Tantive IV scenario T2a docking

By guntermarx, in X-Wing Rules Questions

I recently played the 1st two scenarios in the 'Point of No Return' campaign. T1 was a rebel victory and went on to T2a. The CR90 starts 'docked' to the cargo container and has 4 tracking tokens on its aft section that are progressively removed allowing the accumulation of more energy each turn. At the end of the 4th activation phase, I'm assuming that if the CR90 manages to remain stationary and docked for that long, with the removal of the last tracking token the CR90 is no longer docked and free to maneuver and gain energy normally?

If the CR90 is forced to break docking to avoid having the cargo container blowing up from enemy fire, I'm assuming the cargo container does NOT blow up - correct or not?

You remove the tracking tokens at the start of the activation phase, not at the end.

At the start of the activation phase, if the player controlling the CR90 is still docked to the container (it begins docked by default), he removes one tracking token from the CR90's card, and then, decides if he's going to undock (which would allow it to begin moving immediately in the same activation phase) or remain docked for the next turn. So, as soon as you manage to remove your 4th token at the start of the 4th activation phase, it would be wise to immediately undock the corvette in order to move in the same round... Unless you decide you are going to stay to see the fireworks...

Regarding your second question, the container doesn't blow just by undocking prematurely. However, after undocking, the fuel container remains in the area, and can still be blown up later by imperial forces. If the CR is not beyond range 1 when this happens, it will take damage from the explosion. So, pedal to the metal!

So my next question, why would I WANT to remain docked to the cargo container?

Why wouldn't I just start moving immediately and make for the edge of the map?

If I do that, i.e. break away from the Container, do the tracking tokens I'm removing at the beginning of each activation phase go away or do I continue under the same energy restriction rules for 4 turns?

You only can remove tracking tokens if you begin your turn docked with the fuel container at the start of the activation phase.

If you make a run for it and undock the very 1st turn, you'll remove the 1st tracking token at the beggining of your first activation phase, then immediately, undock with 3 tokens remaining. From that point on, your CR90 will recieve 3 less energy per turn for the rest of the mission, since once you are undocked, you won't be able to remove further tokens. That will make very difficult (if not right impossible) to activate upgrades, weapons or recharging shields in subsequent turns.

Got it!!! That makes so much sense Jehan. Thanks for clearing up my addled brain.

All the best.