The game is about to be released...so let's discuss!
Here's a brand new Let's play....looks nice.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvB0j2WNEws (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvB0j2WNEws)
Looking forward to what others have to say. The video is intriguing.
What is the actual release date?
I am not overexited (so many 4x have have been published in the last few years) but I wonder that there's not more discussion about this game. ???
It seems to be fairly solid and it looks like it would be the game that most would have liked to have when Master of Orion III was released....it seems to be a fairly good copy of MOO2. I would even go so far to say that I haven't seen any game coming so close (Horizon is fairly close too but not like this one).
Well, for my part I'm not interested because the first game was kind of broken. Rather than fix it the dev seemed more intent on a graphics overhaul which eventually became a sequel, effectively abandoning the first game. Left a nasty taste.
Quote from: Huw the Poo on March 27, 2015, 08:36:51 AM
Well, for my part I'm not interested because the first game was kind of broken. Rather than fix it the dev seemed more intent on a graphics overhaul which eventually became a sequel, effectively abandoning the first game. Left a nasty taste.
Fair enough. I am myself one of the guys who participated in the funding of the game. Didn't play it much as it wouldn't work on my laptop. It's on my Desktop now but only played a little (I do intend to play it). Still, I feel like Stardrive II will be better.
Quote from: Anguille on March 27, 2015, 08:20:25 AM
I am not overexited (so many 4x have have been published in the last few years) but I wonder that there's not more discussion about this game. ???
It seems to be fairly solid and it looks like it would be the game that most would have liked to have when Master of Orion III was released....it seems to be a fairly good copy of MOO2. I would even go so far to say that I haven't seen any game coming so close (Horizon is fairly close too but not like this one).
I enjoyed the first one a bit, but it didn't quite click. The absolutely terrible races didn't help. Why not go for broke and add a race of sentient Teddy Ruxpins? Lots of eye rolling and mouth champing in the diplomacy screen, keeps saying "I want to be your friend!", but the joke is the race is xenophobic and warlike. Pure hilarity!
I'm will be keeping an eye on this one, but it looks like the dev still loves his corny humor: I reference the Commando Owl with bandanna smoking a rollup.
I'm still excited for this one, but I have at least two criticisms right now:
1.) Small map sizes/lack of "epic-ness": Even the largest map size consists of only a maximum of 100 stars, which feels awfully small after playing other 4x titles like Armada 2526, Distant Worlds, and even Birth of the Federation (once modders figured out how to create the super-large maps). Now it does sound like modders will be able to increase this limit pretty easily, but I'm still a bit disappointed that larger maps aren't simply available with the original version of the game.
2.) No victory modes other than Conquest. Dan has said this is because he feels Stardrive 2 to be more of a wargame, but the fact is most 4x gamers these days want options other than straight-up wiping out the other players. Fortunately, a lot of folks have already been clamoring for additional victory conditions, so hopefully we'll see more get added on in the future.
Still and all, I mostly like what I see in SD2. There's a lot that Dan seems to be doing right this time around, and most folks who are playing preview copies seem to be having a blast doing so.
Quote from: Martok on March 29, 2015, 07:11:09 AM
1.) Small map sizes/lack of "epic-ness": Even the largest map size consists of only a maximum of 100 stars, which feels awfully small after playing other 4x titles like Armada 2526, Distant Worlds, and even Birth of the Federation (once modders figured out how to create the super-large maps). Now it does sound like modders will be able to increase this limit pretty easily, but I'm sti
I'm probably in the minority on this but I actually like maps with fewer stars. Not only is it easier for me to keep up with what is going on empire-wise, it gives each world more significance. That said, more map options are always a good thing!
Re Size of maps.
1. I think I read the Dev say somewhere that he will increase it as he knows that's what people want, but not at release because it didn't fit with his vision and balance. (or that could be space between systems... hmm)
2. Large Galaxy is great when they are 'alive' with small 'independent' one or few system races. And needs more sizing up/ automation on the micromanagement. I like what Rome did with regions cutting the micro. There just gets to a point where I cant be cheeking all worlds :uglystupid2:
Keeping my eye on this one. I've got the 4x itch again, but others in the pipe look possible: Predestination; The Mandate; and Apollo 4X just got greenlight, and ready to go Gold from sounds of it.
Quote from: Martok on March 29, 2015, 07:11:09 AM
I'm still excited for this one, but I have at least two criticisms right now:
2.) No victory modes other than Conquest. Dan has said this is because he feels Stardrive 2 to be more of a wargame, but the fact is most 4x gamers these days want options other than straight-up wiping out the other players. Fortunately, a lot of folks have already been clamoring for additional victory conditions, so hopefully we'll see more get added on in the future.
This is my biggest regret so far. Being a Diplomatic player, Conquest victories are seldom my favorite choice. Also because most of the times when you have conquered 50% of the map you're unstoppable but you still neet to conquer 75% cos that's the condition...the end is usually soo boring imho.
Quote from: Anguille on March 29, 2015, 03:28:54 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 29, 2015, 07:11:09 AM
I'm still excited for this one, but I have at least two criticisms right now:
2.) No victory modes other than Conquest. Dan has said this is because he feels Stardrive 2 to be more of a wargame, but the fact is most 4x gamers these days want options other than straight-up wiping out the other players. Fortunately, a lot of folks have already been clamoring for additional victory conditions, so hopefully we'll see more get added on in the future.
This is my biggest regret so far. Being a Diplomatic player, Conquest victories are seldom my favorite choice. Also because most of the times when you have conquered 50% of the map you're unstoppable but you still neet to conquer 75% cos that's the condition...the end is usually soo boring imho.
That's exactly the way I play. I never go for military victories in 4X games if there are alternatives. This + the abandoned first title=no sale.
