Richard: Good afternoon.
Deb: Which was the first clan you formed and when?
Richard: The 99th Chessmen R&D Corps was formed for Clan Wars IV
Deb: An admirable clan to be sure. When did you decide to expand and which unit came next?
Richard: The 123rd Alpha Strikers began life as the 1st/99th Lite Legion in association with Clan Wolverine much like the 99th was. This was for Clan Wars VII.
Deb: I've had the opportunity to chat with you and a few of your crew, they seem well disciplined. Would you say that's the biggest reason for your continued success in CWs?
Richard: No. There is no single attribute for our consistent success, but rather a combination of factors all working together.
Deb: The formula is working for you so far. How many units are in your clan (some may call it a brotherhood) at the moment?
Richard: Three, soon to be four.
Deb: Have you had any difficulties as you continue to grow?
Richard: Yes, actually. Creating the third unit was especially difficult, because we had to keep all three units competitive and with a strong leadership staff in each one. We rushed ahead and recruited old 99ers back who had moved on. Their levels were high, and that pushed us into a higher division than we were prepared for in the new unit: the 82nd Omicron Guard. This was one reason we took one of our three losses out of fifty-one clan battles. That was in Clan Wars X.
Deb: This clan was the first I met any from, even a Silver start is respectable. Do you hope to continue dominating the lower divisions or will you plan to move up any time soon?
Richard: Our division placement is slowly going down, not up, and that's because most players and clans are leveling faster than we ate, filling the higher divisions out ahead of us. We do plan to continue winning any division where we are placed, and with our fourth unit, we will likely win there too. As for "moving up", we prefer to be absolutely prepared, player by player so that we advance as a clenched fist. This of course takes more time, and so the more impatient clans move past us while we move more deliberately.
Deb: Your plan has succeeded thus far. Is there any advice you'd offer new players or anything else you'd like to add?
Richard: Advice to new players... Other than the basics, which are easily accessible by joining either the Mecha Galaxy Players Facebook group or the Kongregate forum... I'd say, figure out your playing speed early on. This way you can select a unit that is right for you. Some players choose to go it alone, and this might be your choice as well. I'd advise against it, as the benefits of having a team around you are far superior on and off the battlefield. Finally, don't be afraid to try to form a unit of your own. It takes time to gather the eight dedicated players necessary, but it's well worth it if you are eager to inspire others with a unique leadership vision. I've done it, and thirty players are now winning on a gold standard basis under me. You can do it too. Well, unless you face the RND. *chuckles warmly*
Deb: Indeed, it takes time and effort but is satisfying. I do appreciate your time, thank you again. I look forward to seeing you and your crew in the next CWs. Until then I bid you safe travels and successful battles.
Richard: Now, if you'll excuse me. I need to climb into this Dilophos cockpit and lead my opposition force against a Symposium planetary unit as part of our new training contract. Clan Wars XIII!
Submitted by Deborah Roaché-Hudak #289133