Discussing the underlying issues to improve
I am certain like any system/technology/equipment Off Line Protection (OLP) will always be exploited as skilled PvP players (of any faction) look to find a competitive edge in the game.
Inevitably once any player or faction starts to use an exploit/loop hole/technical advantage, others will start to do so in turn, until a escalating arms race starts to build up.
To counter this arms race, there are the systems of; server rules/code of conduct/police, or game software rules/code etc, in ether case if these rules are not enforceable then players restraint will fail/degrade over time.
So now what?
I think we have reached the point where the use of OLP and alts/family accounts etc has now started to negativly effect the gameplay of the larger factions/ experienced players. Our efforts should now be on what should HWS, Eleon and our player community do to improve the situation. There is little to gain in any mud slinging.
Personally I think it is also worth noting that the HWS season so far from my perspective has been very successful - the server numbers have remained consistently high. The new HWS specific configuration file has made a style of game play that appears to be preferred by the community, the universe design and unique mods must also be working. The recent PvP wars on (EU) GG that I have witnessed have been great. And I think the OLP has helped so far, but is now in need of further review. I would also love to hear from the newer unestablished players to HWS as to their view - I suspect they would be more in favour of the OLP!
Ideas?
So does anyone have constructive ideas and or suggestions on what can, could or should be done to improve the gameplay further on the server? (Probably with season 8 in mind)
To throw one new suggestion into the mix for discussion...
…Constrain OLP supply
Would it be possible to limit the supply of OLP devices? If perhaps OLP was made like the Alien core, that could not be spawned, or constructed this would make the use of the device more valuable/careful. From making them available via FA:supply, or NPC purchase or, mission or some other HWS connect/mod mechanic.
Note: This would also need the removal of OLP devices from the OCD as has been done before.
…Block BA spawning on PvP playfields
I think this has previously been discussed, but it appears a very straight forward solution to the problem and no more attack bases. Personally I think this can only happen if BA spawning on PVE playfield remains, so that players can produce their lovingly designer crafted “homes” that PvE plays like. Thus appealing to both communities.
Anyway that is my contribution to the discussion! I know there are many in the community who are far more knowledgeable of what is possible or not with the game mechanics/systems than I, so I am confident that we can come up with a good set of proposals to build further on what has been a successful season so far.