Post Clan War Interview - By David McCallum #701548 w/ Jasmine Cait Sidhe Carter #32890

Now it's not as if I didn't have troubles of my own, what with just coming off a particularly intense war only to be confronted by yet another Xenomorph incursion, when a whole heap more landed on my plate.

I refer to a comm call from 'Her Indoors"...

"Get over here now!" says she.

I use the word 'says' advisedly, because my ears were still ringing a good hour afterwards.

I of course mount up and head for her clan's war zone post haste, after all my C.O. can only shoot me for abandoning my position. 

Her Indoors can do far worse if I fail to respond appropriately to one of her summons.

And so, I arrive to find that particular merry band of cut-throats lounging about while the techs hammer the latest set of dents from their erstwhile steeds. I'm introduced to a new friend my wife has made, a lady that I haven't made the acquaintance of before.

I am a tad surprised when Her Indoors hustles us both into a secluded foxhole and even more taken aback when I'm told to "do that thing"... such instructions are open to all sorts of misinterpretation and besides, said new female pilot looks less like she would drive a mech into battle as she would stride there herself with a Red Ant tucked under each arm...

Thankfully it was clarified that I was to do an interview with her.

G.G. - Erm, OK, now I know whats happening, let's have name, affiliation and serial number for the record.

Jas. - Jasmine Cait Sidhe Carter fighting for the Ranger Raccoons this time, license number #32890

G.G. - So, You were fighting as part of the Heroes Ranger Raccoons this war... is it your first dance with that clan or have you been with them a while?

Jas. - This is the first clan war that I have participated in but I have been with the group some months. They are a decent bunch and I am glad they have accepted me in to their ranks.

G.G. - Glad to have you on board... but popular gossip has it that this isn't your first clan. In fact, you've been around a little while?

Jas. - That is correct. I have been in several clans starting with the Murder Bots.

I started with the Murder Bots in 3260 then went over to the Karanian Empire in 3265 and stayed with them until 3273 when I went on a long journey beyond.

I came back to fight with clan Overlords in February of the year 3296 and stayed with the Overlords until 3305 when I went to the nameless clan in April 3306 until September 3307 until I again heeded the call to adventure beyond the galaxy we know and disappeared.

I reappeared again for the strangest time of all, Porktober 3324 and have been here since then with the Racoons.

G.G. - So hang on, the first time you hung up your spurs so to speak, I hadn't even put my posterior in a pilots chair... are you one of those early jocks who were fighting before we had even worked out how to fit modular equipment into the mechs???

Jas. - Affirmative, that is correct.

G.G. - Woah... OK then, for the benefit of some of the younger pilots out there, what was the transition like moving into the hardware age? Was there a big difference when you suddenly had all this gear available for enhancements?

Jas. - Aye it was difficult at first but being one of the first we learned to adapt relatively quickly. We had to or we died, it was that simple.

G.G. - So what was it that tempted you back from your travels to climb in the cockpit and have large scale munitions flung at you again?

Jas. - I never stopped having "large scale munitions flung at me." I came back for a break from the REAL WARS...

You children have no idea what is waiting for us out there but it is too soon.. the one you called 'Baby Elephant' knew and he sadly takes that secret to the grave.

These "xenos" we fight they are just the scouts for an even larger force beyond.

It is our loss that 'Baby Elephant' passed when he did, he had good insight into tactics and clan personnel that he passed on to me in the times we talked.

G.G. - Alright, moving on to more modern times, the viewers are probably going to want to know how things went for you this war...

Jas. - How things went.. well things could have gone better. I am a bit ashamed about my performance but as time progresses i will get better

G.G. - Ashamed in what way?

Jas. - well in the beginning my performance was as a cold-blooded killer. I could take human life with the best of them and my record stated that... then I went to the wars and fought the xenos to save humans and now I'm back.. to KILL humans. Something I'm not used to doing again... yet.

But I will get back into the groove. I have to.. to survive.

Me and the Ghostriders will have to become the coldblooded killers we once were to survive in these backwards worlds .. that is.. until the xenos REALLY arrive and then all of us who have been out there fighting... well hopefully we all will return and things will change yet again.

G.G. - I've seen some of the mission tapes and in a lot of cases you looked quite out-massed by a lot of the opposition... did any of the medal prizes help towards offsetting any of that?

Jas. - Not at all. It was my pilots skill that helped turn the tide of combat. They should be commended. The equipment only enhanced their skills.

G.G. - The quality of the meat, not the metal eh?

Jas. - Affirmative, that is correct. The medal prize mecha will help but not the equipment. I mean come on, who in their right mind arms a mech with GARLIC?!?!?!?!

G.G. - Hey, you never know when vampire Xenos will arrive..

Jas. - They already have and it don't work on them because it cant get through the armor.

G.G. - That’s why you use solid shot or lasers in your first burst, then follow it up with the stinky stuff...

Jas. - No that’s when you use sunspo-- oh wait.. never mind.

Strike that from the recording please.

G.G. - Hmmm... sounds like I need to do some digging into what you may have brought back from your travels....

<At this point she unholsters a Starleague issue pulse laser>

Jas. - I wouldn’t recommend it.

G.G. - But I digress... there's another wave of Xenomorphs coming in at the moment so we probably need to wrap up shortly...

<She holsters her weapon with a wry smirk and a nod>

G.G. - anything you are hoping to scavenge from the battlefield at the end of this?

