Give the python an SLF!

[Riverside]

I think your entire argument comes down to "But I waaaaannnt it"

This does seem to be the case.

The Python is one of the most useful, most versatile ships in the game. I'd be happy to see a Python competitor, and arguably that could have an SLF bay, and much weaker shields to compensate (or other similar compensating drawback).

That this has reached 15 pages is a bit silly, all of the arguments for & against have been made (multiple times). If this happens it won't be because this thread is really long, it will be because there is a compelling reason to buff the Python and imo there isn't. There are in fact compelling justifications to buff other ships up to the standard of the Python.

 

[SushiCW]

Sandro hinted that the Krait would have a strong base shield. That gives me hope that I might want to fly it outside of a Beta.

I'm sort of expecting the Krait to be to the Keelback what the Courier is to the Cobra.

Less general utility, specialized towards combat, depending on speed & shields. A SLF-carrying ship for the dancer, not the brawler.

 

[Truesilver]

If this happens it won't be because this thread is really long, it will be because there is a compelling reason to buff the Python and imo there isn't. There are in fact compelling justifications to buff other ships up to the standard of the Python.

Well, this is not a PvP thread but PvP capability is a facet of overall balance and can be indicative of other things.

So, about that:

I have posted earlier in the thread to suggest that the Python should be buffed by the addition of 2 more utilities (assuming it doesn't get an SLF). This seems to me appropriate in every respect and a view shared across large sections of the PvP community for nearly two entire years. It has frequently been discussed and appears to be a view achieving near total consensus (amongst our niche mindset).

The fact is that the Python is extremely expensive, sitting in between the Cutter/Corvette/Anaconda class and the FdL/FGS/FAS/Clipper class in terms of cost and, before 2.1, power. It is also extremely slow, sitting again between the two groups identified. (The Cutter ofc being faster but less manoeuvrable.) The Python is similar in speed to the FGS, which has an SLF.

Although the Python is vastly better than most realise in a 1v1 it is currently still under-utililsed in PvP because its combination of a low base shield modifier with slow speed means that it is constantly stalked by death in the form of winged focus-fire.

The argument that the Python is an 'armed trader' that shouldn't expect to fight combat ships is easily dispensed with. The Cutter and the Anaconda can easily defeat any ship outside of the Big 3 1v1 and the same argument would apply to them. Furthermore the Python is a regular appearer in the military in CZ's, its in-game description fits an occasional militarised role and Frontier themselves have said that they gave the Python amongst the best hardpoint layouts for a reason. There is no point having a good hardpoint layout and firepower if you're expected to retract hardpoints and (slowly) run from combat ships.

Adding two utilities would be appropriate to the Python's status and otherwise position in the game, give it a niche compared to the FGS (which has an SLF) and give it greater ability to withstand focus fire. It would also add a welcome alternative choice to PvP duelling, wherein notwithstanding the Python's strength, most feel unable to choose it because of its slow speed. 6 utilities would not change the speed, it would provide a reason to forgive the speed.

The fact is that 2.1 unintentionally changed the game balance by turning utilities overnight into a metric of defensive strength. The Python's otherwise unique position in the game makes it a prime ... the prime ... candidate for an improvement to defence via more utilities.

 

[Riverside]

Well, this is not a PvP thread but PvP capability is a facet of overall balance and can be indicative of other things.

So, about that:

I have posted earlier in the thread to suggest that the Python should be buffed by the addition of 2 more utilities (assuming it doesn't get an SLF). This seems to me appropriate in every respect and a view shared across large sections of the PvP community for nearly two entire years. It has frequently been discussed and appears to be a view achieving near total consensus (amongst our niche mindset).

The fact is that the Python is extremely expensive, sitting in between the Cutter/Corvette/Anaconda class and the FdL/FGS/FAS/Clipper class in terms of cost and, before 2.1, power. It is also extremely slow, sitting again between the two groups identified. (The Cutter ofc being faster but less manoeuvrable.) The Python is similar in speed to the FGS, which has an SLF.

Although the Python is vastly better than most realise in a 1v1 it is currently still under-utililsed in PvP because its combination of a low base shield modifier with slow speed means that it is constantly stalked by death in the form of winged focus-fire.

The argument that the Python is an 'armed trader' that shouldn't expect to fight combat ships is easily dispensed with. The Cutter and the Anaconda can easily defeat any ship outside of the Big 3 1v1 and the same argument would apply to them. Furthermore the Python is a regular appearer in the military in CZ's, its in-game description fits an occasional militarised role and Frontier themselves have said that they gave the Python amongst the best hardpoint layouts for a reason. There is no point having a good hardpoint layout and firepower if you're expected to retract hardpoints and (slowly) run from combat ships.

