Starting Ship

[rollerball]

I have heard that the Miranda class vessel may be the starting vessel for captains. I wold prefer the Oberth class as more suitable for my playing style. Do you have a starting ship in mind?

[inXi]

I wouldn't mind if you could choose between 3-5 starships from the beginning to direct your gearing... such as choosing a starting vessel that has more cargo space and less firepower or w/e.

[Commander_Nate]

A Borg Unicomplex or the Enterprise J...

In all seriousness though, I was thinking like a Norway or Akira would be cool. Although an Akira is probably a few levels up so that won't happen.

[THORN74]

many of us have been thinking the UN-NAMED BLUE ship from NYCC (http://www.tentonhammer.com/node/63267?size=_original) is the fed starter for some time now. It is a Miranda CONFIGURATION (not class) which is how Zink worded it when he told us.

[RookActual]

The Centaur is possibly another starting ship, one I'm interested in. It's unique and has very little information regarding it.

[Elboulevardo]

i think a good starting 5 (for feds anyway, klinks, need some more SOTL before i can speculate there) choice could be

Oberth (refit, or config)
Miranda
Norway
Sabre
Centaur

i think having 5 classes, plus all the configs that can be done on each can really create a nice variance of ship types we see out there...dont know about youg uys but im not overly crazy about the idea of flying around with thousands of mirandas or centaurs and thats it

but thats just a thought anyway

[TruthSeer]

I wouldn't mind if you could choose between 3-5 starships from the beginning to direct your gearing... such as choosing a starting vessel that has more cargo space and less firepower or w/e.

I would think there'd be at least 3, one for each profession/career path.

[Commander_Nate]

This brings up another newb question that I've been meaning to ask. When it comes to naming your ship, that name is going to be unique right? Like if I name my ship USS Cartman's Revenge or whatever, is that name going to be unavailable to everyone else?

It could get really awkward and lame seeing USS Enterprise A137759 and USS Defiant XQ9934 all over the place. I think part of what would make a game like STO cool is the possibility of having you and your ship be famous via name recognition.

[TruthSeer]

This brings up another newb question that I've been meaning to ask. When it comes to naming your ship, that name is going to be unique right? Like if I name my ship USS Cartman's Revenge or whatever, is that name going to be unavailable to everyone else?

It could get really awkward and lame seeing USS Enterprise A137759 and USS Defiant XQ9934 all over the place. I think part of what would make a game like STO cool is the possibility of having you and your ship be famous via name recognition.

We really have no idea how naming will work. Though it is a pretty good guess that established names (Defiant, Enterprise, Voyager) will be blocked.

Though they may choose to follow Champions Online:
People will be able to have any name within the naming criteria, i.e no names of canon characters/ships and possibly other restrictions like numbers or symbols (just examples no opinions either way).

/tell John Smith (<--character name)
If there are more than one the tell will probably go to the closest one, i.e on your team or in the same system

To narrow it down you'd use:
/tell John Smith@crazyirish (<-- character name@global name)

Though I am hoping for a more Star Trek twist, something like

/tell John Smith of Crazy Irish (<-- character name of ship name)

[RookActual]

Anyone found complaining about the starting ship, instantly gets a Kelvin.

[TruthSeer]

Anyone found complaining about the starting ship, instantly gets a Kelvin.

Without any modern era upgrades.

[RookActual]

Without any modern era upgrades.

With a Pak'Led First officer, a Ferengi counselor, and me...as your lovable insubordinate security chief you're afraid to confront because he has felony charges on three worlds.

[Kinjiru]

I just had a thought about that...

/speculation on

What if, instead of ship names being unique, the registry numbers are assigned by the system automatically when you commission a new ship, those would be unique, but the names themselves, assigned by the player could possibly duplicate? So there might be five USS Terrible Lizards running around, but each would have a unique registry?

Not saying that I want to see a bunch of USS Katanas out there, but it does open up some possibilities. Think about it, there are so many canon accepted names already out there, a naming ban on all of them would mean that a ton of names aren't available. Of course, I think the most famous names would be blocked anyway, but really, who's it hurting if you want to name your ship the USS Sabre?

Which is the real question anyway... would it drop your sense of immersion to run into a player in the USS Intrepid (The Constitution class version with the all vulcan crew.), or USS Farragut? These are both canon names, but I don't think I'd mind seeing a player name his ship after one of them.

Anyway, the gist was that if the registry numbers are unique and assigned by the system, there's still a unique identifier for each ship in the game, and I don't think players would get upset if they can't have NCC 2726655 for their ships hull ID. :)

[RookActual]

I just had a thought about that...

/speculation on

What if, instead of ship names being unique, the registry numbers are assigned by the system automatically when you commission a new ship, those would be unique, but the names themselves, assigned by the player could possibly duplicate? So there might be five USS Terrible Lizards running around, but each would have a unique registry?


I have suggested this in past threads, and definitely agree. It may be annoying to run into a vessel of the same name, but less annoying than being able to name your ship what you want. You can not imagine the frustration I will feel when USS Purple Carebear is taken....

[TruthSeer]

I just had a thought about that...

/speculation on

What if, instead of ship names being unique, the registry numbers are assigned by the system automatically when you commission a new ship, those would be unique, but the names themselves, assigned by the player could possibly duplicate? So there might be five USS Terrible Lizards running around, but each would have a unique registry?

....

Anyway, the gist was that if the registry numbers are unique and assigned by the system, there's still a unique identifier for each ship in the game, and I don't think players would get upset if they can't have NCC 2726655 for their ships hull ID. :)

And use the registry numbers as a telephone number. :) j/k, kinda

Anyway I like the idea of the registry being unique.

What if each account is allowed one unique ship name?

[Trsmash]

I could choose any ship to start with on the Federation side then I would go with the Wells Class Timeship. THat would be my prefered vessel. But, since I know that is definitely not a starting ship or possibly a ship at all in STO I will probably start with the Centaur.

[Kinjiru]

And use the registry numbers as a telephone number. :) j/k, kinda

Anyway I like the idea of the registry being unique.

What if each account is allowed one unique ship name?

