Has OpenRA Become Too Competitive for Casual Players?

[bettylim]

Hello,
Lately, I've noticed that even casual matches in OpenRA feel more like tournaments — everyone knows perfect build orders, rush timings, and micro tricks.
Do you think the game has gotten too competitive for new or relaxed players?
Should OpenRA add features or modes that make it easier for casual players to enjoy (like slower-paced lobbies, AI co-op, or simplified economy modes)?

[grapnelcro]

The core issue is not the existence of a competitive arena, but the skill floor in public matches that are not ranked extremely high. When an OpenRA player opens a public 1v1 lobby, they are usuallSurvival Racey veterans. They know the optimal opening moves, attack timing, and how to counter units. They use control groups, hotkeys, and fast production queues effectively. They take full advantage of OpenRA's exclusive features like attack-move and Fog of War.
This is my personal opinion for this discussion.
Thanks.

[bete]

Welcome to OpenRA.

Game is not competitive itself, it's about players you play with. Yes obvious thing. But I wanna say that you need to find players your level. It's same like chess, someone play better and someone worse depending on time invested in learning. It's same here.

Also, comparing to some other RTS, ORA is simple mechanically so you can learn to be good very quickly. If you want to, visit academy.openra.net or check this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLyufo_VK9o . Practice this 1 build order and basic things in Skirmish and you will be able to play well relative quickly.