Looks like a lot of controversy about this game according to you guys. I'm interested enough however to keep my eye on this.
It's out! Have purchased and am installing now. :)
Probably won't actually play (at least not much) til tomorrow, though.
Excellent...waiting for your report ;)
Not sure if i am going to wait for the boxed edition or not (my head says no but my collector's heart says yes) :crazy2:
If you've got room for the box, get the box! It will probably be cheaper anyway!
If you're interested - Angry Joe's impressions (language warning - it's Angry Joe afterall)
See Huw's post :D
You can't use the s in https when you embed Youtube mate.
Quote from: JudgeDredd on April 09, 2015, 03:21:58 PM
If you're interested - Angry Joe's impressions (language warning - it's Angry Joe afterall)
That guy's still funny. Spoiler- the scene where his ship is being buzzed by last fighter "the best fighter in the Universe" and he sounded so personally invested in it ;D
Aside- Suspect that A Joe's appeal will fade, like most comedians have a short-ish life cycle.
Quote from: Huw the Poo on April 09, 2015, 03:40:18 PM
You can't use the s in https when you embed Youtube mate.
Damn - I forgot to edit the linky...I knew about that issue too!
Thanks O0
Bought this! Not because of Annoying Joe's impressions, but thanks for the link to that JudgeDredd. Watching game play is useful.
I gotta get this game. O0
Yes, if for nothing else, check this out (http://stardrivegame.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=10753)!
[edit] oops, wrong link! should work now.
I haven't played much but I'm sensing a possible way to make a rapid response force. You don't need many fuel cells to travel in your own territory (no fuel expenditure), so why not make a gaggle of well-armed and armored speedy ships that forgo the usual space-faring trappings and hopefully get to incoming threats with haste. Wouldn't be made for duty outside your turf, but the space saved by limiting their range could really leave room for some abusive designs. Likewise, since ammo replenishes at your colonies you could go with ballistics and limit the space you devote to ammo. Hmmmm.....
Quote from: Huw the Poo on April 09, 2015, 03:09:26 PM
If you've got room for the box, get the box! It will probably be cheaper anyway!
Actually, i don't have room for the box...i should get rid of many things.
And there's a good discount for Stardrive 1 owners on steam....but i like boxes and love to smell new manuals...
Quote from: Anguille on April 10, 2015, 03:29:22 AM
And there's a good discount for Stardrive 1 owners on steam...
There is?? Haven't seen any indication of that -- what is the discount (as a Stardrive 1 owner and potential Stardrive 2 buyer)?
Have to say, Star Ruler 2 has left me a little cold. Can't say I've delved much into it -- and am enjoying Huw's in-depth reports. But the commodities 'daisy-chaining' that you have to do to level up planets doesn't strike me as very fun. And I dislike the cartoony "1 item per planet" mechanic. A whole planet that produces... grain, or meat. I know it's a game mechanic, but it's slightly immersion-killing to me -- also don't like the cartoony commodity icons in zoomed-out view. Just doesn't seem very 'galactic' to me...
Now, I probably put about 4 minutes total into StarDrive the original. But what I've seen about the sequel looks kinda intriguing... and looks a lot more polished than Star Ruler 2...
EDIT -- aha, i see it's 33% off... thus giving me no choice but to buy it forthwith --
http://steamcommunity.com/app/252450/discussions/0/611702631213651215/ (http://steamcommunity.com/app/252450/discussions/0/611702631213651215/)
I've only just scratched the surface of SD2, but so far I'm impressed overall. The map is very sleek and I find the UI to be organized well and intuitive. Although I'm sure many will disagree, I'm not totally convinced that the move to a turn-based strategic game was necessary. I rather enjoyed moving fleets around the map in real-time in the first title. It gave a good immersive sense of time, distance and space that I think you lose in a turn-based system.
I look forward to getting into combat, exploring ship design and colony management.
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on April 10, 2015, 09:15:18 AM
I've only just scratched the surface of SD2, but so far I'm impressed overall. The map is very sleek and I find the UI to be organized well and intuitive. Although I'm sure many will disagree, I'm not totally convinced that the move to a turn-based strategic game was necessary. I rather enjoyed moving fleets around the map in real-time in the first title. It gave a good immersive sense of time, distance and space that I think you lose in a turn-based system.
I look forward to getting into combat, exploring ship design and colony management.
Mostly agree. :) I do like the turn-based strategic part. In fact, I really like the 'space bar' real-time addition. It's kind of the best of both worlds, if you don't want turn based just hold down the space bar.
Quote from: bbmike on April 10, 2015, 09:50:59 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on April 10, 2015, 09:15:18 AM
I've only just scratched the surface of SD2, but so far I'm impressed overall. The map is very sleek and I find the UI to be organized well and intuitive. Although I'm sure many will disagree, I'm not totally convinced that the move to a turn-based strategic game was necessary. I rather enjoyed moving fleets around the map in real-time in the first title. It gave a good immersive sense of time, distance and space that I think you lose in a turn-based system.
I look forward to getting into combat, exploring ship design and colony management.
Mostly agree. :) I do like the turn-based strategic part. In fact, I really like the 'space bar' real-time addition. It's kind of the best of both worlds, if you don't want turn based just hold down the space bar.
Hmmmm...I'll have to check that feature out.
Quote from: Huw the Poo on March 27, 2015, 08:36:51 AM
Well, for my part I'm not interested because the first game was kind of broken. Rather than fix it the dev seemed more intent on a graphics overhaul which eventually became a sequel, effectively abandoning the first game. Left a nasty taste.
Doesn't look like just a graphics overhaul to me.