Actually, that might be an interesting way to hail a specific ship... dial in the registry number? It's certainly more "Trek" than sending a /tell. :)

Not sure about the one unique name per account though. It's possible, I think, but how do you choose which ship of yours would have the unique name? Maybe allow names to be transferable from ship to ship? That way, if you started out with a Nova class named Katana, you could just transfer that name to your Intrepid when you move up?

I'd hate to be the poor guy coding that little algorithm in. :D

[TruthSeer]

Not sure about the one unique name per account though. It's possible, I think, but how do you choose which ship of yours would have the unique name? Maybe allow names to be transferable from ship to ship? That way, if you started out with a Nova class named Katana, you could just transfer that name to your Intrepid when you move up?

I'd hate to be the poor guy coding that little algorithm in. :D

I know I worded it badly, what I was thinking each account would have access to one name (I was thinking global/account name) that only they could use. It could be used on each of their ships if they wanted but it would be theirs.

[osena]

we can chose a Miranda or Centaur class as a starting ship :D

[Kinjiru]

I know I worded it badly, what I was thinking each account would have access to one name (I was thinking global/account name) that only they could use. It could be used on each of their ships if they wanted but it would be theirs.

Ahhhh, makes more sense now. :)

I agree, that could work.

[drays917]

And use the registry numbers as a telephone number



Oh, that is quite a good idea, I would think...

[inXi]

I would think there'd be at least 3, one for each profession/career path.That would be sufficient, I'm just not sure of the career paths are finalized yet, and there may be some variation within them, as well as a jack-of-all-trades ship, or a deficient ship with a ton of people, etc. In any case, it would be nice to start with a fitting ship rather than gather money and wait until you can get a fitting ship. >>

[KashikoiBaka]

I'm for the registry numbers being generated for each ship randomly so to speak, that way we can have monthly raffles for a special emblem or warpcore or grab bag!

[Blodveard]

I would be happy with the Miranda being the starter ship, it is actually my favorite looking Star Fleet ship anyway.

I only hope that we can customize it as time goes on. I hope we can do more than just name our ships. It would be nice to change the color of its running lights; add decals or other markings; even paint the hull various colors.

I also hope that we can configure different components on / in the ship. Can we add more phasers or torpedo tubes? Can we add more exploration sensors, or increase its propulsion power?

kind of like "Star Fleet Pimp my Ride".

[Spire]

I'm kinda hoping that we all start out in a standard Miranda, and have to customize it from there. It'll be fun to go from the stock-standard newb ship to my pimped out cruiser. And we've seen that you can really customize your ship, so instead of Miranda configuration you could make it into centaur or something similar as you progress. Or upgrade it into Saber if you get that back area.

PS. What would everyone think of different configurations adding different bonuses? Like a Miranda configuration would add to sensors and a centaur would add to speed or weapons. Not much, just like bonus stats for races.

[TheDrifter]

I'm kinda hoping that we all start out in a standard Miranda, and have to customize it from there. It'll be fun to go from the stock-standard newb ship to my pimped out cruiser. And we've seen that you can really customize your ship, so instead of Miranda configuration you could make it into centaur or something similar as you progress. Or upgrade it into Saber if you get that back area.



I'll never understand why some people prefer little or no starting custimazation.

I know, we are all unique with our own preferences and game styles and blah blah blah.

But really, one of the best parts of CoH is you can look like virtually anything. Dude in street clothes and sunglasses? Check. Pink spandex and lightening bolts? Check. Futuristic knight with a cowboy hat? Check. And everything in between. Now, I know that level of custimazation would probably be unfeasable without breaking Star Trek's look...

But, I want my Miranda to be just that. MY Miranda. Out of the gate I want people to be like "Holy frak, that guy made an awesome and/or hidious Miranda."

Ive played WoW. Ive looked like every other Orc as we progressed. It was meh.

Cryptic knows a better path, and they've used it before.

[RookActual]

I'll never understand why some people prefer little or no starting custimazation.

I know, we are all unique with our own preferences and game styles and blah blah blah.

But really, one of the best parts of CoH is you can look like virtually anything. Dude in street clothes and sunglasses? Check. Pink spandex and lightening bolts? Check. Futuristic knight with a cowboy hat? Check. And everything in between. Now, I know that level of custimazation would probably be unfeasable without breaking Star Trek's look...

But, I want my Miranda to be just that. MY Miranda. Out of the gate I want people to be like "Holy frak, that guy made an awesome and/or hidious Miranda."

Ive played WoW. Ive looked like every other Orc as we progressed. It was meh.

Cryptic knows a better path, and they've used it before.

I agree with the sentiment here, and when you create your avatar you'll have these options. To customize your vessel, though, I have a feeling those components will have to be earned, or 'paid' for with a prestige type system. It will be a form follows function issue, as one style of nacelle will perform differently or have different options than the other, for example.

[trebort5050]

I think the Sabre should be the noob ship as it's pretty small :)

[RookActual]

I think the Sabre should be the noob ship as it's pretty small :)

I would have to imagine it is somewhat more capable than a Miranda or Centaur, likewise with the Norway or Steamrunner.

[trebort5050]

Centaurs and Miranda's are ships I like. I hope they are not crap noob ships.

[RookActual]

Centaurs and Miranda's are ships I like. I hope they are not crap noob ships.

If what Rekhan says is correct, then, for the most part, it seems, a lot of vessels will always be on par with each other to one extent or another.

[Kado2]

It is my thought, along with several others of you here, that there are going to be at least 3-5 different classes. If i had my choice of starting ships i would prefer either an Akira or Centaur and ultimately hope to command a Prometheus.

[RookActual]

It is my thought, along with several others of you here, that there are going to be at least 3-5 different classes. If i had my choice of starting ships i would prefer either an Akira or Centaur and ultimately hope to command a Prometheus.

While the power curve is supposed to be short, I really, sincerely believe an Akira is far too powerful for a starter.

[Kado2]

While the power curve is supposed to be short, I really, sincerely believe an Akira is far too powerful for a starter.


While i would normally agree, we have to take into account that starfleet is going to have newer more advanced and more powerful ships in this game. The Akira, while powerful may very well be yesterdays technology, which would make it a perfect starter.

[loyaltrekie]

While the power curve is supposed to be short, I really, sincerely believe an Akira is far too powerful for a starter.

