Post by Shark on Sept 10, 2006 14:22:52 GMT -5
Hey all,
I've decided to make a beginner's guide for all the people I'm going to invite (hopefully). So, I thought this might be of use to the newcomers.
Basically, it's a guide/ FAQ to the boards and also some beginner's tips for the game in general. Of course, I'm not the greatest expert but it'll have to suffice. It's also different from Tailsnakes since I intend to put some different ideas.
Oh, and the project will be ongoing. Feel free to add on.
Contents (press ctrl + f and type in the letter for shortcut)
1. Welcome to the boards.
1a. Starting out
2. ACFF: Learning the basics.
2a. Winning battles
2b. Terminology
2c. General tips
3. General Qs and Other Miscellaneous
3a. What are the purpose of hangers L and R?
3b. How do I set up an avatar (picture on the side), or put pics into my signature?
AC: FF FAQ
1. Welcome to the boards.
1a. Alright, I'm here. What do I do next?
Here?
www.freewebs.com/shear_x000/
If not, visit that place first. That's the real main page.
Welcome to the boards. It might be a little bit daunting at first glance but it really isn't all that complicated. First off, once you register you may want to introduce yourself to everyone else in this board:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1157399720
Don't be afraid, as none of us won't bite (except maybe bigjon or gamefan..... I'm joking of course).
Once that's over and done with, you might be curious to know where the actual competition takes place. The main attraction is indeed the league, but first take a moment to familiarize yourself with some rules:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1155771784
Second step: Apply.
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=apply
Battles should begin shortly once there are enough participants, and any other details should be found within the rules. If not, make an inquiry with one of these two places:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=qc
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1145421940
If you're uninterested in the league at all (For some odd reason), there are still plenty of AC/ Non-AC things to go around. Just to make things short, I've compiled a small list:
Official Tournaments: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=official
General Board (featuring Exhibition AC matches/ Beauty Pagaent): armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=general
Fanfics: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=fics
Obviously, the list isn't limited to those, but that's just to get the ball rolling. Feel free to explore for yourself... just remember the typical board etiquette by not spamming/ posting offensive things.
2. ACFF: Getting started
2a. I can't seem to win very much here. How do I get better?
This board has quite a few architects experienced with AI and build making, so don't be intimidated if you take a few losses.
First off, a couple of no-nos (with exceptions, of course), to take note of when creating an AC:
Thinking that rank matters
To put it simply, rank doesn't matter much at all, folks. Overall rank isn't squat except an average. So, if you have an "S rank" AC don't be fooled into thinking it's invincible... because most likely it's a horrible hover AC. Focus less on high rank "balance" and make your AC more specialized.
A good area to have S in (but not necessary) is cooling; you'll want to avoid opponents overheating your AC for long periods of time, and also so that you can manage heat levels (esp. from boosters).
In general, B ranks are the most well balanced and ready for battle when it comes to flexibility. That is a rank you'll want to shoot for, but by no means avoid A or C ranks either. Those can be equally as good if you have the proper skills.
Making your AC a weapon monster.
A common thing to see amongst newcomers. Most of the time, an AC doesn't need a weapon in every single slot. This is because it is likely that not all weapons will be used throughout the course of the battle.
An overkill AC...
By "weapon monster", I don't mean to discourage ACs with lots of weapons. However, some combos won't work either because of the aforementioned reason, and/or because they will just be excess weight. The following is a short list, not including inside weapons, exit orbiters, overboost, or extensions (most of which can be used in tandem with weapons):
Good Combinations:
Left hand weapon/Right hand weapon (hangars if necessary): Dual wielding is a good combo and both hands will be used. Hangar may be equipped if short on ammo.
Left hand/ back weapon (either side)/ dual back weapon: Again, this is a good combo since both can be used at once. Note that unless you're using tank or quad legs, your AC will have to pause and kneel to fire the backweapon; with the exception of most missiles and rockets.
If a weapon takes up both slots, that is okay as well.
Bad Combos (with some exceptions):
Left hand/ Right hand/ Hangars/ Back Weapons/ etc...: You'll want to avoid this... do not overload your AC with unnecessary weight. All three or four weapons will not be used at the same time, so remember that. Some exceptions to using this combo include:
- Short ammo on hand weapons, therefore requiring backup.
- Using AI operations that allow you to switch between back and right weapon.
