Tactical use of game slow-downs

strenface · 04-06-12, 11:29 PM

When cruising at high time compression (256+) I always open the watch and carefully watch the minute hand for studders. Without fail, a studder, slowdown, or quick freeze almost always means that an enemy vessel is within a 20-25 nm proximity.

Does anyone else exploit this mechanic as a sort of early warning system?

Anytime I see this studder, I immediately go to the sonar station and do a full revolution. Even out of radar range (~15nm) an "unknown" will always pop up on the sonar display. At this range, the "green light' arc is between 20, and 30 degrees. I therefor change course to center the "unknown" contact such that the green light goes out at 349, and 11 degrees. After several minutes, I then go back to the sonar station determine the contact arc. For example, if the arc is now between 352 and 14 degrees, I know my the contacts lateral vector, and can plot a fairly accurate interception course, considering the range.

I then go to the radar station once I know the lateral component and adjust my course accordingly, and simply wait for the blip.

I was wondering two things:

1. Is this a common practice?

2. Is this cheating?

It seems to be cheating as it is exploiting game design and mechanics, rather than using any real or even possible tactic. However, I justify it as follows:

Real captains use certain elements to gain a predatory "feel" that is simply not possible to simulate, or maybe even to describe to those having no experience.

Me, a sim captain, uses this "feel" caused by game mechanics to the same effect.

Justification? Or BS?

04-06-12, 11:29 PM	#1
strenface Watch Join Date: Dec 2011 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 20 Downloads: 23 Uploads: 0	Tactical use of game slow-downs When cruising at high time compression (256+) I always open the watch and carefully watch the minute hand for studders. Without fail, a studder, slowdown, or quick freeze almost always means that an enemy vessel is within a 20-25 nm proximity. Does anyone else exploit this mechanic as a sort of early warning system? Anytime I see this studder, I immediately go to the sonar station and do a full revolution. Even out of radar range (~15nm) an "unknown" will always pop up on the sonar display. At this range, the "green light' arc is between 20, and 30 degrees. I therefor change course to center the "unknown" contact such that the green light goes out at 349, and 11 degrees. After several minutes, I then go back to the sonar station determine the contact arc. For example, if the arc is now between 352 and 14 degrees, I know my the contacts lateral vector, and can plot a fairly accurate interception course, considering the range. I then go to the radar station once I know the lateral component and adjust my course accordingly, and simply wait for the blip. I was wondering two things: 1. Is this a common practice? 2. Is this cheating? It seems to be cheating as it is exploiting game design and mechanics, rather than using any real or even possible tactic. However, I justify it as follows: Real captains use certain elements to gain a predatory "feel" that is simply not possible to simulate, or maybe even to describe to those having no experience. Me, a sim captain, uses this "feel" caused by game mechanics to the same effect. Justification? Or BS? __________________ You may encounter content deemed to be offensive, indecent, or objectionable, which may or may not be identified as containing: (a) vulgarity(b)inaccuracy(c)logical fallacy. You agree to read the above solely at your own risk. This poster assumes no liability regarding direct or indirect damages whatsoever, including but not limited to: (a)personal injury(b)butthurt(c)keyboard(d)marital disruption