Isn't the Akira old as dirt by now..30 or so years old iirc. Even with refits, they would hardly be a "top of the line" ship.

[RookActual]

Isn't the Akira old as dirt by now..30 or so years old iirc. Even with refits, they would hardly be a "top of the line" ship.

We've discussed this one at length, and no, I don't really think so. It may be 30 or 40 years old, but a Miranda is at least twice that age. It may not be 'top of the line', per se, but I'd say it's much closer than most other ships that will be included from TNG, DS9 era. It may not be able to keep up with a Sovereign, or any of the ships that Cryptic is introducing, but I would not put it that far behind them. 30-40 is pretty young compared to what most of the ships in the roster are.

[erriku]

Isn't the Akira old as dirt by now..30 or so years old iirc. Even with refits, they would hardly be a "top of the line" ship.

Let's not forget that the Constellation class was in service for 80+ years. Being a 30 year old design is not that bad in Starfleet.

[RookActual]

Let's not forget that the Constellation class was in service for 80+ years. Being a 30 year old design is not that bad in Starfleet.

Exactly. We've got ships floating around that are outliving multiple generations.

[KashikoiBaka]

Exactly. We've got ships floating around that are outliving multiple generations.

Typical Starfleet practice is that a space frame is meant to last for at least a hundred years. From what I recall anyhow. That isn't counting a few of the special circumstances.

[lvjayman]

One concern I have with the customization aspect, is if you can make your ship so visible different, how will people know what class it is. I'd hate to be in my starter ship, taking on say a BOP or D-7(if in game) only to find out it was something newer and tougher in disguise.

[RookActual]

One concern I have with the customization aspect, is if you can make your ship so visible different, how will people know what class it is. I'd hate to be in my starter ship, taking on say a BOP or D-7(if in game) only to find out it was something newer and tougher in disguise.

Each spaceframe will have it's own distinctive characteristics remain common.

[TheDrifter]

I agree with the sentiment here, and when you create your avatar you'll have these options. To customize your vessel, though, I have a feeling those components will have to be earned, or 'paid' for with a prestige type system. It will be a form follows function issue, as one style of nacelle will perform differently or have different options than the other, for example.

I get the feeling that will absolutely not be case.

Every "enhancement" or tweak in CoH takes place behind the scenes.

And for the sake of customization, thats absolutely how it should be. If every nacelle has a bonus attribute, then one nacelle will reign supreme. (And no, you are not achieving balance. Once one nacelle has been identified as "the best" it will reign supreme.)

A system with no stat based items truely gives a player choices. You dont have to be locked into a piece that you think looks bad because it is the optimum one. This is a failing of games that rely on gear. It is one that forces conformity. And its something Cryptic easily side stepped before, so why not do it again?

Seems you gain alot this way (choices) with only sacrificing everyone knowing you have the Nacelle of +3 energy or whatever.

[RookActual]

I get the feeling that will absolutely not be case.

Every "enhancement" or tweak in CoH takes place behind the scenes.

And for the sake of customization, thats absolutely how it should be. If every nacelle has a bonus attribute, then one nacelle will reign supreme. (And no, you are not achieving balance. Once one nacelle has been identified as "the best" it will reign supreme.)

A system with no stat based items truely gives a player choices. You dont have to be locked into a piece that you think looks bad because it is the optimum one. This is a failing of games that rely on gear. It is one that forces conformity. And its something Cryptic easily side stepped before, so why not do it again?

Seems you gain alot this way (choices) with only sacrificing everyone knowing you have the Nacelle of +3 energy or whatever.

Certain pieces of equipment would be bound to certain classes of vessels, and CoH does not deal with Starships. If my 2380 era nacelles are only cosmetically different than my 2340 era nacelles, there is something seriously wrong. Form follows function, and Trek is not dealing with superheroes.

I'm not saying I'm correct, or that my way is right, but it would be somewhat disappointing to me if the changes did not represent at least some manner of function. Being specialized towards a certain task or something.

[Arsinoe]

Centaur for Tactical?
Miranda for Science?
............ for Engineering

Seems perfect to me.

Or apart from your chosen career you still get to choose between one of these 3.

[TheDrifter]

Certain pieces of equipment would be bound to certain classes of vessels, and CoH does not deal with Starships. If my 2380 era nacelles are only cosmetically different than my 2340 era nacelles, there is something seriously wrong. Form follows function, and Trek is not dealing with superheroes.

I'm not saying I'm correct, or that my way is right, but it would be somewhat disappointing to me if the changes did not represent at least some manner of function. Being specialized towards a certain task or something.

And I reckon I'll be disappointed if stats determine the look of my ship. (I mean...outside class of course.)

Fortunatly, Im feeling pretty good about their track record so far backing that up. :D

True choice is so rare in video games. I would be seriously annoyed if presented with two possible systems Cryptic takes the one that removes actual choice in favor of conformity.

[RookActual]

And I reckon I'll be disappointed if stats determine the look of my ship. (I mean...outside class of course.)

Fortunatly, Im feeling pretty good about their track record so far backing that up. :D

True choice is so rare in video games. I would be seriously annoyed if presented with two possible systems Cryptic takes the one that removes actual choice in favor of conformity.

No offense intended by this, but it sounds to me that you'd rather subscribe to a Trek-flavored Second Life.

[KashikoiBaka]

Certain pieces of equipment would be bound to certain classes of vessels, and CoH does not deal with Starships. If my 2380 era nacelles are only cosmetically different than my 2340 era nacelles, there is something seriously wrong. Form follows function, and Trek is not dealing with superheroes.

I'm not saying I'm correct, or that my way is right, but it would be somewhat disappointing to me if the changes did not represent at least some manner of function. Being specialized towards a certain task or something.

Technically the only difference between a Miranda Refits Nacelles and a Miranda Refit's upgraded nacelles, around DS9 time frame, is a blue glow. Allegedly they are better because of the upgrade but its only a cosmetic change. Do you think we'll get green glowing nacelles?!

[RookActual]

Technically the only difference between a Miranda Refits Nacelles and a Miranda Refit's upgraded nacelles, around DS9 time frame, is a blue glow. Allegedly they are better because of the upgrade but its only a cosmetic change. Do you think we'll get green glowing nacelles?!

