https://wiki.hard-light.org/api.php?action=feedcontributions&feedformat=atom&user=DarkdaejFreeSpace Wiki - User contributions [en]2026-11-15T10:50:24ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.43.9https://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Shivans&diff=58828Shivans2019-08-22T00:27:28Z<p>Darkdaej: /* History */ Removed "Stub" reference</p>
<hr />
<div>[[File:Shivans_-_Color.jpg|thumb|right|350px|An individual Shivan, showing hard carapace and multiple legs.]]<br />
:''This article is about the species. For the campaigns by Blaise Russel, see [[Phantoms]] and [[Echo Gate]].''<br />
:'''''The Destroyers''' redirects here. For a list of destroyer-class vessels, see [[Destroyer]].''<br />
<br />
The '''Shivans''' are a sentient species who likely originated in an unexplored region of space. The first known entry of the Shivans into the known galaxy occurred 8,000 years before the events of FreeSpace, during which the Shivans exterminated a highly advanced civilization, known as the [[Ancients]]. The Terrans&mdash;or alternately, humans&mdash;and Vasudans explored subspace and colonized the known galaxy, without any traces of the previously fought [[Ancient-Shivan War]]. When the [[Terran-Vasudan War]] entered its fourteenth year, the Shivans attacked ''Riviera'' outpost in [[Ross 128]], initiating the conflict known as [[the Great War]]. At terrible cost and a stroke of luck, the joint Terran-Vasudan forces repelled the Shivans, though this victory was temporary. 32 years later, in 2367, the Shivans returned and the [[Second Shivan Incursion]] broke out.<br />
<br />
Although experiments were performed on live Shivan specimens, very little is known about this species. Their origins and motives remain completely unknown. However, there are many non-canon [[Shivan theories]] discussing the possibilities.<br />
<br />
The Shivans serve as the primary antagonists of both FreeSpace games, as well as a fair majority of [[User-made Campaigns|user-made campaigns]].<br />
<br />
<br />
==Physiology==<br />
[[Image:Shivans.jpg|thumb|right|350px|An intelligence readout related to the Shivans.]]<br />
<br />
Shivans have multiple eyes, some of which seem to have the function of compound eyes, not unlike some varieties of insects. Shivans also have five legs, and can run equally well over a floor or over a ceiling. It has been hypothesized that Shivans may have spent their evolutionary process in a zero-gravity environment. Each Shivan leg ends in a very strong claw, capable of crushing even the sturdiest of known alloys. Parts of their thorax seem to act as compartments, such as ones that might be found on a space suit. It has been suggested that what we have actually seen have been either robots or organic creatures in some sort of exo-skeleton. However, we have, at present, no reason to support either hypothesis.<br />
<br />
Their insect-like carapace does not appear original to the creature's physiology, suggesting the Shivans are a cybernetic fusion of biology and technology. The integrated plasma weapon also exhibits properties of an organic-artificial fusion. The weapon may be a kind of focusing device powered by the energy of the being itself, though this point is the subject of heated controversy. These details are cited as evidence that the Shivans could not have evolved as the Terran or Vasudan species had, but that they were likely constructed by another entity. Only a handful of Shivans have ever been captured, and all research on live specimens ended with the [[Galactic Terran Intelligence]]'s (GTI) [[Hades Rebellion]] in 2336. The results of these studies remain highly classified.<br />
<br />
==History==<br />
The first known conflict fought by the Shivans is the Ancient-Shivan War, 8,000 years ago. The Ancients were a proud, technologically developed race who built a vast empire. Though they were a belligerent warrior race, they were eventually outmatched by the technologically superior Shivans. The Shivans drove them back to their homeworld, bombarding it from orbit. The war ended with the extinction of the Ancients and the withdrawal of all Shivan forces from the known galaxy.<br />
<br />
8,000 years later, in 2335, the Shivans resurfaced during the Terran-Vasudan War. The SD ''Lucifer'' came out of nowhere and annihilated ''Riviera'' station in Ross 128. Rumors started to surface among Terrans about a third sentient race, but nothing could be confirmed until the Shivans intervened a small Terran-Vasudan battle in Antares. In the following days, the Shivans inflicted heavy casualties for both Terran and Vasudan forces, encouraging a cease-fire between the two warring factions, combining their strength against the new adversary. The Great War has begun.<br />
<br />
Emboldened by the new technologies that allowed the defenders to compete with Shivan superiority, Terran Command attempted a daring operation&mdash;to capture the SC ''Taranis'', a [[SC Cain|''Cain''-class Shivan cruiser]]. The mission was successful, and the cruiser was towed to Tombaugh Station. Tragically for the Terrans, the Shivan counteroffensive was devastating. Tombaugh Station came under attack and annihilated by a massive Shivan force, led by the SD ''Lucifer''. Fighters and bombers deployed to defend the station could not inflict measurable damage against the ''Lucifer''. Analysis indicated that the ''Lucifer'' was imbued with a seemingly impenetrable shielding. The ''Lucifer'' made its way uninterrupted to [[Vasuda Prime]], and bombarded it from orbit, rendering its surface uninhabitable. Then it set course towards Earth. Fortunately for the Terrans, Vasudan refugees uncovered some Ancient artifacts and decoded them, revealing that the SD ''Lucifer'''s shielding did not function in a subspace tunnel. The ''Lucifer'' was destroyed in the Sol-Delta Serpentis tunnel, minutes before it could enter the Solar System. In the following weeks, the remaining Shivan forces were wiped out from known space. The Terran-Vasudan alliance won the Great War.<br />
<br />
==Identity and motives==<br />
Despite what information we've been able to obtain, Shivans still remain, on many levels, an enigma to both the Terrans and Vasudans. Their origin and their destination remain unknown. While many have offered up possible explanations as to why the Shivans seem focused on the destruction of all other sentient species, we still do not know why they seem bent on total xenocide.<br />
<br />
According to Ancient artifacts, the Shivans seem to possess some kind of sensitivity to subspace disturbances. While it is unknown why the Shivans returned to now-GTVA space in 2335 and 2367, it may have been by chance, cycle, or by the detection of Terran-Vasudan subspace travel and/or conflict.<br />
<br />
