So, as promised and hounded by both those inside my alliance and Mikle, the first ally analysis of the server has been completed. I hope you have some time to burn whilst waiting for your 17s, as it's ended up topping out at around 4.5k words. Fluffy has promised to donate an artwork to every person that reads it fully.* *not true
I've tried to be as neutral and unbiased as possible, but have included some of my personal experiences where ally leaders felt it best to ignore me/be rude to me. Thanks to the majority who were very willing to help, especially those who went into detail :).
I should also thank Gwoww's previous S5 analysis for helping me with initial ideas for questions, in which she also thanks someone who helped her for ideas, SilverSlaughter.
The analysis consists of three sections:
NE
DN - The standout of alliances so far, either leading or being very near to the top of all key stats of the server so far. Consisting of a core of a preformed alliance, they may have felt the pressure of the NE and felt that further recruitment was necessary in order to both secure the quad and give them more options longer term. Their defensive rankings may be a sign that already they are already been seen as a big threat to others in the NE, but they also appear to bringing the heat to their neighbouring alliances. They are also around 30% better in higher simmers than second place, highlighting the belief that they are active and experienced players.
Revenge - One of the many alliances that have already felt the need to meta up with most of the server. Their stats paint a positive picture for the future of this alliance, easily the top raiders and also very good attackers and defenders, which makes it even more perplexing why they feel the need to be part of a big meta. Given the answers provided in the interview, it seems that their current position as being part of a meta was created by the previous leader. It is somewhat perplexing why this wasn't instantly removed by the new leader, given they have a solid chance of surviving on their own.
Hegemony - I’m sure Hegemony surprised no one when they appeared once again as an alliance, with their everpresent Mikle as the leader. Having already openly admitted they will once again be participating in the endgame with their support of a RIAPS WW, they have decided on a stronghold location between the two quads because of this and it seems almost all of these players have followed command and settled in such a location. Being on the borders of two quadrants certainly has its positives and negatives, with Hegemony thus far seeming to have had an easy run at simming away their villages with little (at best) interruption. The stats back this up, with Hegemony only featuring on the highest climbers for this week.
UNITY - With only around 90 members being part of UNITY, they are one of the smaller groupings of players in the top 10 alliances. Being the smallest of the main alliances in the most packed quadrant may prove a difficult task for UNITY to stay on the map in the medium to long term. Despite this, right now they are performing well above the expectations of most with regards stats, with them being rank 1 attackers, and rank 3 defenders and raiders for the week, however they do not feature in the top climbers at all. It may be that to try and solidify their position in the NE UNITY have went aggressive against their competition, and their simming is suffering as a result.
NW
Heroes - One of the first alliances to be formed on the server, and yet another to have already formed confeds. They are relatively spread all over the NW, some positioned around the leaders position of a stronghold around the NW WW location, some electing to ignore that advice and remain central, showing the problem of trying to recruit players into the idea of a stronghold. Such an outback location may explain why they are lowly ranked in both raiders and defenders, and their high position in climbers may support the idea that many are focusing on getting well settled in before they turn to causing havoc.
Istanbul - With the bulk of Istanbul being positioned in the central NW, and heroes positioning being more split throughout the quad, Istanbul may have it relatively easy solidifying the central NW for their own. However the stats appear to show that Istanbul have not purely had it their own way, with them only appearing on the defenders board at rank 2, perhaps indicating that Heroes and others are pressing them early. They also have one of the poorest average populations amongst the top alliances, and excluding their top player they appear on the surface to be a group of largely average players.
NUTS - If this alliances planning skills are half as impressive as the detailed answers provided to my questions, then this alliance stands a very good chance of surviving, against the odds perhaps, in their quad. Despite barely making it onto the first page of alliances, NUTS are putting on a very strong showing in the raiders, given their lack of players, even if they perhaps make up for this with quality (and the average pop per player stat backs this up). Further analysis shows that NUTS appear to be incredibly lowly ranked as defenders, perhaps providing even more proof that the NW currently contains no real standout alliance. If this remains to be the case and NUTS can keep up their current progress, they appear to have a real chance of causing big problems for the other alliances in their region.
SE
Falcons - Another part of the huge Hegemony/RIAPS meta. Stats wise Falcons provide a slightly confusing picture, with their “raiding wing” being well ahead of the main alliance on the raiding front (and with less members also), and around the same with regards attackers (surely you want the best raiders in your main wing :?). They are holding their own on the simming front, even with their slightly lower than most average pop.
RIAPS - Positioning wise RIAPS appear to be in a similar predicament to that of heroes, with a fair few of their players being situated deep in the SE, with the others relatively well spread out through the quad. This certainly contrasts to their “support alliance” Hegemony, who are regimented in their location and makes you wonder why, given their current spread, Hegemony are supporting them and not the other way round. A similar situation stats wise to Hegemony, they also barely feature outside the top climbers even given their mainly central locations. I’m sure their positioning is far from ideal when it comes to both attacking and defending as a group.
Rage - Of the three main SE alliances, Rage could be considered to be the most centrally positioned of the three. However, whilst their profile states that they are “a serious crew” at least population wise, they do not stand out from the crowd. Despite being outside the top 10 alliance ranks also, and a small ally, they are putting up a good showing in the top raiders at rank 5. They showing at rank 6 in defenders implies they are also doing well to stop any incoming attacks from the higher ranked alliances in the quad.
