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New Idea- M.E.R.C.S Guild (Scrip related)

AuthorMessage
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
After brainstorming, I have an idea that is a work in progress. With only 3000 characters, it will be hard to fully detail some of the ideas behind it, but here is the gist of it. it involves a new system that will incorporate a new way to acquire Scrips & even permanently, temporary henchmen from all of the Spiral's worlds. So, here's what I was thinking...well, some of it! The idea introduces a new group called the...

M.E.R.C.S Guild (Mercenaries Employed & Recruited for Combat Services)

Since we are pirates & there is a lot of unrest, lootin', backstabbin', somewhat primitive culture, tyrannical behavior, nefariousness & seekin' of treasures throughout the Spiral, it would make a bit of sense if there was a group of brigands that used all of these reasons as a means to prosper. So, bring in the M.E.R.C.S of the Spiral.

Basically they would be a band of 'civilized mercenaries' that would 'offer up' their services, Spiral-wide. Each world could have it's own M.E.R.C.S. chapter located in a 'headquarters' somewhere in that respective world. We could receive an initial quest in Skull Island telling us about these mercenaries & how they are available to charter...but for a cost. Perhaps we could complete a serious of quests, or at least an initial one, that will give us access to their headquarters where we could 'purchase' their assistance. Once we have 'unlocked' each world's headquarters (from quests) we could pay with Crowns, or gold, or perhaps through quests where they 'now owe us favors' & hire them as crew.

For each branch or chapter, in each world, there could be M.E.R.C.S. of each of the 5 classes, that we could enlist to permanently, yet temporarily join our crew. They would act as a mix of companion and henchmen. Once you purchase (by whatever means) a M.E.R.C., you would have access to them in battle just like a henchmen.

In combat there could be a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar to the "Hire Henchmen", that upon clicking would bring up your available mercenaries. You could then choose which one you wanted 'to hire' for the duration of the battle. Since you already purchased these M.E.R.C.S (through Crowns, gold or quests) there could be a small Crowns or a gold fee that would be imposed every time you pay to use one. As a reward, every time we use a M.E.R.C. in battle, we gain extra Scrip from them battling w/ us.

Also these temporary companions are not quite as loyal as our crews, so they will only be available in the World in which they are recruited, which would make us want & need to visit all of the Worlds' M.E.R.C.S chapters so that we have access to them in tough battles. Meaning Skull island mercs will only be available in SI and so on.

When you hit the 'U' key to access your companions, a new M.E.R.C.S. Tab could be added where you can view your purchased & available mercenaries. Since they are mercenaries it would seem fitting that we could assign only them the Black Market task of "Ransackin'", in which they bring back Scrip.
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
After brainstorming, I have an idea that is a work in progress. With only 3000 characters, it will be hard to fully detail some of the ideas behind it, but here is the gist of it. it involves a new system that will incorporate a new way to acquire Scrips & even permanently, temporary henchmen from all of the Spiral's worlds. So, here's what I was thinking...well, some of it! The idea introduces a new group called the...

M.E.R.C.S Guild (Mercenaries Employed & Recruited for Combat Services)

Since we are pirates & there is a lot of unrest, lootin', backstabbin', somewhat primitive culture, tyrannical behavior, nefariousness & seekin' of treasures throughout the Spiral, it would make a bit of sense if there was a group of brigands that used all of these reasons as a means to prosper. So, bring in the M.E.R.C.S of the Spiral.

Basically they would be a band of 'civilized mercenaries' that would 'offer up' their services, Spiral-wide. Each world could have it's own M.E.R.C.S. chapter located in a 'headquarters' somewhere in that respective world. We could receive an initial quest in Skull Island telling us about these mercenaries & how they are available to charter...but for a cost. Perhaps we could complete a serious of quests, or at least an initial one, that will give us access to their headquarters where we could 'purchase' their assistance. Once we have 'unlocked' each world's headquarters (from quests) we could pay with Crowns, or gold, or perhaps through quests where they 'now owe us favors' & hire them as crew.

For each branch or chapter, in each world, there could be M.E.R.C.S. of each of the 5 classes, that we could enlist to permanently, yet temporarily join our crew. They would act as a mix of companion and henchmen. Once you purchase (by whatever means) a M.E.R.C., you would have access to them in battle just like a henchmen.

In combat there could be a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar to the "Hire Henchmen", that upon clicking would bring up your available mercenaries. You could then choose which one you wanted 'to hire' for the duration of the battle. Since you already purchased these M.E.R.C.S (through Crowns, gold or quests) there could be a small Crowns or a gold fee that would be imposed every time you pay to use one. As a reward, every time we use a M.E.R.C. in battle, we gain extra Scrip from them battling w/ us.

Also these temporary companions are not quite as loyal as our crews, so they will only be available in the World in which they are recruited, which would make us want & need to visit all of the Worlds' M.E.R.C.S chapters so that we have access to them in tough battles. Meaning Skull island mercs will only be available in SI and so on.

When you hit the 'U' key to access your companions, a new M.E.R.C.S. Tab could be added where you can view your purchased & available mercenaries. Since they are mercenaries it would seem fitting that we could assign only them the Black Market task of "Ransackin'", in which they bring back Scrip.
I love your idea but I think another acronym may be in order as there are already Mercs for hire from an official fansite Mercenaries For Charter. As you are such a brilliant thinker upper, perhaps something for Scallywag or Ohhhhhhhhh Maybe Rogue?
Captain
Oct 16, 2012
619
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
After brainstorming, I have an idea that is a work in progress. With only 3000 characters, it will be hard to fully detail some of the ideas behind it, but here is the gist of it. it involves a new system that will incorporate a new way to acquire Scrips & even permanently, temporary henchmen from all of the Spiral's worlds. So, here's what I was thinking...well, some of it! The idea introduces a new group called the...