In the ending of ''Descent: FreeSpace'', the protagonist speculates that the Shivans as a race are not necessarily evil, stating that "the Shivans are the great destroyers, but also the great preservers". Their role was to exterminate other species who advanced beyond their ordained place in the cosmic order. It is postulated had it not been for the Shivans' intervention 8000 years ago, the Ancients may have grown so powerful that the Terrans and Vasudans may not have been able to survive. In turn the protagonist realizes that the Terrans' expansion would have made them a threat to any other fledgling species. This theory is taken further by [[Aken Bosch|Admiral Bosch]], who hypothesizes that many races came before even the Ancients themselves, who were each wiped out in their turn to allow a new generation to develop.<br />
<br />
One theory, suggested by Admiral Petrarch in the end monologue of ''FreeSpace 2'', is that the Shivans are a nomadic race cut off from home, much like the Terrans are from theirs since the end of the [[Great War]]. This theory goes on to speculate that the Shivans used the Capellan supernova to create some form of "bridge", allowing travel to another (their home) universe.<br />
<br />
==Culture==<br />
Xenobiologists know very little about Shivan society. A leading hypothesis is the hive mind theory, arguing that Shivan society is broken down in specialized functions driven by a collective intelligence. The most convincing evidence supporting this theory is the behavior of Shivan forces following the destruction of the [[SD Lucifer|SD ''Lucifer'']], the turning point of the [[Great War]]. Other experts caution against attributing insectoid properties to the Shivans, regardless of their appearance and behavior. Shivan communication seems to occur through quantum waves; [[Admiral Aken Bosch]]'s [[ETAK]] project was successful in decoding their transmissions, but all data concerning that project has been classified at the highest level.<br />
<br />
However, due to the capture of the specifications of the [[ETAK]] project, it is possible that the [[Galactic Terran-Vasudan Alliance|GTVA]] may try to communicate with the Shivans at some point in the future, or possibly create a device to monitor and/or disrupt their communications. Either of these possibilities may hold the key to surviving a future Shivan incursion, as from the last two major encounters, it is evident that the Shivans exponentially increase their power between campaigns against other beings.<br />
<br />
==Technology==<br />
[[Image:Lucifer480x340.jpg|thumb|left|250px|A Shivan [[SD Lucifer|''Lucifer'']]-class destroyer.]]<br />
Shivan technology has proved baffling for both Terran and Vasudan scientists. Although their weapons and technology by necessity obey the same physical laws, the systems of Shivan craft seem to be fully integrated with the pilot's biology, making it difficult, but still possible, to use their spacecraft for espionage and spying. Only three documented successful missions have been carried out using retrofitted Shivan spacecraft to traverse Shivan territory under disguise.<br />
<br />
Shivan technology also appears to be much more advanced than most Terran or Vasudan equivalents. Reverse-engineering captured Shivan technology has led to tremendous advances in shielding, beam weaponry, energy and other weapon systems. Shivan primary weapons are portrayed as inferior to their Terran and Vasudan counterparts, though this is arguably simply a matter of game balance. However, the true capability of the Shivan arsenal is demonstrated with their much deadlier beam cannons, which have faster firing rates than those of both the Terrans and Vasudans. Shivans also rely on their heavy shielding and use little armor plating on their fighters. The Shivans also have an inclination towards the color red; almost all Shivan vessels exhibit a red color scheme. Strangely, the Shivans seem to have adapted some Second Incursion-era Terran and Vasudan weapons, such as flak guns and anti-fighter beams, achieving technological parity for that period.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Species]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58827Name origins2019-08-22T00:15:16Z<p>Darkdaej: Removed the addition of Psamtik - display error</p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron. It is also the name of a Dwarf planet in the Sol System, long thought to be a natural satellite of Pluto.<br />
<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and was one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.à<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58826Name origins2019-08-22T00:14:38Z<p>Darkdaej: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron. It is also the name of a Dwarf planet in the Sol System, long thought to be a natural satellite of Pluto.<br />
<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and was one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.à<br />
<br />
====GVD ''Psamtik''==== Psamtik I was an Egyptian Pharaoh who ruled from 664 - 610 BCE<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58825Name origins2019-08-22T00:13:48Z<p>Darkdaej: Added the GVD Psamtik</p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron. It is also the name of a Dwarf planet in the Sol System, long thought to be a natural satellite of Pluto.<br />
<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and was one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.<br />
====GVD ''Psamtik''==== Psamtik I was an Egyptian Pharaoh who ruled from 664 - 610 BCE<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58824Name origins2019-08-21T23:57:25Z<p>Darkdaej: /* GTS Charon */ Added information</p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron. It is also the name of a Dwarf planet in the Sol System, long thought to be a natural satellite of Pluto.<br />
<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and was one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58823Name origins2019-08-21T23:56:20Z<p>Darkdaej: /* GTVA Colossus */ Correcting an "is" for "was given the statue was destroyed</p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron.<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and was one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Name_origins&diff=58822Name origins2019-08-21T23:54:37Z<p>Darkdaej: Removed "Stub" tag - this is obviously not one of them :)</p>
<hr />
<div>[[FreeSpace]] took names for ships, weapons and even characters from numerous different real-life sources. The origins to these names are listed here. The items are listed alphabetically, disregarding class designations.<br />
<br />
==Individual Ships==<br />
====GTD ''Amadeus''====<br />
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was a German 18th century composer.<br />
====GTD ''Aquitaine''====<br />
Aquitaine is a region in the soutwest of France. It came into the control of England when Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry II of England in 1152. It remained in English control until 1453 at the end of the Hundred Years' War.<br />
====GTSC ''Asimov''====<br />
Isaac Asimov was a science fiction writer, notable for his ''Foundation'' series of novels.<br />
====GTD ''Carthage''====<br />
Carthage was the city completely destroyed by the Romans after three wars.<br />
====GTS Charon====<br />
