quote:

The galaxy is packed with a huge variety of alien races. Many of them are content to live quietly on their home planet, remaining aloof and independent. Others are intent on exploration and expansion, building a powerful empire.

Trade and cooperation between empires can lead to peace and prosperity. But achieving this requires understanding each distinct alien race, their likes and dislikes. Some races may be more inclined to dominance and conquest than peaceful coexistence...

Race Characteristics
Each race has a number of characteristics that are outlined in detail below. Note that these characteristics also influence the types of governments that are most suitable for the race.

Reproduction Rate
How fast the population of the race grows at their colonies.

Intelligence
The overall smartness of the race. Highly intelligent races have the following attributes:

· perform research faster, gaining access to new technology sooner

· have stronger troops

· more likely to placate other empires with monetary gifts

· show more caution when setting colony tax rates, avoiding overburdening their citizens

· include extra components in their ship designs

· recruit more intelligence agents

Aggression
The general level of aggression and willingness to use violence. Highly aggressive races have the following attributes:

· more likely to attack or provoke others through ship attacks or intelligence missions, even against stronger empires

· more tolerant of war hardship, more willing to continue wars

· more likely to implement blockades when have trade sanctions against another empire

· build more large military ships like cruisers and capital ships

· assign more military ships to attack fleets

· include more weapons in their ship designs

· recruit more intelligence agents

· have stronger troops, and recruit more troops

· colony inhabitants defend against invasions more vigorously

· when an independent population, less likely to join an empire when colonized

Caution
The overall level of carefulness and prudence of the race. Highly cautious races have the following attributes:

· less likely to enter into treaties with other empires, also less likely to go to war

· more likely to attack or provoke others through ship attacks or intelligence missions

· higher level of concern at encroachments on their system’s territory

· more likely to placate other empires with monetary gifts

· less tolerant of war hardship, less willing to continue wars

· build more smaller military ships like escorts, frigates and destroyers

· assign more military ships to attack fleets

· military ships more likely to flee battles sooner

· include more shields and engines on their ship designs

· less willing to overspend on ship building

· recruit more troops

· show more care and caution when selecting intelligence missions, ensuring greater chance of success

· stock more resources at colonies

Friendliness
The general level of openness and affability of the race. Highly friendly races have the following attributes:

· more likely to form treaties with other empires

· when an independent population, more likely to join an empire when colonized

· more likely to placate other empires with monetary gifts

· show more caution when setting colony tax rates, avoiding overburdening their citizens

Loyalty
The general level of reliability and dependability of the race. Highly loyal races have the following attributes:

· more likely to stick to treaties with other empires

· more likely to honor mutual defense pacts

· more tolerant of war hardship

· less susceptible to defection from high cultural influence of nearby colonies of other empires

Bonus Abilities
Some alien races have extra bonus abilities that make them naturally better at certain tasks. Your empire can gain these bonus abilities by assimilating these races into your empire, either through colonization or conquest.

When your empire has a population of at least 10 million but less than 2 billion of a particular race then your empire receives 50% of their race ability bonuses. When your empire has a population of over 2 billion of a particular race then your empire receives their full race ability bonuses.

All available race ability bonuses are shown below.

Master Engineers
Ship maintenance costs lowered

Warrior Class
Troop maintenance costs lowered

Industrious Miners
Resource extraction faster

Fierce Rivalry
War Weariness lower

Natural Optimists
Happiness bonus

Gifted Scientists
Research faster

Cunning Schemers
Better spies

Natural Merchants
Colony income bonus

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Here's another one for you all, the Ketarov:
Average-sized bipedal mammalian race with short white fur.
Ketarovs are very intelligent and love intrigue and deception. Instead of engaging in open conflict with their enemies, they prefer to use espionage and sabotage to exploit their weaknesses.
They are often suspicious that others are working to undermine them. This natural paranoia reinforces their inclination towards spying and espionage. However it can also lead to misunderstandings, as they constantly question the intentions of even their friends.
For these reasons Ketarovs are often unreliable allies – ironically they are untrustworthy because they do not trust others.
Ketarovs are usually found in large communities dwelling on the open plains of Continental or Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Ursidian
Default Reproduction Rate: 12%
Quite Intelligent (+15)
Extremely Passive (-40)
Very Cautious (+17)
Quite Unfriendly (-10)
Extremely Unreliable (-30)
Cunning Schemers: better spies +50%