T-Rex - A special mention for T-Rex due to their recent simming prowess, which has allowed them to jump up the ally rankings over the past few days. The question remains about whether they can lock down the quad given their lack of numbers, even knowing their obvious quality. Their significant lack of off and def points highlights they have had an easy time so far, which may be the reason their pop has recently increased so significantly.
SW
EU (mostly SW) - An alliance that appears to be in the ranking they are in purely to numbers. Putting up a very poor show on the top raiders, hinting that they may also be full of farms and just keeping them in to ensure their rank remains. The main leader also seemed to have relatively poor English, which certainly won’t help those players who need help communicate effectively. Despite being the rank 2 alliance they also show very poorly in the top climbers, meaning players are unlikely to be very active, and at rank 10 in defenders they either have no competition or no team spirit to stop attackers.
L.S. - Another special mention for this alliance, mainly because there is almost no players in the SW. LS appear to be a good preformed alliance however with further analysis they appear to be hugely widely spread over the quad, however due to their being absolutely no competition in the SW this may not be a huge problem. It makes you wonder the need to settle in deep outback SW when there is no competition even in the centre. With the main ally to compare them to stats wise being T-Rex, they are well ahead of them in the top attackers, likely due to EU’s currently laidback attitude to incoming attacks. L.S. also rank lowly in the def statistics, again highlighting the lack of competition in SW.
DN
Given the current delicate situation in the NE, and the quad being the most packed by far of the four, where do you think you will fit in going forward?
Well, I assume we will fit in where we fit in ;) Obviously we are trying to hold the Center and expand, as we have lots of spawns and a couple Players there, but we will work ourselves through the most troubling areas as well.
I think it is relatively common knowledge that the core of players in DN have been together, however it is also obvious that after the server start you have expanded your recruitment, is there any particular reason for this?
There are a couple of reasons for it, the largest I would say is that we are in NE, and that we Needed any number above 35 for survival and WW.
Given the dissapointment last server within GTB after being well beaten by some UKx newcomers, has this put you off WWs for this server?
It has taken the true GTB, the "core members", down from it's high horse, I should hope. But they also know that ALCATRAZ ain't back for this Server, which makes the Outcome clear. Or would, but that I'll answer in the next question. GTB will always take interest in WWs, that's where all the different Kinds of simming lead to in the end.
What is your opinion on T-rex, forming a break away from other GTB members?
Well, to rewrite your question first. Let's get down to t-Rex being GTB. As you are already so open minded, Mr. Reporter. ;) I dont know what to think of it, first it said Shaun, the legendary leader, wouldnt Play at all. So we founded a new room and went off on our own for ukx preparations. Then later it said, he and a few would Play on dex. That we all believed, til the Moment someone mentioned to me "hey, those are gtb Players from us, here on ukx, in t-Rex! " So, as much as I don't like the break away, and as much as I dont like the Attention and the work, that normally shaun does, I am also open for the council's ideas of us and it's open way. We split work and although i am seen as an absolute ruler, four other guys tell me to go in the Corner if I behave too bad :P If their break-away will turn out good or bad, we will see. But as they are in a different quad, I believe others will have to deal with the Problems they cause before anyone of us does.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
They do have less than a handful good ones, but also recruit a couple good ones every Server. Doesn't say much about 240 Player meta though.
Pizza or Pasta? Pasta from monday to thursday, Weekend is reserved for Pizza :D
How come blueberries aren't blue? Some old Name where no other colours existed back then xD
Do you believe in aliens? Yes, lots of Things are "Alien" :) Believing in those in other universes, too. Lol.
EU (Leader refused to answer questions, so I wrote to the second in command who was more willing)
Given your choice of quad, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
Our alliance hasn't had it too easy. It hasn't been terrible either. Having so many players near each other makes getting by much easier with defense calls.
Do you think later in the game having 3 alliances spread all over the map will start presenting a problem?
I'm not experienced enough in late game strategies to answer the second question.
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
There may or may not be anyone we have our eyes on. As a non alliance member I'm not willing to discuss that with you.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, dont you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
I have experienced no friction between our players. We are doing our best to have fun in the game and work together. All of the members I have spoken to are amiable and we get on fine. I haven't experienced stunted growth and I can't see any disadvantages.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
Other branches of EU are essentially an extension of the main alliance. The only difference being the name. We work with them as much as with alliance members.
Is there any particular reason you ask applicants to provide both an email address and their gender when applying?
I don't ask for either myself. That was German-Leaders idea. But the reasoning behind the E-mail is for future servers.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony are not our allies as far as I know.
Pizza or Pasta? Definitely Pizza
How come blueberries aren't blue? Because magic
Do you believe in aliens? Yes although I don't believe we will ever see them.
Revenge
Leader refused to answers questions, second in command provided answers then withdrew permission to post answers on forum, will update if this changes.
Heroes
Again, leader failed to provide answers and instead decided to be rude to myself. So instead I'll share my, somewhat brief, experience of being in Heroes. Being one of the first alliance on the server, I joined them to complete the quest (as most others likely did at the time). Around 36 hours later we were informed of their plan to form a stronghold around the NW WW (not an awful idea, at least they had a plan from the beginning). However their way of deciding who got the best croppers was on a first to put their name down had rights to that cropper basis. After pointing out that such a method was not fair by any means, the leader maintained this method was the best and after explaining the obvious flaws I was kicked.
