games started from 9 september onward used the v39 xml.
in 20 2-player sunny games with escalating spoils and unlimited forts but otherwise standard settings for the v39 xml (
Game 15954790 to
Game 16008728 inclusive), player 1 won 11 (55%), player 2 won 9 (45%), the higher-ranked player won 11 (55%) and the lower-ranked player won 9 (45%). those who started with gendarmerie (65%) or kum kale (60%) won more than they lost, while those starting with gabe tepe (45%) won fewer than they lost. in these games, possession of gendarmerie or kum kale had a slightly greater effect than being a higher-ranked player or having the first move, but not enough to be significant.
the v39 changes have not only permitted the minesweepers to play a greater part in the game, but have done so without having adverse effects elsewhere. gameplay looks solid now.
---the
final forge period has concluded for the
WWI Gallipoli map. all objections have had their time. the foundry
and i hereby brand this map with the
foundry brand. let it be known that this map is now ready for live play
(barring any vetoes from bigWham).
conquer club, enjoy!

ian.