Jas. - Any intel on the main force that I can send back to the front and whatever materiel I can to use in the efforts back here.

Maybe some heavier mechs to field to replace some of my more aging units.

G.G. - c'mon... there must be something specific you are keeping your scanners peeled for...

Jas. - Hmmm.. Jadoon, Jottun or Harrel since I run very lean on Noides. That Nanite Swarm looks tasty too.

G.G. - Oh, you mean the Repair Swarm... yes very useful kit that, has pulled my buttocks out of the high temperature situations on more than one occasion. You just need to make sure they don't try to strip your body for raw materials

Jas. - Indeed.

G.G. - Anyway, incoming, we need to close this off and suit up... been a pleasure talking to you Jasmine.

Jas. - You as well. Sorry for pulling the hardware on a fellow Hero.

Back to the raid!

GHOSTRIDERS TO THE ADVANCE!!!!!

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Rod Skilton #899155 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Rod to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

Rod: Sure can. I'll have some more of that fine scotch. I need it after fighting Dr Okee's mechs

GG: *Pours two large glasses of Scotch and hands one to Rod*

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

Rod: Thanks for the scotch John.  My name is Rod Skilton, Mech Pilot ID  899155. I fought out this last war with Xeon and we scored a Silver medal this time around.

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

Rod: I think the team did a great job. We had some serious competition dropping down into our division and that made getting a gold a greater challenge. Ultimately, we couldn't overcome that. They fought very well and I think strategically, and they won the gold in the end.  *takes a swig of his drink*

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

Rod: Look, I'm dead keen on having specialists. It mixes it up and can make a big difference. But having said that, it can also limit the way some clans play. I experienced it a bit this Clan War where no one came up against my SRB. Unlike this fine scotch, that seems to be all gone by the way, the specialists aren't to everyone's taste. I prefer them and would like to see a Clan War where everyone was required to have one. We just might see a very different result if no one could rely on just their unlimited brute strength.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

Rod: Yeah, I'm not sure. I was damn happy to get them for running my regular SRB spec this Clan War, but I don't know that it's had a great impact. If you look at all the clans that went to war, you'd think they'd be full of SRB specs, but that just wasn't the case. Not in my experience anyway. I do like the reward though. A little thanks goes a long way. Big thanks like a shiny new engine, or shield, or even an experimental bit of kit might be a good reward too. So to answer your question, yeah, I think the prizes have improved the Clan Wars and definitely should be continued. Now how about some more of that rewarding scotch John.  *holds his empty glass out to John*

GG: *Takes the empty glass and exchanges it for a full one*

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

Rod: Thanks. *raises his glass in salute, mumbles something about lost friends, then drinks half*

Rod: We hit some tough patches in there, especially towards the end. The last 1500 were brutal. But we got through them in the end. The salvage was a bit hit and miss. I managed to salvage an Antithesis and a Frigis, along with the pile of extra weapons and kit, so I was pretty chuffed with that. But I was one of the lucky ones. Some scored a mech, while others were only able to find some weapons and equipment. I'm seeing fewer pilots wanting to raid though. The rewards are pretty poor when you don't salvage a mech out of it and that gets pilots down.

GG: Yeah, the clan chat can get a bit down when not many find a mech at the end of the raid.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

Rod: Any salvage is better than no salvage, I always say. You just have to weigh up the costs and if it's worth the trouble. For those that hit the raid, anything they got was useful. Either as kit in the cupboard, gear on board, or as resources for getting the gear you desperately need.

Rod: Seeing we're talkin about what we need, how about some more of that excellent scotch *cracks a big wide grin*

GG: *Passes over another full glass and a full bottle to take home*

GG: As you like this so much here is a bottle for you to enjoy in the down time until the next war.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

Rod: Awesome John. Thanks for that.

Rod: Favourite Mech huh? That's a tough one. I love the Nephilax 'cause it represents the culmination of some really hard work winning them. The Keradon was a stalwart of mine for a while and I love their look. Like a big cat from Old Terra. it would be easy to say my Fext, Boreas, or any of the other BFMs due to their massive weapon and equipment load outs. But for me,my favourite is the Smilodon. When I was rookie, I saw a few of these in opponents line ups and loved them. Then once I got my hands on a couple of these fearful beasties, I knew they'd be a part of my active hangar for a long time. They're the kind of mech that you can turn to anything. You're not tied down to any particular type of weapon system and the high critical hit capability is nothing to be sneezed at. I think they're one of the best mid to high range mechs around.

GG: The "Smiley" has a soft place in my warriors heart as well *Grin*

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

Rod: Teamwork. It's the best time the clan pulls together and really communicate well. We all do our own thing between the Clan Wars so when another threat to the galaxy comes along, it's good to get together and kick some heads. In a co-ordinated kind of way. The Dragon clans communicate very well and that makes the Clan Wars and the raiding after so much more a of a good experience.

GG: *Notices Rod's glass is getting low and slides another full one over* Teamwork for the win *Smile*

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

Rod: *smiles and picks up the glass* Good team work there John.

Rod: Fundamental change John. Fundamental change is what's needed. And it's in two areas.

