Matrix Games Forums

what do you gain with a higher range then M on ships?

Higher battle participation rates

Less internments due to fuel shortage when on raiding or trade defence.

Long-ranged ships mostly eliminate the crew quality penalty for operating in regions that you don't have possessions in, as long as you have available bases in at least one adjacent region. Extreme range supposedly lets you operate two regions away from your colonies, but I've only ever used it for a few short-lived AMCs so I can't say how well it works.

I have observed that the penalty for L and E range ships usually makes it not worth it. Just enemy VPs waiting to happen.

You're better off picking the possessions you take over _carefully_ and range M will usually do the trick. This may sometimes mean not using the full limit of colony points you're awarded. So be it! Personally I like to plan for the next war, not have it thrust upon me if I can possibly avoid it. What you don't want is commitments everywhere and everyone annoyed with you. The vultures will descend...cop a harsh treaty enforcement and your game is basically kaput.

This is an especially acute problem for Spain. I will play this next having just completed a very nice GE campaign, and see what if anything can be done with the crumbling Spanish empire.

For Spain, I don't hang on (except if I strike oil). Leave KEs for the FS and concentrate in Europe/Med. If farflung colonies revolt, let them go. They are an impediment. He who defends everything defends nothing.