[image]local://upfiles/9/C29E9335724C4527B302455BD2F1E033.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Here are a few more, from some of the in-game screens... the first ones are unlikely space-farers, but anything is possible. I look at them sort of like "lemmings in space", given their characteristics.
Atuuks are very friendly, but rarely develop sufficient technology to be space-faring. However with their high reproductive rate, Atuuk communities can grow quickly.
They have preserved a detailed oral history reaching back hundreds of generations. Over time they have also developed a complex social order. Each individual must accept their preordained status within the community, or face ostracism.
Their unwillingness to tolerate any innovative thinking has caused their culture and technology to stagnate at a fairly primitive level.
Above all else Atuuks enjoy hunting in the jungles of their homeworlds. Their preferred prey is the striped Caguar, a huge sabre-cat armed with razor-sharp claws. Hunting this enormous beast is extremely dangerous. Atuuks usually hunt Caguars in teams of 30-40, armed only with simple stone-tipped spears.
Atuuks live in crude tree-huts on Continental or Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Ursidian
Default Reproduction Rate: 24%
Extremely Stupid (-50)
Quite Aggressive (+15)
Extremely Reckless (-50)
Extremely Friendly (+38)
Very Dependable (+25)
Natural Optimists: happiness +30%

[image]local://upfiles/33168/F015F8481C5645278961A57BA47A13FF.jpg[/image]
[image]local://upfiles/9/0BCF1919DD154140AF36140D82FE4AD2.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Dhayuts are very aggressive and highly unfriendly. They can also prove to be treacherous partners, betraying their allies whenever expedient.
They reproduce at a low rate, and thus their populations can take some time to grow.
When they are angered Dhayuts can become frenzied and temporarily insane, acting instinctively wild. At these times they are extremely dangerous, becoming totally fearless when attacking.
Dhayuts are also famous for their ruthlessness. They generally have no qualms about stealing, cheating or murdering if it furthers their interests. For this reason it is wise to use extreme caution when dealing with them.
The Dhayuts natural fascination with hyperspace technology has led them to develop the VelocityDrive ST3, an extremely fast and efficient hyperdrive.
The natural habitats of Dhayuts are rocky retreats on Sandy Desert planets, but they may also be found on Continental or Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Insectoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 6%
Quite Intelligent (+6)
Very Aggressive (+19)
Slightly Reckless (-5)
Extremely Unfriendly (-35)
Extremely Unreliable (-30)
Fierce Rivalry: lower war weariness -50%
Special Technology: VelocityDrive ST3 (HyperDrive)

[image]local://upfiles/33168/A148C5E85BC448A1B6343DEB71A572B0.jpg[/image]
[image]local://upfiles/9/17F14EE766974D9A999C6DAFCC074B52.jpg[/image]

quote:

Highly intelligent amphibious race. Quamenos are tall and graceful, with long limbs and neck. Their large eyes are set on the side of their heads, giving them excellent peripheral vision with a range of nearly 360 degrees.

Quamenos are very peaceful and prefer to keep to themselves. They typically choose to live in isolation from other races, staying out of the mainstream of galactic activity.

They enjoy difficult mental challenges such as solving puzzles or deciphering unknown inscriptions. This natural inclination also makes them gifted linguists – they can master a new language within a few days.

They also love to experiment with exotic scientific principles, and in the process they often produce potent technology. In fact their natural fascination with unusual energy theories has led them to develop the NovaCore NX-700, a very powerful and efficient reactor.

Quamenos take a tremendous interest in galactic history. They also seek out peculiar prehistoric artifacts. Their studies have led many Quameno scholars to claim that there are large gaps in our understanding of past events.

Quameno communities typically live in semi-submerged, high-tech biodomes in the shallow coastal areas of Ocean planets.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Characteristics
Race Family: Amphibian
Default Reproduction Rate: 9%
Extremely Intelligent (+35)
Extremely Passive (-30)
Very Cautious (+17)
Very Unfriendly (-25)
Extremely Dependable (+30)
Gifted Scientists: faster research +40%
Special Government: Technocracy