Adding two utilities would be appropriate to the Python's status and otherwise position in the game, give it a niche compared to the FGS (which has an SLF) and give it greater ability to withstand focus fire. It would also add a welcome alternative choice to PvP duelling, wherein notwithstanding the Python's strength, most feel unable to choose it because of its slow speed. 6 utilities would not change the speed, it would provide a reason to forgive the speed.

The fact is that 2.1 unintentionally changed the game balance by turning utilities overnight into a metric of defensive strength. The Python's otherwise unique position in the game makes it a prime ... the prime ... candidate for an improvement to defence via more utilities.

See now this is how you present an argument. I don't agree with the proposal (I'd rather remove two from the FDL, I'd undo the power plant buff too) but if it happens I'd be okay with it. But if nothing changes on the Python it's still a great ship.

 

[Aashenfox]

Well, this is not a PvP thread but PvP capability is a facet of overall balance and can be indicative of other things.

So, about that:

I have posted earlier in the thread to suggest that the Python should be buffed by the addition of 2 more utilities (assuming it doesn't get an SLF). This seems to me appropriate in every respect and a view shared across large sections of the PvP community for nearly two entire years. It has frequently been discussed and appears to be a view achieving near total consensus (amongst our niche mindset).

The fact is that the Python is extremely expensive, sitting in between the Cutter/Corvette/Anaconda class and the FdL/FGS/FAS/Clipper class in terms of cost and, before 2.1, power. It is also extremely slow, sitting again between the two groups identified. (The Cutter ofc being faster but less manoeuvrable.) The Python is similar in speed to the FGS, which has an SLF.

Although the Python is vastly better than most realise in a 1v1 it is currently still under-utililsed in PvP because its combination of a low base shield modifier with slow speed means that it is constantly stalked by death in the form of winged focus-fire.

The argument that the Python is an 'armed trader' that shouldn't expect to fight combat ships is easily dispensed with. The Cutter and the Anaconda can easily defeat any ship outside of the Big 3 1v1 and the same argument would apply to them. Furthermore the Python is a regular appearer in the military in CZ's, its in-game description fits an occasional militarised role and Frontier themselves have said that they gave the Python amongst the best hardpoint layouts for a reason. There is no point having a good hardpoint layout and firepower if you're expected to retract hardpoints and (slowly) run from combat ships.

Adding two utilities would be appropriate to the Python's status and otherwise position in the game, give it a niche compared to the FGS (which has an SLF) and give it greater ability to withstand focus fire. It would also add a welcome alternative choice to PvP duelling, wherein notwithstanding the Python's strength, most feel unable to choose it because of its slow speed. 6 utilities would not change the speed, it would provide a reason to forgive the speed.

The fact is that 2.1 unintentionally changed the game balance by turning utilities overnight into a metric of defensive strength. The Python's otherwise unique position in the game makes it a prime ... the prime ... candidate for an improvement to defence via more utilities.

/thread. Where's the rep button....

 

[Pauciloquent]

Well, this is not a PvP thread but PvP capability is a facet of overall balance and can be indicative of other things.

So, about that:

I have posted earlier in the thread to suggest that the Python should be buffed by the addition of 2 more utilities (assuming it doesn't get an SLF). This seems to me appropriate in every respect and a view shared across large sections of the PvP community for nearly two entire years. It has frequently been discussed and appears to be a view achieving near total consensus (amongst our niche mindset).

The fact is that the Python is extremely expensive, sitting in between the Cutter/Corvette/Anaconda class and the FdL/FGS/FAS/Clipper class in terms of cost and, before 2.1, power. It is also extremely slow, sitting again between the two groups identified. (The Cutter ofc being faster but less manoeuvrable.) The Python is similar in speed to the FGS, which has an SLF.

Although the Python is vastly better than most realise in a 1v1 it is currently still under-utililsed in PvP because its combination of a low base shield modifier with slow speed means that it is constantly stalked by death in the form of winged focus-fire.

The argument that the Python is an 'armed trader' that shouldn't expect to fight combat ships is easily dispensed with. The Cutter and the Anaconda can easily defeat any ship outside of the Big 3 1v1 and the same argument would apply to them. Furthermore the Python is a regular appearer in the military in CZ's, its in-game description fits an occasional militarised role and Frontier themselves have said that they gave the Python amongst the best hardpoint layouts for a reason. There is no point having a good hardpoint layout and firepower if you're expected to retract hardpoints and (slowly) run from combat ships.

