Gutshot Gary said:

I've done a few solo games against myself, and a few times just doing TIE formation maneuvers on a field with asteroids.

In doing maneuvers, I pick a set of TIE fighters and give them an order, then each turn I set their maneuver dials and try to get better at anticipating where each one will be and how not to run into asteroids or each other.

I've put down 12 asteroids and three mines and try to get all ships saftley to the other side and back.

iv used a few asteroids and prcticed my starting formation and the first 3-4 manouvres. its actually helpful to test out the squad you will be using like this so you can develop proficiency with moving ships in pilot order while holding the formation you want.

I have a tournie tomorrow and you've inspired me to set up on my kitchen table and practice some squadron maneuvers. Thanks!

I used to play scrimmage, but it's so artificial because I know both teams' maneuvers.

My favorite way to practice now is after a match when there was a sticky situation, I pull out my miniatures at home and try to recreate it to see what my options were. For example, in one match I wasn't sure I would be clear of all my ships if they all banked, so I chose different maneuvers and it hurt me. Later I set up my ships and found that had I banked I indeed would have crashed, so even though it was bad, it could have been worse.

I also like to look at distances to make a mental image of how the big ships move. This is especially helpful so I can say, "Yep, they're flying off the map this round, no need to ion cannon them again." The Millennium Falcon is really tricky because it can get out of some pretty tight spots with its Turn Speed 1 maneuver.

When I first got the game I played solo for awhile just getting use to the maneuver templates. During this time I taught my 7 year old how to play. We play 3 or 4 times a week and I practice movement 5 or 6 times a week. It still isn't enough. This game is all about maneuvering and if you don't practice a lot it is difficult to master. With that being said my 7 year old out maneuvers me regularly and he doesn't practice at all except when we play. It's embarrassing.

I myself only have two games under my belt, both with my kids. My 11 year old step daughter ( who beat my butt) and my 8 year old daughter (who also beat my butt).

I empathize with the OP as I am also married and have kids, so it is hard to just head to the LGS and get in some games.

I need to try the the asteroid run my self…

Sometimes play solo, it's not easy to remember the first ships you set in a 7 ship game.

Today I came across this

http://www.themetalbikini.com/p/tactical-tuesday.html

There are three posts about maneuvering in formation that i found very interesting. They will not teach you but do explain which banks and turns will collide if your ships are next to each other.

I found it an interesting read and will certainly adjust my play even if only a little.