Well, I'd have to assume Cryptic's customizations will be somewhat less subtle. I'm just not grasping the point of different configurations if it does not alter the capabilities.

[inXi]

There is no point in visual customization if it is defined by function. There really won't be any customization per se, in fact. It'll just be like EVE and the fitting stuff. The point is to make your ship look how you want it to look.

[Isengardtom]

I'd like a constellation class

[phifur]

What about the Klingon Starter ship? poor poor Klingons Second class Faction :( What your ideas for a Klingon starter ship :)? I am hoping for a D7-class ship.

[Isengardtom]

What about the Klingon Starter ship? poor poor Klingons Second class Faction :( What your ideas for a Klingon starter ship :)? I am hoping for a D7-class ship.

I hope the k'vort is in there but B'rel bird of prey would be nice

[trebort5050]

They should get the old D-7 or a B'rel :)

[erriku]

Well, I'd have to assume Cryptic's customizations will be somewhat less subtle. I'm just not grasping the point of different configurations if it does not alter the capabilities.

I agree. They don't have to be extreme alterations in capabilities, maybe have components in tiers in terms of power. But to fit my Miranda with 2260 nacelles and have it perform just as well as a Miranda with 2409 nacelles just seems wrong.

[MagnusTyrel]

*Sigh* peope li've said this in like 1000 posts now but i guese it need to be said again...

It is NOT a Miranda it is a small Miranda LIKE ship...

hope it stick in yer heads this time... ^_^

[Cassidan]

Klingon love is lost with Cryptic it seems. :(

I would love to have my Bird Of Prey as a starter ship.

[Marytha]

/sarcasm

At this point as a Klingon I'd be happy to see rocket boots and helmet as a starting ship..

/sarcasm off

:)

At least it'd be something. :)

Marytha

[Azurian]

To me, Klingons will start off in B'Rel-class BoP. And I'm guessing the second type would be more in line with a science theme for those who want to be a Scientific Klingon Warrior.

D-7's and K'Tingas, I see more of being around Tier 3 than a starter ship.

*Sigh* peope li've said this in like 1000 posts now but i guese it need to be said again...

It is NOT a Miranda it is a small Miranda LIKE ship...

hope it stick in yer heads this time... ^_^

It was confirmed in the latest Ask Cryptic:

When you start off, you’ll fly a Miranda or Centaur class ship

[MagnusTyrel]

You do realize how large a Miranda is dont you? and its entirely possible that it was a typo...

However as im not going to be playing Federation I dont really care what they start with... however it has been mentioned multiple times by devs that it is a small Miranda like ship...

but whatever I dont want to argue, your right im right lets leave it at that ^_^

[erriku]

You do realize how large a Miranda is dont you? and its entirely possible that it was a typo...

However as im not going to be playing Federation I dont really care what they start with... however it has been mentioned multiple times by devs that it is a small Miranda like ship...

but whatever I dont want to argue, your right im right lets leave it at that ^_^

You don't want to argue and you consider yourself Klingon?! You sicken me.

[Tenchi2k]

You do realize how large a Miranda is dont you? and its entirely possible that it was a typo...

However as im not going to be playing Federation I dont really care what they start with... however it has been mentioned multiple times by devs that it is a small Miranda like ship...

but whatever I dont want to argue, your right im right lets leave it at that ^_^

i agree.. the ship they are calling a Miranda is defintly NOT a Miranda.. if u look at the screen shot, the naciles are Under the ship and not where they aree sopest to be, however simular the saucer section may look.. its of the Miranda configuration but is not one.. you "might" could call it a Refit class, but compairing it to the way the Miranda is sopest to look.. this new one is uuuugly.. myself i much prefur a Excelcer class =^.^= but its a heavy cruser and not likely to be a starter ship.

[BreachAndClear]

i agree.. the ship they are calling a Miranda is defintly NOT a Miranda.. if u look at the screen shot, the naciles are Under the ship and not where they aree sopest to be, however simular the saucer section may look.. its of the Miranda configuration but is not one.. you "might" could call it a Refit class, but compairing it to the way the Miranda is sopest to look.. this new one is uuuugly.. myself i much prefur a Excelcer class =^.^= but its a heavy cruser and not likely to be a starter ship.

The starting ship is of the "Miranda configuration" not the Miranda class. All of these (http://www.zam.com/Im/image/gallery/128535) are potential starting ships, and all are of the same "Miranda configuration."

[TruthSeer]

The starting ship is of the "Miranda configuration" not the Miranda class. All of these (http://www.zam.com/Im/image/gallery/128535) are potential starting ships, and all are of the same "Miranda configuration."

I really think those are the same ships, just demonstrating the customization options rather than each being an individual type or class.

And the reason I think they are always avoiding calling the ship a Miranda is because it is going to get a Excalibur (Connie) type upgrade.

[BreachAndClear]

I really think those are the same ships, just demonstrating the customization options rather than each being an individual type or class.

And the reason I think they are always avoiding calling the ship a Miranda is because it is going to get a Excalibur (Connie) type upgrade.

They are not the same ship. No more so than the Centaur and Miranda are the same ship. You start with a Miranda configuration, you can make it look like a Miranda, or Centaur, or any of the ships in the linked image. You're not selecting a class. You get a configuration which you can make look like a pre-existing class, or a new "class."

[Tenchi2k]

well i was just makeing my point that from the picture it wasent a actual Miranda class... just of the configeration

[TruthSeer]

They are not the same ship. No more so than the Centaur and Miranda are the same ship. You start with a Miranda configuration, you can make it look like a Miranda, or Centaur, or any of the ships in the linked image.

Even though I'm pretty sure the article the picture comes from is about customization?

[BreachAndClear]

Even though I'm pretty sure the article the picture comes from is about customization?

Customization of the configuration (and all Fed players will start with a Miranda configuration). You customize the configuration into a "class" you don't customize the class.

[TruthSeer]

Customization of the configuration (and all Fed players will start with a Miranda configuration). You customize the configuration into a "class" you don't customize the class.

