argh:
[QB]<snip>... here's how I used the strat: I blew up every system that was currently weakly inhabited or "buffer" systems that I could control temporarily. . <snip>....Blowing the suns of "buffer" systems means that you *always* get a serious advance warning that your opponants are mounting a counter-attack, as even the fastest ships in un-modded SE:IV cannot cross from one warp point to another without being detected..<snip>.This is not an inconsiderable advantage when fighting an extended war- plus, as you take systems that aren't particularily nice. . . you can destroy them, too, and thus rid yourself of a system you can't afford to adequately defend and leave future opponants with an even longer rush distance. . <snip>.. it's about creating distance, denying resources/future gains, and denying your opponants the ability to surprise you while you continue to optimize your tech. ...<snip>
It's a valid strategy I suppose. IMHO the same thing could be accomplished in a much more conventional way. Taking colonies from your opponent in these border systems, planting your own if needed. Planets in border systems do a fine job of giving advance warning, with the added advantage of giving a positive cash flow, however slight. After you blow up a system you have to keep ships on hand to be able to give you any warning. Ships that cost resources to maintain.
These border systems don't have to be heavily defended. A few ships or some troops just to keep the population happy. They will go to work busily producing resources for your empire that can be used to beef up your core systems.
But when it comes down to it its just a differance of play style. Either way works. You will find though that when you start blowing up systems the other players in the game will tend to join together out of self-preservation. Just human nature. But if you get a kick out of being the bad guys, go for it.
Geoschmo