lame online game questions

[rdlaing]

ok, I'm a noob to online play and I keep getting mauled with Jedi Knight 2, Quake, and Unreal Tournament. I know, it's embarassing. (I think my unwillingness to get a fast multi-button optical mouse doesn't help things.)

What I'd like to know is, are there beginners pace online servers or matching I can find for these games? None of the server listings seems to say "beginners" .

What about other online games people can recommend that are more beginner friendly, or even games themselves that are more cooperative (other than the Sims which isn't interesting to me)?

Peace.

[Charger]

What I do is host my own server. Usually noone joins and I can familiarize myself with the maps. Once I feel comfortable I log on and frag away.

You can only get better by practicing.

[Prew]

I've seen 'Beginners Only' servers, but these seem to attract a type of advanced player who is looking for 'easy' kills- I think OBeachian's advice is sound.

Yes, an optical mouse would be helpful.

For cooperative online gaming- I don't think you can beat the Serious Sam games. Serious Sam I and II are also good games to learn circle strafing techniques.

[DilLy]

As for UT, I played the bejeezus out of bots until I was able to destroy "Godlike" skill level bots. Then I hopped on the public servers to kcik butt. I went online a few times while I was still learning to move around and aim acceptably, but not as much as after I got really skilled at it.

The UT bots are pretty intelligent. Not as intelligent as the ones in UT2003, but there are'nt any other first person shooters that come close to the AI of UT. Fight them and fight them hard, for they are there to practice with.

[Alaron]

I agree with DilLy that practicing with bots on high levels is a great way to hone your skills. Once you can take on bots of that magnitude, you should be able to fare well online.

Another thought for UT is to play on Team Deathmatch or Capture the Flag matches over just DM. This way you have the advantage of people to help you, and your more likely to do well by observing your teammates. Along with this, just spectate games. I know it sounds boring but after watching players for awhile you pick up new moves/strategies and you will be better.

Above all dont get discouraged. It takes a long time to get good. I have been playing UT for a year now and I still get my but kicked frequently. When it gets to be too much though, try new servers until you find people more on your level.

[rdlaing]

thanks all, these are helpful suggestions.

must...kill...BOTS