Actually, I thought the original was incomplete as a 4X game and needed more features. Which this one seems to have. That still means that he dropped it in favor of adding all those needed features to the same engine to sell as a sequel.
If there are enough added improvements, I may pick it up eventually but I was also a bit sore about development on the earlier version being dropped so abruptly. The risks of Early Access purchasing. This won't be high on my purchase list until it's had some time, to see if it gets some updates and post-release support.
I didn't mean to say the sequel is just a graphics overhaul. What happened was we were reporting all sorts of issues with the original game, and rather than address them, he decided he would simply overhaul the graphics engine. At some point, that plan became developing a full sequel.
I'm glad some of you are enjoying the game, truly, but I personally will not buy it due to my experience with the first.
Quote from: sandman2575 on April 10, 2015, 08:32:31 AM
Quote from: Anguille on April 10, 2015, 03:29:22 AM
And there's a good discount for Stardrive 1 owners on steam...
There is?? Haven't seen any indication of that -- what is the discount (as a Stardrive 1 owner and potential Stardrive 2 buyer)?
EDIT -- aha, i see it's 33% off... thus giving me no choice but to buy it forthwith --
http://steamcommunity.com/app/252450/discussions/0/611702631213651215/ (http://steamcommunity.com/app/252450/discussions/0/611702631213651215/)
Yeah...that's what i meant. O0
Lol! When AJ comes to the astroid base tactical battle, the NPC complains about Martok! :2funny:
Picked up the deluxe version yesterday and got a great discount for being an owner of the original game. I love the fact the strategic and the troop combat is turn based. The real time tactical space battles work good too. Sort of like the first game only restricting movement to a confined area.
One of the things that annoyed me in the first game when it came to spaceship battles is how the ai would take some damage and then run for the hills. If your ships weren't fast enough this meant that the bad guys would get away, repair, and then come back to bug you again.
The spaceship design portion of the game has been dumbed down a little compared to the first game. It's now easy to see which modules will fit where on a hull but you lost control over gun facing and gun firing arc positioning from what I've seen so far. It also feels like there are a little less gadgets to install on your hulls now as well. I really like how you can customize your troops though. Now you can customize your ground forces to be equipped with laser rifles, a combat knife, and either an energy shield/barrier thingy or a medkit. O0
So far, I'm really liking this game. I love the ship design. The interface clicks. I like that it plays a lot like MOO2. It's early but so far this is a fun game for me. I will say that I have Stardrive 1 but haven't really played it.
Quote from: bbmike on April 10, 2015, 06:39:29 PM
So far, I'm really liking this game. I love the ship design. The interface clicks. I like that it plays a lot like MOO2. It's early but so far this is a fun game for me. I will say that I have Stardrive 1 but haven't really played it.
Same here. I'm enjoying this title as well. Star Drive 1 is slightly less complex then Star Drive 2. I've spend a good amount of time with 1 and about 3 hours with 2 and both are great games in my opinions. They're different animals in that one is full real time (but very manageable) and the other is a hybrid realtime turnbased game.
Having watched a couple of videos, I'm wondering if there's really any reason to get this when I can just re-install MOO 2.
Quote from: tgb on April 11, 2015, 12:31:50 PM
Having watched a couple of videos, I'm wondering if there's really any reason to get this when I can just re-install MOO 2.
For graphics that are a lot better and to show there is still demand for these types of games?
Given how many space-based 4X games have come out recently, I don't think demand is a question.
Quote from: bbmike on April 11, 2015, 12:43:20 PM
Quote from: tgb on April 11, 2015, 12:31:50 PM
Having watched a couple of videos, I'm wondering if there's really any reason to get this when I can just re-install MOO 2.
For graphics that are a lot better and to show there is still demand for these types of games?
There are some new concepts in SD2 that are not in MOO2 iirc. Concepts such as the freighter fleets being managed automatically by the ai, some new diplomatic options that work really well, and a troop designer you can utilize before engaging in ground war. Other than that if you are content with MOO2 and are looking to save some money then yes, I agree with you. SD2 is a pretty good modern attempt at capturing that old MOO2 magic but in my honest opinion is SD2 a must have for every gamer? Only if you are a hardcore space nut is it worth the investment. Or if you have never played this type of game before SD2 is a great introduction to the space 4x genre.
If you go to the Stardrive 2 Workshop and search for Star Trek you will find a really cool Star Trek mod!
Sigh. I should've known that I'd end up being too damn busy these last two days to actually play the bloody game (after I purchased it). Never fails. :-\ I'm off tonight, though; can't wait!
Quote from: Yskonyn on April 10, 2015, 03:37:21 PM
Lol! When AJ comes to the astroid base tactical battle, the NPC complains about Martok! :2funny:
Heh, I noticed that as well. Due to being a Kickstarter backer, I got a mention in the original game too. I guess Dan decided to make it a tradition. :)
Quote from: bbmike on April 11, 2015, 03:45:51 PM
If you go to the Stardrive 2 Workshop and search for Star Trek you will find a really cool Star Trek mod!
Sweet, thanks for the heads-up
bbmike! Will definitely have to check it out.
Martok, my guess is that you are going to like this game. ;)
Anyone play this AND gal civ 3? Any preference in terms of depth
I'm playing both. I think GalCiv3 is deeper and in the end will be the better space 4x game out there.
Quote from: bbmike on April 11, 2015, 03:54:45 PM
Martok, my guess is that you are going to like this game. ;)
I have a feeling I will as well. 8) I've been following it since pretty much the beginning, and I've liked most of what I've seen throughout the development cycle.
Quote from: bbmike on April 11, 2015, 04:01:27 PM
I'm playing both. I think GalCiv3 is deeper and in the end will be the better space 4x game out there.
