Just some thoughts for the doom-and-gloom group...
I am not an above average pilot, in fact I would consider myself less than average. Yet in any tour I was able to fly, I was able to get into the upper 50 or so, usually a bit higher (training has kept me out of the MA for the past 3 tours). I did it by mixing the mission types- not by seeking the score, but trying all aspects of play.
In order to score, you need to buff, capture fields, fly fighters, etc. If you look at my stats for any tour you'll see I don't even land all that often. I don't like to vultch (lest I be vultched) so my kills are mostly A2A. The most important factor in score is to do everything, at least a little bit. And you know what? This helps keep the game interesting.
Now it appears that an added bonus to trying everything is that you will get to fly some elite rides. I think there is a critical level where it would happen too often or too little, but the basic idea is ok.
Ever see a country hold another country down to two fields in order to "own the map"? Awarding everyone online (for that team) BIG points for a reset will end that.
I like to fly the 202, and have done well in it. That will enable me to gain experience points quickly.
There are some real possibilities here to make everyone happy, if we look at it carefully and give it a chance.
In the end, people cry for change, but the minute change is proposed, people beat their chests, rend their shirts, and throw dust on their heads...

[This message has been edited by Kieren (edited 05-18-2000).]