Rod: Firstly, It's not the Clan Wars that are the issue. It's the structure of who can pilot what and when. It's the one thing that has driven young pilots to pack up and go farming, or rescuing pets, or god forbid, and forgive me for saying this, but crushers of damn candy. The light Mechs are where we learn our craft. We learn about weapon management, equipment buffs and bonuses, but we also learn where to go to get the skill upgrade. Once we have a few of them under our belt, then we think we can pilot anything. They're too easy to get and too easy to take advantage of. As a young pilot I was always amazed at what some pilots could bring to the field. Mechs that were way above their pay grade, but all legitimate due to the insidious skill upgrade. And like everyone else, I became one of them. There needs to be some greater level of regulation on the Mechs you can field. Maybe you should only be able to field five or so levels above your current pay grade, so there is incentive to move up. Even me at my level should be restricted as to what Mechs I can field. But it's a fundamental change that's needed. And the issue of camping won't resolve until that occurs.

Rod: Secondly... *has a good drink of his scotch*

Rod: Secondly, Clan War prizes need to be altered. The gap between the elite payers and the lower levels gets greater and greater every Clan War and the structure of the prizes expands that widening gulf. It's simple maths. if you provide greater rewards for higher levels than for the lower levels, then it makes it virtually impossible for the lower levels to ever catch up and fight at the same level. The only way to move up is for some player to retire.

Rod: If you want new blood and keep new blood, then there has to be fundamental change.

GG: That was some good input for Nick and the team. Let's hope they take a look at it and talk it over. I know this has been coming up for conversations among the pilots for the last few wars.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

Rod: I'm looking forward to seeing what the galaxy will throw at us next. In the meantime, I'm going to keep my eye on the gateways not working correctly. It could be a serious issue, especially with all those sword Mechs that have started to appear. I was down in Cogwerk space just recently and ran in to a heap of them. I'm a bit worried about that Ambrose Cogsmith character as well. There's something fishy going on.

GG: Yes, there have been a few reports of this new mech showing up and the portals acting strange. Time will tell what the universe has in store for us Mech Jockeys.

GG: Thanks for stopping by and talking with me today Rod. I was a pleasure as always. I look forward to the next time.

Rod: Thanks John, and thanks for the scotch. Cheers *drinks the rest of the scotch in his glass*

CW3323 Post-War Interview With 1GoML #637975 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome 1GoML to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

1GoML: Lol no thanks John, I'm still full on the spoils of victory.

GG: I can respect that *Smile*

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

1GoML: 1GoML Xeon;Tiamat Dragons! Gold, what we strive for! *Wink*

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

1GoML: I'd say even better than expected. We crushed our biggest foe this war. (Phoenix) which is always a positive. I only hope we continue to grow stronger and not get content.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

1GoML: A few people passed me in strength from Phoenix. Which was a pleasant surprise! Always nice to see guys improving their lines. *Smile*

1GoML: I also enjoy fight against pilots who are doing their best.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

1GoML: I'd say my raid winnings, but that's how it always is. I've won a total of 5 useful mechs in 3 years. *Frown*

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

1GoML: Improves, I feel like it helps even the playing field. That way clans can't get dependent on certain specs.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

1GoML: I'd vote for yes, you put in the time you reap the reward. *Smile*

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

1GoML: Pretty easy, only a few hard spots *Smile*

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

1GoML: I think the better half of us sell it unless it's a nice niode mech. That's about the only useful thing anymore sadly. I wish nick would update it and get rid of the annoying useless stuff

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

1GoML: Look wise or for using purposes? Look wise Regis/boreas/apo. Using purpose probably boreas.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

1GoML: Clan wars is already very good to me *Smile* I wouldn't mind another mech olympics. My favorite thing currently about clan wars is testing yourself against others and seeing where all the clans stand.

Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

1GoML: I'd like to add shout out to German, I wish you the best old friend!

GG: Thanks for stopping by and talking with me today. I wish you and your crew the best.

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Scott Abbott #468961 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Scott to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

Scott: Whiskey sour please sir.

GG: *Pours a few large glasses and hands one to Scott* To your heath sir *Smile*

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

Scott: Scott Abbott #468961  of the CLAN: Northwind Dragons – Gold.

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

Scott: Yes.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

Scott: The amount of effort various clans are using to try to beat various Dragon clans.  I like it.

GG: It does keep things fresh and exciting.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

Scott: No.

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

Scott: I like it, it would be great if he could implement some other features similar to the changes he has made recently.

GG: Did you have anything specific in mind?

Scott: No sir, I do not.

GG: Ok I was just checking. The Dev's read these interviews and welcome the feedback *Smile*

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

Scott: I like the extra prizes, it adds an extra element of taking a specified spec that you might not want, and getting rewarded for it.

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

Scott: It was a good amount of hard points to make it challenging, yet not overly hard to hurt the lower level players from participating.

GG: Sounds like the balance was just right.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

Scott: It was really good.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

Scott: Tie between the Boreas and Fext.  They both have really good jobs they do well and both seem to be near the top of every ones wish list

GG: Yes sir. You would be right on that.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

Scott: The competition and the rivalry between key clans.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

Scott: I'm the wrong person to be asking that particular question lol.

GG: If you say so *Grin*

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

Scott: Many thanks to all my Dragon brothers for sticking it out with me, to the Dev team and to Baruch and anyone helping him to keep the competition alive.

GG: Thanks for taking the time to talk with me today. It was a pleasure as always. My best to you and your crew.