It would make more sense the other way around. Since the start of Trek they've been referred to as Constitution class, Galaxy class, Defiant, class. The class is the base line and how you change it is the configuration, which is pretty much the definition of configuration.

[Azurian]

They are not the same ship. No more so than the Centaur and Miranda are the same ship. You start with a Miranda configuration, you can make it look like a Miranda, or Centaur, or any of the ships in the linked image. You're not selecting a class. You get a configuration which you can make look like a pre-existing class, or a new "class."

What I take on it is that you do start off with a Miranda or a Centaur-class starship and then modify it into a new class.

[RookActual]

It would make more sense the other way around. Since the start of Trek they've been referred to as Constitution class, Galaxy class, Defiant, class. The class is the base line and how you change it is the configuration, which is pretty much the definition of configuration.

What I take on it is that you do start off with a Miranda or a Centaur-class starship and then modify it into a new class.

Yes, I agree with both of you. It's not Lego Star Trek.

[Azurian]

Yes, I agree with both of you. It's not Lego Star Trek.

Oh they saving that for the Kitbashing Expansion. :D

[RookActual]

Oh they saving that for the Kitbashing Expansion. :D

Sweet, because I want my Sabre-class to have full size Sovereign-class nacelles. Yeah.

[Captain.Hunter]

I for one hope they will give us a choice of 3 (or more) starting ships.

For the Federation I'd love to see:
Miranda-like class
Nova class
Defiant class

For the Klingons:
Raptor class
Bird of Prey class
??? class

All these ships are fairly small and perfect starter type ships for newbie captains.

[MinimumWarp]

I'm perfectly content with the Miranda class. I plan on going the science/exploration/diplomacy route and the Miranda is one of the classic science vessels.

[TruthSeer]

I for one hope they will give us a choice of 3 (or more) starting ships.

For the Federation I'd love to see:
Miranda-like class
Nova class
Defiant class


Swap Defiant for a Saber and I can agree with that. Remember the actual size of a ship doesn't mean much. In the last Ask they were comparing the Defiant and the Prometheus.

Klingons, my guess is:

Bird of Prey (B'rel)
Unknown Gorn ship
Unknown Orion/Nausican

[BreachAndClear]

It would make more sense the other way around. Since the start of Trek they've been referred to as Constitution class, Galaxy class, Defiant, class. The class is the base line and how you change it is the configuration, which is pretty much the definition of configuration.

You create your ship. The configuration defines the basic shape, while the class is determined by particular components. The Centaur and Miranda are of the same configuration but different classes as one has Excelsior style components and the other Constitution style components. In the picture I linked to (http://www.zam.com/Im/image/gallery/128535) all the ships have different components. They are no more the same class than the Centaur and Miranda. They are different "classes" within the same configuration (though they probably won't have class names). Again, you customize the configuration, not the class. You don't see Galaxy class ships flying around with Constitution style primary hulls and Sovereign style nacelles. Such a ship would not be a Galaxy class.

Ask Cryptic Feb 19, 2009:

"For instance, you may start out in a light cruiser. In this configuration, you will find ships like the Miranda class and the Centaur class. Both these ships have a prominent saucer section, and two nacelles that hang below the saucer. Both these classes have a similar configuration that is nothing like, say, a Galaxy class, Defiant or Nebula class ship.

When you have a ship that is a certain configuration, you will be able to modify all the parts – the saucer, the nacelles, the pylons, the primary hull, etc. You will also be able to modify colors, decals, and other bits. However, the configuration will remain recognizable. If you are in the light cruiser configuration, you can make it look just like a Miranda, a Centaur, or something completely unique. The combinations are massive, however, you will not be able to have 4 nacelles or make your light cruiser look like a Galaxy class ship. So your ship will be unique, but others will be able to recognize its general capabilities. People will be able to look at someone’s ship and say, “Hey, that’s like a Nebula, so I know it’s an advanced science vessel”, or ”Hey, look at that cool Prometheus variant!”"

You can make your "Miranda configuration" look like a Centaur or a Miranda, but my "Centaur" and another persons "Miranda" are the same thing customized to look differently. You can modify all of the parts. If you modify every part that makes a Miranda a Miranda, its not a Miranda anymore.

TopTenHammer Interview:

"Craig Zinkievich – Executive Producer, Star Trek Online: It’s not the same level of customization as the alien creator is. As a kind of general overview, there are over a dozen different classifications or configurations are what we call them, of ships within the game. So you have your basic Miranda type, your Akira configuration, your Galaxy configuration. The customization within these configurations – it’s actually pretty awesome what the ship guys have been able to do – the different nacelles, the pylons which are the things the nacelles attach to, the different bridges, the saucers to the actual materials that you put on it such as the windows you choose or the color detail around the ship."

The differences are solely cosmetic and my "Centaur" will be the exact same in performance as someone else's "Miranda" until we progress far enough that we start equipping functional equipment.

"Now, based on all of the other aspects of the ship that aren’t cosmetic; what weapons you’ve slotted, what systems you have on board, how your deflector dish is configured, what bridge officers you have on your bridge – that really, really narrows down what role you’re going to end up playing, what powers you end up having and really what sort of subclass you have.

So there’s the cosmetic customization which is really cool, and then there’s the functional customization that, within a configuration of a ship, you can really bend and specify how you end up using that ship."

As far as the game is concerned, all the ships within the same configuration are the same ship. Changes in structure are purely cosmetic and it is the configuration, not the "class", that determines the ships' roles. While functional customization, which is independent of cosmetic changes, further differentiates individual ships.

[erriku]

You create your ship. The configuration defines the basic shape, while the class is determined by particular components. The Centaur and Miranda are of the same configuration but different classes as one has Excelsior style components and the other Constitution style components. In the picture I linked to (http://www.zam.com/Im/image/gallery/128535) all the ships have different components. They are no more the same class than the Centaur and Miranda. They are different "classes" within the same configuration (though they probably won't have class names). Again, you customize the configuration, not the class. You don't see Galaxy class ships flying around with Constitution style primary hulls and Sovereign style nacelles. Such a ship would not be a Galaxy class.