- Using radars for your AC, in which case both sides may be filled by them if deemed necessary.
Ammo Extension/ Missile Extension and unrelated main weapons: This is practically a given. If an extension of these two is equipped then the main weapons must be of the same type, otherwise they won't work. An exception is using orbit cannons, like the harpies and yasya, in combo with missile extensions.
Unlike other AC games, we're focusing on the AI aspect instead of manual control. So it's normal to see builds a lot different than the usual.
2b. All this terminology is confusing. A little help?
Terminology concerning the league should be found within the rules. Otherwise, here's a starter list:
AC: Armored Core (duh...)
Architect: The name used for one who builds ACs as well as designs their AI.
Build: Structure and parts that make up an AC.
Manual: Controlling your own AC without assistance.
AI: Artificial Intelligence, programming an AC for specific battle patterns.
AP: Armor points, the number you can see in either corner of a battle screen which is the AC equivalent of HP (Health points).
ECM: Electronic counter measures.
VS ECM: Countermeasures for avoiding the effects of ECM and ECM noise.
EO: Exit orbiters, an extra function in certain cores which allows supplementary firepower.
OB: Overboost, an extra function in certain cores which allows great, but temporary boosts of speed.
LX: A double back part with LX as the suffix. It is often regarded as being very "cheap" and powerful. Often banned.
When you are building via the assembly, press the triangle button twice to bring up a list of stats. This is important for comparing stats and you'll find yourself using it often. Any terms can be clarified by pressing "select" while looking at stats, then highlighting the term in question.
2c. Alright, I read thorugh all this boring stuff. Got any tips in general?
The first thing I can recommend if you're looking to get better is to look at the hangars of other people. Don't try to copy their ideas part by part, of course, but try to test them out and see how they function. You might find yourself imporving by through observation and experience.
Of course, AC: FF is all about customization so try to develop a unique style as well. Don't be afraid to experiment with new and unique combos, as that is always encouraged.
Also, when building your AC have parts and AI that complement each other. For instance, since quad legs have good turning ability you could optimize that to your advantage. Program the AI to circle the opponent, rapid fire weapons, or whatever works best.
Another example is using a sniper (long range) type AC. Make sure the head has decent functions and equip necessary optional parts. Take your sniper weapon and compliment it with a long range back radar to optimize the firing range.
Alaways remember to tune parts and add optionals to any creation. These usually do no harm at all and only further enhance the build.
Lastly, while operations can work extremely well to perfect a certain strategy, they aren't always necessary. Try to find the perfect ones for your build.
Other details may be found over at Tailsnake's own FAQ: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=qc&action=display&thread=1143077049
3. General Qs and Other Miscellaneous
3a. How exactly do hanger weapons work and how do I use them?
Hanger weapons are backups to your main weapons, in case they run out of ammo. If the main weapons run out of ammo, there's a chance that the AI will drop them and then take out the new weapons.
Be warned, if your AC has low weapon control or a high AI "stable" tactic, then it is less likely to do this if there are anything in the hangers.
(Example of stable and varied, second column)
Fix this by doing the opposite, upping the weapon control and varying the AI behaviour part in the base character. Also, you may accomplish this by equipping certain operations that allow what is described above.
When playing manually, press up on the d-pad and circle or square, respectively, to drop either arm weapon.
3b. How do I set up an avatar (picture on the side, under the name), or put pics into my signature?
It's actually a simple task. Click "profile" on the silver panel at the top of the page or wherever you can click your username. Click modify profile and scroll down to the box which asks for Avatar URL. This is where to put the web address of where your image is located; and it should be 100 X 100 max or else it will be resized to that automatically.
Note that you can only put in images that are already online, not directly from the hard drive. A good place to upload files on the net for free is:
imageshack.us/
Here you can put pics for whatever your purposes.
It is the same for signatures. Note that your signature image should be roughly the size of the one in mine right now in terms of maximum size, or it can be any size smaller. To put in the image, type the following from where you modify your profile:
[img] Your Image URL here [/img]
Obviously, the URL replaces the text inbetween the tags. To center the image do the write identical tags around your image tags but with "center" and "/center" instead of "img" and "/img".
General rules for these pics is pretty obvious; nothing that is clearly obscene or offensive.
I've decided to make a beginner's guide for all the people I'm going to invite (hopefully). So, I thought this might be of use to the newcomers.