In Greek mythology, Charon was a ferryman that carried the souls of the dead across the rivers Styx and Acheron.<br />
====GTVA ''Colossus''====<br />
The name "Colossus" was a common name, usually used for large statues. The warship, however, was probably named after one statue in particular, the Colossus of Rhodes. The statue represented the God Helios and is one of the Seven Wonders. The first mission in which the Colossus appears, in fact, is named [[The Sixth Wonder]] (sm1-08).<br />
====GTD ''Eisenhower''====<br />
Dwight Eisenhower was the leader of the Allied forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States (1953-1961).<br />
====GTI ''Enif Station''====<br />
Enif is the common name of [[Epsilon Pegasi]]<br />
====GTD ''Galatea''====<br />
Galatea, in Greek mythology, is the name for a statue carved out of ivory.<br />
====GTFr Nelson====<br />
Admiral Horatio Nelson led the English Royal Navy in the famous Battle for Trafalgar (1805). <br />
====GTC ''Orff''====<br />
Carl Orff was a German composer.<br />
====GTSC ''Plato''====<br />
Plato was an Ancient Greek mathematician and philosopher.<br />
====PVC ''Ramses''====<br />
Ancient Egypt had 11 pharaohs named Ramses.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=GTF_Hercules_Mark_II&diff=58821GTF Hercules Mark II2019-08-21T11:17:47Z<p>Darkdaej: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{FS12_Ships}}<br />
Boasting superior speed, manoeuvrability and missile loadout capacity than its forebear, the '''GTF ''Hercules Mark II''''' had become the Alliance's primary heavy assault fighter in 2367. While it lacks the punch of its predecessor when it comes to primaries, it’s a very effective combat craft suited for multiple types of engagements due to its compatibility with most types of primary and [[Weapons Database (FS2)|secondary weapon]]s. Some squadrons favoured this craft heavily, such as the [[GTD Aquitaine]]'s ''107th Ravens''.<br />
<br />
The 2nd Generation "Herc" experienced heavy action in several combat theatres, including the [[NTF]] Civil War and the Second [[Shivan]] Incursion.<br />
<br />
==Description:==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[Image:Gtfherculesmarkii-old.jpg]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II}}<br />
===FS2 Demo Tech Room Description===<br />
The second generation of the Hercules fighter. It is faster, more maneuverable, and still carries a decent payload.<br />
<br />
===FS2 Tech Room Description===<br />
The GTF Hercules Mark II is the next generation of Terran heavy assault fighter. Introduced during the Great War, the original Herc's balance of firepower and maneuverability made it the most versatile strike fighter in the fleet. Some military historians have claimed the Hercules won the Great War, citing its deployment in key battles near the end of the Shivan conflict. Implementing recent advances in fusion drive technology, the Mark II improves the assault fighter's speed and maneuverability without sacrificing loadout capacity.<br />
<br />
===Developer Notes===<br />
None<br />
<br />
===Concept Art===<br />
<gallery><br />
Image:Concept_gtf_hercules_mark2.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Performance:==<br />
===Statistics===<br />
{{Ship Stats|Heavy Assault|RNI Systems (FS2)<br>KresCo Engineering (FS2 Demo)|Average|3.8, 4.2, 3.8|55.0 - 65.0|120.0|Heavy|275|610|17}}<br />
<br />
===Armaments===<br />
<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Gun Mounts|Gun Mounts]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Guns<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Primaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]], [[GTW Akheton SDG|Akheton SDG]], [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]], [[GTW Prometheus S|Prometheus S]], [[GTW Morning Star|Morning Star]], [[GTW UD-8 Kayser|UD-8 Kayser]], [[GTW Circe|Circe]], [[GTW Lamprey|Lamprey]], [[GTW Maxim|Maxim]]<br />
|}<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Missile Banks|Missile Banks]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Capacity<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 80<br />
| [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 100<br />
| [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Secondaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTM MX-64|MX-64]], [[GTM EMP Adv.|EMP Adv.]], [[GTM Tempest|Tempest]], [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]], [[GTM Tornado|Tornado]], [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]], [[GTM Trebuchet|Trebuchet]], [[GTM TAG-A|TAG-A]], [[GTM TAG-B|TAG-B]], [[GTM Infyrno|Infyrno]],<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Modding Resources==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[File:Herc_Mk2_12_w14_lighting.png|360px]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II in FS2_Open 3.6.14}}<br />
'''Retail''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: fighter2t-02(a/b/c), thruster01<br><br />
<br />
'''MediaVP 3.6.10''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: hercmap, fighter2t-02, glass, Damage, Tercoc01<br><br />
<br><br />
History<br><br />
Proposed by: ??? on ???<br><br />
First WIP Post: ??? on ???<br><br />
First In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Completed In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Final Corrections: ??? on ???<br><br />
<br />
==Gallery==<br />
<br />
<gallery widths=250px><br />
File:RScreen0033.png|A wing of Hercs patrol through a nebula.<br />
File:RScreen0046.png|<center>A Herc II fighter defending a [[GTCv Deimos]].<br />
File:Aristeia12.png|<center>A wing of Herc 2s engaging a Maxim strike against the Wargods in [[Aristeia]].<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Veteran Comments==<br />
{{Comment|''The Herc II flies okay. My only complaint is with the weapons placement, as having the primaries set side by side makes shooting a fleeing target with horizontal deflection tricky. The secondary max loadout is a blessing, sometimes I like to load out on nothing but Harpoons and be a mobile SAM launcher.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''I like all the Hercs. Good armour with large missile capacity, although a bit on the slow side, but decent maneuverability.<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II gets introduced rather cruelly to you; in your first mission in the fighter you are thrown against Shivan [[SF Mara|Maras]] and [[SF Astaroth|Astaroths]], both of which can outmaneuver and outrun you with ease. [[A Lion at the Door]] demonstrates the problems with the Herc II in rather brutal fashion on high difficulties. [[Mystery of the Trinity]] can end up subjecting you to SF Dragons to boot, for the ultimate in bad introductions; survival of that situation is difficult on ANY difficulty.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''Despite this the fighter is a capable heavy assault ship; its spacious secondary bays and having only four gun banks appear to be a reaction to and endorsement of the Hornet-spam technique for dealing with enemy logistics craft and cruisers.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The problem with the Herc II is the early missions, where it's the required fighter, often just aren't well suited to pure heavy fighter forces, which leaves some people with the impression it is an inferior ship overall. It really isn't. It's quite a good ship for [[Clash of the Titans II]] or [[Dunkerque]] for instance, and it's my preferred ship for [[Proving Grounds]].''<br />
