Ok, here's a few things I thought of. Some are just a little more clarification on what Risky_Llama wrote.
The highly played SFC2 servers are cyclicial. We play like fiends for 1, 2, or 3+ weeks on what we call "serious" or "big" servers, and then drop off into down periods where we putz around in Gamespy, other games, etc., The servers you are seeing listed right now are ones that tend to stay up for regular day enjoyment or are testing something. Of course all of these "big" servers come with names that you will hear veteran pilots refer to constantly. The last one was AOTK2: Attack of the Kitties - Wrath of J'inn it concluded about 2-3 weeks ago. Next will be Dizzy's Slave Girls 5. Testing server should be up this weekend and run a week or two depending on any bugs before flipping over to the real thing.
As far as voice communications programs we all like to use. They are Ventrilo, and TeamSpeak. You can find downloads for these programs at websites by the same name. I would highly suggest that even if you don't have a working microphone for your computer you logon to whichever one your allies are on during a server. You will be able to pick up lots of server strategy and mission tactics this way. It can be invaluable. I learn something new every server. If you're not shy (and most of us aren't), please chime right in and let us know you're there. I think you will find that you will get supported to whatever level you would like.
Helpful hints off the top of my head. (some will probably duplicate)
(1) Fly with a wingman - if you are a little uncomfortable with hurling yourself straight out in the the unknown, find an experienced ally to wing up with for many of the same reasons as using TS or VT above, just on a more personal level.
(2) Communicate with your allies if on a "serious" server. We usually have battle plans that we appreciate you helping with. NOT necessary, but just appreciated.
(3) Don't buy a ship you can't buy 3 of. This is a little rule I like to follow because you don't worry about losing all your gained Prestige points if you engage and lose a battle. Certainly not a hard and fast rule, just a suggestion.
(4) F1 vs F3 flying mode. If you like a more arcade like view, choose F3, if you like a more 2D stratgic boardgame view, fly F1. I find it very useful to fly in F1 mode if you are tractoring, transporting t-bombs, etc. There are pros and cons to both, of course.
(5) Know your audience. You will notice once you join in on TS or VT, that we all joke around pretty regularly. It can get quite interesting at times. At times, this rowdiness spilled over into missions and some pilots take it a bit too far. Many pilots who fly on SFC2 servers do so with their own Star Trek persona (roleplaying) and it can be hard to tell when they are joking or not. To me, it all goes back to knowing your audience. Know who likes and appreciates your bravado, and who doesn't.
(6) Invite some close friends to fly with you (or against you). This can enhance your game 100 times.
(7) Don't hesitate to ask questions. The answer might just save your ass in the very next PvP (player vs player) battle.
( 8 ) If drafted, always accept. Once in mission, check out who's in it, what ships, etc., then make a decision. Stay and fight or leave. Other players appreciate you telling them up front even if you're outmatched and want to leave. Of course, if you do stay and fight, nothing says that you have to stay until your ship has been blown to bits. (no matter what anyone says)
(9) for any "serious" servers, take a good look at the rules. Many rules have been stated specificly to nullify or offset past problem situations. If you're curious about why a rule is being used, ask. New opinions are always welcome.
Well, that's it. I hope these suggestions don't come across too preachy.
I look forward to seeing you on a server no matter what race you'll be flying for.
Agave
Topic: New player Dynaverse II questions (Read 7043 times)