M.E.R.C.S Guild (Mercenaries Employed & Recruited for Combat Services)

Since we are pirates & there is a lot of unrest, lootin', backstabbin', somewhat primitive culture, tyrannical behavior, nefariousness & seekin' of treasures throughout the Spiral, it would make a bit of sense if there was a group of brigands that used all of these reasons as a means to prosper. So, bring in the M.E.R.C.S of the Spiral.

Basically they would be a band of 'civilized mercenaries' that would 'offer up' their services, Spiral-wide. Each world could have it's own M.E.R.C.S. chapter located in a 'headquarters' somewhere in that respective world. We could receive an initial quest in Skull Island telling us about these mercenaries & how they are available to charter...but for a cost. Perhaps we could complete a serious of quests, or at least an initial one, that will give us access to their headquarters where we could 'purchase' their assistance. Once we have 'unlocked' each world's headquarters (from quests) we could pay with Crowns, or gold, or perhaps through quests where they 'now owe us favors' & hire them as crew.

For each branch or chapter, in each world, there could be M.E.R.C.S. of each of the 5 classes, that we could enlist to permanently, yet temporarily join our crew. They would act as a mix of companion and henchmen. Once you purchase (by whatever means) a M.E.R.C., you would have access to them in battle just like a henchmen.

In combat there could be a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar to the "Hire Henchmen", that upon clicking would bring up your available mercenaries. You could then choose which one you wanted 'to hire' for the duration of the battle. Since you already purchased these M.E.R.C.S (through Crowns, gold or quests) there could be a small Crowns or a gold fee that would be imposed every time you pay to use one. As a reward, every time we use a M.E.R.C. in battle, we gain extra Scrip from them battling w/ us.

Also these temporary companions are not quite as loyal as our crews, so they will only be available in the World in which they are recruited, which would make us want & need to visit all of the Worlds' M.E.R.C.S chapters so that we have access to them in tough battles. Meaning Skull island mercs will only be available in SI and so on.

When you hit the 'U' key to access your companions, a new M.E.R.C.S. Tab could be added where you can view your purchased & available mercenaries. Since they are mercenaries it would seem fitting that we could assign only them the Black Market task of "Ransackin'", in which they bring back Scrip.
Heheheheh.......I'd LOVE to be a Merc. Trust me, something like that would be EPIC.
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
After brainstorming, I have an idea that is a work in progress. With only 3000 characters, it will be hard to fully detail some of the ideas behind it, but here is the gist of it. it involves a new system that will incorporate a new way to acquire Scrips & even permanently, temporary henchmen from all of the Spiral's worlds. So, here's what I was thinking...well, some of it! The idea introduces a new group called the...

M.E.R.C.S Guild (Mercenaries Employed & Recruited for Combat Services)

Since we are pirates & there is a lot of unrest, lootin', backstabbin', somewhat primitive culture, tyrannical behavior, nefariousness & seekin' of treasures throughout the Spiral, it would make a bit of sense if there was a group of brigands that used all of these reasons as a means to prosper. So, bring in the M.E.R.C.S of the Spiral.

Basically they would be a band of 'civilized mercenaries' that would 'offer up' their services, Spiral-wide. Each world could have it's own M.E.R.C.S. chapter located in a 'headquarters' somewhere in that respective world. We could receive an initial quest in Skull Island telling us about these mercenaries & how they are available to charter...but for a cost. Perhaps we could complete a serious of quests, or at least an initial one, that will give us access to their headquarters where we could 'purchase' their assistance. Once we have 'unlocked' each world's headquarters (from quests) we could pay with Crowns, or gold, or perhaps through quests where they 'now owe us favors' & hire them as crew.

For each branch or chapter, in each world, there could be M.E.R.C.S. of each of the 5 classes, that we could enlist to permanently, yet temporarily join our crew. They would act as a mix of companion and henchmen. Once you purchase (by whatever means) a M.E.R.C., you would have access to them in battle just like a henchmen.

In combat there could be a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar to the "Hire Henchmen", that upon clicking would bring up your available mercenaries. You could then choose which one you wanted 'to hire' for the duration of the battle. Since you already purchased these M.E.R.C.S (through Crowns, gold or quests) there could be a small Crowns or a gold fee that would be imposed every time you pay to use one. As a reward, every time we use a M.E.R.C. in battle, we gain extra Scrip from them battling w/ us.

Also these temporary companions are not quite as loyal as our crews, so they will only be available in the World in which they are recruited, which would make us want & need to visit all of the Worlds' M.E.R.C.S chapters so that we have access to them in tough battles. Meaning Skull island mercs will only be available in SI and so on.

When you hit the 'U' key to access your companions, a new M.E.R.C.S. Tab could be added where you can view your purchased & available mercenaries. Since they are mercenaries it would seem fitting that we could assign only them the Black Market task of "Ransackin'", in which they bring back Scrip.
Ok, so here's a few more details that I brainstormed about this M.E.R.C.S. idea. Again, this is just a crazy brainstorm I had on how to add more to the game and the Scrips system.

The quest for these mercenaries would be available once we hit level 10 and would start out maybe 5 levels below our pirate levels, so they will always be 5 levels behind our pirates, as too not be too overpowering, but still provide great help. Every level their attributes would gain a boost as well.

M.E.R.C.S. could be 'purchased' by completing a quest or line of quests to enlist their services or you could choose to bypass this by purchasing each one for say 1000 Crowns. This would make them within reach for those that don't have that much access to many Crowns. Those players could do the KI Trivia and the Watch Videos for Crowns and know that they would be able to work towards purchasing a merc.....or do the quest line for them.

'Purchased' mercs would then level with our pirates at level 10 and every 10 levels there after, would gain new, preset talents/powers. That way we wouldn't have to put too much time into their development since they are just permanently hired help. Also at set increments, their gear and weapons would upgrade as well.