<br />
<br />
''While in the main campaign the Herc II is pretty much useless, in user-made campaign missions with lots of enemies, the Herc II is a godsend (provided that you have the right weapons, and no other ships like the Erinyes are available). Its thick armour and shielding is enough to get you through the fiercest of battles.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''It's surprisingly maneuverable, but is slow as hell. Its thick armour, heavy shielding and huge secondary banks give you the opportunity to survive long missions without support, like [[Love the Treason]]. However, the [[GVF Tauret|Tauret]] is a better assault fighter, with more guns, even more missiles and less maneuverability.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''This ship could be simplified as the Terran [[SF Basilisk|Basilisk]]. Both the Herc II and Basilisk have two guns per slot as well as the same missile capacity. The main differences are that the Herc II has a slightly slower turn rate and lower maximum velocity and more hull hit points but less shield hit points than the Basilisk.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II is forced upon the player in the retail campaign to fly a series of missions that it is completely unsuited for. As a result, it can be very easy to get frustrated with this craft's shortcomings and overlook its advantages. Think of it as a high-capacity missile launcher with good durability and adequate maneuverability, and a rather small target profile, to boot. You can equip 22 Trebuchets (10 and 12 in each bank, respectively) at once, giving you excellent long-range capability for a variety of situations. Its four primary slots are well-placed, and with two banks you can outfit the Herc II for a variety of tasks--standard anti-fighter Prometheus S's, a pair of Maxims and a pair of low-energy Subach-HL7's, etc. Thus, the Herc II is not really an assault fighter; it's more like a high-capacity missile launcher that can perform other tasks decently, without even needing a change in loadout. This makes frantic convoy escort/protection missions vastly easier, as you can afford to fire off Trebuchets at entire wings of bombers, while still having enough to spare for sniping the main beam cannons on marauding cruisers/corvettes.'' <br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Ship]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=GTF_Hercules_Mark_II&diff=58820GTF Hercules Mark II2019-08-21T11:16:09Z<p>Darkdaej: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{FS12_Ships}}<br />
Boasting superior speed, manoeuvrability and missile loadout capacity than its forebear, the '''GTF ''Hercules Mark II''''' had become the Alliance's primary heavy assault fighter in 2367. While it lacks the punch of its predecessor when it comes to primaries, it’s a very effective combat craft suited for multiple types of engagements due to its compatibility with most types of primary and [[Weapons Database (FS2)|secondary weapon]]s. Some squadrons favoured this craft heavily, such as the [[GTD Aquitaine]]'s ''107th Ravens''.<br />
<br />
The 2nd Generation "Herc" experienced heavy action in several combat theatres, including the NTF Civil War and the Second Shivan Incursion.<br />
<br />
==Description:==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[Image:Gtfherculesmarkii-old.jpg]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II}}<br />
===FS2 Demo Tech Room Description===<br />
The second generation of the Hercules fighter. It is faster, more maneuverable, and still carries a decent payload.<br />
<br />
===FS2 Tech Room Description===<br />
The GTF Hercules Mark II is the next generation of Terran heavy assault fighter. Introduced during the Great War, the original Herc's balance of firepower and maneuverability made it the most versatile strike fighter in the fleet. Some military historians have claimed the Hercules won the Great War, citing its deployment in key battles near the end of the Shivan conflict. Implementing recent advances in fusion drive technology, the Mark II improves the assault fighter's speed and maneuverability without sacrificing loadout capacity.<br />
<br />
===Developer Notes===<br />
None<br />
<br />
===Concept Art===<br />
<gallery><br />
Image:Concept_gtf_hercules_mark2.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Performance:==<br />
===Statistics===<br />
{{Ship Stats|Heavy Assault|RNI Systems (FS2)<br>KresCo Engineering (FS2 Demo)|Average|3.8, 4.2, 3.8|55.0 - 65.0|120.0|Heavy|275|610|17}}<br />
<br />
===Armaments===<br />
<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Gun Mounts|Gun Mounts]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Guns<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Primaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]], [[GTW Akheton SDG|Akheton SDG]], [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]], [[GTW Prometheus S|Prometheus S]], [[GTW Morning Star|Morning Star]], [[GTW UD-8 Kayser|UD-8 Kayser]], [[GTW Circe|Circe]], [[GTW Lamprey|Lamprey]], [[GTW Maxim|Maxim]]<br />
|}<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Missile Banks|Missile Banks]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Capacity<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 80<br />
| [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 100<br />
| [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Secondaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTM MX-64|MX-64]], [[GTM EMP Adv.|EMP Adv.]], [[GTM Tempest|Tempest]], [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]], [[GTM Tornado|Tornado]], [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]], [[GTM Trebuchet|Trebuchet]], [[GTM TAG-A|TAG-A]], [[GTM TAG-B|TAG-B]], [[GTM Infyrno|Infyrno]],<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Modding Resources==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[File:Herc_Mk2_12_w14_lighting.png|360px]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II in FS2_Open 3.6.14}}<br />
'''Retail''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: fighter2t-02(a/b/c), thruster01<br><br />
<br />
'''MediaVP 3.6.10''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: hercmap, fighter2t-02, glass, Damage, Tercoc01<br><br />
<br><br />
History<br><br />
Proposed by: ??? on ???<br><br />
First WIP Post: ??? on ???<br><br />
First In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Completed In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Final Corrections: ??? on ???<br><br />
<br />
==Gallery==<br />
<br />
<gallery widths=250px><br />
