Challenge games

I really like the idea of challenge games @Lurkily. I've played a few since I first read your original post. Some versions I've tried:

Nightingale or Less
*Premise - you start with the Nightingale and can only purchase the reinforcements you originally had at your disposal.
*Reaction - meh. A challenge but not my favorite.
*Result - still unbeaten (on hard).

Human weapons are (not) best
*Premise - use any ship you like, but you may only use human (purchased) weapons.
*Reaction - Wow this one is hard. Lots and lots of fun.
*Result - still unbeaten (on hard).

Guns only
*Premise - no fighters. Period. You can still buy carriers (eg Liberator), you just can't use any fighters.
*Reaction - Lots and lots of fun. Early missions are tense. Becomes less of a factor once you get Death Rays.
*Result - still unbeaten (on hard).


Qualifiers - I only play on hard, and am referring to the extended edition.