thanks, especially

Blam
Muffindo
Deejayy741
Paralyzer
SlipAnc

for actually giving me feedback on what I wanted to know. instead of just saying "welcome" and moving on you gave some input. (noticed that red named were admins) although I dont think I'm entirely ready for online play, I guess I'll give myself another few days to make replays and use the forums, then perhaps I can 'wow' some other players.