File:RScreen0033.png|A wing of Hercs patrol through a nebula.<br />
File:RScreen0046.png|<center>A Herc II fighter defending a [[GTCv Deimos]].<br />
File:Aristeia12.png|<center>A wing of Herc 2s engaging a Maxim strike against the Wargods in [[Aristeia]].<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Veteran Comments==<br />
{{Comment|''The Herc II flies okay. My only complaint is with the weapons placement, as having the primaries set side by side makes shooting a fleeing target with horizontal deflection tricky. The secondary max loadout is a blessing, sometimes I like to load out on nothing but Harpoons and be a mobile SAM launcher.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''I like all the Hercs. Good armour with large missile capacity, although a bit on the slow side, but decent maneuverability.<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II gets introduced rather cruelly to you; in your first mission in the fighter you are thrown against Shivan [[SF Mara|Maras]] and [[SF Astaroth|Astaroths]], both of which can outmaneuver and outrun you with ease. [[A Lion at the Door]] demonstrates the problems with the Herc II in rather brutal fashion on high difficulties. [[Mystery of the Trinity]] can end up subjecting you to SF Dragons to boot, for the ultimate in bad introductions; survival of that situation is difficult on ANY difficulty.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''Despite this the fighter is a capable heavy assault ship; its spacious secondary bays and having only four gun banks appear to be a reaction to and endorsement of the Hornet-spam technique for dealing with enemy logistics craft and cruisers.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The problem with the Herc II is the early missions, where it's the required fighter, often just aren't well suited to pure heavy fighter forces, which leaves some people with the impression it is an inferior ship overall. It really isn't. It's quite a good ship for [[Clash of the Titans II]] or [[Dunkerque]] for instance, and it's my preferred ship for [[Proving Grounds]].''<br />
<br />
<br />
''While in the main campaign the Herc II is pretty much useless, in user-made campaign missions with lots of enemies, the Herc II is a godsend (provided that you have the right weapons, and no other ships like the Erinyes are available). Its thick armour and shielding is enough to get you through the fiercest of battles.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''It's surprisingly maneuverable, but is slow as hell. Its thick armour, heavy shielding and huge secondary banks give you the opportunity to survive long missions without support, like [[Love the Treason]]. However, the [[GVF Tauret|Tauret]] is a better assault fighter, with more guns, even more missiles and less maneuverability.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''This ship could be simplified as the Terran [[SF Basilisk|Basilisk]]. Both the Herc II and Basilisk have two guns per slot as well as the same missile capacity. The main differences are that the Herc II has a slightly slower turn rate and lower maximum velocity and more hull hit points but less shield hit points than the Basilisk.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II is forced upon the player in the retail campaign to fly a series of missions that it is completely unsuited for. As a result, it can be very easy to get frustrated with this craft's shortcomings and overlook its advantages. Think of it as a high-capacity missile launcher with good durability and adequate maneuverability, and a rather small target profile, to boot. You can equip 22 Trebuchets (10 and 12 in each bank, respectively) at once, giving you excellent long-range capability for a variety of situations. Its four primary slots are well-placed, and with two banks you can outfit the Herc II for a variety of tasks--standard anti-fighter Prometheus S's, a pair of Maxims and a pair of low-energy Subach-HL7's, etc. Thus, the Herc II is not really an assault fighter; it's more like a high-capacity missile launcher that can perform other tasks decently, without even needing a change in loadout. This makes frantic convoy escort/protection missions vastly easier, as you can afford to fire off Trebuchets at entire wings of bombers, while still having enough to spare for sniping the main beam cannons on marauding cruisers/corvettes.'' <br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Ship]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=GTF_Hercules_Mark_II&diff=58819GTF Hercules Mark II2019-08-21T11:14:19Z<p>Darkdaej: Expanded on the ship's introduction</p>
<hr />
<div>{{FS12_Ships}}<br />
Boasting superior speed, manoeuvrability and missile loadout capacity than its forebear, the '''GTF ''Hercules Mark II''''' had become the Alliance's primary heavy assault fighter in 2367. While it lacks the punch of its predecessor when it comes to primaries, it’s a very effective combat craft suited for multiple types of engagements due to its compatibility with most types of primary and [[Weapons Database (FS2)|secondary weapon]]s. Some squadrons favoured this craft heavily, such as the GTD Aquitaine's ''107th Ravens''.<br />
<br />
The 2nd Generation "Herc" experienced heavy action in several combat theatres, including the NTF Civil War and the Second Shivan Incursion.<br />
<br />
==Description:==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[Image:Gtfherculesmarkii-old.jpg]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II}}<br />
===FS2 Demo Tech Room Description===<br />
The second generation of the Hercules fighter. It is faster, more maneuverable, and still carries a decent payload.<br />
<br />
===FS2 Tech Room Description===<br />
The GTF Hercules Mark II is the next generation of Terran heavy assault fighter. Introduced during the Great War, the original Herc's balance of firepower and maneuverability made it the most versatile strike fighter in the fleet. Some military historians have claimed the Hercules won the Great War, citing its deployment in key battles near the end of the Shivan conflict. Implementing recent advances in fusion drive technology, the Mark II improves the assault fighter's speed and maneuverability without sacrificing loadout capacity.<br />
<br />
===Developer Notes===<br />
None<br />
<br />
===Concept Art===<br />
<gallery><br />
Image:Concept_gtf_hercules_mark2.jpg<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Performance:==<br />
===Statistics===<br />
{{Ship Stats|Heavy Assault|RNI Systems (FS2)<br>KresCo Engineering (FS2 Demo)|Average|3.8, 4.2, 3.8|55.0 - 65.0|120.0|Heavy|275|610|17}}<br />
<br />
===Armaments===<br />
<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Gun Mounts|Gun Mounts]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Guns<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 2<br />
| [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Primaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTW Subach HL-7|Subach HL-7]], [[GTW Akheton SDG|Akheton SDG]], [[GTW Prometheus R|Prometheus R]], [[GTW Prometheus S|Prometheus S]], [[GTW Morning Star|Morning Star]], [[GTW UD-8 Kayser|UD-8 Kayser]], [[GTW Circe|Circe]], [[GTW Lamprey|Lamprey]], [[GTW Maxim|Maxim]]<br />
