by jive » Thu Aug 08, 2013 7:15 pm
I had the same dilemma the other day, but I finally decided on the Freelancer as my compliment. Looking at the roster, this seems to be the most common combination in our group, Freelancer + 325a.
I wanted an extended-range dogfighter for vanguard fleet operations. I chose the 325a instead of Hornet for that reason. The ability to travel longer distances and carry additional cargo seems like a massive bonus over the Hornet for offensive fleet ops. Defensive, or carrier based operations, the Hornet is king, of course.
Here's why I chose the Freelancer as a compliment:
Dogfighting is expensive! Even with LTI, we're still going to be paying for upgrade insurance, replacing, and fitting new upgrades and munitions to our dogfighters. It's unarguably the most expensive thing there is to do in the game, by nature. As the PU progresses, people will be getting richer and have more time to specialize and customize their ships, and it'll be key to spend a good portion of your funds on maximizing your combat potential, not just for PvP but also for PvE.
But what about the other fun parts of the game? I still want to explore, meet people, and see the sights...
So! Freelancer. With a generous cargo hold and high powered main thrusters, it's both well-equiped and able to serve as an economic vessel. Carrying out cargo delivery missions or helping out with fleet logistics is a great way to make some extra creds to blow on those sexy Magnetic Accelerators for your 325a's railgun. The Freelancer also has a relatively extreme long range, plenty of upgrade room, a powerful antimatter engine, and room for a friend! These make it perfect for kitting out for exploration and stealth, both for personal touring and fleet scouting. Stealth upgrades, active sensors, and some improved maneuvering thrusters - I plan to take this thing through some unexplored jump points!
Also, sometimes people forget that the Freelancer has the same offensive capabilities as the Hornet. Of course, it's not as maneuverable, but if the Hornet's still rocking the stock TR3 engine, you should be able to leave it right in the sights of the rear facing turret.