M.E.R.C.S. would only be able to assist you in the world in which you enlisted them. That way we would be more likely to obtain new ones and not just rely on 1 or 2. Plus it would build up a M.E.R.C.S. roster that could be on the Ransackin' task to bring in small amounts of Scrip that would add up to a decent amount with a big roster. So if in a tough battle against an Aquilan mob or boss you could click the icon and your available Aquilan M.E.R.C.S. would show up on screen where you could click the class you wished to use, for a small Crowns or gold fee. After the battle, you would receive an amount of Scrips for sending a mercenary into battle. To encourage further group play, those in battle in a group with you, would also receive some Scrips, albeit at a reduced amount.

These M.E.R.C.S. would be a good substitute for those that can't afford buying new companions or hiring lots of Henchmen for those tough spots, and would allow those players a way to add to their crew without spending a lot of money and Crowns.

The quest to gain access to these M.E.R.C.S. could be called something like "The Extendables" and some of the M.E.R.C.S. we could enlist and there respective World Branches could be.....

(to be continued)
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
After brainstorming, I have an idea that is a work in progress. With only 3000 characters, it will be hard to fully detail some of the ideas behind it, but here is the gist of it. it involves a new system that will incorporate a new way to acquire Scrips & even permanently, temporary henchmen from all of the Spiral's worlds. So, here's what I was thinking...well, some of it! The idea introduces a new group called the...

M.E.R.C.S Guild (Mercenaries Employed & Recruited for Combat Services)

Since we are pirates & there is a lot of unrest, lootin', backstabbin', somewhat primitive culture, tyrannical behavior, nefariousness & seekin' of treasures throughout the Spiral, it would make a bit of sense if there was a group of brigands that used all of these reasons as a means to prosper. So, bring in the M.E.R.C.S of the Spiral.

Basically they would be a band of 'civilized mercenaries' that would 'offer up' their services, Spiral-wide. Each world could have it's own M.E.R.C.S. chapter located in a 'headquarters' somewhere in that respective world. We could receive an initial quest in Skull Island telling us about these mercenaries & how they are available to charter...but for a cost. Perhaps we could complete a serious of quests, or at least an initial one, that will give us access to their headquarters where we could 'purchase' their assistance. Once we have 'unlocked' each world's headquarters (from quests) we could pay with Crowns, or gold, or perhaps through quests where they 'now owe us favors' & hire them as crew.

For each branch or chapter, in each world, there could be M.E.R.C.S. of each of the 5 classes, that we could enlist to permanently, yet temporarily join our crew. They would act as a mix of companion and henchmen. Once you purchase (by whatever means) a M.E.R.C., you would have access to them in battle just like a henchmen.

In combat there could be a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar to the "Hire Henchmen", that upon clicking would bring up your available mercenaries. You could then choose which one you wanted 'to hire' for the duration of the battle. Since you already purchased these M.E.R.C.S (through Crowns, gold or quests) there could be a small Crowns or a gold fee that would be imposed every time you pay to use one. As a reward, every time we use a M.E.R.C. in battle, we gain extra Scrip from them battling w/ us.

Also these temporary companions are not quite as loyal as our crews, so they will only be available in the World in which they are recruited, which would make us want & need to visit all of the Worlds' M.E.R.C.S chapters so that we have access to them in tough battles. Meaning Skull island mercs will only be available in SI and so on.

When you hit the 'U' key to access your companions, a new M.E.R.C.S. Tab could be added where you can view your purchased & available mercenaries. Since they are mercenaries it would seem fitting that we could assign only them the Black Market task of "Ransackin'", in which they bring back Scrip.
...continued.

Skeleton Crew (Skull Island)

Quackie Chan- Swashbucklin' Ducklin'. Real Mr. Nice Guy, until it's time to rumble in the docks.
Mole Gibson- Mole Privateer possessing truly Lethal Weapons & makes sure we always have our freedom.
William Skratner- Muskrat Musketeer that sets Sparquebus to Stun & boldly goes where no Skrat has gone before.

Monkey Business (Monquista)

Antonio Bandeeras- Musketeer Deer. Carries title of "Decimotercer Guerrero". Summons an orange cat that...wears boots?
Arrnauld Slothenegger- Sloth Buccaneer. Promotes from Barbarian-Commando-Destroyer. Has enough 1-liners to give a Tawny Sky pet Turtle Recall.
Steve McKing- Gorilla Witchdoctor. Can summon slug minion named 'Bullitt'. Possesses a spell power called The Towering Inferno. Enlisted after completing quest "The Great Escape".

The Posse (Cool Ranch)

Sylvester Stallione- Bronco Buccaneer. Can summon a 'hybrid pet' (crokagator & boa constrictor) called Croky Ballboa. Has quite a bit of on 'Over the Top' personality.
Cluck Norris- Rooster Swashbuckler. Kung-fu kickin' chicken. Bit of a Lone Wolf McQuack. Also known as Squawker Free Ranger & is never M.I.A.
Sean Canary- Canary Privateer. Forms instant Bond with our pirates. Enlisted by performing a quest called "The Last Crusade".

Honor Guard (MooShu)

Keamoo Reeves- Cow Privateer that enjoys surfing. Very cunning...so be careful, he May Tricks you now and again.
Jean Clawed Van Ham- Buccaneer Pig enlisted from quest called "The Quest". Has a deadly strike called "Double Impact".
Goose Lee- Goose Swashbuckler. Enlisted after completing a quest called "Exit the Dragon". Possesses real Fists of Fury.

The Dog Pound (Marleybone)

Wesley Stripes- Tiger Swashbuckler that's great with a Blade or 2 or 3. Very disciplined in the Art of War.
Rustled Crow- Crow Privateer. A modern day Gladiator with Brilliant Mind that gives Maximus effort.
Jett Flea- Dog Swashbuckler. Practiced in the martial arts of Shih Tzu. He is Fearless when he is Unleashed. Enlisted after completing the quest "The Forbidden Kingdom".

The Greek Squad (Aquila)

Carl Feathers- Buccaneer Eagle that provides lots of Action & possesses a real Predatory nature towards his enemies.
Brad Pit-viper- Viper Witchdoctor that can always be found hanging out with 12 Monkeys in Troy. Lady pirates say he is cute as a Button...deadly nonetheless!