[image]local://upfiles/33168/CEE8CA3916B24AFF95FBFD912472FFD4.jpg[/image]
[image]local://upfiles/9/2DB0493AAE5D40E097EBB44A6C7CE19F.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
And an updated Quameno...
[image]local://upfiles/9/41A63033A3E84DBC882F71F19632EF36.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Tall, largely hairless bipedal mammals.
Humans are intelligent, cunning and resourceful and have spread across the galaxy.
They are friendly by nature, but others sometimes view them as scheming and manipulative. Humans value political power and influence above all else. They revel in subtle maneuvering and intrigue as they accumulate greater political control. They have an amazing talent for recognizing opportunities for political advancement.
Their natural abilities make them excellent diplomats. Human negotiating skills are renowned – they can transform nearly any apparently hopeless situation to their advantage.
Humans have a mysterious past, cloaked in ambiguity. It is unclear where they originated from. Some say that they are actually immigrants from another galaxy. Humans themselves claim Sol as their home system.
Their preferred habitats are the lowland plains of Continental or Marshy Swamp planets, though they may sometimes also be found on Sandy Desert planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Humanoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 14%
Quite Intelligent (+10)
Quite Aggressive (+10)
Quite Cautious (+10)
Quite Friendly (+10)
Very Dependable (+20)
Cunning Schemers: better spies +15%
Gifted Scientists: faster research +15%

[image]local://upfiles/9/08383F3D837B4DF392BD6C3BD3E3D680.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
An insectoid race with four arms. Gizureans can also fly short distances with their small wings.
They are aggressive and unfriendly, though not very intelligent. Gizureans tend to be highly belligerent. They often make inflammatory claims of their own tribal superiority, viciously mocking and insulting other tribes. This leads to frequent inter-tribal battles.
Gizureans have an intense dislike of other alien races, especially non-insectoid races. This trait makes it very difficult to peacefully assimilate Gizureans into an empire.
They have a very high reproductive rate, and thus their empires can grow and expand very quickly.
Gizureans typically build their cavernous underground homes in rocky areas of Sandy Desert planets, but can sometimes also be found on Volcanic planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Insectoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 27%
Quite Stupid (-16)
Quite Aggressive (+10)
Quite Cautious (+16)
Extremely Unfriendly (-30)
Very Unreliable (-20)
Master Engineers: ship maintenance -35%
Special Government: Hive Mind

[image]local://upfiles/9/C1498766EB40444DAC261C9185AE6828.jpg[/image]

quote:

Highly industrious, semi-aquatic marine mammals. Ackdarians have large webbed hands and feet, making them excellent swimmers. However their hands are also quite dexterous and they are equally happy living out of water.

Ackdarians are intelligent, peaceful and friendly. They have a rich culture that focuses on the hybrid nature of their living environment, encompassing both water and land.

They excel in building highly maintainable star ships. Their technology includes the advanced TurboThruster ER7 engine. This engine component is extremely fuel-efficient, allowing Ackdarian star ships to use less fuel and travel further.

Ackdarians are famous for cultivating Nepthys seaweed, from which they make Nepthys wine. Ackdarians grow enormous forests of the seaweed deep beneath the oceans. They regularly harvest it and then slowly ferment it into a superbly smooth wine.

They are also masters of underwater construction, building vast and elaborate underwater cities. These cities have many levels, some of which reach far down into the vast depths of the oceans they inhabit. At the deepest levels Ackdarians seek out precious resources like the rare Ucantium pearl.

Ackdarians also inhabit the small islands and shallow coastal areas of Ocean planets.

quote:

ORIGINAL: (on wargamer.com)Chris Beck/Son_of_Montfort/Baelthazar
The Ackdarians are, besides being cute, good at research and ship maintenance. I choose the Republic, a natural choice for the Ackdarians, as it adds 1/4 faster tech research to their 10% - meaning a 35% speedier research. This benefit is offset by the increase in ship maintenance costs - but the Ackdarians racial characteristic mean I still get -5% to all my costs, so I get the benefits of Republic without too many of the negatives. The Ackdarians are also good at producing speedy engines, so I should have the upper hand on striking range and swiftness in the galaxy.

quote:

