Erik...thanks for your efforts.
I think what I'm struggling with is the lack of information on the user interface. Having been a sci-fi/naval enthusiast since I was a zygote, I'm well versed (I think) in the "art" of ship design. My problem is that the instructions available for ship design (indeed many things in this game) start at 'A' and jump straight to 'Y' or 'Z'...we're missing all the in-between. I've managed to work my way successfully (I think) from game creation through to research. When I say this, I've learned how to automatically distribute my starting research points and 'gift' starting racial techs to my people. Its my understanding that with all the racial techs, I will have all the basic components to start building my first vessels...is this an accurate assessment? The available techs seem to be pretty thorough, I'm not sure why one would need to create/design any new research projects at the beginning of the game, but I digress.
So assuming you have the necessary tech, assuming you have the necessary shipyards with the necessary slipways, and assuming you've asked yourself all those questions about what kind of ship you want to build, now you're ready to start designing ships in new game, but what the heck comes next? This is what I think we're all looking for in terms of step by step class design instructions.
ie. Step 1 - Hit F5...this takes you to the class design interface. On the left side of the screen you'll notice 'x', 'y' and 'z'...this controls 'a', 'b' and 'c'. In the middle of the screen is the 'n' and 'm', and on the right is the 'p', 'q' and 'r' buttons. On the bottom are the controls for 'd', 'e' and 'f'. 'd', does this, 'e' does that and 'f' is important for 'blank'.
Step 2 - Begin creating a new class by clicking the 'New' button on the bottom left of the interface...next...etc. etc.
I hope this clears up what is...uhhh...unclear, so to speak. I have looked at screen shots, but most of them have no explanation. Just screen shots...unfortunately, like out of date, rudimentary instructions, these are pretty useless.
Again, thanks for the patience of those in the know. I'm a stubborn SOB and intend to master this game. I suspect many people start, are overwhelmed and then quit. I'm a former Marine...I do not quit. So I'm sorry my annoying inquiries are here to stay. My wish/goal is to master this game and help create a comprehensive, user-friendly instruction manual...with the permission of the powers that be, of course.
S/F