Thoughts on another invisible upgrade slot?

By Kdubb, in X-Wing

So I was thinking about something the other day.

The scyk needs a fix. Now stay with me here, this isn't that type of thread. This is just the thought process of how I came to a larger idea. The issue is the scyk already has a title that, while overpriced, really gives fun flavor to the ship. This means if FFG is going to fix the scyk, they have a few options. These options are,

a) give them a title that trumps the old title, and forget the other title ever existed

b) Put a clause on the new title that you may equip another title

c) put the fix in the mod slot, forcing every scyk to give up their utility with the mod slot

d) Put a clause on the new mod slot fix that you may equip an additional modification

e) Make a new universal "invisible" slot similar to the title slot

I want to focus on option e. I think this is a really good option as it gives FFG another avenue to differentiate each ship. I was thinking of it being similar to a title, but instead of being the title of the ship , it would be the title of the pilot , and would simply be called Pilot Title. For example, some pilot titles could be Hot Shot, Top of Class, War Hero, etc, but less generic and more appropriate to the type of pilots that pilot that specific ship. Not sure exactly what title would fit as a pilot title for all Scyk pilots, but I'm sure something could be figured out.

Anyone else think a Pilot Title could be interesting?

Pilots are already defined by their "name" (ie Ace, Veteran, Leader, etc).

I'm 100% not keen on the prospect of an new non-symbol slot - though I do appreciate the intent - there is still scope to squeeze in fixes via the first four options (even though 'a' is unprecedented).

Edited by ABXY

I think fitting things like Squad leader and Wing man onto pilot titles would have been a lot better than Elite Talent Upgrades. I mean, it fits since things like that are not talents, per se, but rather assignments based either on rank or skill (indicated by PS in this game). This is the second good idea I've seen today, maybe the forums are starting to turn around?

I think fitting things like Squad leader and Wing man onto pilot titles would have been a lot better than Elite Talent Upgrades. I mean, it fits since things like that are not talents, per se, but rather assignments based either on rank or skill (indicated by PS in this game). This is the second good idea I've seen today, maybe the forums are starting to turn around?

Ya the elite slot is an odd one. It goes from pilot positions (like those you mentioned), to hormone changes (Adrenaline Rush), to physical actions (Draw Their Fire, Juke), to tactics (swarm tactics), to a popular phrase (Push the Limit), to... You get the idea. When it comes down to it, they are just names for an ability, but the two you mentioned I think actually would perform a lot better in a slot outside of the Elite slot interestingly enough.

problem with another invisible slot is what would it be for that isnt partially available elsewhere? Modifications are broad enough where it wouldnt really make sense for it to not be a modification and we have plenty of pilot names or EPT cards with names that would work for a pilot-focused "title" (probably along the lines of Perks for the name).

Honestly i just want more mid-costed mods. There isnt any 1pt/2pt mods worth using right now that isnt specialized (gchips, ship specific, or TIE Mk2). I almost wouldnt even mention the Vectored Thrustors because honestly the majority of ships that dont have barrel roll kinda cant give up their mod slot for it lol. I really wish there was a 1-2pt mod that added something mild that could easily be trumped by the more standard mods if you wanna justify the extra points.

We need Squadron slots.

Another title would be nice. The old one still has its merits as the scyk is the cheapest cannon platform, only problem is it is made out of glass.

I think fitting things like Squad leader and Wing man onto pilot titles would have been a lot better than Elite Talent Upgrades. I mean, it fits since things like that are not talents, per se, but rather assignments based either on rank or skill (indicated by PS in this game).

I disagree - whilst those 2 in particular don't appear to be specifically "skills", they are roles assigned due to demonstrating a set of skills that justify adopting a specialisation.

A Squad Leader should demonstrate leadership, quick and tactical decision making, etc, etc.

A Wingman should be able to fly in sync with their partner, anticipate their partners actions, and not be purely focused on their own survival - relying on the whole (partnership) being greater than the sum of its parts.

We need Squadron slots.

This is an idea I am 50/50 about... as that too is already incorporated in many Pilot names.

I'd almost prefer this is done via a "double Title" mechanic (if absolutely necessary).

I'd probably steal a page from Imperial Assault and add "Wing" titles, which you keep in your play area but is just a passive buff to all ships of a certain type.

Like an upgrade that applies when you have two or more Scyks in range 1 of each other, and/or grants different effects depending on what kind of secondary weapon they have equipped.

You could probably do the same thing for X-Wings.

I'd probably steal a page from Imperial Assault and add "Wing" titles, which you keep in your play area but is just a passive buff to all ships of a certain type.

Like an upgrade that applies when you have two or more Scyks in range 1 of each other, and/or grants different effects depending on what kind of secondary weapon they have equipped.

You could probably do the same thing for X-Wings.

As long as this didn't force my hand in listbuilding, I wouldn't mind it. I just don't like the idea of squadrons/wing titles having ship specific compilations to trigger. I enjoy flying wonky lists that don't make much sense thematic wise. That's part of the enjoyment of the game for me, and I believe for many others.

We need Squadron slots.

Would prefer an extra card off to the side which is ship specific, has you designate a named pilot as Squad leader (ideally the highest PS) and then all generics that are within 1 Range of that leader get something.

For instance:

Zeta Squad - 1 points

All generic TIE/fo within Range 1 of the Squad Leader may gain a focus when they receive a stress.

Bounty Hunters - 3 points

At the start of combat phase, one of your generics may use the pilot ability of one of the following named cards:

Zuckuss, 4-LOM, Boba Fett, Dengar, Bossk

(The named card must be in play in your squad)