slowreactor wrote:jefjef wrote:How about non-point tutorial games vs. CC servers?
First, good luck getting a bot that can teach someone the intricacies of CC. Second, before someone suggests that SoC should take in all incoming recruits for a few learning games, they WILL be overloaded if they do.
I agree that a true automated tutorial, would be difficult. However, what about a MUCH simplified version of the cook's training classes?
That is, while they certainly teach how to play standard boards as well as basic strategy, not everyone wants to go through that process before they just start playing. Also, while those who are able and willing to teach real strategy are few, most people are happy to explain "here is how bonuses work on this map", here is how a bombardment works, etc".
What about creating a forum only for new people, with games begun by volunteer mentors who will play AND teach while playing (no need to wait to play yourself, etc). The limit would be 2 games on any map. IN fact, I would go further and have a smattering of maps with different play styles (some with bombardments, a conquest map, some of the unusual maps like Arms Race!, etc.) Volunteers could agree to keep open maps with either 1 vs 1 or 4 players. After 2 maps, the person would have to enroll in the cook's classrooms to learn more.