Adding two utilities would be appropriate to the Python's status and otherwise position in the game, give it a niche compared to the FGS (which has an SLF) and give it greater ability to withstand focus fire. It would also add a welcome alternative choice to PvP duelling, wherein notwithstanding the Python's strength, most feel unable to choose it because of its slow speed. 6 utilities would not change the speed, it would provide a reason to forgive the speed.

The fact is that 2.1 unintentionally changed the game balance by turning utilities overnight into a metric of defensive strength. The Python's otherwise unique position in the game makes it a prime ... the prime ... candidate for an improvement to defence via more utilities.

I agree with you... but I still stand by my reply to your earlier post about giving the old girl two more utility mounts.

Spoiler

If the Python got 1 or 2 more utility mount(s), then the FDS, FAS and FGS should get 1 more utility mount up front and center of the ships (Like the Asp E) so they could mount a Point Defence, theres already a spot for it.

 

[xzanfr]

Excuse my ignorance, but isn't that just an anaconda?

Sized to sit between the python and the anaconda - so a small annie / big python.

 

[lenna]

Let's make the python great again.

With that said, all ships should have some form of external fighter. And the scale should go from two SLF'S for large ships, one SLF for medium ships, and a drone fighter for small ships.

Generally speaking, I like your thinking but... I disagree.

The Python does not need an SLF to be great, it is already great as it is.

 

[lenna]

I love the python, its my everyday ship in the game however giving it a SLF will make it grossly overpowered.

Perhaps its finally time we got a python class cruiser (as hinted at in the original ship manual - pic in my avatar)
Give it the SLF along with a bit of balancing... large pad, a couple of upgraded weapons more suited to turrets and bigger hold, worse range, clumpier handling, and lower top speed, teeth decal (!).

Sounds like a variant of the Python that is comparable to the relationship between the FGS and the FDS. Not completely opposed to the idea, but if such a thing is done then there should be an Imperial equivalent too, a variant of the Clipper with lesser internals and speed in exchange for fighter capability and perhaps decrease the pod weapons from Large to Medium and increase the overall count - perhaps one Large under the nose to replace the two current mediums there and 4 smalls around mid-ships on the hull (two above - two below - preferably sort of in an X formation.

 

[amadeus1171]

I bet Sandro and Ed thinks giving the python an SLF is a heat idea.

 

[Scryder]

Python's good now, no need for fighter bays on a medium ship. Otherwise what's the point for getting a larger ships with fighter bays. I have a Cutter parked up because I found it boring to fly! Need to grind for cash and materials to make it fun. Python is my current ship for this grind, and it's really fun.

It could do with a class 1 Optional Internal slot so I can fit a detailed surface scanner and an advanced discovery scanner. Seems a waste to use a class 3 or 4 slot for scanners!

 

[Hank]

Yes.

If ppl are asking for the capability to put two hangers in a Python, then my answer is no. But not because I think it will make the Python overpowered, imho its because the ship is not large enough for two hangers and still keep all its other internals. (its either one or the other but not both)

I don't consider the Python a great combat ship because it is not as maneuverable as some of the other medium sized ships and I doubt an SLF will make it invincible. Plus, if you install all the top grade modules the buy-back is very high compared to an FDL, FAS or FGS. (I'm not a zillionaire so buy back costs are a big issue with me)

 

[Crank Larson]

I think your entire argument comes down to "But I waaaaannnt it"

Most do, in the end.

 

[marlowe221]

Tell you what.

I’ll join those arguing for the Python to get an SLF the day that there is ANY OTHER SHIP that can do the “take 180t of cargo to an outpost” missions that I see all the time. (Hint: just fix the T7 already!)

It’s the only ship I know of that gets its own missions.

 

[ShinyDewott]

Sounds like a variant of the Python that is comparable to the relationship between the FGS and the FDS. Not completely opposed to the idea, but if such a thing is done then there should be an Imperial equivalent too, a variant of the Clipper with lesser internals and speed in exchange for fighter capability and perhaps decrease the pod weapons from Large to Medium and increase the overall count - perhaps one Large under the nose to replace the two current mediums there and 4 smalls around mid-ships on the hull (two above - two below - preferably sort of in an X formation.

A medium-size Gutamaya ship with similar (Not 100% identical though) stats to that of the Python and can launch fighters = dream ship.

 

[JRok]

A medium-size Gutamaya ship with similar (Not 100% identical though) stats to that of the Python and can launch fighters = dream ship.

I'll take that ship without the fighter capability... it's about time for one.