I disagree with the notion of limiting newbies to a select number of
nations. If I recall, several seasoned players have touted the need
for teamwork. Essentially, you cannot operate alone and expect to
defeat the other side. Simply stated, not one nation is crucial to
the outcome of the game.
Why should a newbie play a "challenging" position? The answer is
contained within the question. It is challenging! Not only for the
newbie, but for the other seasoned players involved in the game.
This thread has been peppered with comments that the newbie will
drop, the veterans don't want to bottle feed 'em. Well, I say mix it
up a bit. I don't think anyone wants this game turning into a
mechanical chess game between grand masters - this move is countered
by that move, etc.
Add the element of a newbie and no one can predict what may happen.
Clearly, the game by no means is predictible. But the arguments for
not allowing newbies to play a certain nation are somewhat silly. If
someone wants to play Noldo, why not let them? If they submitted
their request, why does Clint need to "steer" them into another
position.
Don't mean to come across as an obnoxious newbie. But I have played
a crucial position (North Gondor) and arguably held my own. I must
admit I did drop (and quite drastically) due to a family crisis
(mother-in-law was unexpectedly diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer -
she died a few months after).
So for all the newbies, give us Bart Simpson's a chance. Don't label
us the trouble child before we start school!
Chris