Presuming GalCiv3 is similar to GalCiv2 (which I own) -- and everything I've seen/heard indicates it is -- it's a safe bet that GC3 is the deeper game.
Quote from: Martok on April 11, 2015, 03:52:43 PM
Quote from: Yskonyn on April 10, 2015, 03:37:21 PM
Lol! When AJ comes to the astroid base tactical battle, the NPC complains about Martok! :2funny:
Heh, I noticed that as well. Due to being a Kickstarter backer, I got a mention in the original game too. I guess Dan decided to make it a tradition. :)
That explains why the pirate leaders name in both games is Martok. That's awesome thanks for sharing that tidbit and congrats on being immortalized in two cool space games. O0
Heh, thanks.
(Incidentally, I feel compelled to add/clarify it wasn't just because I was KS backer -- lest other KS backers feel miffed for not also getting mentions -- but also because I'd long been an active participant in the forums, and overall enthusiastic supporter of the game.)
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go play. :D
Thoughts/impressions after around 12 hours of playing (most of it from last night/this morning):
I'm having fun with it overall. I like how colony development & management works, the exploration aspect is enjoyable, ship design is fun, the AI seems to be competent so far, and of course it looks good.
So here are my complaints so far. (They're not "game-breakers" for me, however.):
1.) A couple times now, I've run into a bug where I'm unable to save ship designs. Restarting the game seems to fix it, but there's no telling when/if I'll encounter it again.
2.) Other races can colonize inside my territory. Argh! Most annoying in the first game (not to mention a couple other space 4x titles). I'd thought this issue had been addressed in SD2, but apparently not. >:(
3.) I'd not fully realized/appreciated it til I started playing it myself, but the battle maps are pretty small. Not much room for maneuvering, especially if you have larger fleets.
3a.) More a personal preference, I know, but I have to admit I'm really bothered by ships being constrained by Newtonian physics in combat. For some reason, seeing ships (especially the smaller ones) move around like that actually makes me feel somewhat queasy, almost to the point of being a little nauseous. :-\
4.) Seriously, the maps are too damn small! 100 stars is simply not enough room for 9 races to play in (and I want all 9 races in).
5.) Holy shit, this game is trying to fucking kill you! With just about every star system worth colonizing being guarded by Crystalline Entities, Pirates and whatnot -- not to mention Pirates will also enter your space and come after you -- expansion is a bitch. Mercifully, Dan's latest update includes options that let you disable Pirates/CE's and Neutral Attacks on Easy difficulty (which to my shame I must admit I switched to for the time being :-[ ), but Normal difficulty is still a poor fit for "turtlers" like myself.
Speaking of which... I must admit the game seems to be more war/combat-oriented than I normally care for. (That the AI also appears to be quite aggressive adds to this impression.) I know SD1 was rather like this, but I'd been under the impression (wrongly, as it turns out) that this had been toned down somewhat in the sequel. Granted, it does depend somewhat on the factions you run into -- Pollops, Humans, Draylock, and even the Kulrathi can be reasonable -- but I'm starting to realize that I'm probably not precisely the type of player Dan was aiming at when he sat down to make SD2 (or the original).
All that being said, I *am* enjoying myself. This is the most fun I've had with a space-strategy game since Distant Worlds was released. Is it my ideal 4x title? No. But it is damn good, and I'm having a great time with it so far. I mean, I've been playing this game almost constantly since I got up last night (aside from meal and bathroom breaks), so I'd say that's a positive sign. ;)
Thanks for the reports Martok!
Yes awesome report Martok. O0
I agree with you on the fact that the game wants the player dead. I wish I could find a lush planet in my current game but so far every surrounding star system (I'm playing on a 90 planet clustered systems map) is filled with either gas giants (uninhabitable) or asteroids. My homeworld seems to be the only planet in the known galaxy that has a food surplus.
Then my government was challenged by lobbyists who wanted a war with the only race we've met so far in game and I refused to bow to their demands. So the first half of my game has been spent fighting crystalline intruders, pirates, and a group of separatists who want war. I'm liking it so far though.
In Star Drive 1 my experience was either you steamroll your way to galactic conquest or you get crushed like a bug within the first few years of the game.
Quote from: Martok on April 12, 2015, 10:52:27 AM
2.) Other races can colonize inside my territory. Argh! Most annoying in the first game (not to mention a couple other space 4x titles). I'd thought this issue had been addressed in SD2, but apparently not. >:(
I'd read that if you have a non-aggression pact with the race in question they should not do that. I haven't tried it yet. And I hate it when someone else colonizes Mars. :knuppel2:
I just fought a small ground battle to take control of a derelict ship one of my explorers came across. When I won, it revealed the location of a previously hidden planetoid.
Very cool.
I'll admit I'm not enthralled with the ground combat, but at least it's actually included in a space 4x game for once. Would love to see it expanded on/improved in the future (I would guess in an expansion). I also really like that we can upgrade/customize our ground units; it definitely adds a nice touch.
Leaders are fun.
Quote from: bbmike on April 12, 2015, 03:47:26 PM
Quote from: Martok on April 12, 2015, 10:52:27 AM
2.) Other races can colonize inside my territory. Argh! Most annoying in the first game (not to mention a couple other space 4x titles). I'd thought this issue had been addressed in SD2, but apparently not. >:(
I'd read that if you have a non-aggression pact with the race in question they should not do that. I haven't tried it yet. And I hate it when someone else colonizes Mars. :knuppel2:
Not true, unfortunately. Races will still colonize inside your borders -- including your core space -- even with a treaty.