A bipedal reptilian race. Haakonish have broad, flat heads with prominent protrusions on each side. The protrusions are nasal cavities that provide the Haakonish with an unrivalled sense of smell. Haakonish have very poor eyesight, but compensate for this with their excellent sense of smell and taste.
They are intelligent and quite aggressive. Haakonish are highly pretentious. They also have a strong sense of their own racial superiority. Thus they do not enjoy the company of other races and have a tendency to be xenophobic.
Haakonish are naturally drawn towards intricate technology. They take great pride in designing and building equipment with many advanced features, even if some of these features are unnecessary or superfluous.
The natural miserliness of the Haakonish has led them to develop the High Density Fuel Cell, a high-capacity fuel tank. This gives Haakonish star ships longer range and endurance.
Haakonish typically live in fully-enclosed biospheres in coastal areas of Continental and Marshy Swamp planets.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Characteristics
Race Family: Reptilian
Default Reproduction Rate: 12%
Quite Intelligent (+10)
Quite Aggressive (+13)
Very Cautious (+25)
Very Unfriendly (-25)
Very Unreliable (-20)
Cunning Schemers: better spies +10%
Master Engineers: ship maintenance -20%
Special Government: Mercantile Guild
Special Technology: Mega-Density Fuel Cell (Fuel Storage Cell)

[image]local://upfiles/9/C90B63FD48DC49FCBF0BD3F2C467ABB6.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Towering, fearsome reptiles with intense red eyes. Although they are reptilian, Naxxilians are covered in shaggy fur. They have immensely powerful forearms that equip them well for hand-to-hand combat.
They are highly aggressive, but can be quite loyal allies if befriended. Naxxilians tend to be extremely cautious, though they can be quite friendly once they become familiar with others.
Naxxilians are fanatically devoted to a competitive sport they call Todash. Todash is a game played with two small rocks. The object of the game is to get both rocks into the opposing team’s goal area at the same time. A point is scored when this happens. The first team to reach 10 points wins the game.
In Todash, there are no strict rules about how you can tackle a player carrying one of the rocks, so the game can sometimes become rather brutal. Possession over the two rocks can see-saw back and forth for considerable time, with no clear advantage for either team. Games can sometimes stretch on for many hours, and can even be adjourned to resume the next day.
Many Naxxilians live in small tribal encampments. However they also have highly-developed urban areas, filled with advanced industries such as starship construction.
Naxxilians normally live on the tundra wastelands of Ice Glacial planets, but can sometimes also be found in the polar and mountain areas of Continental planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Reptilian
Default Reproduction Rate: 18%
Slightly Stupid (-3)
Very Aggressive (+21)
Very Cautious (+25)
Quite Unfriendly (-12)
Quite Dependable (+12)
Warrior Class: troop maintenance -40%

[image]local://upfiles/33168/807A00F0BE604C1AA93C494320DC21BF.jpg[/image]
[image]local://upfiles/9/A94B6865EF674712846A8C58FEF4E208.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins

[...]here's another preview for you, the Zenox.
Zenox are very cautious and will not lightly enter into an agreement with others. Any new treaties they form usually involve an extremely lengthy period of negotiation, with a protracted review phase at every step of the discussions. Zenox ensure that they are absolutely clear on every last detail of the agreement before finally approving it.
They take a particular interest in recording and preserving galactic history. They seek out items of historical significance from all over the galaxy.
Zenox are also outstanding epic story-tellers – they draw upon their vast store of old myth and legend to produce unique and compelling tales. Zenox claim to be guardians of secret knowledge of galactic history, some of which they reveal in their stories.
In fact some of their historical research has led to unorthodox claims about the galaxy’s past. One of these stories asserts that all the Insectoid races once betrayed the rest of the galaxy to an outside invader. However most other alien races dismiss these conclusions as unproven fairy-tales.
Zenox technology includes an advanced shield component, the Megatron Z4. These powerful shields impart a potent defense to Zenox star ships and bases.
Zenox typically live on the rolling plains of Continental planets or the mountainous areas of Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Feline
Default Reproduction Rate: 13%
Quite Intelligent (+15)
Quite Passive (-10)
Very Cautious (+29)
Quite Unfriendly (-13)
Slightly Dependable (+5)
Natural Optimists: happiness +20%
Master Engineers: ship maintenance -10%
Special Government: Technocracy
Special Technology: Megatron Z4 (Shields)

