How often do you get/teach new players?
Three friends, so far, and two more are interested. Since I have nothing else to do with my time from various medical issues and I enjoy helping new players, I'd like to expand beyond that and offer assistance to anyone who may be interested in learning the basics.
I thought Dwarf Fortress was more of a niche community due to how complex the game is and the steep learning curve.
Funny you should say that, because that's exactly why I spread the game to people who express interest in it, but have heard repeatedly that the game has a "steep learning curve". I feel that is a misnomer and causes people to instinctively reel back in horror before they know what they're reeling from. The community is niche not because the game has a curve, but because it is driven by the community saying it has a curve. I believe this very strongly because I felt that way before learning to play and so did my players.
And do you think you could tell me more about your teaching schedule/methods/whatever you want to call it? I am just curious because I am trying to learn the game myself.
I've assisted in person, over Steam chat, and through Skype/Google voice and screen sharing (preferred). You play while I explain what is going on in a general sense, giving suggestions and answering questions, and letting some discoveries happen on their own.
I will not lie and say I am an expert at everything DF, that would be silly... cause I'm not a number cruncher and don't care about super efficiency. Figuring how best to build, what your play style is, and designing huge mega projects is your deal. But, I feel I'm knowledgeable enough to get people off the ground and over those first few hurdles so that they can start designing dream forts by themselves.
At this time, however, my illness is ruining my concentration (and why this post was delayed). If you are still interested I can jot your name down and PM ya later when things have subsided. Possibly next week, but no guarantee.