And retrofit are the solution to the ship diversity in game... all i can see right now are Defiants R, Excelsior R, Galaxy R and Intrepids R.

I have an Assault Cruiser and an Excelsior-R. I have used both extensively in PvP and PvE.

Firstly, the Excelsior-R is slightly better than the Assault Cruiser. Not a lot better, but the Commander Tac slot is VERY powerful for a cruiser, when combined with superior turn rate AND equivalent shields and hull. This is just the reality of the matter. I don't think the difference is huge, but it is big enough to notice.

As for it being a pay ship...you can now get it through in-game means. So, being solely a pay ship is no longer relevant.

I would recommend Cryptic make a console (tac, perhaps) which adds some sort of special ability to the Assault Cruiser.

I know that the Excelsior is 500 marks, But the problem isn't the possibilty to buy the ship without Atari Token, the thing is we have a lot less diversity in the high levels. The Fleet Escort, Advanced Escort, Reconnassaince Science Vessel and Assault Cruiser are slowly going to the land of the forgotten ships...

Nope. Right now, with what looks like will become a smash hit program starting with the Advanced Escort, the Tier 5 vessels without powers will recieve one via a dedicated console for that class. Dunno what they'll come up with for the Sovvie, but when the Prommies get MVAM, there is no way they'll let that lie with just that. Not with the fans saying 'it's not fair the prommies can get a new power, but not anyone else!'

So, the awesome will. FLOW.

Relax, and just help them come up with ideas.