+ Hello World +

[UKNightWatch]

Hello all,

I cant too the Kerbal Space Program by accident when it was being compared to another 'indie game'. I downloaded the KSP demo and started in on the tutorials, ship design and launch. After a couple of somewhat spectacular crashes I had my first Kerbal in space. The poor guy is still out there somewhere - I had not planned his return trip!

After about thirty minutes in my minds eye, I turned off the demo and found I had actually been using it for some hours. Hooked? Let's just say I have just bought the full version and the Kerbalizer and that is that!

I'm an 'older' gamer and I have a couple of health conditions that have ganged up on me and this has lead to disability. So far, KSP seems to me to be quite straight forward as far as controls go and this is a great boon - because of problems with my hands, I find it quite difficult to use games or other programs that have complex controls.

I come from North East England (Durham County). I went to college and managed to get to Higher National Diploma (HND) level in computing. I have 'tinkered' with computers / tech since around the age of ten - it's nice to have a hobby. As a gamer, there are hundreds of games I have played and a few very basic ones I have coded -for myself (nothing fancy).

It looks to me as if KSP is going to be 'right up my alley' so to say.

Happy launches all.

[Vanamonde]

Hello UKNightWatch. Your experience is pretty typical; very few people play the demo for long.

Edited February 21, 2014 by Vanamonde

[Starwhip]

I'll have you know, I played the demo for months before getting the real game... but mostly because I couldn't buy it myself

Heyo dere, new poster!

[UKNightWatch]

Thanks for the replies.

I just messed about with KSP today and try to get to know the basic layout and how build a vehicle. After frustrating myself a little trying out 'plane' building, I switched to tin cans with explosives tacked on!

It's amazing how time flies when you are having fun and how you suddenly realize its 0130 and, maybe you should log out.

Best thing is that I completed a vehicle that reaches orbit shortly after jettison of 'side tanks', is maneuverable in space and (with the help of a 'secondary tank and engine / motor) easily returned to the surface. I even have the main 'craft' land safely by parachute and landing struts.

My next goal is to make a reusable vehicle - out to orbit and return with all parts intact (probably a plane type). I'll then move on to an orbit 'station'.

Hooked? Me? Time will tell but it is looking good!

Safe landings.

[Doozler]

Hey! Welcome to the crew. Sounds like you're well on your way.

Your next projects found pretty tough - I didn't get a station until after sample returns from both mun and minmus. I'm too scared to even try a spaceplane

Maybe a mum flyby next? I remember a really nice post with a list of suggested tasks- I'll see if I can find it.

Are you career or sandbox?

[UKNightWatch]

Thanks for reply,

Maybe the sample returns is the way to go - I'll have a think on that.

I do not have KSP on just now as other matters need attention but I think I set up in sandbox. I'm really just trying to get the hang of things and will probably start anew several times before settling down.

I did have fun earlier adding a crew member to my roster via the persistent file - easy for me but not for the feint of heart so to say! It seemed fitting to call the new member Major Thom Kerman for some reason.

I think I am enjoying KSP because I have always been something of a tinker. Also, there seems to be lots to do in KSP - and that is even before I get started on mods!

Successful launches.

Edited February 22, 2014 by UKNightWatch

[cardgame]

Speaking of mods, since you mentioned you may have problems with controls, MechJeb can automate a variety of tasks for easier piloting, as well as displaying an abundance of helpful information. Also, since you mentioned your tinkering and coding skills, kOS scripting system allows you to create autopilots or RC-style controls, kind of like tinkering with a robot's guidance programming; I'm not terribly familiar with it. Look them up if the descriptions intrigue you

[AlamoVampire]

Hello and welcome! I second the use of MechJeb, as it can simplify the game most of the time

[UKNightWatch]

Thanks for the new replies.

I am intrigued!

I'll look into the mentioned items when I get a bit more used to KSP and when I get time. Time seems to be an odd thing for me just now - the hours last days the days are fleeting and there is never enough time at hand! At least I get an hour or so gaming in most days.

Anywho! Thanks again.