First let me say that as I use my soulspark i.d. as my ICO i.d. as well, that this in no way is an accusation of players whom I have played against that may recognize me.  I am curios however - Does the max credits/resources cheat as described in other websites work online or will ICO boot them off? I ask because I DO NOT intend to use this cheat EVER not even in single player. My issue is that - while I admit my econ/research skills aren't the greatest - it seems to me that while I'm trying to create an adequate fleet w/ an adequate econ to back it, I get overrun by a player who has a very large fleet with full diversity. Let me state that I do leave open the possibility that I just need more experience. But if the cheat code does exist in online play, is there a way to stop it? THAT is what would ruin it for me - not smurfing or stacked teams(I like that feeling I get knowing that I am still able to muster the courage it takes to face improbable odds win or lose). That and abuse/being booted for a poor perfomance or being suspected of smurfing.

I have read many posts and I gather from them that many community members have boiled down to die hard fans w/ noobs (such as myself) trickling in. I have also noticed - through the posts that many of the Big Dogs are willing to help the pups become part of the community and don't have elitist attitude. I respect that.

Let me also say that I'm sure many newer players probably read posts and want to join in but stop because they feel that they will make a fool of themselves by trying to run with an inside joke or exposing  their lack of knowledge for the topic. It's kind of like me - A caucasion educated only in English - moving to N. Korea and setting up a store that focuses on books about American philosophy. Or, less drastically, being the awkward one at the party. In reality this is no ones fault just a nuance of human social interaction. So I say to my fellow noobs that it is on YOU to ask questions put yourself out there and ACTIVELY become a part of the community. Giving in to fear and doubt never gets the girl!

SOaSE  IS- in spite of it's flaws- a great game and I believe that much like checkers or chess it will be around for a long time as long as long as there are people willing to play and novices willing to learn.