Falcons
No reply at all from Falcons.
Hegemony
After settling in the NE, you decided to move out to the quad border. Was this always the plan or did things change when you realised how 'busy' the NE would be?
End of last server we decided that the SH would go along the East line...neither NE, nor SE...
We chose East to be a little closer to RIAPs, who we intend to support come End Game. Again, choices made between servers. Word given, we endeavour to stick to it... The Meta occurred through other channels
Given the choice of your stronghold, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
No worse than other servers...croppers as ever are the issue - a lot of folk bounced, some more than once...
I'm on my third choice...Churchill grabbed my first
Do you think later in the game having your meta spread all over the map will start presenting a problem?Not my Meta.
and, yes, and No...
Hegemony likes a SH. We like the swift help it can potentially offer...
A shotgun meta on the map - well, it also has potential for cross alliance assistance...kinda like having a giant SH...
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
Any of them. All of them. It's a war sim...
Known hardcore players, "golders" and dual+ accounts will always be an issue.
So, the ex-GTB group, the ex-SS group, the returned Alcatraz's
I'm sure there are a few people out there that don't like us much...Not sure we've managed to P'off a whole alliance yet though..
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, dont you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
Again, yes and no - the non-meta players are whittling down the farms within, so long as leaders are strict on players leaking, or inactive etc - then there is no issue on grabbing half the server, and sorting the wheat from the chaff...
It's only when leaders hold on the chaff for 'rank' that the grit gets in the grease...
Unless they are friends then you keep them no matter what.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
Yes - but it's not my meta.
You have been tight lipped on the short lasting fight for power that occured within Hege, care to give us the story behind it as an exclusive?
Below is a transcript of the 'coup':
Mikle: Yes!
Mikle: Ratio (Troops:Pop.): 1.1 (111%)
Mikle: at last, I can join Falcons!
J - Misfits: Hacker!
Mikle: cya losers!
Trojan: lol
J - Misfits: Does this mean i'm in charge now..?
Mikle: you want it?
J - Misfits: Nope.
Mikle: too late - done deal
(Thanks to Mikle for the exclusive)
What's your opinion on the reputation that Hege have picked up over the last few years?
We have no opinion. Hegemony has never been 'hardcore' - only 'funcore'
We play travian for a sociable and fun time. The reputation differs dependant on who you talk to anyhow, some think us a joke, and some think us too serious...
20 servers, usually top 10, regular crew, some for all 20... so; Haters gonna hate...
Pizza or Pasta? Pizza
How come blueberries aren't blue? Google it.
Do you believe in aliens? I don't disbelieve...
UNITY
Given the current delicate situation in the NE, and the quad being the most packed by far of the four, where do you think you will fit in going forward?
I think we do stand a fair chance going forward despite heavy competition in the NE quad if we join hands with some of the allies that think similar to us. This does not include DN or anyone in the Hegemony meta. We should, and definitely will be aiming for the WW. We've got some members of the previous ukx winners Italians too.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, don't you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
Creating a large number of confederations and NAPs does stunt growth, especially that of the raiders. That is why Unity do not have any additional relations other than our own wings. It's a foolish decision to do that for us as we're new, and must be careful of these ukx veterans using us for their purpose.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
We have no confeds as such. There's only a second wing called Unity - 2. I believe in merges rather than confederations actually.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony, in my understanding, have not stepped up yet. I have no knowledge of their previous records, but right now they DO NOT EXIST in top 10 attackers and raiders. Might be simming and creating armies, you never know.
Pizza or Pasta? I prefer Pizza, this was not even close.
How come blueberries aren't blue? For the same reason why Strawberry aren't drunk using a straw.
Do you believe in aliens? I do believe in aliens.
ISTANBUL
Given your choice of quad and current alliance stats, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
İt was easy to come novadays. We are an experianced players.
The typical Turkish ally doesn't tend to survive past week one, are you guys here for the long haul?
We were together past 2 servers. We have a well organized players like a group friends.
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
We are in equal distance for all alliance. For us the ally war for build WW.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, don't you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
We accept all players. We know there is a spys in the our alliance but sometimes spys are good strategy for using We make plans before we start also its certain which WW village we gonna take. Doenst matter who joing or who left our alliance we move with system. People are know us, who doesnt, will know!
who do you regard as your main competition for the best in quad ally title?
if you mean first 4 ally on the ranked so there is no alliance for our competition.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony are so lucky. 2 servers ago they built WW. they was lucky because Alliance SS was punished . After punished they supported to hegemony. But GTB was destroyed to Hegemony. This sever they had no idea what they do. When the time past this server everyting gonna be certain. But our guess is hegemony cab support us this server.
Leader refused to answer my last 3 questions :eek:
L.S.
Is anyone actually alive in the SW? Given that the SW is easily the most barren of the four quads, Do you see this as a great chance to secure the quad going forward?