Ask Cryptic Feb 19, 2009:

"For instance, you may start out in a light cruiser. In this configuration, you will find ships like the Miranda class and the Centaur class. Both these ships have a prominent saucer section, and two nacelles that hang below the saucer. Both these classes have a similar configuration that is nothing like, say, a Galaxy class, Defiant or Nebula class ship.

When you have a ship that is a certain configuration, you will be able to modify all the parts – the saucer, the nacelles, the pylons, the primary hull, etc. You will also be able to modify colors, decals, and other bits. However, the configuration will remain recognizable. If you are in the light cruiser configuration, you can make it look just like a Miranda, a Centaur, or something completely unique. The combinations are massive, however, you will not be able to have 4 nacelles or make your light cruiser look like a Galaxy class ship. So your ship will be unique, but others will be able to recognize its general capabilities. People will be able to look at someone’s ship and say, “Hey, that’s like a Nebula, so I know it’s an advanced science vessel”, or ”Hey, look at that cool Prometheus variant!”"

You can make your "Miranda configuration" look like a Centaur or a Miranda, but my "Centaur" and another persons "Miranda" are the same thing customized to look differently. You can modify all of the parts. If you modify every part that makes a Miranda a Miranda, its not a Miranda anymore.

TopTenHammer Interview:

"Craig Zinkievich – Executive Producer, Star Trek Online: It’s not the same level of customization as the alien creator is. As a kind of general overview, there are over a dozen different classifications or configurations are what we call them, of ships within the game. So you have your basic Miranda type, your Akira configuration, your Galaxy configuration. The customization within these configurations – it’s actually pretty awesome what the ship guys have been able to do – the different nacelles, the pylons which are the things the nacelles attach to, the different bridges, the saucers to the actual materials that you put on it such as the windows you choose or the color detail around the ship."

The differences are solely cosmetic and my "Centaur" will be the exact same in performance as someone else's "Miranda" until we progress far enough that we start equipping functional equipment.

"Now, based on all of the other aspects of the ship that aren’t cosmetic; what weapons you’ve slotted, what systems you have on board, how your deflector dish is configured, what bridge officers you have on your bridge – that really, really narrows down what role you’re going to end up playing, what powers you end up having and really what sort of subclass you have.

So there’s the cosmetic customization which is really cool, and then there’s the functional customization that, within a configuration of a ship, you can really bend and specify how you end up using that ship."

As far as the game is concerned, all the ships within the same configuration are the same ship. Changes in structure are purely cosmetic and it is the configuration, not the "class", that determines the ships' roles. While functional customization, which is independent of cosmetic changes, further differentiates individual ships.

Based on that quote, it seems as though they will be focusing on types rather than classes. Like an Explorer type as opposed to a Galaxy class. I don't know how I feel about being able to get a Galaxy class and then mod it out to look like a Sovereign class because they are both Explorer types. I would rather have had it divided by class instead.

[BreachAndClear]

Based on that quote, it seems as though they will be focusing on types rather than classes. Like an Explorer type as opposed to a Galaxy class. I don't know how I feel about being able to get a Galaxy class and then mod it out to look like a Sovereign class because they are both Explorer types. I would rather have had it divided by class instead.

Well, it might not be a matter of getting a Sovereign class and then customizing it after the fact. It might be a matter of you specifying what your ship looks like before it's built. For instance, when a character gains the proper skills to gain access to a ship in the "Akira configuration" they might go to a starbase to get their ship constructed and specify what they want it to look like before it gets constructed, rather than getting an Akira and then modifying it into an Oslo, which makes little sense.

It would make more sense to specify - before construction - that you would like a ship with a Centaur style primary hull, pylons, and nacelles rather than getting a ship that looks like a Miranda and then saying that you want to "retrofit" it with a Centaur style saucer, pylons, and nacelles. At that point you're destroying the ship you had completely and building a ship from scratch. If I bulldoze my house completely and build a completely different house with a completely different layout, I'm not remodeling my house, there is none of the original house left.

[erriku]

Well, it might not be a matter of getting a Sovereign class and then customizing it after the fact. It might be a matter of you specifying what your ship looks like before it's built. For instance, when a character gains the proper skills to gain access to a ship in the "Akira configuration" they might go to a starbase to get their ship constructed and specify what they want it to look like before it gets constructed, rather than getting an Akira and then modifying it into an Oslo, which makes little sense.

I guess that is true. So one would first choose the type of vessel they want built (example Explorer type) then would choose what they would want it to look like as it is being built? What about afterwards? Are there changes that can be made post construction?

[BreachAndClear]

I guess that is true. So one would first choose the type of vessel they want built (example Explorer type) then would choose what they would want it to look like as it is being built? What about afterwards? Are there changes that can be made post construction?

Well, I'm just speculating that we might decide what our ship will look like before it's built. I don't think there has been any confirmation on that. Afterwards, you'll probably be able to make functional changes to the ship like improving the deflector or switching out the phaser banks for improved phasers or putting different plating on the hull, etc. But IMO it wouldn't make sense to get a Miranda and then be able to switch out the saucer, pylons, and nacelles for something new, because at that point none of the original ship is left. So, I think it would make the most sense to specify cosmetic customization (saucer type, nacelle type, etc.) prior to construction while specifying it's functional customization after (phaser type, hull plating, deflector).

[erriku]

Well, I'm just speculating that we might decide what our ship will look like before it's built. I don't think there has been any confirmation on that. Afterwards, you'll probably be able to make functional changes to the ship like improving the deflector or switching out the phaser banks for improved phasers or putting different plating on the hull, etc. But IMO it wouldn't make sense to get a Miranda and then be able to switch out the saucer, pylons, and nacelles for something new, because at that point none of the original ship is left. So, I think it would make the most sense to specify cosmetic customization (saucer type, nacelle type, etc.) prior to construction while specifying it's functional customization after (phaser type, hull plating, deflector).

Okay. That does make a lot of sense. The way you describe it, I would be comfortable with it not giving us a class but instead a type to choose from.

[drays917]

But IMO it wouldn't make sense to get a Miranda and then be able to switch out the saucer, pylons, and nacelles for something new, because at that point none of the original ship is left.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ship_of_Theseus

...that being said, I think your overall point makes a lot of sense. I would like the ability to change *some* cosmetic details post facto, just to keep things fresh and new - I'm not saying I want to be able to turn my little Miranda-esque thing into a Sovereign-esque thing, but every so often you might need a new paint job or whatnot. It's an interesting dilemma, though.

