Let's Talk Fuel

[Stewgar]

I have been loosely keeping tabs of this subject since this, and ones like it (taxing via trade lanes, jump gates) get talked about once in awhile. I figure I'll throw my own point of view into the pile.

I think the argument for it as a money sink is unnecessary. If the economy is still dealing with an issue of financial surplus, reducing the payouts of missions, trade goods, or increasing the difficulty of obtaining raw materials for fabrication projects could be used instead. I don't find merit in this topic.

What I have found myself scratching my chin at is the prospect of having to think about long distance routes differently in terms of logistically. If my ship is only good for a few systems, as a smuggler (especially with contraband on board), I would have to set time and thought aside on purpose to think about this especially in the Omicrons. This could raise the need of fencing as well. I'm sure fuel costs will be more expensive on unlawful bases so it may be worth using a freighter to haul in smuggle and refuel on the way back cheaper rather then paying out a lot more to refuel my pilgrim liner or pirate transport at Rochester or Buffalo, as an example. This will also force combat units to think about battle in a different way. Is your battle group or squadron low on fuel and can't afford to combat the enemy ahead? What will this look like to combat if this is implemented? Ships dedicated to refueling could also be a fun little roleplay idea as well. "Hank Rover's Dine and Gulp! Come get yer tummy fooled whal ur ship get fooled too, ten fo!".

Overall, I think it's a good idea not only for the logistics side of things but also for the role play perspective. It's often forgotten that this is a role play based community and this idea would add role play flare to the day to day interactions. It's worth a try at least. It may even force fuel based factions (you know who you are) to actually roleplay for once.

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It ain't about what you are capable of, it's about what you're willing to do.