Hyber-Nation (Grizzleheim)

Moose Willis- Moose Musketeer. Has a real Live Easy personality. Has a Sixth Sense of what the enemy will do & is always prepared for Armageddon.
Wolf Lundgrin- Wolf Witchdoctor. Can summon 2 Red Scorpion pets named Nikolai & Drago. He surely does not come in peace.
Clint Beastwood- Boar Buccaneer. Can run his enemies through the Gauntlet & just dares them to make his day.
Bearison Ford- Grizzly Bear Privateer. Prefers to fight w/ bear hands, solo. Watch him though, he occasionally 'borrows' Toro's whip. Indy end he makes a great comrade.
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
Chrissy Th'Blesser on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
I love your idea but I think another acronym may be in order as there are already Mercs for hire from an official fansite Mercenaries For Charter. As you are such a brilliant thinker upper, perhaps something for Scallywag or Ohhhhhhhhh Maybe Rogue?
LOL, yes Chrissy, I already knew about the Mercenaries for Charter website and their use of the abbreviation mercs from time to time. However, the term mercs has been used for many decades, in many forms of gaming and such, way before they decided to use it on their website. I have played a many games that have used the Mercenary Guild, Mercenaries for Hire, Mercenaries for Charter and even Mercs terms in their games, so clearly it didn't originate from the P101 Mercenaries for Charter official fansite. So, I don't think they will mind if I borrow it, plus I didn't see it used as an acronym anywhere on their site. But, and don't tell anyone, I didn't really look too hard or for too long.

These M.E.R.C.S. would be actual in game NPC's and possible allies of ours that we can recruit, and not fellow pirates that we send a request for help to.

I liked the acronym M.E.R.C.S. for several reasons. One, because it was short and sweet and being so, it would fit nicely on the computer screen in the various places I was brainstorming about. Seeing a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar and next to the "Hire Henchman" one just seemed to fit. Also, the definition for and description of a mercenary seemed to fit what I was going for- "a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army". These M.E.R.C.S. would be professional or at least highly trained warriors hired by our pirates to serve in a foreign army....well at least in battles with our crew-- which would be foreign to them. I also could see Monkey King wearing a M.E.R.C.S. black leather jacket as he jumped on his hog. Yeah, mercenary and merc just sounds pretty cool to me.

But.......actually so does Rogue, now that you mentioned it. I love the word Scallywag too, and often say it just for a laugh (and it was the name of a Fantasy Football team of mine in the past), but it doesn't really seem to fit the image of these 'hired hands'. Mercenary seems more Black Market-y than Scallywag to me. So that leaves me with trying to come up with an acronym for Rogue (and maybe Scallywag for the heck of it). Hmm......let's see here......

R.O.G.U.E.S.- Ruffians Offering Gallant and Unrelenting Employment for Scrips or Really Old Guys Using Escalators, on Segways. The first one seems better fitting though.

S.C.A.L.L.Y.W.A.G.- Scrip Collectin' Allies Lending Lives Whilst Yearning for Appointed and Glorious Services or Spankin' Chimps After Losing Lollipop Yumminess & Watching the Andy Griffith Show. Hmm, probably first one here as well.

Well, I tried!
Pirate Overlord
Mar 16, 2012
10631
Too complicated and cumbersome to add to the game, plus we already have a hire henchman in place - why add another one? I'm really sorry Valkoor I don't like this idea
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 22, 2014 wrote:
LOL, yes Chrissy, I already knew about the Mercenaries for Charter website and their use of the abbreviation mercs from time to time. However, the term mercs has been used for many decades, in many forms of gaming and such, way before they decided to use it on their website. I have played a many games that have used the Mercenary Guild, Mercenaries for Hire, Mercenaries for Charter and even Mercs terms in their games, so clearly it didn't originate from the P101 Mercenaries for Charter official fansite. So, I don't think they will mind if I borrow it, plus I didn't see it used as an acronym anywhere on their site. But, and don't tell anyone, I didn't really look too hard or for too long.

These M.E.R.C.S. would be actual in game NPC's and possible allies of ours that we can recruit, and not fellow pirates that we send a request for help to.

I liked the acronym M.E.R.C.S. for several reasons. One, because it was short and sweet and being so, it would fit nicely on the computer screen in the various places I was brainstorming about. Seeing a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar and next to the "Hire Henchman" one just seemed to fit. Also, the definition for and description of a mercenary seemed to fit what I was going for- "a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army". These M.E.R.C.S. would be professional or at least highly trained warriors hired by our pirates to serve in a foreign army....well at least in battles with our crew-- which would be foreign to them. I also could see Monkey King wearing a M.E.R.C.S. black leather jacket as he jumped on his hog. Yeah, mercenary and merc just sounds pretty cool to me.

But.......actually so does Rogue, now that you mentioned it. I love the word Scallywag too, and often say it just for a laugh (and it was the name of a Fantasy Football team of mine in the past), but it doesn't really seem to fit the image of these 'hired hands'. Mercenary seems more Black Market-y than Scallywag to me. So that leaves me with trying to come up with an acronym for Rogue (and maybe Scallywag for the heck of it). Hmm......let's see here......

R.O.G.U.E.S.- Ruffians Offering Gallant and Unrelenting Employment for Scrips or Really Old Guys Using Escalators, on Segways. The first one seems better fitting though.

S.C.A.L.L.Y.W.A.G.- Scrip Collectin' Allies Lending Lives Whilst Yearning for Appointed and Glorious Services or Spankin' Chimps After Losing Lollipop Yumminess & Watching the Andy Griffith Show. Hmm, probably first one here as well.

Well, I tried!
You are right on all counts former is better than latter. I love the R.O.G.U.E.S one especially though you are right, it can't top M.E.R.C.S. The is always better after an explosive Valkoor giggle fit.
Pirate Overlord
Mar 10, 2009
6204
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
...continued.