Scott: Thank you sir. And I wish your team well as well!

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Colin Toenjes #650451 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Colin to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

Colin: Why thank you John...  A Jack Daniels and Coke, in memory of a friend who died too young. If it hadn't been for him, I wouldn't be here talking to you today…

GG: *Mixes two stiff drinks and hands one to Colin* My condolences to you on your loss.

GG: *Raises his glass* To absent friends.

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

Colin: Colin Toenjes, player ID 650451. clan ~Heroes~ and we won ourselves a silver.

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

Colin: Yes, very much so.  Being in Division 4, we only had 3 opponents, so we knew exactly who we would face, and it was units we had mostly faced before, so our expectations were pretty set going in.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

Colin: The speed at which it happened after the last war.  It felt like I had just gotten all the prizes from the last war allocated and we were back into planning!

GG: Yes, it was a very fast turnaround. I noticed more than a few MP's searching through the bars trying to bring back pilots still on shore leave.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

Colin: I was kind of itching for something... different.  With the short time turnaround, it would have been impossible to prepare I guess, but I'd love to see a war variant sometime soon. Short run mechalympix or faction wars or even something totally new...

GG: Well you might just get your wish. The pilot rumor mills are buzzing that we are do again for a special event.

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

Colin: Oh, I'm always in favor of specialists. I love the flavor and strategy they introduce.  It doesn't bother me at all having a required spec.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

Colin: It's a good "thank you" to the players who were willing to step up.  Plus, when you are scrounging for every niode, every little bonus helps!

GG: I never say no to a niode myself. *Smile*

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

Colin: Not very difficult fighting wise.  This raid felt a lot like the last 3-4 raids to be honest.  As I speak with you we're still finishing but I don't anticipate any issues.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

Colin: It's beginning to get to the point where a lot of stuff gets scrapped.  I like the 100% chance on some niode weapons though.  that's been a nice add to raid prizes, because I can always use the heavier firepower. But at this point, especially when it comes to mecha, I at least have build projects line up for the next year or so, and so a lot of mecha prizes get stripped of weapons,  the filler ones sold, and the mecha go to the scrapper to feed those.  I for one would love to see more equipment prizes or some of the vortex-box special items in the raids to feed those projects.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

Colin: I'm going to go with the Ignis.  I have a particular penchant for fire, and the Ignis is a terrific platform for deploying fiery death.  While my Pretty Purple Death Machine of a Dilophos is more destructive, there's just something about a line of stegosaurus -inspired mecha marching at the enemy belching flames...

GG: I would love to get my hands on an Ignis myself and let the world just burn.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

Colin: Knowing that I have a good team around me and that we'll work together to win consistently.  It's not always gold but we have at least a shot at it a lot of times.

GG: Good friends and teamwork is what keeps me coming back for more each war as well.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

Colin: I think there needs to be more balancing done to the lower divisions.  Right now, it seems to be difficult to compete down there unless you are a full team of players who have spent to get one of the large packages. It's discouraging to new players and that will slowly choke off the base of this game.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

Colin: Nah.  It's been a pleasure.  Got a bunch of stuff in the hangar I need to go kick the techs into upgrading...

GG: Ok I will leave you to it. Thanks for stopping by and talking with me today. It has been a pleasure and I hope we can do it again next war.

Colin: Absolutely.

CW3323 Post-War Interview With John Wesley #220298 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome John to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

John: Jack and Coke... in memory of a friend of a friend who passed away recently...  One of our team was away at a funeral for part of this war...

GG: *Mixes a few stiff drinks and passes one to John*

GG: My condolences for your loss. Salute.

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

John: Name, John Wesley, player ID # 220298, Clan is ~Heroes Support~  of which I am the Clan leader, and we came home with a silver in the latest war.

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

John: Oh yeah.  We had some shuffles in personnel right before the war as we had a few players decide to move on to "greener pastures” but the good thing about the ~Heroes~ group is that with the players we have in the upper ranks, they've followed our system and can shift right into place.

GG: Teamwork makes the dream work. It is nice when you have a group of players you can count on to step up.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

John: The folks leaving was a bit of a surprise; I thought that getting silver pretty consistently every war would keep folks satisfied, but I guess the lure of gold with some of the wallet teams was just too tempting.  We also pulled out a surprising win in round 2 against one of the AFF squads.  We were trailing late, but a couple of us thought we had a shot at making a late run. So Skywise, myself and Skoobie put in a concerted late zerg-rush and with help from Eric Finley and Kevin Kyrouac we managed to squeak out a last second win.  It was a real team effort.

GG: Nicely done.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

John: I was a little disappointed in myself for not doing as much pre-planning as I should with the team. We found a weak spot a little too late to address it, but fortunately it didn't end up costing us.  That was my fault as team leader for not doing all the ground work and testing I should have.

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

John: I like the required spec constraint for the wars.  We as a group were "early adopters" if you will, on having and being prepared for specs, so we feel having the required specs or more spec slots works as an advantage for us.

John: Not only are we prepared to run the sepcs, we are prepared to fight them as well.  I know at least one of the folks in the ~Heroes~ family who has filled up all his available slots for spec formations in his hangar.

GG: As a fellow pilot, I know how much work goes into building and maintaining all of those formations. Much respect for the effort.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

John: It's a nice bonus.  I'm not going to complain about myself or my teammates getting extra help in improving their units.  We'll take anything we can get!