[image]local://upfiles/9/A47B2B76240E405C93E672D44EF56DC7.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Small furry rodent-like race with piercing yellow eyes.
Teekans see no value in washing regularly and thus tend to smell.
They take special interest in hoarding all kinds of mechanical junk, disassembling and repairing items they collect. Teekans have very little technology that is truly original, but they can occasionally progress to the point of being space-faring.
Teekans are born traders, profitably selling their wares far and wide. They are also excellent miners, rapidly exploiting any natural resources they discover.
Despite being fairly insular they are very peaceful and make very loyal allies should you wish to befriend them.
Teekans are semi-nomadic; while some live in permanent settlements, many prefer to live in temporary camps, periodically migrating to new locations.
The nomadic Teekan tribes are obsessed with hunting the Bakdur, also known as the Sand Slug. As the herds of Bakdurs migrate across the sandy deserts, the Teekan camps follow them.
Teekans inhabit the vast desert wastelands of Sandy Desert planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Rodent
Default Reproduction Rate: 15%
Quite Stupid (-12)
Extremely Passive (-37)
Quite Reckless (-14)
Quite Friendly (+7)
Extremely Dependable (+42)
Industrious Miners: faster mining +40%
Natural Merchants: colony income +20%
Special Government: Mercantile Guild

[image]local://upfiles/9/FD88028393CD4E228F34A2F437E259A9.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Ok, here's another preview for you all, the Wekkarus.
Wekkarus live deep in the seas of Ocean planets. They can also live out of water for extended periods, but prefer a damp environment.
They construct entire underwater cities in the vast caverns and tunnels of the ocean worlds they inhabit. These cities are centers of technology and industry, manufacturing advanced underwater technology that is used throughout the galaxy.
The deep undersea tunnels that the Wekkarus inhabit are also the home to an abundance of other marine life – some of it hostile. Wekkarus fear one predator in particular: the leviathan Darkhul, a formidable deep-sea monster that grows to lengths of 100 meters or more.
Wekkarus have adapted to these threats by developing powerful force-fields that guard the entrances to their underwater colonies.
Wekkarus are a generally peaceful species that like to keep to themselves.

Characteristics
Race Family: Amphibian
Default Reproduction Rate: 12%
Moderately Intelligent (+1)
Very Passive (-20)
Quite Cautious (+7)
Very Unfriendly (-29)
Quite Unreliable (-10)
Industrious Miners: faster mining +20%
Natural Merchants: colony income +25%

[image]local://upfiles/9/51B23B7EA1C3452F98C2390D66FC3F47.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
May I introduce you to the Boskara?
Ferocious insectoid race with a tough exoskeleton skin.
Boskara are the most violent and aggressive race in the known galaxy. They excel in combat, using trickery and deceit to gain the upper-hand. They are untrustworthy allies.
Their instinctive lust for conquest and expansion is without equal. Most other races consider them to be completely without scruples, and thus steer well clear of them. However Boskara have a natural ally in the Sluken, their slightly more reasonable close relatives.
Their technology includes the deadly Shaktur FireStorm, an immensely destructive torpedo weapon. This weapon gives Boskaran star ships very powerful planetary assault capabilities, allowing them to quickly take down defending spaceports at enemy colonies.
Boskara typically inhabit the forbidding terrain of Volcanic planets. Communities may sometimes also be found in the rocky mountains of Sandy Desert planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Insectoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 18%
Moderately Intelligent (0)
Extremely Aggressive (+40)
Very Reckless (-28)
Quite Unfriendly (-16)
Very Unreliable (-20)
Warrior Class: troop maintenance -25%
Fierce Rivalry: lower war weariness -70%
Special Government: Hive Mind
Special Technology: Shaktur FireStorm (Torpedo Weapon)

[image]local://upfiles/9/B43DCE867B004783800B89B71356ACE2.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Easy-going reptilian race with green scaly skin.
Shandar reside exclusively near volcanic steam vents on Volcanic planets. They love heat and warmth, and especially enjoy lounging for hours on end in geothermal hot-pools.
Shandar lifespan is measured in centuries, with some even reaching 1,000 years of age. They are usually quite laid back and unconcerned with worry or planning. Shandar focus on enjoying simple pleasures and living for the moment.
They are particularly adept at using liquid lava in construction, forming it into structures as it cools to rock. Using these techniques they can quickly fabricate tough, durable buildings. Their vast underground spaceyards, built in this manner, are especially famous.
Though they often industriously mine for gemstones, they generally take little interest in the greater galaxy around them. They are usually content to live their centuries-long lives basking in the heat on the shores of lava lakes.