|}<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Missile Banks|Missile Banks]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Capacity<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 80<br />
| [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 100<br />
| [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3| Compatible Secondaries<br />
|-<br />
| colspan=3| [[GTM MX-64|MX-64]], [[GTM EMP Adv.|EMP Adv.]], [[GTM Tempest|Tempest]], [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]], [[GTM Tornado|Tornado]], [[GTM Harpoon|Harpoon]], [[GTM Trebuchet|Trebuchet]], [[GTM TAG-A|TAG-A]], [[GTM TAG-B|TAG-B]], [[GTM Infyrno|Infyrno]],<br />
|}<br />
<br />
==Modding Resources==<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[File:Herc_Mk2_12_w14_lighting.png|360px]]|caption=The GTF Hercules Mark II in FS2_Open 3.6.14}}<br />
'''Retail''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: fighter2t-02(a/b/c), thruster01<br><br />
<br />
'''MediaVP 3.6.10''':<br><br />
:$POF File: fighter2t-02.pof<br><br />
:Textures: hercmap, fighter2t-02, glass, Damage, Tercoc01<br><br />
<br><br />
History<br><br />
Proposed by: ??? on ???<br><br />
First WIP Post: ??? on ???<br><br />
First In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Completed In-Game Model: ??? on ???<br><br />
Final Corrections: ??? on ???<br><br />
<br />
==Gallery==<br />
<br />
<gallery widths=250px><br />
File:RScreen0033.png|A wing of Hercs patrol through a nebula.<br />
File:RScreen0046.png|<center>A Herc II fighter defending a [[GTCv Deimos]].<br />
File:Aristeia12.png|<center>A wing of Herc 2s engaging a Maxim strike against the Wargods in [[Aristeia]].<br />
</gallery><br />
<br />
==Veteran Comments==<br />
{{Comment|''The Herc II flies okay. My only complaint is with the weapons placement, as having the primaries set side by side makes shooting a fleeing target with horizontal deflection tricky. The secondary max loadout is a blessing, sometimes I like to load out on nothing but Harpoons and be a mobile SAM launcher.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''I like all the Hercs. Good armour with large missile capacity, although a bit on the slow side, but decent maneuverability.<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II gets introduced rather cruelly to you; in your first mission in the fighter you are thrown against Shivan [[SF Mara|Maras]] and [[SF Astaroth|Astaroths]], both of which can outmaneuver and outrun you with ease. [[A Lion at the Door]] demonstrates the problems with the Herc II in rather brutal fashion on high difficulties. [[Mystery of the Trinity]] can end up subjecting you to SF Dragons to boot, for the ultimate in bad introductions; survival of that situation is difficult on ANY difficulty.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''Despite this the fighter is a capable heavy assault ship; its spacious secondary bays and having only four gun banks appear to be a reaction to and endorsement of the Hornet-spam technique for dealing with enemy logistics craft and cruisers.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The problem with the Herc II is the early missions, where it's the required fighter, often just aren't well suited to pure heavy fighter forces, which leaves some people with the impression it is an inferior ship overall. It really isn't. It's quite a good ship for [[Clash of the Titans II]] or [[Dunkerque]] for instance, and it's my preferred ship for [[Proving Grounds]].''<br />
<br />
<br />
''While in the main campaign the Herc II is pretty much useless, in user-made campaign missions with lots of enemies, the Herc II is a godsend (provided that you have the right weapons, and no other ships like the Erinyes are available). Its thick armour and shielding is enough to get you through the fiercest of battles.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''It's surprisingly maneuverable, but is slow as hell. Its thick armour, heavy shielding and huge secondary banks give you the opportunity to survive long missions without support, like [[Love the Treason]]. However, the [[GVF Tauret|Tauret]] is a better assault fighter, with more guns, even more missiles and less maneuverability.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''This ship could be simplified as the Terran [[SF Basilisk|Basilisk]]. Both the Herc II and Basilisk have two guns per slot as well as the same missile capacity. The main differences are that the Herc II has a slightly slower turn rate and lower maximum velocity and more hull hit points but less shield hit points than the Basilisk.''<br />
<br />
<br />
''The Herc II is forced upon the player in the retail campaign to fly a series of missions that it is completely unsuited for. As a result, it can be very easy to get frustrated with this craft's shortcomings and overlook its advantages. Think of it as a high-capacity missile launcher with good durability and adequate maneuverability, and a rather small target profile, to boot. You can equip 22 Trebuchets (10 and 12 in each bank, respectively) at once, giving you excellent long-range capability for a variety of situations. Its four primary slots are well-placed, and with two banks you can outfit the Herc II for a variety of tasks--standard anti-fighter Prometheus S's, a pair of Maxims and a pair of low-energy Subach-HL7's, etc. Thus, the Herc II is not really an assault fighter; it's more like a high-capacity missile launcher that can perform other tasks decently, without even needing a change in loadout. This makes frantic convoy escort/protection missions vastly easier, as you can afford to fire off Trebuchets at entire wings of bombers, while still having enough to spare for sniping the main beam cannons on marauding cruisers/corvettes.'' <br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Ship]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=FreeSpace_2_Campaign_Walkthrough&diff=23719FreeSpace 2 Campaign Walkthrough2009-06-28T23:40:43Z<p>Darkdaej: corrected "SOTY" to "GOTY" to reflect "Game of the Year"</p>
<hr />
<div>==Act I==<br />
*[[Surrender, Belisarius!]]<br />
*[[The Place of Chariots]]<br />
*[[The Romans Blunder]]<br />
*[[A Lion at the Door]]<br />
*[[Mystery of the Trinity]]<br />
*[[The Great Hunt (FS2)|The Great Hunt]]<br />
*[[Slaying Ravana]]<br />
*[[The Sixth Wonder]]<br />
*[[Into the Maelstrom]]<br />
*[[Feint! Parry! Riposte!]]<br />
<br />
==Act II==<br />
*[[Battle of the Wilderness]]<br />
*[[A Game of TAG]]<br />
*[[Proving Grounds]]<br />
*[[The King's Gambit]]<br />
*[[The Sicilian Defense]]<br />
*[[Endgame]]<br />
*[[The Fog of War]]<br />
*[[A Monster in the Mist]]<br />
*[[Speaking in Tongues]]<br />
*[[A Flaming Sword]]<br />
<br />
==Act III==<br />
*[[Bearbaiting]]<br />
*[[High Noon]]<br />
*[[Return to Babel]]<br />
*[[Straight, No Chaser]]<br />
*[[Argonautica]]<br />
*[[Exodus (FS2)|Exodus]]<br />
*[[Dunkerque]]<br />