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

John: We are finishing it now, about 2% to go so it will be done within the next little bit.  We're actually finishing this one faster than usual.  The raid usually depends on player availability, and everyone was more available this time.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

John: Depends on the teammate.  Usually any of the niode equipment we get we can easily find a slot for, and extra niode weapons are always useful.  If we get 'mechs, that usually depends on the individual player.  I've got enough of a backlog of projects right now that I will usually scrap a raid 'Mech to use the niodes to work on other projects.  As far as the crystal stuff, usually the weapons are lower level that what we are   armed with already so those are scrapped for resources.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

John: oooh, tough question.  So many favorites... Honestly it used to be the Frigis, but these days it's the Dilophos. It can be most easily built into something that is far more lethal than its size would indicate.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

John: The striving for the medals.  Seeing if we can reach our goal of at least a silver across all of our clan family, and celebrating the rare gold medal.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

John: That's a tough one.  I’d like to see some way to push clans upward with success. a weighting of the level average for medals earned.  I know that would affect us too but right now there are some groups who will just win their divisions every time. There are some divisions like ours that are simply not competitive at the top.

GG: That has been up for conversation more than a few times lately.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

John: Yeah, I'll add this.  If there are pilots out there dissatisfied with their current clan, if they are a strong competitor but the rest of their clan doesn't share their enthusiasm, and if they are willing to work with a team and a system that doesn't put  massive pressure on them to spend,  come knock on our door.

John: I'm not going to promise you a win every time, but our medals cabinet speaks for itself.

GG: Ok John. Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with me today. It has been a pleasure. My best to you and your crew.

John: Thanks JR.  See you next time...

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Mary Beth #704283 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Mary Beth to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

MB: Hey, I am happy to be here. Piloting can be hard work and I am thirsty. Anything cold and tasty is good.

GG: *Hands MB a cold drink*

GG:  For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

MB: Mary Beth, #704283 and I fought with Emerald Dragons. We won the gold medal in Division 10.

GG: Grats on your Gold win.

GG:  Did your team perform like you expected this war?

MB: We were hoping for gold in our match fighting Renegades {BHG} and we got it. A lot of preparation went into getting ready for that match and it paid off. Renegades are a good clan and that gold medal round was close. We knew we had to bring our best game to beat them. We also fought Knights of Chaos (2nd Division) and Death's Acolytes {AFF} in rounds 1 and 2 before meeting Renegades in round 3.

GG:  Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

MB: I ran a single rainbow specialist this war and I didn't get attacked as many times as I expected considering I was one of the lower level members of my clan. I also got a few defensive wins and those are always a nice surprise. The RNG can be harsh some days so I am happy for every win I get.

GG:  Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

MB: It is hard to complain when you get the gold medal. The new mechs and other prizes are helping me to keep improving my formations.

GG:  This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

MB: I think the required specialist makes the fights more fun. Specialists give us a good reason to work on formations other than our mains and I like the extra challenge. I ran the single rainbow for my clan this war and that was the first time I have done that specialist in a war.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

MB: Yes, we did and I put those upgrade kits to good use. I think more prizes are a good thing.

GG: It is always hard to say no to MOAR prizes *Grin*

GG:  How hard was the Raid for your team?

MB: There were some easy waves and some hard waves and I think we all did fine with them. When we hit tough sections our higher-level pilots jump in and help out as needed. I saw some mechs in the raid waves that I have not seen before and that was cool.

GG:  Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

MB: I will use some of the raid prizes and then probably sell the rest. No mech prizes for me this time but maybe I will have better luck next time. Emerald landed in a good prize bracket this war and I hope we will be able to repeat that next month.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

MB: It is hard to pick a favorite because they all have different roles. If I have to pick one though I would say Dilophos. It has good equipment slots and built in bonuses. I won the Dilos I have in past wars and they are dangerous with lasers as well as fire. I also really like Dreadnought and Sever. As for the smaller mechs, Fides and Keradons are really nice. I used both in my front lines until I got bigger mechs to replace them.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

MB: I like to talk to my clan mates during the fights in Clan Wars. Figuring out how strong our opponents are and looking out for anyone out of formation makes each battle more fun. Clan Wars have higher stakes than the KOTMs and Circuit Fights so each win is exciting. I like seeing how our opponents build their formations and seeing who will win each battle and then making adjustments to my formations.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

MB: I like seeing new specialists. That is the only thing I can think of for now. There are lots of ways to make the battles interesting and as long as we have new challenges and new prizes from time to time, I will have fun.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

MB: Thanks for the interview!

GG: You are very welcome. It has been a pleasure to have you in today and I hope we will do this again next war.

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Brian Vaughan #56278 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Brian to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

Brian: Never pass on a hatorade and vodka! Thanks!

GG: *mixes up Brian's drink of choice and passes over the glass*

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

Brian: Brian Vaughan  ID #56278 and I fought with the Diamond Dragons for a gold medal.

