Back on topic.
When I came back to the game after a layoff I came back to the AVA and found it completely different from what it used to be. I do see that the current setup can encourage milk running and hiding as opposed to the fights I used to enjoy.
First sign of negativity noticed: Claims of spies. Well this is going to happen. It's a sad comment on the people who do it because they do, in fact, curtail the rest of the groups ability to log on and enjoy their game. So I chose the axis side and am sticking with it. I'm not a fan of Axis planes in general but in the interests of fair game play I picked the side that generally has the lowest numbers.
Frustration #1: Logging on and having to pick through airbases that have suitable planes for the task I have I have in mind for the night. Be it resupply as recommended by the Axis CO when numbers are low I have to look look look look for a C47 to do that and even when I do it's so far away from the forward bases that need resupply it doesn't seem worth it in the limited amount of time I can devote to this game on a weekly basis. I do NOT GV because I never practice it offline. No slight to people who prefer or enjoy GV's they're just not my cup of tea.
Frustration #2: Even when I have a general idea of where the opposition is I STILL can't find a suitable ride for the task that doesn't involve a long climb out and a lengthy chase to the fight whereupon I will generally find myself slapped down within 30 seconds. 20 minutes of prep, 30 seconds of fun, bah... not fun.
Frustration #3: Coming to the boards and seeing people rip each other for their style of game play instead of working together towards a common goal which is a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone. This is nothing new but it is kind of old, boring, and counterproductive, to the end goal.
Now I have to give proper kudos where it belongs. I think the AVA staff is doing a yoemans job of trying to make the arena as much as it can be to satisfy everybodys desires. I'm going to keep coming and supporting it when I can and do my best to be a worthy ally or enemy. There will be bumps in the road and some thing that will be tried that go KERSPLAT. From that we all learn to assist the arena in evolving to something that, while it may not completely satisfy everyone, can become a decent compromise across the boards.
My only suggestion is to make some of the fighter hangers at forward fields indestructible. That, I think, would satisfy some of the furballers and allow the buff hunters that ability to see and intercept incoming raids.
Probably a crappy idea but the only one I have at the moment.