For new players especially, I think it would be great if our skymasters could create yet another variant of Blue Max where everything was functional except the damage. Points would still be scored for shooting (more so new players could become familiar with this aspect of the game than for determining a winner) but no damage would be done. Sort of like counting coup. Also, these practice or training mode games would not be included in any of the stats so there would be no advantage to experienced players that want to prey on newbies. I think it would be an ideal set-up for letting new players get the hang of the game. Since nothing is at stake, communication (and instruction/commentary by experienced players) could be more open...especially in a two player game. Plus, I think it would be fun to teach new players some of the tricks of the trade without blowing them out of the virtual sky first!