Incidentally, Dan has apparently stated he's not changing/fixing this; claims it limits/impedes the AI too much. It sounds like his view is that if you want to stop other races from grabbing planets inside your territory, then that's what laser cannons and your own colony ships are for. :-\
Holy shit is this game brutal. I was invaded by crystals and then the dogs which destroyed my space station, my meager fleet, took my one colonized planet, and left me scratching my head. I don't like the idea that they can colonize inside of your core space violating diplomatic agreements. I will say that I for all the information panes and tool tips there are some ambiguous areas. Like retrofitting. WTF? How do I know what is being retro fitted? I get the option, but I have no idea what is being retro fitted.
I got hammered in the my first game. Everything was going fine. I crushed the internal rebellion. Built a decent defense fleet that could take on the crystalline intruders no problem. The game was quickly lost once the squid people who constantly bug you for tithes to their squid god came a knockin' at my door for the umpteenth time asking for a 'donation' and I said no.
Next thing I know I've got two enemy fleets in my territory both with command ratings of 12 or more and my single defense fleet of command rating 8 was wiped clean after the first engagement.
Started another game and this time managed to colonize some nice tundra planets but no Terran unfortunately. Then I met the insectoid robot people. I gave them a donation the first time they asked me and all was good until they told me to stop colonizing or else. They certainly can colonize as much as they want though. So what did I do? I built myself another colony ship. As soon as it left dry dock the bastards declared war on me.
I'm going to try and fight this one out before giving up but again they've got two fleets with a lot of ships in each and I've got a couple of plastic toy tugboats to defend my space.
I'm beginning to think that in the early game you only want to colonize one or maybe two planets and stop there. Concentrate on building up the economy and a good fleet with decent ships. Then try to grab more space. Your own fleet size I think is key to telling other races to either leave you alone or kill you because you're too weak.
Quote from: W8taminute on April 15, 2015, 05:50:20 PM
I'm going to try and fight this one out before giving up but again they've got two fleets with a lot of ships in each and I've got a couple of plastic toy tugboats to defend my space.
The odds are against us and the situation is grim. Attack!!!
Quote from: Huw the Poo on April 15, 2015, 05:52:41 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on April 15, 2015, 05:50:20 PM
I'm going to try and fight this one out before giving up but again they've got two fleets with a lot of ships in each and I've got a couple of plastic toy tugboats to defend my space.
The odds are against us and the situation is grim. Attack!!!
General Ferdinand Foch in space!!!
I really hope this isn't another "AI always attack human, no real diplomacy" game. :(
Review - 6/10
http://www.pcgamesn.com/stardrive-2/stardrive-2-review
Quote from: spelk on April 18, 2015, 02:18:33 AM
Review - 6/10
http://www.pcgamesn.com/stardrive-2/stardrive-2-review
Yeah...the all-War thing isn't really my thing and i do hope he brings in more victory conditions. I usually like to play like the Federation of Planets (Star Trek)...that's more my style. At least, i don't usually play to wipe out all the races. Still on my list.
^^I agree this game is all about wiping out your foes. I don't mind that because sometimes when you try to make a game that is slapped together just to please everyone's diplomatic tastes you get a mediocre game. Is Star Drive 2 a mediocre space conquest game? Perhaps, but I'm liking it. Sometimes one just wants to play a game where the goal is wiping out all the other empires. Keeps things simple.
I have to admit my ardor for SD2 has cooled a bit.
I like most of the mechanics, I enjoy most of the gameplay...but the "all war, all the time" thing is not for me. Even on Easy difficulty, it seems like all the AI-controlled races are all purposefully gunning for me (solely because I'm the human player, not because I'm the most powerful empire), and that's simply not fun. That sort of behavior really breaks immersion for me, which is a pity given the atmosphere/immersion is done so well in other areas of the game.
In addition, the fact that the AI cheats plays by different rules is also something of a turn-off. That it automatically knows where all the good planets are, and can shoot down my colony ships in its space without declaring war (but not vice-versa) irritates me to no end. (The fact that the AI is allowed to colonize inside my space * at all* -- at least sans a declaration of war -- irritates me in the first place, but it would be at least tolerable if we played by the same rules!) Dan can say the AI "doesn't cheat" all he likes, but honestly I'm not sure that's even true by the letter of the law, much less the spirit.
Stardrive 2 is a fun enough game. It does a lot of things right, and it's definitely a major improvement over the original. For now, however, I think I'm going to be putting it on the back-burner.
I'm done with the game. The fact I get exactly 3 ships built before I'm invaded by significantly larger enemy fleets is too much. Lose fleet and colony and rebuild for the same exact thing to happen again in a few turns is not fun at all.
I have to agree with you guys. There does some to be something 'gamey' going on with the AI.
After reading your guy's comments I'm glad I held off on this one. Maybe Zero will balance it more in the future, then I'll revisit it.
Quote from: RedArgo on April 18, 2015, 06:10:56 PM
Maybe Zero will balance it more in the future, then I'll revisit it.
He doesn't exactly have form in this regard, unfortunately.
rethinking post
I'm on my third game now and just started a war with my neighbor. After I destroyed his 10 ship fleet that invaded my space he sent two fleets with 20 ships each. The player is severely constrained by a draconian command point limit keeping his overall fleet size small. I see no such limits being imposed on the ai.
Still though, I'm going to keep playing to see if I can come up with a strategy to beat the game. I still like it but maybe because it offers me a light game to fill in the time when I get brain tired of playing WitE.
I do agree with the others that there is something gamey about Star Drive 2 but I'm going to crack this nut.
Quote from: RedArgo on April 18, 2015, 06:10:56 PM
Maybe Zero will balance it more in the future, then I'll revisit it.