Characteristics
Race Family: Reptilian
Default Reproduction Rate: 16%
Slightly Stupid (-4)
Quite Passive (-16)
Quite Cautious (+16)
Slightly Friendly (+3)
Quite Dependable (+9)
Natural Optimists: happiness +40%
Special Government: Utopian Paradise

[image]local://upfiles/9/A11E74DE67F54FBFBDF4D95FBD938357.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Here's one more for you all, the Ugnari:
Though not especially gifted with technology, Ugnari are fascinated by machinery and electronics and spend much time diligently studying and experimenting with them.
This fascination often leads Ugnari to invent interesting alternative technology by combining unrelated components together to form new equipment with improved capabilities.
Ugnari also love to gamble and place bets on nearly any activity imaginable.
By nature they are fairly friendly, though cautious. However it is wise to carefully examine the fine print of any business contract made with an Ugnari – they are often devious, even dishonest.
Ugnari do not see underhandedness as a negative trait, nor do they consider cheating someone to be a personal insult to their victim. Instead they deem a highly profitable business deal as a great achievement, even if it was attained by trickery. In fact they highly admire anyone who manages to outdo them in deceit.
Ugnari inhabit the tundra wastelands of Ice Glacial planets. They typically build large cities deep underground in vast ice caves and tunnels.

Characteristics
Race Family: Rodent
Default Reproduction Rate: 9%
Quite Stupid (-6)
Very Passive (-24)
Very Reckless (-19)
Quite Friendly (+8)
Extremely Unreliable (-30)
Industrious Miners: faster mining +30%
Natural Optimists: happiness +10%
Special Government: Mercantile Guild

[image]local://upfiles/9/9F16908FCC6749F9ADBE0F7C8841985C.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Kiadians are shrewd and sensible. They carefully evaluate and plan for potential repercussions from any course of action they undertake. They also make some of the most loyal allies known.
Kiadians are deep thinkers with an absorbing culture of profound subtlety. They love to ponder the abstract complexities of advanced mathematics. They are also a very practical people: they apply their sharp intellect to developing sophisticated technology.
Their advanced technology includes the ShadowGhost ECM 2000, an exceptionally capable countermeasures component. These powerful countermeasures make Kiadian star ships very difficult for enemies to target, allowing them to avoid a lot of enemy weapons fire.
The Kiadian honor code is legendary: they would prefer to die than break their word. Once a Kiadian commits to an agreement they will never break it.
They are also a very proud race, and they revel in undertaking impossible assignments that typically end in honorable defeat. This seemingly irrational approach can sometimes lead to astonishing accomplishments – Kiadians will struggle tenaciously in a situation that others would dismiss as hopeless.
The typical habitats of Kiadians are the mountains and low plains of Continental and Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Humanoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 13%
Very Intelligent (+28)
Slightly Aggressive (0)
Very Cautious (+25)
Slightly Friendly (+5)
Extremely Dependable (+37)
Gifted Scientists: faster research +20%
Master Engineers: ship maintenance -10%
Special Technology: ShadowGhost ECM 2000 (Countermeasures)

[image]local://upfiles/9/98B9E9BE01674548A6703D76907BA0AA.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
[...]here's the race I've most recently been at war with and they are tough!
Short insectoid race with thick black exoskeleton covering. Sluken have many small forearms enabling them to perform multiple actions simultaneously.
Sluken are very aggressive and intelligent. A central theme in their customs involves a macabre reverence of death.
Sluken have the bizarre and gruesome ability to incorporate into their own bodies the biological appendages and organs from other alien races. Thus some Sluken have additional limbs, eyes or other body parts.
Some other alien races allege that Sluken are in fact genetically modified creatures, designed as an ultimate warrior race. But the Sluken themselves denounce such claims as outrageous slander.
Sluken technology includes the StarBurner XX-12, a very fast and powerful engine. With these engines, Sluken star ships are able to outrun nearly any opponent.
Sluken are found in dry temperate regions of Continental and Marshy Swamp planets

Characteristics
Race Family: Insectoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 16%
Quite Intelligent (+8)
Very Aggressive (+19)
Slightly Cautious (+3)
Very Unfriendly (-18)
Very Unreliable (-20)
Warrior Class: troop maintenance -20%
Fierce Rivalry: lower war weariness -40%
Special Government: Hive Mind