In regards to SW being barren lands this round, i agree and disagree with that, past couple of rounds, alliances ran to other quads. Most notably, Falcons/RIAPS ran because their WW's kept getting chief. But this round you have Sidekicks/EU and their millions of wings and Heroes who have members along the bored of NW/SW. My alliance is here doing our thing, No one has really caused a threat, EU have a bigger bark than a bite, word has it they have inactives in their alliance but keeping them in there and defending them just so they dont lose rankings. There are alliances here but nothing has really kicked off just yet.
What is your opinion on the majority of alliances currently occupying the top spots being part of large meta, especially so early in the server?
This META malarky is just laughable, and have never understood why people would have 4+ alliances so early on. To me its a sign of weakness, an alliance cant defend themselves so give other alliances false promises just so they do not get wiped out. The Falcons meta is hilarious, i know alot of those guys from old servers and nothing never changes.
Your ally profile gives hints that you might be new to the server, where are you from, and why did you pick UKx/what did you hear about it?
Our alliance is not new to Ukx actually The alliance is just for friends only, we do not accept people we do not know, as its easier for us to work together and look after one another.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony.. once upon a time they were a great alliance, over the years they have decreased in stature, and now i see them on the same level as Riaps/Falcons/Istanbul/EU. Dependent on other alliances because they can not cut it themselves.
Again the leader provided no answers for the real serious questions :eek:
NUTS
Given your distinct lack of players, and your relatively spread out location through the quad, will it be an uphill struggle to secure yourself in your quad?
No, We don't feel like it will be a struggle at all, majority of our players are pretty close to each other (Not very close, but we are not miles away either) So far everything we have done this server has succeeded and we have a few decent plans for the rest of the server that we do not see going wrong as of yet. We have got five players that have settled relatively far away from there rest of the group however this has not been a problem as of yet because they are supporting each other.
Our lack of players does not mean that we are going to struggle his round, we are all very experienced players that know exactly what we are doing, more players doesn't always make you stronger, sometimes it can make you weaker.
Do you have previous experience of UKx or are new to the server? If so, where are you from, and why did you pick UKx/what did you hear about it?
A few of us have been here on ukx for the past 6-8 years, others have came over to give the server a run for its money, others have came for a bit of fun. The players that have moved over to ukx from other servers have heard that it is a very interesting server with lots of battles and skill that would test them if they came here.
What is your opinion on the large number of metas already present on UKx?
Meta's can be a blessing, but they can also be a curse, if a meta is going to be craeted it should not be created within the first few weeks, simply because they do not last. The reason they do not last is usually because of the experienced players wanting more farms, or because smaller alliances like NUTS & T-Rex see it as a group of organized farms for us to choose from
The meta's that are already here do not pose a threat to me or the other players in our alliance, they are mostly the weak alliances from past servers or alliances that have fallen from past servers due to bad leadership.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hmm haha, the answer to this question can vary each round. Hegemony have been around for as long as I can remember and i have been on this server about eight years. In recent years they have won due to the help of SS/GTB. They do have some fairly decent members.
I do not know what there leadership is like because i have never been apart of hegemony N'or have i been allied with them at any point. But to be around for this long means that Mikle must be doing something right haha. Out of all the large alliances Hegemony isn't one that I look at and get happy due to organized farms but they do not worry me either. We will see how they go this round
Pizza or pasta? Pasta
How come blueberries aren't blue? I could go into saying its about what pigments they contain and rubbish like that but I prefer to say they just don't want to be blue!
Do you believe in aliens? Yes! The government are hiding them from us! :O
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roswell_UFO_incident
Special Mention - T-Rex
Given your distinct lack of players, do you think that it might be somewhat of an uphill struggle to solidify your position in the quad? Feel we've got too many, Makes it unfair on the rest of the quad.
At what point did you decide to return to UKx after the obvious disappointment last server, given that many players expected you either to not return or perhaps play another server? 5pm of day 1.
What is your opinion on the large number of metas already present on UKx? Makes for a fun server.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally? The best.
Pizza or Pasta? Spagetti (nice one, you even spelled it wrong)
How come blueberries aren't blue? Because of aliens
Do you believe in aliens? No.
Thanks to T-Rex for providing such a detailed insight.
NE
The NE is, as usual, the most packed of the four quads. Providing a home to many a meta and one alliance that must face, at some point, a fight with many accounts. This will prove whether quality really is better than quantity.
NW
Hard to define a standout alliance to take control of the middle of the quad, the small NUTS alliance have a definite chance of controlling most of the central ground if they are able to be well controlled and able to expand aggressively.
SE
Another quad filled with metas (a common theme), a fight to control the centre between two metas may end up being ugly for both sides, and given falcons remaining tight lipped who knows where there future will lie. The outsiders are T-Rex, who in a quad full of metas are likely to fight on all fronts against the big bad metas, they have obvious quality (and simming ability), so again it will be quality vs quantity.
SW
Who knows (and who cares) what will happen in the SW. It’s an easy battle that despite L.S. lack of members in comparison to EU, is theirs to lose. Never have I known a quad to be so ripe for the pickings. Lucky L.S.
I'll sign off by saying that if you pick up anything from this analysis, it proves for once and all that Pizza is the best food. And that aliens probably exist.
Hats off if you read all that. I'm bringing white text back.
I've tried to be as neutral and unbiased as possible, but have included some of my personal experiences where ally leaders felt it best to ignore me/be rude to me. Thanks to the majority who were very willing to help, especially those who went into detail :).
I should also thank Gwoww's previous S5 analysis for helping me with initial ideas for questions, in which she also thanks someone who helped her for ideas, SilverSlaughter.
The analysis consists of three sections:
- An overview of alliances by quad
- An interview with a leader
- A quad by quad summary (TL : DR section)
Alliance Overview
NE
DN - The standout of alliances so far, either leading or being very near to the top of all key stats of the server so far. Consisting of a core of a preformed alliance, they may have felt the pressure of the NE and felt that further recruitment was necessary in order to both secure the quad and give them more options longer term. Their defensive rankings may be a sign that already they are already been seen as a big threat to others in the NE, but they also appear to bringing the heat to their neighbouring alliances. They are also around 30% better in higher simmers than second place, highlighting the belief that they are active and experienced players.
Revenge - One of the many alliances that have already felt the need to meta up with most of the server. Their stats paint a positive picture for the future of this alliance, easily the top raiders and also very good attackers and defenders, which makes it even more perplexing why they feel the need to be part of a big meta. Given the answers provided in the interview, it seems that their current position as being part of a meta was created by the previous leader. It is somewhat perplexing why this wasn't instantly removed by the new leader, given they have a solid chance of surviving on their own.
Hegemony - I’m sure Hegemony surprised no one when they appeared once again as an alliance, with their everpresent Mikle as the leader. Having already openly admitted they will once again be participating in the endgame with their support of a RIAPS WW, they have decided on a stronghold location between the two quads because of this and it seems almost all of these players have followed command and settled in such a location. Being on the borders of two quadrants certainly has its positives and negatives, with Hegemony thus far seeming to have had an easy run at simming away their villages with little (at best) interruption. The stats back this up, with Hegemony only featuring on the highest climbers for this week.
UNITY - With only around 90 members being part of UNITY, they are one of the smaller groupings of players in the top 10 alliances. Being the smallest of the main alliances in the most packed quadrant may prove a difficult task for UNITY to stay on the map in the medium to long term. Despite this, right now they are performing well above the expectations of most with regards stats, with them being rank 1 attackers, and rank 3 defenders and raiders for the week, however they do not feature in the top climbers at all. It may be that to try and solidify their position in the NE UNITY have went aggressive against their competition, and their simming is suffering as a result.
NW
Heroes - One of the first alliances to be formed on the server, and yet another to have already formed confeds. They are relatively spread all over the NW, some positioned around the leaders position of a stronghold around the NW WW location, some electing to ignore that advice and remain central, showing the problem of trying to recruit players into the idea of a stronghold. Such an outback location may explain why they are lowly ranked in both raiders and defenders, and their high position in climbers may support the idea that many are focusing on getting well settled in before they turn to causing havoc.
Istanbul - With the bulk of Istanbul being positioned in the central NW, and heroes positioning being more split throughout the quad, Istanbul may have it relatively easy solidifying the central NW for their own. However the stats appear to show that Istanbul have not purely had it their own way, with them only appearing on the defenders board at rank 2, perhaps indicating that Heroes and others are pressing them early. They also have one of the poorest average populations amongst the top alliances, and excluding their top player they appear on the surface to be a group of largely average players.
NUTS - If this alliances planning skills are half as impressive as the detailed answers provided to my questions, then this alliance stands a very good chance of surviving, against the odds perhaps, in their quad. Despite barely making it onto the first page of alliances, NUTS are putting on a very strong showing in the raiders, given their lack of players, even if they perhaps make up for this with quality (and the average pop per player stat backs this up). Further analysis shows that NUTS appear to be incredibly lowly ranked as defenders, perhaps providing even more proof that the NW currently contains no real standout alliance. If this remains to be the case and NUTS can keep up their current progress, they appear to have a real chance of causing big problems for the other alliances in their region.
SE
Falcons - Another part of the huge Hegemony/RIAPS meta. Stats wise Falcons provide a slightly confusing picture, with their “raiding wing” being well ahead of the main alliance on the raiding front (and with less members also), and around the same with regards attackers (surely you want the best raiders in your main wing :?). They are holding their own on the simming front, even with their slightly lower than most average pop.
RIAPS - Positioning wise RIAPS appear to be in a similar predicament to that of heroes, with a fair few of their players being situated deep in the SE, with the others relatively well spread out through the quad. This certainly contrasts to their “support alliance” Hegemony, who are regimented in their location and makes you wonder why, given their current spread, Hegemony are supporting them and not the other way round. A similar situation stats wise to Hegemony, they also barely feature outside the top climbers even given their mainly central locations. I’m sure their positioning is far from ideal when it comes to both attacking and defending as a group.
Rage - Of the three main SE alliances, Rage could be considered to be the most centrally positioned of the three. However, whilst their profile states that they are “a serious crew” at least population wise, they do not stand out from the crowd. Despite being outside the top 10 alliance ranks also, and a small ally, they are putting up a good showing in the top raiders at rank 5. They showing at rank 6 in defenders implies they are also doing well to stop any incoming attacks from the higher ranked alliances in the quad.
T-Rex - A special mention for T-Rex due to their recent simming prowess, which has allowed them to jump up the ally rankings over the past few days. The question remains about whether they can lock down the quad given their lack of numbers, even knowing their obvious quality. Their significant lack of off and def points highlights they have had an easy time so far, which may be the reason their pop has recently increased so significantly.
