I have 2 general suggestions that I feel would really elevate this game, with what I would hope would be a low level of effort: 1. Provide active “stations” for passengers in CVs 2. Provide unlockable Core modules What I mean by active stations can be as simple as a player sitting at a passenger chair but they control a directional “turret” that doesn’t shoot, but instead emits a shield that blocks a projectiles. Allowing them to take more of an “engineering role” as they are actively directing shield power to a certain area. Eventually other stations could be added for other roles, again that leverages many of the same assets or base capabilities of the game: like a scanner that is more directional that can be operated by the passenger to get a bonus to enemy ships that have an active scan against them, or a chance to hack/reduce their effectiveness. Eventually some nice UIs can really sell the “I’m helping to operate this starship”. This can really create more of a co-op and Star Trek feel for the game, particularly for these large CVs that almost feel… lifeless… or might as well have no passengers. What I mean by unlockable Core modules is to provide an “inventory” for the core block that allows you to place a new “module” items that gives bonuses to the structure (power consumption, weapon damage, shield absorption, storage capacity - maybe just things that apply a modifier to a number to start with). The ability to build these modules largely are provided by each faction, as-in each faction has a unique specialization they provide. To obtain a factions module schematics you either need to raise your faction level to the highest (or later be able to raid specialized POIs for them). I think this would create a collectible meta-game and at least for now give a goal and bigger sense of progression. Eventually this can tip-toe into the Diablo-realm of finding “rare” modules to really enhance a ship or base. I think the above suggestions could likely reuse many of the systems, assets, and capabilities already available in the game today - making the level of effort relatively low but suspect it would really add a new level of purpose, and (fun) take on the game. From what I understand about EGS’s limited modding capability - there is no way for the community to do something like this - otherwise I’d certainly would take a crack at it.
