At the dawn of the 22nd century, the conquest of space and the colonization of the solar system is being monopolized by several huge and ambitious mega-corporations. Although extremely delicate and vulnerable, a balance is maintained by these companies.
The game features capital ships that behave like true lumbering behemoths. Players witness gradual acceleration, deceleration, and turning as these vessels move through the void of space. The ships fire large, powerful weapons that feel impactful, and explosions have a tangible weight to them. The physics-based movement and inertia give the ships a sense of mass and momentum that is lacking in many other space combat games.
One of the key strengths is the deep level of control and customization players have over their ships. Each vessel can be extensively outfitted with a variety of weapon systems, shields, engines, and other modules. During combat, players can micro-manage each ship's power distribution, targeting priorities, and firing modes to optimize their performance. This level of granular control allows for nuanced tactics and ship builds tailored to specific mission requirements.
The combat requires careful planning and execution. Players must balance managing their individual ship systems, maneuvering their fleet, and targeting enemy weaknesses. Pausing the action to issue orders is essential, as split-second decisions can mean the difference between victory and defeat. The difficulty curve is steep, but mastering the mechanics provides a strong sense of accomplishment.
A unique aspect is the inclusion of permanent ship loss. If a player's capital ships are destroyed in combat, they are gone for good, leaving the player's fleet weaker in subsequent missions. This permanent consequence adds weight to each engagement and encourages cautious, thoughtful play, as reckless tactics can have lasting repercussions.
The game features a diverse array of mission types, including espionage, stealth, search and rescue, and all-out fleet battles. Objectives often go beyond simply defeating enemy forces, requiring players to balance multiple priorities and secondary goals. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging throughout the campaign.
The visuals and presentation contribute to a strong sense of scale and spectacle. Massive capital ships duke it out amidst the backdrop of planetary systems, with impressive lighting effects and detailed explosions. The ability to zoom in and out, combined with the realistic ship physics, creates a sense of epic, cinematic space combat that few other games can match.