SW
EU (mostly SW) - An alliance that appears to be in the ranking they are in purely to numbers. Putting up a very poor show on the top raiders, hinting that they may also be full of farms and just keeping them in to ensure their rank remains. The main leader also seemed to have relatively poor English, which certainly won’t help those players who need help communicate effectively. Despite being the rank 2 alliance they also show very poorly in the top climbers, meaning players are unlikely to be very active, and at rank 10 in defenders they either have no competition or no team spirit to stop attackers.
L.S. - Another special mention for this alliance, mainly because there is almost no players in the SW. LS appear to be a good preformed alliance however with further analysis they appear to be hugely widely spread over the quad, however due to their being absolutely no competition in the SW this may not be a huge problem. It makes you wonder the need to settle in deep outback SW when there is no competition even in the centre. With the main ally to compare them to stats wise being T-Rex, they are well ahead of them in the top attackers, likely due to EU’s currently laidback attitude to incoming attacks. L.S. also rank lowly in the def statistics, again highlighting the lack of competition in SW.
Interviews
DN
Given the current delicate situation in the NE, and the quad being the most packed by far of the four, where do you think you will fit in going forward?
Well, I assume we will fit in where we fit in ;) Obviously we are trying to hold the Center and expand, as we have lots of spawns and a couple Players there, but we will work ourselves through the most troubling areas as well.
I think it is relatively common knowledge that the core of players in DN have been together, however it is also obvious that after the server start you have expanded your recruitment, is there any particular reason for this?
There are a couple of reasons for it, the largest I would say is that we are in NE, and that we Needed any number above 35 for survival and WW.
Given the dissapointment last server within GTB after being well beaten by some UKx newcomers, has this put you off WWs for this server?
It has taken the true GTB, the "core members", down from it's high horse, I should hope. But they also know that ALCATRAZ ain't back for this Server, which makes the Outcome clear. Or would, but that I'll answer in the next question. GTB will always take interest in WWs, that's where all the different Kinds of simming lead to in the end.
What is your opinion on T-rex, forming a break away from other GTB members?
Well, to rewrite your question first. Let's get down to t-Rex being GTB. As you are already so open minded, Mr. Reporter. ;) I dont know what to think of it, first it said Shaun, the legendary leader, wouldnt Play at all. So we founded a new room and went off on our own for ukx preparations. Then later it said, he and a few would Play on dex. That we all believed, til the Moment someone mentioned to me "hey, those are gtb Players from us, here on ukx, in t-Rex! " So, as much as I don't like the break away, and as much as I dont like the Attention and the work, that normally shaun does, I am also open for the council's ideas of us and it's open way. We split work and although i am seen as an absolute ruler, four other guys tell me to go in the Corner if I behave too bad :P If their break-away will turn out good or bad, we will see. But as they are in a different quad, I believe others will have to deal with the Problems they cause before anyone of us does.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
They do have less than a handful good ones, but also recruit a couple good ones every Server. Doesn't say much about 240 Player meta though.
Pizza or Pasta? Pasta from monday to thursday, Weekend is reserved for Pizza :D
How come blueberries aren't blue? Some old Name where no other colours existed back then xD
Do you believe in aliens? Yes, lots of Things are "Alien" :) Believing in those in other universes, too. Lol.
EU (Leader refused to answer questions, so I wrote to the second in command who was more willing)
Given your choice of quad, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
Our alliance hasn't had it too easy. It hasn't been terrible either. Having so many players near each other makes getting by much easier with defense calls.
Do you think later in the game having 3 alliances spread all over the map will start presenting a problem?
I'm not experienced enough in late game strategies to answer the second question.
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
There may or may not be anyone we have our eyes on. As a non alliance member I'm not willing to discuss that with you.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, dont you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
I have experienced no friction between our players. We are doing our best to have fun in the game and work together. All of the members I have spoken to are amiable and we get on fine. I haven't experienced stunted growth and I can't see any disadvantages.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
Other branches of EU are essentially an extension of the main alliance. The only difference being the name. We work with them as much as with alliance members.
Is there any particular reason you ask applicants to provide both an email address and their gender when applying?
I don't ask for either myself. That was German-Leaders idea. But the reasoning behind the E-mail is for future servers.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony are not our allies as far as I know.
Pizza or Pasta? Definitely Pizza
How come blueberries aren't blue? Because magic
Do you believe in aliens? Yes although I don't believe we will ever see them.
Revenge
Leader refused to answers questions, second in command provided answers then withdrew permission to post answers on forum, will update if this changes.
Heroes
Again, leader failed to provide answers and instead decided to be rude to myself. So instead I'll share my, somewhat brief, experience of being in Heroes. Being one of the first alliance on the server, I joined them to complete the quest (as most others likely did at the time). Around 36 hours later we were informed of their plan to form a stronghold around the NW WW (not an awful idea, at least they had a plan from the beginning). However their way of deciding who got the best croppers was on a first to put their name down had rights to that cropper basis. After pointing out that such a method was not fair by any means, the leader maintained this method was the best and after explaining the obvious flaws I was kicked.
Falcons
No reply at all from Falcons.