GG: Grats on the Gold win. *Smiles*

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

Brian: The team put out a solid performance as always. Not saying there were not errors but there were very, very few. It is the well machined squadrons that make the battles easy or hard. I have fought with some pilots in my younger days that just made me shake my head. A whole Leroy Jenkins mentality hitting targets they could never take and doing it repeatedly. One thing about the Dragon clans I have fought in, errors are minimal.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

Brian: Well I guess I will put aside diplomacy and be straight about it. I was surprised the Smurf Platoon didn't show up really. I understand sometimes clans hold shots when they do the math and can't win but that round three fight seemed it would be much closer on paper. Instead they sent halfhearted scouting shots taking unnecessary defensive losses and then just never fielded any true forces. Very disappointing not to have a good battle there

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

Brian: I don't know if it really affects much. Honestly, I am not sure of the purpose of it as announcing a specialty simply gives everyone to adjust for it and thereby neutralizes the advantage that comes from more versatile undeclared specialists.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

Brian: Ha ha seriously? Two 2X upgrade kits? So, they made a meager 12 niodes coupon for running a specialty everyone will be excepting. Whatever...hey if it floats the organizers boat then more power to them.

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

Brian: Seemed a pretty easy walk this time. Didn't hear much commenting on tough lines or impossible formations. I mean oh no it was really hard please, please don't make it so challenging mighty mecha gods.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

Brian: Well I do my best not to curse the gods of luck as they have been good to me too but last few runs have been frustratingly barren of even anything worth selling. A few have made a few decent claims but overall this round has been pretty slim. Open those pocketbooks kiddies, daddy needs a new car. Ha ha ha.

GG: *grins* I have been there myself.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

Brian: Well for the battle machines they are each has its merits as far as the niodes mecha. Crystal mechs I simply never found much use for other than second rate line fillers. Boreas and Fext Torrents and Notros everyone loves the big guns and yes, they are great. However, forgive my sentiment but my favorite mech is my Layne mech because every time I see it I get to remember a little angel who left too soon but still lives on whenever I look and remember how that mech was achieved and that even in this game of conflict and aggression there is a chance to make a contribution with a noble albeit sometimes sad cause. Peace to you little child.

GG: That is a good reminder of what else we have done as a group of players in times past to reach out and help those in need.

GG: We all wish you and your family Peace Layne.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

Brian: The end...? Just messing. I really like the good battles. You know the ones that are close and where the opponents give kudos to the enemy. It's easy to shittalk your way through a conflict and piss on the enemy, but it's a true high caliber warrior who acknowledges the merits of the enemy. Who appreciates the determination of the underdog and values all confrontations as a learning experience. Here's to the true warriors out there! *slams the rest of hatorade and vodka*

GG: *Joins in with the toast*

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

Brian: Don't think it can be fixed in sense that organizers can do anything. It's the clans that have to work that out. You hear about blow outs and how big spenders win it all. There are a thousand excuses for why clans lose or win but end of the day it's planning. Wanna know why clans win? They plan for it. Wanna know why clans lose, they plan for it. If you are losing and do nothing to find solution beyond crying in newspapers and interviews then you have gotten exactly what you planned for. Cold hard truth adapt, spend, move or die. War is hell peoples die in tradition and allegiance or make plans for change and success. Your choice, just don't fill my drinking hours with self-pity.

Brian: Oh, yeah, my point is clan wars get better with better competition and that's what needs to improve. *Wink*

GG: That was a shot across the bow and a call to action *Grin*

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

Brian: How about another shot of vodka to my glass and a salute to all the players out there. Bitchy, fun, assholes and expert tacticians you all make the world a more enjoyable place. Never run another mans rhubarb and we'll keep the lights on for you. Light sands through the hour glass so are the days of our lives...I am not a crook. Salute!!!!

GG: *Salute*

GG: Thanks for taking the time to stop by and talk with my today Brian. It has been a pleasure. My best to you and your crew.

CW3323 Post-War Interview With Don Davis #398405 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome Don to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you a drink from the wet bar before we get started?

Don: I'm OK thanks!

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

Don: Don Davis #398405, CLAN: Juggernaut – GOLD.

GG: Grats on the Gold win. *Smiles*

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

Don: OH yes, and once again, they were magnificent!

GG: Was there anything you found to be a surprise this war?

Don: Yes, the random swings in random shots this war was mind-boggling.  I mean, since when do maxed-out Axebots EVER lose to a bunch of Shocklites?  Some of the most freak outcomes Kris and I have seen - and we've got 48 Vizis between us.  We'd see a line of six maxed-out 100-ton niode mechs only get two shots off and go down to 14 shots from a mishmash line of half-equipped, half-crystal 85 and 90-ton mechs.  Crazy stuff.  Basically, after we dropped some 4 attacks in the first couple of hours, we realized there was really no longer any such thing as a "safe attack".  Some of these battles that would have been no contest in daily play suddenly had coin-toss odds.

GG: Do you think there are two different RNG's at work? One for non CW and then a different one for CW?

Don: Well, I think that's always been the case, but in the past, we have observed an "attacker advantage" in daily play that we don't really see in KoTM or Clan Wars.  Makes sense in terms of game goals.  But this is practically throwing all the mech, equipment and weapons specifications, especially with regard to percentage-bonus multipliers, completely out the window.  In short, the "game math" seemed all but totally suspended.  It was surreal at times.

GG: Yes, for those pilots who put a lot of time into their formation tech and strategy this could be mind blowing and frustrating. I guess we will see if things stabilize once the missile speed boost goes away.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

Don: Well no - I don't think it was a result of the missile speed boost either.  Some of these effects really had nothing to do with missiles.  In fact, I'd say I was only mildly disappointed that the missile speed effect seemed somewhat muted, but that's probably because I've always been frustrated most by those occasions where a fully-equipped and armed mech simply stands there and DOESN'T FIRE.  It's just such a WASTE!

