Several questions for Dev's: Gameplay\modding

[arraamis]

Firstly, thank you for reviving a classic ... well done!!!!!

1- Can additional factions be added to the game by modding or is there a six slot limit?
a.) Will new factions be added to the game by the Dev's in the near future?

2 - Can we have an "Automated unit" or function\Tech for map exploration (Equivalent to the explorer in SMAC)
Actually SMAC had two methods of revealing maps
1.) the explorer in the beginning (short lived map exposure)
2.) specific high-tech level achieved which used satellites to reveal the surface permanently by removing fog

3 - Is it possible to have a unique unit for each faction?
1.) for covert\espionage action (Destroy buildings - sow dissent by lowering moral etc...)
2.) unit used to steal technology\research data from other factions


Thank you in advance!

[arraamis]

Actually, if anyone can answer these questions or provide some insight, it would be great!

[jdmillard]

1- Can additional factions be added to the game by modding or is there a six slot limit?
a.) Will new factions be added to the game by the Dev's in the near future?

The developers have specifically said that they are planning new factions, but they hinted very strongly that it would be an expansion. We know that modding an existing faction is possible, but I too am also curious about the ability for a user to add a new one.

2 - Can we have an "Automated unit" or function\Tech for map exploration (Equivalent to the explorer in SMAC)
Actually SMAC had two methods of revealing maps
1.) the explorer in the beginning (short lived map exposure)
2.) specific high-tech level achieved which used satellites to reveal the surface permanently by removing fog

I don't need an automated explorer because I'd rather be able to control it and steer clear of the Leviathan. However I find it interesting that we can discover orbital bombardment, but not use such "orbital" technology to discover the map. I don't really want this changed... I just couldn't help but wonder.

3 - Is it possible to have a unique unit for each faction?
1.) for covert\espionage action (Destroy buildings - sow dissent by lowering moral etc...)
2.) unit used to steal technology\research data from other factions

Possible to program? Yes. But I would venture to guess that it isn't on the developer's minds since they have specifically said that they are focusing on diplomacy as of late. They have made comments in passing about espionage but with out any detail.

[jdmillard]

Check out this thread. It was posted by StephiRok right before release. The end of the third paragraph lists some features on their brainstorm list.

[arraamis]

Thanks for the comments & link jdmillard

[jdmillard]

No problem.