Kuaron, on 25 October 2016 - 09:00 AM, said:
After the loyalty CTF I am thinking about what other two to get for mastering it.
Before I was thinking about getting the CTF-4X and playing the 2UAC5+2AC5 build. But this thread is, somehow, a tiny bit discouraging.
Are the other ones significantly better?
I know the 3D is regarded a good b/c of JJ, but I don't particularly like JJ.
I mean look, depending on what tier you're in and which version you're talking about, they'll range from "not-quite-hard-mode" to "perfectly serviceable". The reality is that CTFs in general have certain shortcomings relative to other IS 70 tonners out there, no matter their intended role.
Laser vomit? WHM and GHR do it better due to more and better-located hardpoints
Ballistics? WHM generally does it better due to better-located hardpoints
Missile boat (either SRM or LRM)? WHM and ARC do it better due to more and better-located hardpoints
Gauss/ERPPC? WHM can run that build too, but can fit an XL AND have all weapons in the STs (questionable though placing a GR in an IS XL side torso might be)
So what can the CTF do that the others IS 70 tonners can't? Only three things:
1. Big ballistics + ECM - the only other IS ECM heavy is the paywalled Tempest and that's strictly laser+missiles, never mind the even worse hitboxes
2. 3xUAC5+XL engine in the Illya, though an argument could be made that the JM-DD is a superior option for that
3. Dual ballistics (usually UAC5) or Gauss/ERPPC + JJs. A general argument could be made against running Gauss/ERPPC on the IS tech base, but 2x UAC5 + JJ on the 3D can actually be fair amount of fun, and you can even get more flavor from having the option of running STD for a deadside or XL for more speed.
Still, the added utility you gain from any of the above stuff is fairly questionable when placed against the CTFs drawbacks relative to its peers.
Don't get me wrong they can still be just plain fun to drive, especially if you're looking for a challenge. I still take my -4X out every now and then. Just realize that your individual ability to swing a match will take a hit even under ideal circumstances.
Edited by habu86, 28 October 2016 - 09:59 AM.