[RookActual]

Based on that article, it seems to be me that the components will each have different stats, if not, we only have effectively three ships to choose from.

[renderpix]

Anyone found complaining about the starting ship, instantly gets a Kelvin.

Hermes scout class, wonder if they will have it. :D

I would like to see Bird of Prey B'Rel class or the smaller BoP Scout class for a starter ship. The Scout is smaller than the mentioned Fed starter ship but would still be fun, it atleast would have the advantage of cloak.

[warpfactorx]

A ship of the Miranda config would suit me just fine. I think it would be a well rounded starter ship. The Centaur and Nova would be nice starter ships, although the Nova is a little on the small side but would make a good scout vessel.

[SenatorPardek]

I think its a great idea to start of with Miranda type vessels for the feds. Something thats well established in the universe and well known. My guess is probably the Klingons will start either with a bird of prey, or something based on the TOS klingon vessels.

[THORN74]

A ship of the Miranda config would suit me just fine. I think it would be a well rounded starter ship. The Centaur and Nova would be nice starter ships, although the Nova is a little on the small side but would make a good scout vessel.

the real question is, will each configuration have multiple tiers with in them. Centaur and Miranda could be very close in tier selection, but gaxaly, soveriegn, intrepid, nova, & excaliburare all based off the constitution so they could all be under a Connie configuration. thses ships would obviously need to span several tiers.

[renderpix]

You hear alot of customization for the Federation ships which as it sounds gives alot of advantage where even a small ships are concerned.

The BoP B'rel Scout class is a K-22 has any seen a K-22-X, I wonder if they will allow a configuration like this on the BoP.

[Cassidan]

I'm very interested to see what kind of configurations we get to play with when it comes to the Kilngon ships.

[BreachAndClear]

the real question is, will each configuration have multiple tiers with in them. Centaur and Miranda could be very close in tier selection, but gaxaly, soveriegn, intrepid, nova, & excaliburare all based off the constitution so they could all be under a Connie configuration. thses ships would obviously need to span several tiers.

Well, it is said that there are 12 configurations in the game in one interview. But a lot of people have been saying that there are 12 in the Federation alone. I have seen sources that mention the prior and not the latter. There may be another interview I am unaware of in which the latter is said.

Constitution, Miranda, Galaxy, Intrepid, Defiant, Akira, Prometheus, and Nebula configurations have all been alluded to. Which could mean that these are the 8 Fed configurations, in addition to 4 Klingon configurations. However, it's also been alluded to that there will be playable Orion, Nausicaan, and Gorn ships; so there are surely more than 12 configurations in the game.

EDIT: I just did a search and found this interview (http://www.2404.org/interviews/4800/Star-Trek-Online-Interview-2) in which it is said that there are 12 on the Fed side alone. That would mean that 8 of the 12 configurations are accounted for. The Steamrunner and Nova could be two more configurations, but they've yet to be confirmed.

[erriku]

Well, it is said that there are 12 configurations in the game in one interview. But a lot of people have been saying that there are 12 in the Federation alone. I have seen sources that mention the prior and not the latter. There may be another interview I am unaware of in which the latter is said.

Constitution, Miranda, Galaxy, Intrepid, Defiant, Akira, Prometheus, and Nebula configurations have all been alluded to. Which could mean that these are the 8 Fed configurations, in addition to 4 Klingon configurations. However, it's also been alluded to that there will be playable Orion, Nausicaan, and Gorn ships; so there are surely more than 12 configurations in the game.

EDIT: I just did a search and found this interview (http://www.2404.org/interviews/4800/Star-Trek-Online-Interview-2) in which it is said that there are 12 on the Fed side alone. That would mean that 8 of the 12 configurations are accounted for. The Steamrunner and Nova could be two more configurations, but they've yet to be confirmed.

Ah but he said more than a dozen. :cool:

[BreachAndClear]

Ah but he said more than a dozen. :cool:

Usually in my experience, when a game says something like "more than 50 characters!" the count ends up at 51 or 52. I'd imagine that "more than a dozen" will end up as no more than 14 (I can't even think of 14 configurations).

Nova (?), Steamrunner (?), Constitution, Prometheus, Defiant, Galaxy, Sovereign, Miranda, Nebula, Akira, Intrepid, Oberth (?), Constellation (?), Saber (?), Excelsior (?)

**Some of these might be redundant. Perhaps the Excelsior would belong to the same config as the Constitution, etc. A ship like the Ambassador might be its own configuration, or maybe it fits into either the Connie or Galaxy configuration. There are some gray areas.

I really think that's all the more that's necessary to represent all the ships most anybody would want to play.

[erriku]

Usually in my experience, when a game says something like "more than 50 characters!" the count ends up at 51 or 52. I'd imagine that "more than a dozen" will end up as no more than 14 (I can't even think of 14 configurations).

Nova (?), Steamrunner (?), Constitution, Prometheus, Defiant, Galaxy, Sovereign, Miranda, Nebula, Akira, Intrepid, Oberth (?), Constellation (?), Saber (?), Excelsior (?)

**Some of these might be redundant. Perhaps the Excelsior would belong to the same config as the Constitution, etc. A ship like the Ambassador might be its own configuration, or maybe it fits into either the Connie or Galaxy configuration. There are some gray areas.

I really think that's all the more that's necessary to represent all the ships most anybody would want to play.

I know. Lol I was being facetious.

[Peteromir]

I agree a miranda like starship is likely, though putting people through an intro instance in say a runabout would be fun.

I would like a ship by visual inspection to give away its own type and class, the speciality of its captain, and a clue to its equipment level. Anything else would be against the feel of the films and series.

Dont forget Starfleet is at heart a military orginisation even if it has a higher proportion of peacefull roles than your average armed force.

I recall reading that the command structure of Starfleet in the original series was based of that of the Hornblower books royal navy, from there we may find the key to customisation. The general look remains the same and a particular nacelle will function like it should (though there is more leway even in that thanmany give credit) but the trim etc there was a suprising amount of leeway. Abit like the painting of mascots on aircraft in WW2. We dont want starfleet turning up looking like rejects from wacky races...

