My first shot at the game an my merchant cruiser ran into a mine and now I'm stuck in the escape pod. Do I get a new ship automatically after day one or am I stuck trading for 2 weeks to get enough money to buy a new ship?

Thanks, Nathan

Don't get discouraged. This game can drive you crazy with it's complexity and depth. I think every person who's ever played this game started thier first game in the same situation you did. You don't get a new ship automatically, but you can try to make your way to the StarDock (you can find it's location by pressing V, unless it's hidden) and selling your escape pod there. Then you can use the cash from the resale to buy a Scout Marauder. The scout starts with 10 holds. If you have any cash left over, you might be able to afford a Density Scanner. If you get blown up in the scout, then you will be out for the day, but the next day, you can come back in another scout. Then you carefully trade a bit to get enough cash to get into a Merchant Freighter. Hopefully, you will have enough cash after that to get a Density scanner. Then you can as least get a feel for what's ahead of you.

It also never hurts to talk to people online and ask for help. Most of the time, people will ignore you, but keep trying. If you are persistant, you will find someone who has an opening in their corp that will help you get back on your feet and show you the ropes.

There are also many good on-line resources available. Besides EISOnline, there is http://www.twgs.org (the other forum where a lot of people hang out. Check messages on the web site. Also, my website has a lot of strategy information and links to other info sites and other TWGS boards.

Good luck and Happy Hunting!