He may, but it will be called Stardrive 3... :-X
Funny enough, on my first game (Easy) I have had none of the issues of facing fleets bigger than mine, or having the AI do anything in my space. In fact, my territory is either the biggest or second biggest of the four players. And, I am no genius at these games. My interest is dwindling rather because the game really doesn't seem to "reward" me much, so it feels like a lot of end turn button pressing. Furthermore, I keep reading about flaws in the design system for power usage, and that the limited design choices the AI has available limit their effectiveness. I guess one of the patches tries to alleviate that last part by occasionally having the AI lift some of your designs. Just having trouble staying motivated with so many other choices in my backlog (and more coming out every week!).
Review 7.5/10
http://www.spacesector.com/blog/2015/04/stardrive-2-review/
IGN gave it a 6.9.
http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/04/20/stardrive-2-review
I think I am going to pass on both SD2 and SR2 from the reports I've seen on here. I am already in the beta program for GalCiv 3, which releases in May and I think that is a game which much better suits my 4x itch.
On a high note; this newyears resolution of not buying any new games is going well for me! O0
Quote from: Yskonyn on April 23, 2015, 09:13:10 AM
I think I am going to pass on both SD2 and SR2 from the reports I've seen on here. I am already in the beta program for GalCiv 3, which releases in May and I think that is a game which much better suits my 4x itch.
Just my opinion of course, but honestly, I don't think you're missing out. I picked up both SR2 and SD2 and have felt pretty 'meh' about both of them. Admittedly, I've just scratched the surface of both, but neither did much to really make me want to invest more time.
I've gone back to Distant Worlds -- still the unsurpassed space 4x, and makes most other space 4x feel pretty hollow by comparison.
I am looking forward to GalCiv3, though. Set to release May 14.
Quote from: sandman2575 on April 23, 2015, 02:46:36 PM
I've gone back to Distant Worlds -- still the unsurpassed space 4x, and makes most other space 4x feel pretty hollow by comparison.
Have you played Space Empires 4? ;)
Quote from: Huw the Poo on April 23, 2015, 04:06:42 PM
Have you played Space Empires 4? ;)
Made a half-hearted attempt a while ago, but SE4 didn't click with me. Not sure it's a game that has aged well -- although that's coming from someone who doesn't have much patience for the whole "Good Old Games" concept.
Spacesector is giving away 10 keys (http://www.spacesector.com/blog/2015/05/stardrive-2-giveaway-contest-10-keys-open/), so check it out (or don't so my chances improve a bit 8)) O0
Grabbed this during the weekend sale and I am totally hooked! I'm loving the ship design and space battles. Trying to figure out specialized fleets to take out the opponents I am facing. At 14 bucks this was money well spent (I bought the first version so the discount was deeper).
To me a much better value then DW where I had to pay a 70 dollar ticket price to 'watch' it play a few games.. I mean, I enjoyed it, but the price tag, it just ended up being like WITE for me. Pay premium and then don't get 'hooked'. Also, if I want to try the 'next' iteration (come on, these are all just upgrades), I'd have to fork over 60 again! Forget that.
I've got my eyes on Galactic Civilization next!
I'm finding GalCiv III a little underwhelming, honestly. I've only put 4-5 hours into it so far, but more out of a "OK, I'm willing to be patient and see how this unfolds" feeling rather than a "Oh wow I'm totally hooked!" feeling. The game feels indistinguishable from Gal Civ 2, frankly (much as I liked that game). Then again, StarDrive2 and Star Ruler 2 have left me cold so far, too...
The Zero DLC is here, i'll check it out tonight.
QuoteYou're interested in buying this DLC? Well, hold on there bucko - I'm not sure if you're rated on DLC that's this hot. If you think you can handle this kind of horsepower, then what you're looking at here is an incredible new set of features and content for the award-winning* galaxy-spanning PC entertainment experience that is StarDrive 2.
This baby takes the base game of StarDrive 2 and overhauls it with massive changes to the structure of the galaxy. First and foremost, the galaxy is now divided into Hexagonal Sectors, providing new resources, terrain features, chokepoints, and reasons for you to commit genocide on the friendly plant people. New deep space construction mechanics allow you to fortify sectors with battlestations, mining outposts, science stations, and more. Sectors are jam-packed with new anomalies to explore, quests to unlock, and dangers to bravely run away from.
Sector Zero now features several new ways to win the game, including a technology victory, a story-based victory, and a score victory. You can view your progress towards your victory goal on the brand new victory screen. Dozens of new technologies have been added to support these new mechanics and the AI has been given some serious upgrades to help them win the game too!
Planetary Invasion mechanics have received a serious overhaul in this expansion pack as well. While the legacy 3d battle system will remain in place for story-based battles, planetary ground combats will now take place over several turns, allowing you - and the AI - an opportunity to gain space superiority and to reinforce a besieged planet.
But do you think we'd stop there? Because we didn't! We also increased the maximum amount of Star Systems from 100 to 200, while providing you tinkerers with the option to crank that maximum up as high as your PC will allow!
All of this and more can be yours for a mere ten Earth dollars, rounded down to the appropriately psychologically enticing amount.
*PENDING!
FEATURES
New Hex-tile Strategy Map, with deep space terrain features like nebulae, wreckage fields, and more
New Deep Space Construction mechanics that will allow you to fortify sectors with battle stations and economic buildings
Three new ways to win the game
Dozens of new quests, anomalies, technologies, and events
Overhauled ground combat
Improved UI and AI
Increased Galaxy Size options
Here are the other patch notes. I was pretty bad about keeping patch notes so some stuff that's been fixed is not listed here. Lots of small fixes in addition to these bigger things:
Added a new Victory Conditions screen which will show your progress towards beating the game
Added a new scoring system and a new Score victory, which will grant victory to the player with the highest score total at the end of 1000 turns. This game length value is configurable in the config file if you want a longer or shorter game.