[Aethelstan]

You hear alot of customization for the Federation ships which as it sounds gives alot of advantage where even a small ships are concerned.

The BoP B'rel Scout class is a K-22 has any seen a K-22-X, I wonder if they will allow a configuration like this on the BoP.

The B'Rel is in-game at least no idea on customisation, theres a screenshot somewhere around (was in PC Gamer at least) of a B'Rel approaching an asteroid base of some kind though.

You would assume Klingon's will get just as much customisation as the fed's, would be a bit unfair otherwise.

[renderpix]

The B'Rel is in-game at least no idea on customisation, theres a screenshot somewhere around (was in PC Gamer at least) of a B'Rel approaching an asteroid base of some kind though.

You would assume Klingon's will get just as much customisation as the fed's, would be a bit unfair otherwise.

Ya seen that but I was wondering about customization options the K-22-X has a second fixed wing rising off of the original making an additional set of forward facing disruptors :D

But when I think of KDF ship customization the options in vision look kinda odd. where fedy ships seem to look really good accepting them. Sorta like fedy ships are versitle anyway and Klingon ships somehow always look the same built for a purpose without a lot of flash, spartan If you would.

edit, I guess I'm saying for KDF ships like the Vor'cha being a ECM ship or a Fighter the customization is mild, I would not mind this where visuals are concerned for the Klingon ships, different classes of BoP having different wing lengths. I've always been into the basic look. can't wait to see what they come up with.

[JoJimGregory]

I think we should start off with really small ships and build up from there. Like maybe do an initial delivery mission in a Peregrine, then graduate to a slightly larger ship, like an Oberth or Nova, after that first mission. Then do a few missions in one of those before getting the Miranda. Start really small and grow really huge.

No wait, even a better idea! We could start off even smaller, with tricycles that we ride around in the courtyard of Star Fleet Academy while firing stun phasers at each other. You know, to get an accurate feel for how the space combat works. <rimshot>

Ouch, did I say that out loud? :p

[RookActual]

I think we should start off with really small ships and build up from there. Like maybe do an initial delivery mission in a Peregrine, then graduate to a slightly larger ship, like an Oberth or Nova, after that first mission. Then do a few missions in one of those before getting the Miranda. Start really small and grow really huge.

No wait, even a better idea! We could start off even smaller, with tricycles that we ride around in the courtyard of Star Fleet Academy while firing stun phasers at each other. You know, to get an accurate feel for how the space combat works. <rimshot>

Ouch, did I say that out loud? :p


Let the hatred grow, my apprentice!

[7of9]

I would have prefered getting a Runabout style ship for beginner. Then when the first few missions or the tutorial have been accomplished, then a slightly bigger ship can be assigned.

[RookActual]

I would have prefered getting a Runabout style ship for beginner. Then when the first few missions or the tutorial have been accomplished, then a slightly bigger ship can be assigned.

I'm sure we'll wind up on a runabout when it would be more convenient to fight that Borg Sphere with something meatier. :(

[Marytha]

I think we should start off with really small ships and build up from there. Like maybe do an initial delivery mission in a Peregrine, then graduate to a slightly larger ship, like an Oberth or Nova, after that first mission. Then do a few missions in one of those before getting the Miranda. Start really small and grow really huge.

No wait, even a better idea! We could start off even smaller, with tricycles that we ride around in the courtyard of Star Fleet Academy while firing stun phasers at each other. You know, to get an accurate feel for how the space combat works. <rimshot>

Ouch, did I say that out loud? :p


That's a bullet point for the box.

First MMO with tricycle combat simulation!!

Wait, does Hello Kitty MMO, have a tricycle combat simulation?

Marytha

[Kinjiru]

Wait, does Hello Kitty MMO, have a tricycle combat simulation?

Marytha

I heard it was Big Wheels... Or maybe a Green Machine, anybody remember those??

http://www.jonnnubian.com/log/archives/greenmachine.jpg

:D

[7of9]

I'm sure we'll wind up on a runabout when it would be more convenient to fight that Borg Sphere with something meatier. :(

We're talking about starting ship. Fighting Borg vessels are gonna be more like high end game. Two opposite side of the game.

[RookActual]

We're talking about starting ship. Fighting Borg vessels are gonna be more like high end game. Two opposite side of the game.

....that was sorta the entire point of the statement.....;)

[PigUp]

Haven't read entire thread so forgive me if someone posted this previously.

I would like a system where you have enough starting prestige to either buy a tier 1 and some upgrades, or a tier 2, which will use up all your prestige and you have to fly it stock till you get more prestige. For your first character, a tier 1 is probably the way to go. But for people who want to start a new character (or just jump right into the game with a "better" ship) will go for a tier 2. Of course this is assuming a upgraded tier 1 ship is better than a stock tier 2 ship.

*Edited to make mo' sense*

[Tarrin01]

starting ship wise, i elieve that we are getting a Miranda"ish" ship not the miranda itself so maybe an new ship for starfleet training you never know what Kryptic will pull out.

[RookActual]

I dunno, the Devs said Miranda or Centaur. If we want to speculate that they were misleading...that's a different issue.

[GATEGOD]

I always assumed we'd start out Captaining a small shuttle.

Haha... since we'd be ensigns and all.

U guess commanding a larger ship off the start works too.

[JoJimGregory]

Probably mentioned elsewhere, but according to this Beckett article (http://www.massiveonlinegamer.com/news/49-news/86-exploring-the-new-frontier) from May ...

Beckett: Tell me about the vehicles. What ships will you get to play? What about a personal transporter?

Craig: You will start with a fairly small craft during tutorial, and then you will get a light cruiser that you can customize. As your skills improve, you will unlock content and move on to larger or more specialized starships such as the Miranda class (USS Reliant), the Intrepid class (USS Voyager) or Ambassador class (USS Enterprise-C). You can keep a stable of ships, but you will have to go back to a starbase to switch between them. We aren’t planning on ground vehicles at launch, but maybe, just maybe, players will get that really cool dune buggy later.

So, it looks like ...


Small craft during tutorial
Light Cruiser after tutorial
Miranda et al afterwards