Re: Sandcasters, was [FT] Vector...

>Just treat the sand as creating a dust cloud effect, which is already
well
>defined under the rules (gives +1 Screens). If we want to make it like
Smoke
>Launchers - then just say that it works like ADFC in that the target or
>launching platform must be within 6" of the ship using the Sand Caster.

I like this mechanic. Very simple, and it doesn't litter the board with
hundreds of 3" templates.

The caster is either on or off on any given turn. Any ship within 6" of
the
caster-ship gains protection. They could be similar to a mine launcher,
but
with 4 or 5 charges instead of 3. Each turn the system is activated,
mark
off a charge.

>DUSTCASTER
>    Creates a 6" radius dust cloud around the launching ship that
interferes
>with beam weapons. If the target of the attack or the attacking ship is
>within this effect it affords +1 Screens (as per Dust Cloud).

I'd say keep it simple, like mine launchers rather than SMLs.

The problem is balancing it against screens. As most battles only last
7-8
turns, it needs to be massed and priced to ensure that it doesn't become
a
cheap way to get shields!!

Schoon