This post from Mchat illustrates a major part of the problem facing the combat community in YS. We've got a fair number of well trained, highly effective pilots who can absolutely destroy average/newbie opponents. While this certainly reflects well on their training and skill, such curb stomp battles are hardly likely to encourage new pilots to keep coming back. In order to combat this trend, I would like to encourage a more collaborative approach to combat flying in YS.I went on CP’s server and met a noob in an Su-27, I was so excited because I hadn’t really seen anybody play online as of late. He shot an AIM-9X at me and asked if I wanted to fight, and I responded "sure" and then killed him 8 times in a row, he rage quit after he missed me with a full missile spam. Whats wrong with me, I’m a monster... ;-;
To implement this I'm initiating a regular military training event which is open to all, scheduled at least monthly. During each session, an experienced combat pilot would lead a lesson on a particular topic. The Combat Information Center topic provides an excellent source to work from, while various squadron training programs may provide additional information. Experienced pilots would be encouraged to come and share their own expertise, while anyone interested in learning could take part in the lesson. At the end of the teaching portion, everyone would fly together to practice what they had learned.
For this to work, we'll need some experienced pilots willing to put aside some time to share their knowledge. I'd be happy to take a leading role, but I know we have a number of skilled pilots with fairly little to do. If you've been looking for a reason to hop back on a server, this could be it. Depending on response, I would like to schedule an initial session this Saturday, between 8 and 10PM EST. If there is a strong commitment, I may be able to shift it a little earlier. Sessions will not be scheduled to conflict with other planned events, but I would like to see them at least monthly. Recruiting would be acceptable, as long as any recruiting pilots are willing to freely share their expertise with all attendees regardless of affiliation.
There are additional measures which we can apply to make new members feel more welcome, and less overwhelmed. If you are beating someone in air combat, offer some tips on how they might be able to get more out of their plane, or suggest a more effective fighter. Don't punish newbie infractions with relentless attacks until you are reasonably sure they understand the rules of the server. It's up to us to ensure the growth and ability of our combat community.