Fallout Radiation now dissipates more slowly
The AI will trade for more techs among themselves, with an emphasis on getting shields if they didn't already have them
The AI will not research future techs while there are still regular techs left to research. previously they could, at times, head too deep into the future tech while ignoring potentially more helpful regular tech
Increased the frequency that the AI will refit its ships
Placed the "Max Systems" count number in the game config file, allowing you to crank up the number of star systems to whatever you want. Note that this may choke your computer to death with space tentacles if you go too high. Default is 100 for vanilla and 200 for the expansion.
Limited the number of carriers an AI empire will build, to assist in them getting a more diverse fleet that is less system-crushing in huge battles
Changed the particle FX on heavy rockets because large numbers of rockets could stress graphics cards
Refactored all projectile code for increased performance and a lesser strain on the physics engine
Increased the penalties to production and research for having an unhappy populace, and slightly increased the penalty to happiness imposed by overcrowding. The goal of this change is to encourage pursuit of a wider empire, as I think Tall empires currently have an edge
The AI will now potentially make peace with one another after a prolonged war
The Znodforce One now has power!
Experimental technologies now have a cost multiplier the further down the tree they are
The MegaHospital building will now rapidly heal troops when out of combat. Otherwise, troops stationed at a planet will heal 5 hp per turn.
AI players will contact the player with offers and demands less frequently now, as it could get a bit annoying
Nuclear Bombs have had their effectiveness versus troops reduced
Fixed an issue where ships capable of exterminating your populace were not using their bio-terminators
fixed issue with leaders killed in manual combat remaining in the leader screen
(Expac Only) Many tweaks and changes have been made to the auto-combat calculator after manually playing battles and consistently winning, and then consistently seeing losses in the auto-calculator. The following changes have helped normalize those results:
Fixed an issue with the auto-combat calculator that set the cutoff for long range weapons at 600m. I lowered this to 500m, so weapons such as heavy rockets will be considered long-range weapons for auto combats.
Reduced the effectiveness of fighters at the long-range and mid-range phases of the auto-combat calculator.
Increased the odds of killing a fighter in the close range combat phase of the calculation
Point Defense weapons will mitigate damage received, with reduced effectiveness at closer ranges
Reduced the variance in damage that could be taken from ship to ship; ships will now be guaranteed to take a relatively equal portion of damage relative to the number of ships in fleet, with a +/- 30% variation possible
Corvettes and Frigates each receive a sizeable damage mitigation bonus during long and medium range combat phases
Quote from: Martok on March 29, 2015, 07:11:09 AM
I'm still excited for this one, but I have at least two criticisms right now:
1.) Small map sizes/lack of "epic-ness": Even the largest map size consists of only a maximum of 100 stars, which feels awfully small after playing other 4x titles like Armada 2526, Distant Worlds, and even Birth of the Federation (once modders figured out how to create the super-large maps). Now it does sound like modders will be able to increase this limit pretty easily, but I'm still a bit disappointed that larger maps aren't simply available with the original version of the game.
2.) No victory modes other than Conquest. Dan has said this is because he feels Stardrive 2 to be more of a wargame, but the fact is most 4x gamers these days want options other than straight-up wiping out the other players. Fortunately, a lot of folks have already been clamoring for additional victory conditions, so hopefully we'll see more get added on in the future.
Still and all, I mostly like what I see in SD2. There's a lot that Dan seems to be doing right this time around, and most folks who are playing preview copies seem to be having a blast doing so.
You have been heard (me too)...see the list of the DLC
Quote from: Anguille on March 08, 2016, 12:52:14 PM
The Zero DLC is here, i'll check it out tonight.
And a corresponding sale of the base game (-75%) : http://store.steampowered.com/app/252450/
I find the trailer for the new DLC pretty obnoxious. It ends with message on the screen stating, "Give money"...it says it twice and then demands that you "do it now".
That's essentially what this is...a cash grab in exchange for features that should have been in the game in the first place.
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on March 08, 2016, 01:51:44 PM
I find the trailer for the new DLC pretty obnoxious. It ends with message on the screen stating, "Giving money"...it says it twice and then demands that you "do it now".
That's essentially what this is...a cash grab in exchange for features that should have been in the game in the first place.
I think there's a lot of irony here. There's a lot of nice thing in this DLC and i think it's worth 10 bucks imho.
Quote from: Anguille on March 08, 2016, 02:31:01 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on March 08, 2016, 01:51:44 PM
I find the trailer for the new DLC pretty obnoxious. It ends with message on the screen stating, "Give money"...it says it twice and then demands that you "do it now".
That's essentially what this is...a cash grab in exchange for features that should have been in the game in the first place.
I think there's a lot of irony here. There's a lot of nice thing in this DLC and i think it's worth 10 bucks imho.
Where do you see irony?
Seems like most of the features in the DLC are core features that should have been in the initial release. Where are the new races? Where are the new ships? Where are the new planet types, etc. Those are the types of things that should be in a DLC. Why am I paying for improved UI and AI? Why am I paying for an improved ground combat experience? Why am I paying for terrain features that all 4x games typically come with as a standard map element? What am I missing? I want you to convince me.
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on March 08, 2016, 02:39:30 PM
Quote from: Anguille on March 08, 2016, 02:31:01 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on March 08, 2016, 01:51:44 PM
I find the trailer for the new DLC pretty obnoxious. It ends with message on the screen stating, "Give money"...it says it twice and then demands that you "do it now".
That's essentially what this is...a cash grab in exchange for features that should have been in the game in the first place.
I think there's a lot of irony here. There's a lot of nice thing in this DLC and i think it's worth 10 bucks imho.
