Finally giving it a go after years of playing ED. Is there really any point to the combat option? It seems like it's just not worth it, versus just delivering stuff. And why cant you get your merit rewards in the system you are fighting it out in? And the bounties! Don't get me started. And while we are at it, CRIME AND PUNISHMENT!!! I accidently graze a system authority vessle with a beam, get a 300 cr bounty, no big deal. But when I went to pay it, I got shipped off 5 jumps away!!!! FOR 300CR!!!! By far the lamest addition to the game.
Quite the opposite, I
only earn merits via combat. I can't think of anything more dull than spamming the menu 75 times or whatever it is.
I use the opportunity to gather manufactured materials, and test out new builds.
I also operate out of anarchy systems so, no bounties.
Only takes 25 kills to hit rank 3, and they can easily be found in nav beacons, supercruise and RES sites.
Also, don't shoot security, they don't like it. It helps to become allies with the local power so they show up green, and thus far easier to spot on radar, as they make their obligatory suicide run.
I usually leave crimes off, so they stop pestering me. It's not like they actually do anything useful. Half the time they just chase me around trying to scan me, but can't because I'm always outrunning them.