*[[Their Finest Hour]]<br />
*[[Clash of the Titans II]]<br />
*[[Apocalypse]]<br />
<br />
==SOC Loop 1==<br />
*[[Rebels & Renegades]]<br />
*[[Love the Treason...]]<br />
*[[...But Hate the Traitor]]<br />
<br />
==SOC Loop 2==<br />
*[[As Lightning Fall]]<br />
*[[Into the Lion's Den]]<br />
<br><br><br />
----<br />
==FreeSpace 2 Demo==<br />
*[[Crimson Sky]]<br />
*[[Crisis in Capella]]<br />
<br />
==FreeSpace 2 Colossus==<br />
This limited single-CD version of FreeSpace 2 is included with some Logitech Force Feedback joysticks. It includes only Act 1 of the FreeSpace campaign (the training missions are present, but it does not include the SOC loop). FRED missions still work with it, but FreeSpace 2 Open does not. There are no printed manuals provided; all the material is found on the CD media.<br />
<br />
==[[Operation Templar]]==<br />
*Short and separate multiplayer co-op campaign included with FreeSpace 2<br />
*Also available as an unbalanced, single player campaign with the GOTY version of FreeSpace 2<br />
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[[Category:Lists]]<br />
[[Category:Main FreeSpace 2 Campaign]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=53rd_Hammerheads&diff=2371053rd Hammerheads2009-06-28T19:20:25Z<p>Darkdaej: linked cygnus prime to the proper page</p>
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<div>==General info==<br />
<b>Squadron type:</b> Space Superiority <br><br />
<b>Craft used the most:</b> [[GTF Myrmidon|GTF ''Myrmidon'']] <br><br />
<b>Stationed on-board:</b> [[GTD Aquitaine|GTD ''Aquitaine'']] (FS2), [[GTD Bastion|GTD ''Bastion'']] (FS1) <br><br />
<b>Squadron leader:</b> Captain/Lieutenant Loukakis <br><br />
<br />
==Actions==<br />
The first known actions for the Hammerheads took place during the [[Great War]], when pilots from the squadron were launched from the [[GTD Bastion|GTD ''Bastion'']] in [[Delta Serpentis]] to assist in the assault on the [[SD Lucifer|SD ''Lucifer'']] in the subspace tunnel to [[Sol]]. The pilots who survived that combat remained forever in the [[Sol]] system.<br />
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The squadron was eventually transferred to the ''[[GTD Aquitaine|Aquitaine]]'', but no data is available on their activities until just prior to the [[The Second Shivan Incursion|Second Great War]], when the 53rd Hammerheads oversaw the evacuation of [[Cygnus Prime]] and later encountered the [[NTF Iceni|NTF ''Iceni'']], buried within the [[NTF Boadicea|Boadicea Installation]] in the [[Deneb]] asteroid belt. They were then sent to intercept the ''Iceni'' at the jump node as it escaped Deneb, but they failed due to bad jump in coordinates and Command's decision to pull the blockade. After the ''Iceni'''s escape, the Hammerheads engaged and destroyed two cruisers with the help of the [[GVD Psamtik|GVD ''Psamtik'']], the NTC ''Impervious'' and the NTC ''Glorious''.<br />
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The Hammerheads are the first squadron the player joins in ''Freespace 2''.<br />
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[[Category:Squadrons]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Talk:Cygnus_Prime&diff=23703Talk:Cygnus Prime2009-06-28T18:42:29Z<p>Darkdaej: corrected all typos and such...</p>
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<div>I changed Loukakis' rank to Captain to reflect the promotion he obtained in the 36 hours you had to review the training modules (he goes from Lieutenant in the first command briefing to Captain by [[Surrender, Belisarius!]].) I'm still wondering how he did it... [[User:darkdaej|darkdaej]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Talk:Cygnus_Prime&diff=23702Talk:Cygnus Prime2009-06-28T18:41:39Z<p>Darkdaej: </p>
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<div>I changed Loukakis' rank to Captain to reflect the promotion he obtained in the 36 hours you had to review the training modules (he goes from Lieutenant in the first command briefing to captain by [[Surrender, Belisarius!]].) I'm still wondering how he did it... [[User:darkdaej|darkdaej]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Talk:Cygnus_Prime&diff=23701Talk:Cygnus Prime2009-06-28T18:40:59Z<p>Darkdaej: New page: I changed Loukakis' rank to Captain to reflect the promotion he obtained in the 36 hours you had to review the training modules (he goes from Lieutenant in the first command briefing to ca...</p>
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<div>I changed Loukakis' rank to Captain to reflect the promotion he obtained in the 36 hours you had to review the training modules (he goes from Lieutenant in the first command briefing to captain by [[Surrender, Belisarius!]]. I'm still wondering how he did it... [[User:darkdaej|darkdaej]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=Cygnus_Prime&diff=23700Cygnus Prime2009-06-28T18:37:47Z<p>Darkdaej: /* General Information */</p>
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<div>===General Information===<br />
<br />
*''Appeared in:'' ''FreeSpace 2''<br />
*''In Mission:'' SM1-01 - "[[Surrender, Belisarius!]]"<br />
*''In System:'' [[Deneb]]<br />
*''Bitmap used:'' planetf<br />
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<br />
'''Cygnus Prime''' is an inhabited planet in the [[Deneb]] system. It is at least partially inhabited by [[Vasudans]], thousands of which were forced to flee as refugees when the [[Neo-Terran Front]] invaded in 2367. Some 600,000 ground troops were required to retake the planet from the NTF.<br />
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The mission "Surrender, Belisarius!" is played in the vicinity of Cygnus Prime. According to the briefing held by Captain Loukakis, nearly 200,000 Vasudan refugees were escaping from the planet.<br />
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[[Category:Stars and Planets]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=User:Darkdaej&diff=23699User:Darkdaej2009-06-28T18:27:32Z<p>Darkdaej: New page: .</p>
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<div>.</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=User_talk:Darkdaej&diff=23698User talk:Darkdaej2009-06-28T18:27:09Z<p>Darkdaej: </p>
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<div>==Classified info regarding the [[SF Mara]]==<br />
I've just checked the Tech Description - info regarding the SF Mara class of Shivan fighters have been classified level Psi, not Phi. I don't want to disencourage you, of course, it's just that I'd like to explain why I reverted your edit. No offense =). --- [[User:Mobius|Mobius]]<br />
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Not at all, I had forgotten the game's text contained so many typos, and they must be preserved as canon, even if they are typos ;). --- [[User:darkdaej|darkdaej]]</div>Darkdaejhttps://wiki.hard-light.org/index.php?title=SF_Mara&diff=23695SF Mara2009-06-28T18:06:02Z<p>Darkdaej: /* FS2 Tech Room Description */</p>
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<div>{{FS12_Ships}}<br />
