[kennez]

I have just started playing around with the Discovery Edition of Lightwave 7.5, and I am interested in creating a Star Trek style space battle. The only problem is, I don't have a clue how to go about creating the phaser and shield effects.
What is the best way to create them? Is using simple primitives the best way to go, or are particles a better (or easier) way?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated!