Theory Behind PBW Tactics

[Atrocities]

I don't know how well this thread will do, but I do hope that some of the more experienced players will post some of their secrets here.

�nothing is more difficult than the art of maneuvering for advantageous positions.�- Sun Tzu �The art of war�

This was true in Sun Tzu's time and it is still true today. The practicality when a game is first started most players focus on colonizing as rapidly and as far out as they can. Thus they gain control of more territory, discover more ruins, and have access to better planets while providing a buffer zone around there home system.

"A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective."- Sun-tzu, The Art of War

Basically put concentrate on your game, and role play.

"Invincibility lies in the defense; the possibility of victory in the Attack." - Sun-tzu, The Art of War

If you do not protect your planets with mines, satellites, and weapon platforms, then expect to loose them. If you have the advantage, either in ships, technology, or resource production use it or loose it.

"One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it." - Sun-tzu, The Art of War

Look at the big picture and consider your options, if you focus your fleet chasing one ship, your opponant gains the advantage and can attack your systems while your fleet is off chasing its prey.

"Know your enemy and know yourself and you can fight a hundred battles without disaster." - Sun-tzu, The Art of War

I think that this is why the TOP players are the TOP players.

[primitive]

Then there is the old African proverb (Often erroneously tributed to Teddy Roosevelt):
Speak softly and carry a big stick and you will go far.

Equally true for PBW:
If you don�t have a big stick, speak loud

[Ruatha]

Originally posted by Atrocities:


"A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective."- Sun-tzu, The Art of War

Basically put concentrate on your game, and role play.


I'd think it would mean that you'd like your opponent to underestimate you.

For example, start with beam ships only, and when the opponent adjusts switch to fighters.
Or try to look weak, making him attack so that your superior fleet can get first shot at a worm-hole, those loosing lessser ships and pave the way for a counter-attack.

"One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it." - Sun-tzu, The Art of War

Look at the big picture and consider your options, if you focus your fleet chasing one ship, your opponant gains the advantage and can attack your systems while your fleet is off chasing its prey.


I'd think he means that you should make your own plans and stick with them, don't be lured by what might look like an easy opportunity. It might be a set-up.

[ March 03, 2004, 14:09: Message edited by: Ruatha ]

[geoschmo]

Originally posted by Atrocities:
"A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective."- Sun-tzu, The Art of War

Basically put concentrate on your game, and role play.

This is a great quote, but I am not sure your annotation relates to it very well. It's talking about using deception to achieve tactical and strategic advantage over your enemy. Very crucial and an invaluable tactic in SE4. But it doesn't relate to concentration or role playing at all.

If you like Sun-Tzu and Se4, here'e a link to a page you might like.

The Art (and science) of SEIV War by Master Belisarius

That document is two years old, and I think the tactics suggested by MB have stood the test of time. If there are any points that maybe are out of date, don't hold it against him though. I am sure his game play has evolved some, even if I haven't gotten with him to revise his treatise.

[ March 03, 2004, 14:13: Message edited by: geoschmo ]

[Atrocities]

Sure it does Geo,

SEIV is about role playing and communicating with your oponent. If you do not communicate then deception becomes a lot harder to achieve. You have to do it mechanically rather than verbally.

Communications can really work well for deceiving an opponent and eventually giving you the upper hand.

[PvK]

Carry a big stick? Wow! Sun Tzu knew that SE4 would have weapon mounts! OMG!

PvK