Hegemony
After settling in the NE, you decided to move out to the quad border. Was this always the plan or did things change when you realised how 'busy' the NE would be?
End of last server we decided that the SH would go along the East line...neither NE, nor SE...
We chose East to be a little closer to RIAPs, who we intend to support come End Game. Again, choices made between servers. Word given, we endeavour to stick to it... The Meta occurred through other channels
Given the choice of your stronghold, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
No worse than other servers...croppers as ever are the issue - a lot of folk bounced, some more than once...
I'm on my third choice...Churchill grabbed my first
Do you think later in the game having your meta spread all over the map will start presenting a problem?Not my Meta.
and, yes, and No...
Hegemony likes a SH. We like the swift help it can potentially offer...
A shotgun meta on the map - well, it also has potential for cross alliance assistance...kinda like having a giant SH...
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
Any of them. All of them. It's a war sim...
Known hardcore players, "golders" and dual+ accounts will always be an issue.
So, the ex-GTB group, the ex-SS group, the returned Alcatraz's
I'm sure there are a few people out there that don't like us much...Not sure we've managed to P'off a whole alliance yet though..
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, dont you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
Again, yes and no - the non-meta players are whittling down the farms within, so long as leaders are strict on players leaking, or inactive etc - then there is no issue on grabbing half the server, and sorting the wheat from the chaff...
It's only when leaders hold on the chaff for 'rank' that the grit gets in the grease...
Unless they are friends then you keep them no matter what.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
Yes - but it's not my meta.
You have been tight lipped on the short lasting fight for power that occured within Hege, care to give us the story behind it as an exclusive?
Below is a transcript of the 'coup':
Mikle: Yes!
Mikle: Ratio (Troops:Pop.): 1.1 (111%)
Mikle: at last, I can join Falcons!
J - Misfits: Hacker!
Mikle: cya losers!
Trojan: lol
J - Misfits: Does this mean i'm in charge now..?
Mikle: you want it?
J - Misfits: Nope.
Mikle: too late - done deal
(Thanks to Mikle for the exclusive)
What's your opinion on the reputation that Hege have picked up over the last few years?
We have no opinion. Hegemony has never been 'hardcore' - only 'funcore'
We play travian for a sociable and fun time. The reputation differs dependant on who you talk to anyhow, some think us a joke, and some think us too serious...
20 servers, usually top 10, regular crew, some for all 20... so; Haters gonna hate...
Pizza or Pasta? Pizza
How come blueberries aren't blue? Google it.
Do you believe in aliens? I don't disbelieve...
UNITY
Given the current delicate situation in the NE, and the quad being the most packed by far of the four, where do you think you will fit in going forward?
I think we do stand a fair chance going forward despite heavy competition in the NE quad if we join hands with some of the allies that think similar to us. This does not include DN or anyone in the Hegemony meta. We should, and definitely will be aiming for the WW. We've got some members of the previous ukx winners Italians too.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, don't you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
Creating a large number of confederations and NAPs does stunt growth, especially that of the raiders. That is why Unity do not have any additional relations other than our own wings. It's a foolish decision to do that for us as we're new, and must be careful of these ukx veterans using us for their purpose.
Within your meta, are you (as leaders) and/or your players already working with your confeds?
We have no confeds as such. There's only a second wing called Unity - 2. I believe in merges rather than confederations actually.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony, in my understanding, have not stepped up yet. I have no knowledge of their previous records, but right now they DO NOT EXIST in top 10 attackers and raiders. Might be simming and creating armies, you never know.
Pizza or Pasta? I prefer Pizza, this was not even close.
How come blueberries aren't blue? For the same reason why Strawberry aren't drunk using a straw.
Do you believe in aliens? I do believe in aliens.
ISTANBUL
Given your choice of quad and current alliance stats, would it be fair to say you've had it relatively easy thus far with regards challenges for your alliance?
İt was easy to come novadays. We are an experianced players.
The typical Turkish ally doesn't tend to survive past week one, are you guys here for the long haul?
We were together past 2 servers. We have a well organized players like a group friends.
Is there any particular alliance you have your eye on that may start challenging you and your meta?
We are in equal distance for all alliance. For us the ally war for build WW.
Is there a real benefit in joining so many players together this early, don't you think it stunts the growth of most and only gives more time for friction to be created between both players and leadership?
We accept all players. We know there is a spys in the our alliance but sometimes spys are good strategy for using We make plans before we start also its certain which WW village we gonna take. Doenst matter who joing or who left our alliance we move with system. People are know us, who doesnt, will know!
who do you regard as your main competition for the best in quad ally title?
if you mean first 4 ally on the ranked so there is no alliance for our competition.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony are so lucky. 2 servers ago they built WW. they was lucky because Alliance SS was punished . After punished they supported to hegemony. But GTB was destroyed to Hegemony. This sever they had no idea what they do. When the time past this server everyting gonna be certain. But our guess is hegemony cab support us this server.
Leader refused to answer my last 3 questions :eek:
L.S.
Is anyone actually alive in the SW? Given that the SW is easily the most barren of the four quads, Do you see this as a great chance to secure the quad going forward?