{{shipimage|image=[[Image:mara320x240.jpg]]|caption=The SF Mara}}<br />
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The extensively used '''SF ''Mara''''' was one of the [[Shivans|Shivan]] fighters used during their [[Second Shivan Incursion|second invasion]]. The Mara was fast, maneuverable, tough, and relatively small. The craft also had a superior secondary weapon capability that could even compete with that of a bomber-type. Like all Shivan fighters, the Mara was extremely well-shielded and its armoring was somehow superior to that of a typical Shivan fighter. Although it was still weaker than a Terran fighter's, its heavy shielding and swiftness made the Mara a formidable opponent in a dogfight. However, despite its specifications as a fighter-type, Maras were still impractical against larger vessels, thus they were often tasked with bomber escort.<br />
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It is the Mara class that was first designated of all Second Incursion-era Shivan fighters after a group of Mara fighters were detected emerging from the [[Knossos]] subspace portal in [[Gamma Draconis]]. The fighters, with the help of a [[SC Rakshasa|''Rakshasa''-class cruiser]], easily took down the patrolling GTVA force.<br />
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Some time during the nebula campaign, [[Special Operations Command|SOC]] managed to capture a wing of these fighters, and their engineers retrofitted them for [[Terran]] use. Later, they were used in another SOC operation that discovered the actual size of the Shivan fleet, as well as a third Knossos device.<br />
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==Description:==<br />
===FS2 Demo Tech Room Description===<br />
The Mara seems to be a Shivan heavy attack fighter. It is not as maneuverable as other Shivan fighters, but it packs quite a punch, and it is very resistant to our weaponry. Most often they have been used in attacking our supply convoys and transports.<br />
Treat the Mara as a Class C threat.<br />
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===FS2 Tech Room Description===<br />
The SF Mara class of Shivan fighters was first encountered by the GTC Vigilant while patrolling the Gamma Draconis jump node in the Capella system. All other information concerning the Mara is classified level Phi.<br />
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===Developer Notes===<br />
None<br />
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===Name origin===<br />
Mara has many meanings and connotations. Most likely, the fighter class is named after the Hindu goddess of death. In Buddhism, Mara is not a goddess but a male demon.<br />
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==Performance:==<br />
===Statistics===<br />
{|<br />
|-<br />
| style="width:200px" | '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Type|Type]]'''<br />
| style="width:200px" | Space Superiority (?)<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Manufacturer|Manufacturer]]'''<br />
| Unknown<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Maneuverablity|Maneuverability]]'''<br />
| N/A<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Max Velocity|Max Velocity]]'''<br />
| 70.0 - 78.0 mps<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Max Afterburner Velocity|Max Afterburner Velocity]]'''<br />
| 120.0 mps<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Armor|Armor]]'''<br />
| N/A<br />
|-<br />
| [[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Hitpoints|Hitpoints]]<br />
| 200<br />
|-<br />
| [[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Shields|Shields]]<br />
| 620<br />
|-<br />
| '''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Length|Length]]'''<br />
| 17.8 m<br />
|}<br />
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===Armaments===<br />
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*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Gun Mounts|Gun Mounts]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Guns<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 2<br />
| [[Shivan Mega Laser]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 2<br />
| [[Shivan Heavy Laser]]<br />
|}<br />
*'''[[Technical_Terms_and_Definitions#Missile Banks|Missile Banks]]'''<br />
{| border=1 cellpadding=4 style="border-collapse: collapse"<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| colspan=3 style="background:#351515;"| '''FreeSpace 2'''<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| style="width:40px" |Bank<br />
| style="width:60px" |Capacity<br />
| style="width:160px" |Standard Loadout<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 1st<br />
| 80<br />
| [[GTM Trebuchet|Trebuchet]]<br />
|- align="center"<br />
| 2nd<br />
| 80<br />
| [[GTM Hornet|Hornet]]<br />
|}<br />
===Veteran Comments===<br />
{{comment|It would be a disservice to the Mara to say it's just a Herc II with the speed and maneuverability of the Perseus. But that's the Mara in a nutshell. <br />
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The one disadvantage of the Mara is the fairly large target profile it presents to the enemy, but its combination of maneouverability, firepower and durability easily makes up for this.<br />
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The "Terran Mara" you use in [[Into the Lion's Den]] is slightly superior to the Shivan version.<br />
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The above comment is at best an understatement.<br />
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The Mara is a highly-capable craft. It can outmaneuver most heavier GTVA fighters and bombers, has enough speed at its disposal to be competitive, and finally has enough weaponry to be a significant threat. All this, even in the hands of an AI pilot. If the Mara were being piloted by players it would be a terror. And the uprated [[SF Mara (Terrans)]] is a truly a nightmare, but fortunately one for the other guy.<br />
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Maras are a true nightmare on higher difficulty levels. They always appear in swarms, and instantly start trying to fill your ship with volley after volley of Hornets. <br />
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What was said above about outmaneuvering heavier fighters and bombers is only true on higher difficulty levels. Even then, as long as you know how to use a heavy fighter properly, you'll be fine.<br />
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''The Mara seems to be a successor to the [[SF Dragon]], although the Dragon is superior in every way except hull integrity, yet it acts much more like the old [[SF Scorpion]], carrying out bizarre maneuvers on the higher difficulty levels. Unfortunately, like many new Shivan ships, the Mara is more of a let-down than an improvement. It does have a thin profile, however, and the greatest hull integrity of any Shivan fighter.''}}<br />
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[[Category:Ship]]</div>Darkdaej