Basically, it's a guide/ FAQ to the boards and also some beginner's tips for the game in general. Of course, I'm not the greatest expert but it'll have to suffice. It's also different from Tailsnakes since I intend to put some different ideas.
Oh, and the project will be ongoing. Feel free to add on.
Contents (press ctrl + f and type in the letter for shortcut)
1. Welcome to the boards.
1a. Starting out
2. ACFF: Learning the basics.
2a. Winning battles
2b. Terminology
2c. General tips
3. General Qs and Other Miscellaneous
3a. What are the purpose of hangers L and R?
3b. How do I set up an avatar (picture on the side), or put pics into my signature?
AC: FF FAQ
1. Welcome to the boards.
1a. Alright, I'm here. What do I do next?
Here?
www.freewebs.com/shear_x000/
If not, visit that place first. That's the real main page.
Welcome to the boards. It might be a little bit daunting at first glance but it really isn't all that complicated. First off, once you register you may want to introduce yourself to everyone else in this board:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1157399720
Don't be afraid, as none of us won't bite (except maybe bigjon or gamefan..... I'm joking of course).
Once that's over and done with, you might be curious to know where the actual competition takes place. The main attraction is indeed the league, but first take a moment to familiarize yourself with some rules:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1155771784
Second step: Apply.
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=apply
Battles should begin shortly once there are enough participants, and any other details should be found within the rules. If not, make an inquiry with one of these two places:
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=qc
armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=announcements&action=display&thread=1145421940
If you're uninterested in the league at all (For some odd reason), there are still plenty of AC/ Non-AC things to go around. Just to make things short, I've compiled a small list:
Official Tournaments: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=official
General Board (featuring Exhibition AC matches/ Beauty Pagaent): armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=general
Fanfics: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=fics
Obviously, the list isn't limited to those, but that's just to get the ball rolling. Feel free to explore for yourself... just remember the typical board etiquette by not spamming/ posting offensive things.
2. ACFF: Getting started
2a. I can't seem to win very much here. How do I get better?
This board has quite a few architects experienced with AI and build making, so don't be intimidated if you take a few losses.
First off, a couple of no-nos (with exceptions, of course), to take note of when creating an AC:
Thinking that rank matters
To put it simply, rank doesn't matter much at all, folks. Overall rank isn't squat except an average. So, if you have an "S rank" AC don't be fooled into thinking it's invincible... because most likely it's a horrible hover AC. Focus less on high rank "balance" and make your AC more specialized.
A good area to have S in (but not necessary) is cooling; you'll want to avoid opponents overheating your AC for long periods of time, and also so that you can manage heat levels (esp. from boosters).
In general, B ranks are the most well balanced and ready for battle when it comes to flexibility. That is a rank you'll want to shoot for, but by no means avoid A or C ranks either. Those can be equally as good if you have the proper skills.
Making your AC a weapon monster.
A common thing to see amongst newcomers. Most of the time, an AC doesn't need a weapon in every single slot. This is because it is likely that not all weapons will be used throughout the course of the battle.
An overkill AC...
By "weapon monster", I don't mean to discourage ACs with lots of weapons. However, some combos won't work either because of the aforementioned reason, and/or because they will just be excess weight. The following is a short list, not including inside weapons, exit orbiters, overboost, or extensions (most of which can be used in tandem with weapons):
Good Combinations:
Left hand weapon/Right hand weapon (hangars if necessary): Dual wielding is a good combo and both hands will be used. Hangar may be equipped if short on ammo.
Left hand/ back weapon (either side)/ dual back weapon: Again, this is a good combo since both can be used at once. Note that unless you're using tank or quad legs, your AC will have to pause and kneel to fire the backweapon; with the exception of most missiles and rockets.
If a weapon takes up both slots, that is okay as well.
Bad Combos (with some exceptions):
Left hand/ Right hand/ Hangars/ Back Weapons/ etc...: You'll want to avoid this... do not overload your AC with unnecessary weight. All three or four weapons will not be used at the same time, so remember that. Some exceptions to using this combo include:
- Short ammo on hand weapons, therefore requiring backup.
- Using AI operations that allow you to switch between back and right weapon.
- Using radars for your AC, in which case both sides may be filled by them if deemed necessary.
Ammo Extension/ Missile Extension and unrelated main weapons: This is practically a given. If an extension of these two is equipped then the main weapons must be of the same type, otherwise they won't work. An exception is using orbit cannons, like the harpies and yasya, in combo with missile extensions.