In regards to SW being barren lands this round, i agree and disagree with that, past couple of rounds, alliances ran to other quads. Most notably, Falcons/RIAPS ran because their WW's kept getting chief. But this round you have Sidekicks/EU and their millions of wings and Heroes who have members along the bored of NW/SW. My alliance is here doing our thing, No one has really caused a threat, EU have a bigger bark than a bite, word has it they have inactives in their alliance but keeping them in there and defending them just so they dont lose rankings. There are alliances here but nothing has really kicked off just yet.
What is your opinion on the majority of alliances currently occupying the top spots being part of large meta, especially so early in the server?
This META malarky is just laughable, and have never understood why people would have 4+ alliances so early on. To me its a sign of weakness, an alliance cant defend themselves so give other alliances false promises just so they do not get wiped out. The Falcons meta is hilarious, i know alot of those guys from old servers and nothing never changes.
Your ally profile gives hints that you might be new to the server, where are you from, and why did you pick UKx/what did you hear about it?
Our alliance is not new to Ukx actually The alliance is just for friends only, we do not accept people we do not know, as its easier for us to work together and look after one another.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hegemony.. once upon a time they were a great alliance, over the years they have decreased in stature, and now i see them on the same level as Riaps/Falcons/Istanbul/EU. Dependent on other alliances because they can not cut it themselves.
Again the leader provided no answers for the real serious questions :eek:
NUTS
Given your distinct lack of players, and your relatively spread out location through the quad, will it be an uphill struggle to secure yourself in your quad?
No, We don't feel like it will be a struggle at all, majority of our players are pretty close to each other (Not very close, but we are not miles away either) So far everything we have done this server has succeeded and we have a few decent plans for the rest of the server that we do not see going wrong as of yet. We have got five players that have settled relatively far away from there rest of the group however this has not been a problem as of yet because they are supporting each other.
Our lack of players does not mean that we are going to struggle his round, we are all very experienced players that know exactly what we are doing, more players doesn't always make you stronger, sometimes it can make you weaker.
Do you have previous experience of UKx or are new to the server? If so, where are you from, and why did you pick UKx/what did you hear about it?
A few of us have been here on ukx for the past 6-8 years, others have came over to give the server a run for its money, others have came for a bit of fun. The players that have moved over to ukx from other servers have heard that it is a very interesting server with lots of battles and skill that would test them if they came here.
What is your opinion on the large number of metas already present on UKx?
Meta's can be a blessing, but they can also be a curse, if a meta is going to be craeted it should not be created within the first few weeks, simply because they do not last. The reason they do not last is usually because of the experienced players wanting more farms, or because smaller alliances like NUTS & T-Rex see it as a group of organized farms for us to choose from
The meta's that are already here do not pose a threat to me or the other players in our alliance, they are mostly the weak alliances from past servers or alliances that have fallen from past servers due to bad leadership.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally?
Hmm haha, the answer to this question can vary each round. Hegemony have been around for as long as I can remember and i have been on this server about eight years. In recent years they have won due to the help of SS/GTB. They do have some fairly decent members.
I do not know what there leadership is like because i have never been apart of hegemony N'or have i been allied with them at any point. But to be around for this long means that Mikle must be doing something right haha. Out of all the large alliances Hegemony isn't one that I look at and get happy due to organized farms but they do not worry me either. We will see how they go this round
Pizza or pasta? Pasta
How come blueberries aren't blue? I could go into saying its about what pigments they contain and rubbish like that but I prefer to say they just don't want to be blue!
Do you believe in aliens? Yes! The government are hiding them from us! :O
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roswell_UFO_incident
Special Mention - T-Rex
Given your distinct lack of players, do you think that it might be somewhat of an uphill struggle to solidify your position in the quad? Feel we've got too many, Makes it unfair on the rest of the quad.
At what point did you decide to return to UKx after the obvious disappointment last server, given that many players expected you either to not return or perhaps play another server? 5pm of day 1.
What is your opinion on the large number of metas already present on UKx? Makes for a fun server.
Are Hegemony actually a decent ally? The best.
Pizza or Pasta? Spagetti (nice one, you even spelled it wrong)
How come blueberries aren't blue? Because of aliens
Do you believe in aliens? No.
Thanks to T-Rex for providing such a detailed insight.
Quad Summary – I’ll keep it short
NE
The NE is, as usual, the most packed of the four quads. Providing a home to many a meta and one alliance that must face, at some point, a fight with many accounts. This will prove whether quality really is better than quantity.
NW
Hard to define a standout alliance to take control of the middle of the quad, the small NUTS alliance have a definite chance of controlling most of the central ground if they are able to be well controlled and able to expand aggressively.
SE
Another quad filled with metas (a common theme), a fight to control the centre between two metas may end up being ugly for both sides, and given falcons remaining tight lipped who knows where there future will lie. The outsiders are T-Rex, who in a quad full of metas are likely to fight on all fronts against the big bad metas, they have obvious quality (and simming ability), so again it will be quality vs quantity.
SW
Who knows (and who cares) what will happen in the SW. It’s an easy battle that despite L.S. lack of members in comparison to EU, is theirs to lose. Never have I known a quad to be so ripe for the pickings. Lucky L.S.
I'll sign off by saying that if you pick up anything from this analysis, it proves for once and all that Pizza is the best food. And that aliens probably exist.
Hats off if you read all that. I'm bringing white text back.