GG: Very interesting that the speed boost did not seem to matter that much in what you were seeing. I hope this random coin toss outcomes does not stick around too long. If the players get frustrated with all their hard work and strategy not panning out there could be waves of retirements over the next few months.

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

Don: I don't mind it so much with common specs like the rainbows that don't invoke a de-facto "specific mech" requirement.  The problem is that one war cycle is not enough time to work up certain specs if nobody in the clan has the mechs for building it.  Lower level divisions are the least likely to have it, and the higher levels just don't have time to level up the mechs.  At >200 or so, it takes almost 6 months to field a fully leveled prize mech that you might have won 6 wars ago.  But just about anybody can throw a SRB together, so that wasn't so bad.

GG: Yes, sometimes I shudder when I think about how much time to takes a mech to upgrade at your level Don.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

Don: Yeah, I'd say prizes definitely help.  The bigger the incentive, the harder people try - so that's probably the easiest way to drive competition, as long as there is a good variety of changes in the prize distribution.

GG: This might be a silly question for the Gold winners in D1 but how hard was the Raid for your team?

Don: Well, we're still in it, but it's hardly ever that bad for us.  It seemed a little tougher this time.  I can only take out 2 to 3 of the toughest formations before I have to wait to heal.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

Don: Well, we'll see, LOL - last raid was the worst payout I've ever had!

GG: Good luck to you then *Smiles*

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

Don: It's tough to say.  I've always been a fire specialist.  I still run my 7 Infernos-of-Lore in my 70T spec, but I do like my 7 Notos mechs quite a bit as well, but it's most important to stay objective when evaluating mech performance and what's going to work best where in the formation.

GG: Staying objective can be a challenge when you have a lot of sentiment built up with some of your older mechs who got you to where you are today.

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

Don: Really, it's the head game, so it's gotta be competitive for that to even be necessary.  Blowouts obviously don't call for it, so it gets fun when you have to start thinking like your opponent and then out-thinking them.  Developing attack plans, defensive strategy, and coordinating the attacks and battle-rhythm is the real fun part for me when we're in the thick of it.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

Don: Well, a lot of it is up to us.  We're actually in negotiations, believe it or not, with Leviathan - at their prompting, which is refreshing - about bringing up more of the up & coming ambitious players to Div 1.  I'm just SO glad that they GET IT:  Neither Leviathan or Juggernaut are interested in perpetuating blowouts by "stacked Clans".  So, we're not looking at recruiting "ringers" that develop elsewhere anymore - we're looking at grooming the next great players from WITHIN.  These players will be FORGED IN BATTLE, not just the most effective "resource scavengers" that we often see.  Not to name names, but you know the type; player that have a lot of big mechs and stuff, but they are relatively weak players and rarely demonstrate any imagination or inspiration in battle.  No, what we are doing now in Division One is something else; something that's good for the future of the gameplay.

GG: That sounds very interesting Don. What level range would a prospect be and how would you define ambitious in relation to them being a good candidate for this kind of opportunity?

Don: Oh, I think you'll see the answer to that in the way that our next recruits have personified what we're looking for in the past.  "Level range" is not even a huge concern.  We're looking at player strength and certain less-tangible qualities.  They need to be insightful, coachable and have a great desire to win for the sake of winning, rather than just being tantalized by prizes and payouts.

Don: You can look at what FUSION/Juggernaut did from the beginning, really.

Don: Look at where Fabio was when we brought him in and the powerhouse he is now.  Look at Dexter Berry, who is 70 levels below and can still occasionally beat Fabio.  He's a beast of a mech-builder now.  Look at how Sal Vezozzi has come along from nothing more than a bunch of amped-up Shocklites when he joined.  Look at Walter Doman and Bernard Johnson's incredible defensive wins this war - the signs and symptoms of player ambition is all over these guys.

GG: Remember that you heard it here first folks. the two big dogs in D1 are trying to shake things up and you could be next to join up and become battle forged if you have the right stuff.

GG: That is exciting to hear about Don and I look forward to getting updates from you guys on how this progresses.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

Don: I'd just like to thank all in Div One and everywhere else that is reading what I've been saying here and knows that's what they've been trying to do all along.  Well we're here now.  We're watching.  And that's a "win" for all of us, for as much as we can make it so.

GG: Thanks again for taking the time to stop by and talk with me today Don. It has been a pleasure to have you and I greatly enjoy the chance to talk to you and get the "D1" viewpoint and get a taste of your world.

Don: Thanks to you and all the good work you do at GG!

CW3323 Post-War Interview With German Jaramillo #685605 By John Ringo #899287

GG: Welcome German to The Galaxy Gathering studio. Can I offer you some bottled water or Rum from the wet bar before we get started?

German: I am fine, thanks *refuses gently the rum* I just took some stims recently, and they mix badly with drinks.

GG: Yes, we do not want to give our guests a bad time.

GG: For the record what is your name, player ID, clan you fought with this last CW and what medal did you win?

German: I am German, known by some as the Director of the Mechanomicon and as a pilot, I have fought my last battle as a Dragon, with the Northwind Dragons company, where we had a relaxed gold in the third Division.