Where do you see irony?
Seems like most of the features in the DLC are core features that should have been in the initial release. Where are the new races? Where are the new ships? Where are the new planet types, etc. Those are the types of things that should be in a DLC. Why am I paying for improved UI and AI? Why am I paying for an improved ground combat experience? Why am I paying for terrain features that all 4x games typically come with as a standard map element? What am I missing? I want you to convince me.
I first have to play it through and will tell you. Too soon. ;)
Indeed, i should know, i financed the first Stardrive and have barely played it. :uglystupid2:
On a side note, the original game has been patched at the same time.
^LoL. You silly goose.
Yeah, I saw
Sector Zero was released today. I'm obviously not going to buy it right away, but I can't make myself rule it out eventually getting it either. It really does look pretty snazzy.
Quote from: Anguille on March 08, 2016, 12:53:05 PM
Quote from: Martok on March 29, 2015, 07:11:09 AM
I'm still excited for this one, but I have at least two criticisms right now:
1.) Small map sizes/lack of "epic-ness": Even the largest map size consists of only a maximum of 100 stars, which feels awfully small after playing other 4x titles like Armada 2526, Distant Worlds, and even Birth of the Federation (once modders figured out how to create the super-large maps). Now it does sound like modders will be able to increase this limit pretty easily, but I'm still a bit disappointed that larger maps aren't simply available with the original version of the game.
2.) No victory modes other than Conquest. Dan has said this is because he feels Stardrive 2 to be more of a wargame, but the fact is most 4x gamers these days want options other than straight-up wiping out the other players. Fortunately, a lot of folks have already been clamoring for additional victory conditions, so hopefully we'll see more get added on in the future.
Still and all, I mostly like what I see in SD2. There's a lot that Dan seems to be doing right this time around, and most folks who are playing preview copies seem to be having a blast doing so.
You have been heard (me too)...see the list of the DLC
Yes, most of the new features are quite welcome, including/especially those addressing what I mentioned earlier.
I did notice, however, that the increased size of the star maps was dropped from 400 to 200 stars with no explanation. ??? I wonder if it a technical idiot like me can mod that.
I also really hope Dan does something about making the AI less insanely aggressive. It sounds like it might still be overly warlike, even in the SZ DLC.
From the player reviews I'm reading on steam-mostly posative -one of the big plus's was the reworked ground combat. It's just a $10 DLC so I'll probably get it but don't know when I'll have time to try it out.
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2016, 07:00:21 PM
I did notice, however, that the increased size of the star maps was dropped from 400 to 200 stars with no explanation. ??? I wonder if it a technical idiot like me can mod that.
I also really hope Dan does something about making the AI less insanely aggressive. It sounds like it might still be overly warlike, even in the SZ DLC.
You're right, i forgot about that. I am playing a campaign with 150 stars and 8 races and there's about 300 turns left till the end. So far, i find it big enough and it runs fine (i usually also like big enough)....200 is still a lot more than what the new MOO does. On the other hand, while 500 turns seem like forever in the new MOO, 1000 turns passes too fast in Stardrive 2....i think he will allow for more. In my game i've met only one race with which i am in good relation. I know he's at war with some other race but don't know which...i occupy one side of the galaxy (not in the center). So i've been able to build up my empire nicely (despite losing a couple of planets to the events in game). I am playing on easy but don't think i'll be able to win this game...i am ahead in the tech victory but far away in the others...so far, i really don't regret it. While the new MOO is more polished, i still had more fun with Stardrive 2 so far. EA2 for MOO will come soon so we'll see.
The release has different bugs but he's been very quick so far at solving most of them.
There have been a series of patches starting on March 10; including one today.
I started it up and created a new game for the DLC- but have really not made it very far. One thing I will note-the update didn't affect my own modding of the base game-where i replaced all races with Star Trek Races. All those races remained intact as I started a new with 200 stars. Aside from the hexes-mechanics wise nothing seems to have changed much gameplay wise- but again it's too early to experience much new anyhow--and it's a good sign the DLC didn't wipe my Startrek Races.
Quote from: Anguille on March 10, 2016, 03:12:34 AM
Quote from: Martok on March 08, 2016, 07:00:21 PM
I did notice, however, that the increased size of the star maps was dropped from 400 to 200 stars with no explanation. ??? I wonder if it a technical idiot like me can mod that.
I also really hope Dan does something about making the AI less insanely aggressive. It sounds like it might still be overly warlike, even in the SZ DLC.
You're right, i forgot about that. I am playing a campaign with 150 stars and 8 races and there's about 300 turns left till the end. So far, i find it big enough and it runs fine (i usually also like big enough)....200 is still a lot more than what the new MOO does. On the other hand, while 500 turns seem like forever in the new MOO, 1000 turns passes too fast in Stardrive 2....i think he will allow for more. In my game i've met only one race with which i am in good relation. I know he's at war with some other race but don't know which...i occupy one side of the galaxy (not in the center). So i've been able to build up my empire nicely (despite losing a couple of planets to the events in game). I am playing on easy but don't think i'll be able to win this game...i am ahead in the tech victory but far away in the others...so far, i really don't regret it. While the new MOO is more polished, i still had more fun with Stardrive 2 so far. EA2 for MOO will come soon so we'll see.
The release has different bugs but he's been very quick so far at solving most of them.
Agreed Stardrive 2 is much more fun to me and has so many more options and strategic choices at this point. I am really enjoying it and Zero is throwing out patch fixes very quickly.
Here's a nice review at spacesector:
http://www.spacesector.com/blog/2016/03/stardrive-2-sector-zero-review/ (http://www.spacesector.com/blog/2016/03/stardrive-2-sector-zero-review/)