Skeleton Crew (Skull Island)

Quackie Chan- Swashbucklin' Ducklin'. Real Mr. Nice Guy, until it's time to rumble in the docks.
Mole Gibson- Mole Privateer possessing truly Lethal Weapons & makes sure we always have our freedom.
William Skratner- Muskrat Musketeer that sets Sparquebus to Stun & boldly goes where no Skrat has gone before.

Monkey Business (Monquista)

Antonio Bandeeras- Musketeer Deer. Carries title of "Decimotercer Guerrero". Summons an orange cat that...wears boots?
Arrnauld Slothenegger- Sloth Buccaneer. Promotes from Barbarian-Commando-Destroyer. Has enough 1-liners to give a Tawny Sky pet Turtle Recall.
Steve McKing- Gorilla Witchdoctor. Can summon slug minion named 'Bullitt'. Possesses a spell power called The Towering Inferno. Enlisted after completing quest "The Great Escape".

The Posse (Cool Ranch)

Sylvester Stallione- Bronco Buccaneer. Can summon a 'hybrid pet' (crokagator & boa constrictor) called Croky Ballboa. Has quite a bit of on 'Over the Top' personality.
Cluck Norris- Rooster Swashbuckler. Kung-fu kickin' chicken. Bit of a Lone Wolf McQuack. Also known as Squawker Free Ranger & is never M.I.A.
Sean Canary- Canary Privateer. Forms instant Bond with our pirates. Enlisted by performing a quest called "The Last Crusade".

Honor Guard (MooShu)

Keamoo Reeves- Cow Privateer that enjoys surfing. Very cunning...so be careful, he May Tricks you now and again.
Jean Clawed Van Ham- Buccaneer Pig enlisted from quest called "The Quest". Has a deadly strike called "Double Impact".
Goose Lee- Goose Swashbuckler. Enlisted after completing a quest called "Exit the Dragon". Possesses real Fists of Fury.

The Dog Pound (Marleybone)

Wesley Stripes- Tiger Swashbuckler that's great with a Blade or 2 or 3. Very disciplined in the Art of War.
Rustled Crow- Crow Privateer. A modern day Gladiator with Brilliant Mind that gives Maximus effort.
Jett Flea- Dog Swashbuckler. Practiced in the martial arts of Shih Tzu. He is Fearless when he is Unleashed. Enlisted after completing the quest "The Forbidden Kingdom".

The Greek Squad (Aquila)

Carl Feathers- Buccaneer Eagle that provides lots of Action & possesses a real Predatory nature towards his enemies.
Brad Pit-viper- Viper Witchdoctor that can always be found hanging out with 12 Monkeys in Troy. Lady pirates say he is cute as a Button...deadly nonetheless!

Hyber-Nation (Grizzleheim)

Moose Willis- Moose Musketeer. Has a real Live Easy personality. Has a Sixth Sense of what the enemy will do & is always prepared for Armageddon.
Wolf Lundgrin- Wolf Witchdoctor. Can summon 2 Red Scorpion pets named Nikolai & Drago. He surely does not come in peace.
Clint Beastwood- Boar Buccaneer. Can run his enemies through the Gauntlet & just dares them to make his day.
Bearison Ford- Grizzly Bear Privateer. Prefers to fight w/ bear hands, solo. Watch him though, he occasionally 'borrows' Toro's whip. Indy end he makes a great comrade.
Oh MAN Yar infinity This is truly a work of art Valkoor. I totally lost it from the beginning. SO many that had me just roaring with laughter. "Swashbucklin Ducklin, Lethal weapons, Goes where no Skrat has gone before, Orange cat that just happens to wear boots, Exit the Dragon, The art of Shih Tzu, Croky Balboa, Double Impact strike and Towering Inferno spell, Cute as a Button, Bearison Ford with Toro's whip.............The hilarity just never stops and I still didn't mention all the favorites.
This one is worthy of a chest full of Scrip for sure. Pure genius.
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 22, 2014 wrote:
LOL, yes Chrissy, I already knew about the Mercenaries for Charter website and their use of the abbreviation mercs from time to time. However, the term mercs has been used for many decades, in many forms of gaming and such, way before they decided to use it on their website. I have played a many games that have used the Mercenary Guild, Mercenaries for Hire, Mercenaries for Charter and even Mercs terms in their games, so clearly it didn't originate from the P101 Mercenaries for Charter official fansite. So, I don't think they will mind if I borrow it, plus I didn't see it used as an acronym anywhere on their site. But, and don't tell anyone, I didn't really look too hard or for too long.

These M.E.R.C.S. would be actual in game NPC's and possible allies of ours that we can recruit, and not fellow pirates that we send a request for help to.

I liked the acronym M.E.R.C.S. for several reasons. One, because it was short and sweet and being so, it would fit nicely on the computer screen in the various places I was brainstorming about. Seeing a M.E.R.C.S. icon similar and next to the "Hire Henchman" one just seemed to fit. Also, the definition for and description of a mercenary seemed to fit what I was going for- "a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army". These M.E.R.C.S. would be professional or at least highly trained warriors hired by our pirates to serve in a foreign army....well at least in battles with our crew-- which would be foreign to them. I also could see Monkey King wearing a M.E.R.C.S. black leather jacket as he jumped on his hog. Yeah, mercenary and merc just sounds pretty cool to me.

But.......actually so does Rogue, now that you mentioned it. I love the word Scallywag too, and often say it just for a laugh (and it was the name of a Fantasy Football team of mine in the past), but it doesn't really seem to fit the image of these 'hired hands'. Mercenary seems more Black Market-y than Scallywag to me. So that leaves me with trying to come up with an acronym for Rogue (and maybe Scallywag for the heck of it). Hmm......let's see here......

R.O.G.U.E.S.- Ruffians Offering Gallant and Unrelenting Employment for Scrips or Really Old Guys Using Escalators, on Segways. The first one seems better fitting though.

