I hate to say it, but I think maybe you should open up the R&D rules process to some of the members... I know there are some people here who are very knowledgeable as far as R&Ds go, and imo they should be involved in creating the rules regarding them (as well as, hopefully, speeding up this process!).

I can name myself, Telan, and Dolash to start - and I'm certain there are others.

That said, I find this interesting:

2) The point is that under this system there is nothing preventing Kamon's new group with all of one planet from being technologically equal with BDE, THAT is a problem, also, there is an issue of what we refer to as technological stasis where SW canon tech hasn't advanced, and yet (as I said) you have practical application of time travel, nanotechnology, and genetic engineering.

I disagree. In my opinion, if a group wants to invest their time and effort into creating R&Ds instead of capturing planets, that's fine. It's simply another way - and a different way - of aquiring power. If a group with half as many planets as TNO could rival us in terms of power based on the merit of their technology, it would be outstanding.

I understand that R&Ds are not like planets, and cannot be as easily "counted" (i.e. 5000 words = one planet cannot translate to R&Ds), but I think with a new set of R&D rules it would be a very real possibility for groups to build Empires through technology as opposed to planet-grabbing.

Lastly, I might as well put my name down if and when the R&D rules are ever completed as a moderator, or whatever said rules end up deciding in terms of approving R&Ds.

Dolash is already an R&D mod, but never bothers to participate in discussions.

I'm the one at fault, ATM, for the rules being stalled. We're currently running testing of the new systems... I'm dragging my feet on that. That said, Dolash is still MIA and the feedback of the rules is a bit slow.

But we're not giving you power.

Any progress so far?

I only ask, because R&D development times being what they are (at least under the old rules) it was adventageous to submit R&Ds in advance of hoping to use whatever tech your planning on developing, so it can be put into use in the future.

Plus, no one has nagged here for.... uhh since last year ;) and I figured it was time to bring the issue up again.

*yells and chants*

Something bigger *waves hands wildly* is in store.

*waves hands some more*

bigger? Maybe...but the question is, is it better?

Depends on your definition of "Better".


I imagine two weeks before the final unveiling (if not sooner).

Thats right folks!

Its my sex change Op!

oops!... did I let the cat out of the bag?

You mean he'll finally be a real boy?