Evade software has been clarified in this version to state:
"The computer reacts automatically to incoming fire, applying DM-1 to one attack. The ship can do this a number of times in a round equal to the listed number."
Evade/1 - Rating 10 - TL9
Evade/2 - Rating 15 - TL11
Evade/3 - Rating 25 - TL13
Problem Statement:
Evade software will almost never be used. Computer Max ratings are up to 35 (at TL 15), and they are much better used on Auto-Repair and Fire Control. -1 is very very very minor in space combat. Example, a pilot using one thrust and rolling well on a task chain gives a +2 to all attacks that turn!
To make it a meaningful and effective choice, perhaps we should consider:
a) Any rating of evade software gives a -1 to all attacks. You gain thrust-free dodges equal to the rating number. This would probably mean no rating change (25 rating for 3 thrust free dodges).
b) Evade software can used to give a -DM penalty equal to its rating to all attacks. No free dodges. Rating stays the same.
c) Make Evade software like fire control. 5 ratings, up to -5 distributed whichever way the player wants to incoming attacks. Again - ratings can stay the same here.
The Key here is getting value from committing that computer to run evade, making players say "hmm.. ok I need this" - and not having as a trap (aka bad choice).
Just some thoughts,
Sam W.
"The computer reacts automatically to incoming fire, applying DM-1 to one attack. The ship can do this a number of times in a round equal to the listed number."
Evade/1 - Rating 10 - TL9
Evade/2 - Rating 15 - TL11
Evade/3 - Rating 25 - TL13
Problem Statement:
Evade software will almost never be used. Computer Max ratings are up to 35 (at TL 15), and they are much better used on Auto-Repair and Fire Control. -1 is very very very minor in space combat. Example, a pilot using one thrust and rolling well on a task chain gives a +2 to all attacks that turn!
To make it a meaningful and effective choice, perhaps we should consider:
a) Any rating of evade software gives a -1 to all attacks. You gain thrust-free dodges equal to the rating number. This would probably mean no rating change (25 rating for 3 thrust free dodges).
b) Evade software can used to give a -DM penalty equal to its rating to all attacks. No free dodges. Rating stays the same.
c) Make Evade software like fire control. 5 ratings, up to -5 distributed whichever way the player wants to incoming attacks. Again - ratings can stay the same here.
The Key here is getting value from committing that computer to run evade, making players say "hmm.. ok I need this" - and not having as a trap (aka bad choice).
Just some thoughts,
Sam W.