GG: Grats on your Gold win.

GG: Leaving a large clan family like the Dragons is big news in our Galaxy. Would you feel comfortable talking about what changed for you as a pilot to want to move on?

German: Of course. While I am glad by the time I have spent with Dragons, I had a goal in mind long time before I even joined them: to keep improving my skills as a pilot as much as possible and be able to compete with the very Olympus of the Elite Pilots...

German: While I encouraged the formidable Dragons' CIC, Scott, to arrange some top unit that in our second attempt assaulted successfully the Top Tier, with the collaboration of the Brotherhood, that is not enough for me.

German: To keep competition in lower divisions than the first one, some weight control is needed to qualify for the aimed bracket. For this reason, I have been freezing my path to my original wish.

German: I felt I needed to leave as formidable group to be able to put all the beef on the bbq and move as fast as I could. I have seen some expert pilots close to me in the past, now above because they had that freedom I needed.

GG: Ah I see your dilemma. You needed to keep your level growth down to best fit the team and leaving opens your wings to climb as fast as you can to reach D1. I wish you the best on your personal quest to join the D1 ranks.

GG: Did your team perform like you expected this war?

German: I will admit I was not putting attention to them since none of our opponents seemed really as bold as supposing a serious threat for our team. We were used to fight elite opponents and while we found brave warriors, none of their units could stand our barrage.

German: I know it sounds pretentious, but it's reality. On the other hand, perhaps my mind was already elsewhere ...

GG: Fair enough.

GG: Was there anything you found to be a disappointment this war?

German: I had some problems, small foolish arguments born of the tension of the competition in the tournament and the imminence of the war in the other dimension... But precisely these small interruptions in the harmony of my relations with the team, served me to realize that I was delaying the continuation of my true path.

GG: This war every clan needed a SRB specialist to get in the game. We have had a required spec now for the last two wars. Do you feel this requirement improves or takes away from Clan Wars?

German: The more complications and sakes added to the competition, the higher adaptability the mercenary clans will become. As the saying reminds us: Adapt or die.

GG: I try to live by that saying myself.

GG: The pilots who ran the required SRB spec this war earned (2) 2X upgrade kits. Does this extra prizing improve Clan Wars and should be continued?

German: If you got a single Niode as reward for your efforts, may you refuse it, or keep it to continue gathering spoils enough to bring up your forces? Every small gear counts in the long run towards success. Those who take the troubles and efforts to hoard everything that is useful for the road, reach their goal.

GG: How hard was the Raid for your team?

German: While they swept with the Xeon's lines, I was tracking to capture so called master of assassins, Dr. Okee. May my fellows get all the booty, my whole interest was to end the genocide. Unfortunately, he found a way to retreat away from my point mech when I had already the finger on the trigger to shot him a passage to the afterlife.

GG: Sorry to hear he escaped your sights.

GG: Are the Raid Prizes this war useful for your team or do you just sell most of it for needed Niodes?

German: Gold in the top tier of the tournament prizes is a very useful haul. I believe most of us will keep it.

GG: What is your favorite mech that you own and why?

German: Until I entered the elite 100-ton BFMs league, Boreas was the undisputed king. Now that I have a sweet amount of Fexts, Notos, Humbabas and Pikes, I start to have a great variety of formidable mech capable of diversifying winning tactics.

German: Anyway, my front line as my second row, are filled with Boreas I love to keep.

German: Boreas is one of the few Mechs whose built can reach by itself a high accuracy, allowing to the techs to load deadly cockpits without caring about the need to load additional precision boosting modules.  That precision within formidable freezing and slowing capabilities makes from that icy mech a so serious opponent.

German: Boreas is also so versatile, allowing to build it with different configurations in support of your different tactics.

German: But I am afraid, this mech is getting slightly behind with the heavier twins, especially since most of the rare equipment cannot be loaded in a lighter mech.

GG: I have not had the pleasure of piloting one myself but I have talked to lots of pilots who love them like you do *Grin*

GG: What is your favorite thing about Clan Wars?

German: The Mecha Tournaments as the Clan Wars are the keyword to keep all the mercenary clans well trained and ready for the real threats that so often menace our galaxy.

German: Thanks to the small variations in the rules of the tournaments, as well as the diversity of its participants, is how we can really improve and polish our skills as pilots.

GG: In your opinion, what needs to be fixed to make Clan Wars better?

German: The rewards should be better adjusted to the level of participants' abilities. While the first divisions are well served, as we descend, we find divisions in which the average level of their participants is well above the usefulness of the prizes they receive. I would suggest to the Craftsmen, the addition of more tiers, grating to the participants well balanced prizes that may be useful for them in the defense of the galaxy.

GG: Yes, there has been a lot of talk among quite a few pilots about this topic lately. We can hope Nick reads this and thinks about it.

GG: Before we wrap this up is there anything you would like to add?

German: Yes. Remember that before throwing you into the frenzy of battle, there are important things worth fighting for, and their safety depends on us. In the same way, do not neglect the things that are worthwhile and do not banish them from your lives. There will always be a moment to digress into the beauty of those little things that fill our hearts so much.

GG: Thanks again for taking the time to speak to me today. I wish you the best on your personal quest to reach the very top level players in D1.

German: Thank you, my friend. I will have to work hard to qualify for them, but the door is slightly open and it is an occasion that I cannot let slip.