Unlike other AC games, we're focusing on the AI aspect instead of manual control. So it's normal to see builds a lot different than the usual.
2b. All this terminology is confusing. A little help?
Terminology concerning the league should be found within the rules. Otherwise, here's a starter list:
AC: Armored Core (duh...)
Architect: The name used for one who builds ACs as well as designs their AI.
Build: Structure and parts that make up an AC.
Manual: Controlling your own AC without assistance.
AI: Artificial Intelligence, programming an AC for specific battle patterns.
AP: Armor points, the number you can see in either corner of a battle screen which is the AC equivalent of HP (Health points).
ECM: Electronic counter measures.
VS ECM: Countermeasures for avoiding the effects of ECM and ECM noise.
EO: Exit orbiters, an extra function in certain cores which allows supplementary firepower.
OB: Overboost, an extra function in certain cores which allows great, but temporary boosts of speed.
LX: A double back part with LX as the suffix. It is often regarded as being very "cheap" and powerful. Often banned.
When you are building via the assembly, press the triangle button twice to bring up a list of stats. This is important for comparing stats and you'll find yourself using it often. Any terms can be clarified by pressing "select" while looking at stats, then highlighting the term in question.
2c. Alright, I read thorugh all this boring stuff. Got any tips in general?
The first thing I can recommend if you're looking to get better is to look at the hangars of other people. Don't try to copy their ideas part by part, of course, but try to test them out and see how they function. You might find yourself imporving by through observation and experience.
Of course, AC: FF is all about customization so try to develop a unique style as well. Don't be afraid to experiment with new and unique combos, as that is always encouraged.
Also, when building your AC have parts and AI that complement each other. For instance, since quad legs have good turning ability you could optimize that to your advantage. Program the AI to circle the opponent, rapid fire weapons, or whatever works best.
Another example is using a sniper (long range) type AC. Make sure the head has decent functions and equip necessary optional parts. Take your sniper weapon and compliment it with a long range back radar to optimize the firing range.
Alaways remember to tune parts and add optionals to any creation. These usually do no harm at all and only further enhance the build.
Lastly, while operations can work extremely well to perfect a certain strategy, they aren't always necessary. Try to find the perfect ones for your build.
Other details may be found over at Tailsnake's own FAQ: armoredcoreff.proboards46.com/index.cgi?board=qc&action=display&thread=1143077049
3. General Qs and Other Miscellaneous
3a. How exactly do hanger weapons work and how do I use them?
Hanger weapons are backups to your main weapons, in case they run out of ammo. If the main weapons run out of ammo, there's a chance that the AI will drop them and then take out the new weapons.
Be warned, if your AC has low weapon control or a high AI "stable" tactic, then it is less likely to do this if there are anything in the hangers.
(Example of stable and varied, second column)
Fix this by doing the opposite, upping the weapon control and varying the AI behaviour part in the base character. Also, you may accomplish this by equipping certain operations that allow what is described above.
When playing manually, press up on the d-pad and circle or square, respectively, to drop either arm weapon.
3b. How do I set up an avatar (picture on the side, under the name), or put pics into my signature?
It's actually a simple task. Click "profile" on the silver panel at the top of the page or wherever you can click your username. Click modify profile and scroll down to the box which asks for Avatar URL. This is where to put the web address of where your image is located; and it should be 100 X 100 max or else it will be resized to that automatically.
Note that you can only put in images that are already online, not directly from the hard drive. A good place to upload files on the net for free is:
imageshack.us/
Here you can put pics for whatever your purposes.
It is the same for signatures. Note that your signature image should be roughly the size of the one in mine right now in terms of maximum size, or it can be any size smaller. To put in the image, type the following from where you modify your profile:
[img] Your Image URL here [/img]
Obviously, the URL replaces the text inbetween the tags. To center the image do the write identical tags around your image tags but with "center" and "/center" instead of "img" and "/img".
General rules for these pics is pretty obvious; nothing that is clearly obscene or offensive.
. It is concerning Hanger L+R. What is it that allows/stops it from being equiped? I know it's related to something but I don't know if it's the weapon, arms, or torso. So if you could maybe elaborate on that it would help me a great deal and possibly others. If this is the wrong spot to post it I'm sorry and I will delete this post and move it to the proper area ASAP.
