Specialization

[ghrasp]

I think that my captain, after 15 levels of experience should be invited by his starting faction to an advanced training and tactics school. Think top gun for starships. It should be expensive and he should be able to choose a specialty. Such as exploration, combat, stealth, boarding, etc. I also think that after level 25 similar training should be availible but relating to Hull size / type. Aka Destroyer, cruiser, battleship, and blockade runner, cargo hauler, massive transport. Perhaps there should be more than just level requirements to be invited.

I think my captain should get a diploma and an entry on his character screen similar to the trade permit on the faction screen. This will help add depth to the game. The effects of this training should, perhaps be small at first and should become greater with more levels to the point that they can help enhance the endgame.

[ryan]

Should be faction rank + level, and training is dependent on your record... (say you are always trading like a merchant, you get invited to charisma / negotiate training), and the first spec should be a base attribute (quickness, strength etc.). Second spec is a specific skill (stealth, tactics etc.)

Very much like the idea though, as it gives more character development, and you could add some sort of storyline to it. Maybe along with training, you are acknowledged as being in a specific trade, and missions are more specialized rather than totally random.
Maybe a third spec that gives an award, so people have more of a reason to try every game style.

[Cory Trese]

I like the ideas and will try to find ways to include it in Star Traders.

The only thing I do not agree with is the statement that quests are "totally random" because they're totally not =)

I will also look for a way to use the new special skills system somehow like this, maybe a minor player selected skill is added at level 25

[ryan]

By that, I mean they are not assigned to you because of your profession. They might not be random, but they are random in the effect that your history or skill set do not increase like-jobs.
Unless I'm wrong in which case I take back the assumption with due apology