The fourth and last part of the 'Interstellar' update focuses on isolationist empires. Separate yourself from unfriendly aliens by destroying connections to your systems with extreme isolationists, or stay hidden in stealth mode with silent states.

Extreme Isolationist

In the far reaches of the galaxy, the Extreme Isolationist emerges as a testament to the power of seclusion and self-sufficiency.

Ability: SOLITUDE IMPERATIVE

[h4]Builders can destroy hyperlanes, and vaporize portals.[/h4] [expand type=details] Considerations: - It takes one in-game year to destroy hyperlanes, wormholes, or whiteholes. - Due to the immense energy required to alter the fabric of space, only one can be destroyed at a time. Strength: Prevents fleets from advancing. Weakness: Expensive; It also blocks travel for themselves. [/expand]

Unique Origin: FORGOTTEN OUTPOST

[h4]Start with an additional colonist fleet.[/h4]
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Unique Building: SECLUSION NEXUS

This imposing structure represents a complete withdrawal from external influences and a commitment to self-sufficiency and autonomy. [expand type=details]
Jobs: Seclusionist (Produces: +1 Energy, +1 Minerals, +1 Metals, +1 Food, +1 Science) Bonus: +100% Amenities, 100% Suitability. Additional +1 Power if built in colony adjacent to capital. Restrictions: Non-stackable. The Seclusion Nexus is a secluded and heavily fortified complex, serving as a retreat and refuge for the Extreme Isolationist government. In their quest for isolation and independence, the Extreme Isolationist constructs the Seclusion Nexus as a haven of seclusion and self-sufficiency. This heavily fortified complex is hidden away from prying eyes, providing refuge and security for the government's leaders and select individuals. Within its walls, the Extreme Isolationist government can pursue their agenda of self-reliance, free from external interference. The Seclusion Nexus represents the government's commitment to maintaining distance from the outside world, embracing solitude, and safeguarding their unique way of life. [/expand] [hr][/hr]

Silent State

The Silent State wields influence in the galaxy through covert operations and manipulation of behind-the-scenes politics.

Ability: GALACTIC STEALTH INITIATIVE

[h4]Your fleets can activate stealth mode, making it invisible to other empires.[/h4] [expand type=details] Considerations: - Speed is halved while active. - Stealth mode is ineffective during combat. - Combat can still be triggered if an enemy fleet travels within combat range. - Fleets in stealth mode cannot be seen by other empires whilst in unclaimed territory. - Military and civilian fleets can activate stealth mode. Strength: Element of surprise; hide your fleet actions and movement. Weakness: In stealth mode, ships are slower and more vulnerable. [/expand]

Unique Origin: SHADOWY NEXUS

[h4]Start with intel of three nearby empire capitals.[/h4]
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Unique Building: STEALTH OPERATIONS CENTER

This highly secure and secretive facility operates discreetly, hidden from prying eyes, and acts as the nerve center for the silent state's covert operations. [expand type=details]
Jobs: 1x Stealth Operative (Produces: +3 Science, -3 Energy) Bonus: Conceals colony as an uncolonized world to other empires. Restrictions: Non-stackable. The Stealth Operations Center is a clandestine facility dedicated to covert intelligence gathering and espionage activities. In the shadows of secrecy, the Silent State establishes the Stealth Operations Center to protect the colony's interests through covert means. This highly secure and technologically advanced facility houses skilled agents who specialize in intelligence gathering, sabotage, and espionage. Operating under a veil of secrecy, these operatives gather valuable information, neutralize threats, and advance the colony's agenda without attracting undue attention. The Stealth Operations Center embodies the Silent State's preference for subtlety and secrecy, utilizing covert operations as a means to maintain control and protect their sovereignty. [/expand] [hr][/hr]

Other Changes

Peacekeeping Pacifist: PEACE CONVENTIONS

Peacekeeping pacifists were missing something, so now truces last twice as long with peacekeeping pacifists.

Advanced AI Chat

The AI now has 1200 different chat combinations, depending on the government type, attitude and relationship. This should add lots of depth to AI interaction.

Tweaks

• Increased base monthly resources from +5 to +10
• Players start with 100 power, instead of 50

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Conclusion

This was the 'Interstellar' update - the biggest New Stars update. It was the most planned update and required the addition of hundreds of unit tests. Special abilities and bonuses mentioned are subject to tweaks. The update features will still need additional playtesting, along with some more AI tweaks. More details including the changelog may be provided in the near future when the update is ready for closed-beta release. [hr][/hr]

Stay tuned for more updates...

Feel free to comment your suggestions below. Playtest New Stars: discord.io/adamjr. Wishlist New Stars to support development. This page is intended to be a development preview, which may not reflect the final state of the game. Credits: - Star satellites icon by Lorc under CC BY 3.0