S.C.A.L.L.Y.W.A.G.- Scrip Collectin' Allies Lending Lives Whilst Yearning for Appointed and Glorious Services or Spankin' Chimps After Losing Lollipop Yumminess & Watching the Andy Griffith Show. Hmm, probably first one here as well.

Well, I tried!
OOPs, seems I had left out the Y in both SCALLYWAGS acronyms.

All better now......well sort of!
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
anecorbie on Nov 22, 2014 wrote:
Too complicated and cumbersome to add to the game, plus we already have a hire henchman in place - why add another one? I'm really sorry Valkoor I don't like this idea
Fair enough Esperanza & I appreciate your opinion & it's quite ok to not like an idea of mine...heck I don't even like some of them But keep in mind that something like this would be 100% optional & I don't really think that it would be quite as complicated as it appears.

The reason for adding MERCS is because it combines purchasing companions & buying a henchman. It would make it easier for players without enough access to Crowns to still purchase & receive hired help...that they could actually keep. Henchman are gone once a battle is over & in many cases may have not altered the outcome of battle in the first place. A MERC would be yours to recruit & keep at a lower Crowns cost because they are not companions, but are yours to use repeatedly in tough battles (after small Crown or gold costs), in their respective worlds.

A companion can cost up to 7,495 Crowns & many players will never amass that many or it will at least take a very, very long time. Henchman can cost up to 750 Crowns which is pretty affordable, but the player has nothing to show for using those precious Crowns once that battle is over. Now several MERCS at 1,000-1,500 Crowns each would be well within reach to most players & they could 'reuse' them (unlike a Henchman).

My whole thought process behind this idea was to tackle the following issues &/or to compliment these aspects of the game.

Players who don't have access to high-Crowns cost companions.
Solution- provide lesser, permanent allies for fewer Crowns. This goes hand in hand with the KI Trivia & Watch Video rewards for Crowns. Now these players who were missing out on acquiring the many fine companions would have a better way to at least get some fun new additions & help without wasting Crowns on Henchman.

Not enough ways to obtain Scrip.
Solution- higher mercs to fight with & for you for guaranteed Scrip in every battle. Also be able to set them up with the M.E.R.C. task of Ransackin', to bring in even more Scrip. These would all be done w/ already-in-place programming systems & made simple by just clicking a couple times on the mouse. The programming is already there for Henchman & also for the task system.

Provide more Black Market-y content & feel.
Solution- Bring in some good ol' Mercenaries that fit the whole Black Market & pirate rogue vibe.

Add more fun & exciting quests to the side questing.
Solution- Hiring mercenaries by possibly completing funny, engaging & rewarding quests with the added bonus of 'keeping' these allies for a reduced cost & bolstering our Scrip collecting immensely.

Players feeling there are too many systems in place.
Solution- make this purely optional content that would absolutely be beneficial to those that took advantage of it. If I didn't have much access to Crowns, I would love the chance to do some KI Trivia, watch some videos, combine those small amounts of Crowns to purchase a new ally, use those allies to get more Scrip & thus be able to acquire the 'Scrip Gear' easier.
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
Chrissy Th'Blesser on Nov 22, 2014 wrote:
Oh MAN Yar infinity This is truly a work of art Valkoor. I totally lost it from the beginning. SO many that had me just roaring with laughter. "Swashbucklin Ducklin, Lethal weapons, Goes where no Skrat has gone before, Orange cat that just happens to wear boots, Exit the Dragon, The art of Shih Tzu, Croky Balboa, Double Impact strike and Towering Inferno spell, Cute as a Button, Bearison Ford with Toro's whip.............The hilarity just never stops and I still didn't mention all the favorites.
This one is worthy of a chest full of Scrip for sure. Pure genius.
Why thank you Chrissy and I am glad you got some chuckles out of it.

Those names were originally a just-for-laughs idea I had for companions, that I was going to post to be silly. Then when I brainstormed about the M.E.R.C.S. idea, I thought, "Ooh "The Expendables/Extendables" crew fit the whole mercenary theme pretty well. I have some more to add, but I just wanted to post the ones I came up with so far. Even if the whole M.E.R.C.S. idea isn't the greatest I've had, I still at least wanted to try to produce a few laughs. Again, glad you enjoyed it and........

I'll be BAAAAACK!
Ensign
Nov 05, 2011
6
I like your idea, but I just want to add
1) The M.E.R.C.S. would cost scrip simpily becuase gold is easy to obtain and so buying one would be easy and would kinda ruin thw whole "rare scrips" idea. For example if you needed to farm for a weapon, this would be tiring and require much work. With your idea its like, oh just pay 5000 gold to get the weapon.
2) Instead of giving scrips they would cost scrips (even though I wish it was that esay) as I stated above it would really make the scrips less rare and just be like a regular currencey. To farm for scrips they could just go to a lower level world such as SI, go fight troggies and hire them for a low price.
3) I love this idea, as priates we are more of the nice folks. It would be awesome to see a whole group of people you unlock. Although it would be unfair cause you can just spam these guys when fighting bosses. So if this idea ever gets passed, it most likely won't, but I hope it does there would be a few changes that I would like to see added. As stated above.

Overall I like the idea, but I just seem like it would be too much work to go back in the worlds and design new places where these could fit. Also this seems like another reason to put off the story. Maybe there could be a whole new world/area where you travel to and there is like a cabin/ village of where each "clan" is held. That is all, I let you be.
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
ExpertTrainer on Dec 2, 2014 wrote:
I like your idea, but I just want to add
1) The M.E.R.C.S. would cost scrip simpily becuase gold is easy to obtain and so buying one would be easy and would kinda ruin thw whole "rare scrips" idea. For example if you needed to farm for a weapon, this would be tiring and require much work. With your idea its like, oh just pay 5000 gold to get the weapon.
2) Instead of giving scrips they would cost scrips (even though I wish it was that esay) as I stated above it would really make the scrips less rare and just be like a regular currencey. To farm for scrips they could just go to a lower level world such as SI, go fight troggies and hire them for a low price.
3) I love this idea, as priates we are more of the nice folks. It would be awesome to see a whole group of people you unlock. Although it would be unfair cause you can just spam these guys when fighting bosses. So if this idea ever gets passed, it most likely won't, but I hope it does there would be a few changes that I would like to see added. As stated above.

Overall I like the idea, but I just seem like it would be too much work to go back in the worlds and design new places where these could fit. Also this seems like another reason to put off the story. Maybe there could be a whole new world/area where you travel to and there is like a cabin/ village of where each "clan" is held. That is all, I let you be.
Thank you for the input and the encouragement-- it is greatly appreciated!

The whole thought process for this idea was to provide an alternative means to acquiring Scrip that actually required a decent amount of effort to obtain the M.E.R.C.S. and thus the Scrip. It would be purely optional and would absolutely benefit those that were willing to put in the time to recruit the M.E.R.C.S. I 100% get that Scrip is supposed to be much more difficult to get our hands and hooks on, this was just a brainstorming on other, fun ways to help bring it in....albeit, without degrading and diminishing the rarity of the Scrip. But if it is too rare, then the naysayers will be echoing there BOOS with resounding authority. So, this idea would make them earn their Scrip.

I really don't ever expect something like this to be put in the game, but it was more to get the juices flowing on thinking up another fun, adventurous way to allow players access to not only Scrip but actually hired help that they could hang on to. Let's face it, most players don't have access to high-priced companions via Crowns. Sure they can use Henchmen, but what do they get out of it-- nothing, zilch, nada....zippo! (well, maybe a victory-- but that can be obtained also through perseverance and adapting). This idea would afford them a way to enjoy recruiting someone new, part-time members to their crew, besides the story/side quest companions, if they were willing to work for it....since it would be optional.

Also, I had that list of goofy, pun-filled M.E.R.C. names just waiting for a chance to be posted.....this seemed like the perfect place. So, it's a bit of a brainstorm and an attempt at humor all rolled up into one. As with any brainstorming and/or ideas there would be tons of changes and things added and/or left out of the original idea-- that's the whole beauty of brainstorming and inventing new ideas. Now, I surely would not want KI to put aside progressing the main story for any type of side content at all. But as the developers have stated, in between and during major updates they are freed up to work on new side, optional content/updates to help enrich the current state of the game, after they have passed on the new story progressing content to artists and other development teams. So, this M.E.R.C.S. idea was intended just a possible side project to get 'fiddled with' while the main story was being crafted by the other fine KI crew. They have made it very clear that no developing of side content/updates "put off the story".

So, consider this more of a fantasy or wish of mine, being that I really enjoy action movies, and less of something I truly expect them to consider-- much less actually put in the game. It was mostly done in good fun. Again, I do appreciate your comments/ideas and really like the cabin/village that houses these M.E.R.C.S. in one location, concept of yours. I could see all of these 'Extendable' sitting around a campfire, reminiscing over the glory days!
Lieutenant
Jun 09, 2013
159
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 21, 2014 wrote:
...continued.

Skeleton Crew (Skull Island)

Quackie Chan- Swashbucklin' Ducklin'. Real Mr. Nice Guy, until it's time to rumble in the docks.
Mole Gibson- Mole Privateer possessing truly Lethal Weapons & makes sure we always have our freedom.
William Skratner- Muskrat Musketeer that sets Sparquebus to Stun & boldly goes where no Skrat has gone before.

Monkey Business (Monquista)

Antonio Bandeeras- Musketeer Deer. Carries title of "Decimotercer Guerrero". Summons an orange cat that...wears boots?
Arrnauld Slothenegger- Sloth Buccaneer. Promotes from Barbarian-Commando-Destroyer. Has enough 1-liners to give a Tawny Sky pet Turtle Recall.
Steve McKing- Gorilla Witchdoctor. Can summon slug minion named 'Bullitt'. Possesses a spell power called The Towering Inferno. Enlisted after completing quest "The Great Escape".

The Posse (Cool Ranch)

Sylvester Stallione- Bronco Buccaneer. Can summon a 'hybrid pet' (crokagator & boa constrictor) called Croky Ballboa. Has quite a bit of on 'Over the Top' personality.
Cluck Norris- Rooster Swashbuckler. Kung-fu kickin' chicken. Bit of a Lone Wolf McQuack. Also known as Squawker Free Ranger & is never M.I.A.
Sean Canary- Canary Privateer. Forms instant Bond with our pirates. Enlisted by performing a quest called "The Last Crusade".

Honor Guard (MooShu)

Keamoo Reeves- Cow Privateer that enjoys surfing. Very cunning...so be careful, he May Tricks you now and again.
Jean Clawed Van Ham- Buccaneer Pig enlisted from quest called "The Quest". Has a deadly strike called "Double Impact".
Goose Lee- Goose Swashbuckler. Enlisted after completing a quest called "Exit the Dragon". Possesses real Fists of Fury.

The Dog Pound (Marleybone)

Wesley Stripes- Tiger Swashbuckler that's great with a Blade or 2 or 3. Very disciplined in the Art of War.
Rustled Crow- Crow Privateer. A modern day Gladiator with Brilliant Mind that gives Maximus effort.
Jett Flea- Dog Swashbuckler. Practiced in the martial arts of Shih Tzu. He is Fearless when he is Unleashed. Enlisted after completing the quest "The Forbidden Kingdom".

The Greek Squad (Aquila)

Carl Feathers- Buccaneer Eagle that provides lots of Action & possesses a real Predatory nature towards his enemies.
Brad Pit-viper- Viper Witchdoctor that can always be found hanging out with 12 Monkeys in Troy. Lady pirates say he is cute as a Button...deadly nonetheless!

Hyber-Nation (Grizzleheim)

Moose Willis- Moose Musketeer. Has a real Live Easy personality. Has a Sixth Sense of what the enemy will do & is always prepared for Armageddon.
Wolf Lundgrin- Wolf Witchdoctor. Can summon 2 Red Scorpion pets named Nikolai & Drago. He surely does not come in peace.
Clint Beastwood- Boar Buccaneer. Can run his enemies through the Gauntlet & just dares them to make his day.
Bearison Ford- Grizzly Bear Privateer. Prefers to fight w/ bear hands, solo. Watch him though, he occasionally 'borrows' Toro's whip. Indy end he makes a great comrade.
Oh wow! This is just great! Awesome! Hilarious! Yes!
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
Ruthless Jack Jack... on Dec 2, 2014 wrote:
Oh wow! This is just great! Awesome! Hilarious! Yes!
Why thank you Jack, glad you enjoyed it-- must be a fellow action movie enthusiast! Hey, if our ideas aren't used, we can at least have fun presenting them, right? Thanks again!
Captain
Oct 16, 2012
619
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Nov 23, 2014 wrote:
Fair enough Esperanza & I appreciate your opinion & it's quite ok to not like an idea of mine...heck I don't even like some of them But keep in mind that something like this would be 100% optional & I don't really think that it would be quite as complicated as it appears.

The reason for adding MERCS is because it combines purchasing companions & buying a henchman. It would make it easier for players without enough access to Crowns to still purchase & receive hired help...that they could actually keep. Henchman are gone once a battle is over & in many cases may have not altered the outcome of battle in the first place. A MERC would be yours to recruit & keep at a lower Crowns cost because they are not companions, but are yours to use repeatedly in tough battles (after small Crown or gold costs), in their respective worlds.

A companion can cost up to 7,495 Crowns & many players will never amass that many or it will at least take a very, very long time. Henchman can cost up to 750 Crowns which is pretty affordable, but the player has nothing to show for using those precious Crowns once that battle is over. Now several MERCS at 1,000-1,500 Crowns each would be well within reach to most players & they could 'reuse' them (unlike a Henchman).

My whole thought process behind this idea was to tackle the following issues &/or to compliment these aspects of the game.

Players who don't have access to high-Crowns cost companions.
Solution- provide lesser, permanent allies for fewer Crowns. This goes hand in hand with the KI Trivia & Watch Video rewards for Crowns. Now these players who were missing out on acquiring the many fine companions would have a better way to at least get some fun new additions & help without wasting Crowns on Henchman.

Not enough ways to obtain Scrip.
Solution- higher mercs to fight with & for you for guaranteed Scrip in every battle. Also be able to set them up with the M.E.R.C. task of Ransackin', to bring in even more Scrip. These would all be done w/ already-in-place programming systems & made simple by just clicking a couple times on the mouse. The programming is already there for Henchman & also for the task system.

Provide more Black Market-y content & feel.
Solution- Bring in some good ol' Mercenaries that fit the whole Black Market & pirate rogue vibe.

Add more fun & exciting quests to the side questing.
Solution- Hiring mercenaries by possibly completing funny, engaging & rewarding quests with the added bonus of 'keeping' these allies for a reduced cost & bolstering our Scrip collecting immensely.

Players feeling there are too many systems in place.
Solution- make this purely optional content that would absolutely be beneficial to those that took advantage of it. If I didn't have much access to Crowns, I would love the chance to do some KI Trivia, watch some videos, combine those small amounts of Crowns to purchase a new ally, use those allies to get more Scrip & thus be able to acquire the 'Scrip Gear' easier.
I do have a suggestion for Ransackin' Valkoor! If you put your companions on that task, what if they'd be put on a sort of list that other players could view. They could 'rent' that companion for a short amount of time! The longer the rent, the higher the cost! The rent would be paid in gold, and then you'd get a small or large amount of scrip, depending on how long said companion is rented. The companion they pick would be a copy of the original so the original companion would still be in your roster, but it would say that it has been rented for a while. I know this is a longshot suggestion, but I hope you like it!
'
Dread Pirate
Jun 17, 2013
2743
warriorscreed on Dec 3, 2014 wrote:
I do have a suggestion for Ransackin' Valkoor! If you put your companions on that task, what if they'd be put on a sort of list that other players could view. They could 'rent' that companion for a short amount of time! The longer the rent, the higher the cost! The rent would be paid in gold, and then you'd get a small or large amount of scrip, depending on how long said companion is rented. The companion they pick would be a copy of the original so the original companion would still be in your roster, but it would say that it has been rented for a while. I know this is a longshot suggestion, but I hope you like it!
'
That is a rather interesting and pretty neat idea there Warrior/Michael (not sure what you prefer)!

I imagine that with the size of your crew, you could do a whooooole lot of renting and your vault would be always overflowing just like a mug of Kraken Skulls Yum! I would imagine that it may be a bit tricky to pull off, as far as programming goes and may cause some players to bypass buying companions just because they could rent other players' crew members. But overall I think your idea is quite intriguing, a super neat idea and it would fit into the bustlin', make-ends-meet kind of piratin' lifestyle. Tharrr be gold around every corner if you venture far enough....and we pirates are always looking for new ways to get our hands and hooks on it!

Awesome thinkin' and keep the creative juices flowin'!
Captain
Oct 16, 2012
619
ValkoorTheVictorio... on Dec 4, 2014 wrote:
That is a rather interesting and pretty neat idea there Warrior/Michael (not sure what you prefer)!

I imagine that with the size of your crew, you could do a whooooole lot of renting and your vault would be always overflowing just like a mug of Kraken Skulls Yum! I would imagine that it may be a bit tricky to pull off, as far as programming goes and may cause some players to bypass buying companions just because they could rent other players' crew members. But overall I think your idea is quite intriguing, a super neat idea and it would fit into the bustlin', make-ends-meet kind of piratin' lifestyle. Tharrr be gold around every corner if you venture far enough....and we pirates are always looking for new ways to get our hands and hooks on it!

Awesome thinkin' and keep the creative juices flowin'!
Thanks for the good words, Valkoor! And on my name, just call me whichever name you'd like! I go by both on these boards!