[image]local://upfiles/9/ACF6CB0D619A46C1B961E40CCC45B0E2.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
I know some of you have been waiting for this one...
Strikingly attractive, green-skinned humanoid race.
They are friendly and are also very loyal allies.
Securans have a high reproduction rate, and thus their populations can grow quite rapidly.
They excel at performance art, especially singing and dancing. They are also expert musicians and composers.
Securans have a highly developed theater tradition. Their plays are packed with drama and suspense. Securan actors and actresses are in high demand all over the galaxy, filling leading roles in dramatic productions. Large Securan drama companies traverse the galaxy to perform in various locations.
They also take a passionate interest in cooking and eating. Enjoying good food and fine Securan wine is a central part of their culture.
Securans are very hospitable, and they will invariably indulge any off-world visitors in a grand feast that features all of their excellent cuisine.
Securans inhabit the vast open plains of Sandy Desert planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Humanoid
Default Reproduction Rate: 23%
Moderately Intelligent (+2)
Very Passive (-27)
Quite Reckless (-9)
Quite Friendly (+10)
Very Dependable (+25)
Natural Optimists: happiness +50%
Special Government: Utopian Paradise

[image]local://upfiles/9/9639084E4C47451BA536AC058008D49F.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
Hi guys,
Here are a few more for you...
Ikkuro have very large, widely-spaced ears that enable them to precisely determine the location of sounds. This ability gives them rudimentary sonar skills, allowing them to ‘see’ in the dark.
They tend to be intelligent and aggressive, though cautious. Ikkuro are often short-tempered. When provoked or threatened they can quickly become violent. Despite this they are generally gentle and affectionate to those they know well.
They are extremely capable mechanics. Ikkuro can repair nearly any type of machinery. They also confidently reverse-engineer new devices they encounter. In fact they often end up improving the machine when they reassemble it.
This natural mechanical predisposition has also led the Ikkuro to develop the S2F4 RepairBot, an advanced repair robot that can swiftly fix damage to star ships, even while they are in battle.
Ikkuro have a great fascination with trees and plants, and have extensive knowledge of the various types of flora throughout the galaxy. They use this expert understanding to create an array of highly effective herbal medications.
They typically live in tree-dwellings high in the forest canopies on Continental planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Ursidian
Default Reproduction Rate: 12%
Quite Intelligent (+14)
Quite Aggressive (+15)
Quite Cautious (+11)
Quite Unfriendly (-8)
Quite Dependable (+14)
Master Engineers: ship maintenance -10%
Warrior Class: troop maintenance -30%
Natural Merchants: colony income +10%
Special Technology: S2F7 RepairBot (Damage Control)

[image]local://upfiles/9/4BFAB4C086FF4B75BE86DBC885D230E7.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: Erik Rutins
A fierce half mammal, half reptile race. Mortalens have extremely fast reflexes, an ability that can surprise those unfamiliar with them.
They are easily provoked by the slightest insult, and will pursue an enemy relentlessly until they get vengeance.
Mortalens are excellent warriors – a pursuit they spend much time perfecting. Their warrior code is highly developed. Mortalens consider defeating an enemy in battle as the highest possible achievement. They are widely recognized as almost certainly the best fighters in the galaxy.
They have developed a powerful vectoring engine, the Swift Vector 5000. This advanced engine component gives Mortalen star ships unrivalled agility and maneuvering.
Mortalens enjoy a fairly simple life, following many ancient traditions. These traditions mainly focus on honor and risk-taking.
One particular tradition requires any male seeking tribal leadership to hunt and kill one of the fearsome Mortaks. Mortaks are terrifying large monsters that inhabit the vast sandy desert wastelands of the Mortalen homeworlds. The name Mortalen means “Slayer of the Mortak”.
Mortalens are normally found living in simple block dwellings in the scrub-covered canyon floors of Sandy Desert planets. They can also be found on Continental or Marshy Swamp planets.

Characteristics
Race Family: Reptilian
Default Reproduction Rate: 11%
Moderately Intelligent (+5)
Very Aggressive (+27)
Quite Reckless (-8)
Very Unfriendly (-20)
Very Unreliable (-20)
Warrior Class: troop maintenance -25%
Fierce Rivalry: lower war weariness -35%
Special Technology: Swift Vector 5000 (Vectoring Engine)

[image]local://upfiles/9/3F888B79B4C94175BC235F1389E0F166.jpg[/image]

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

quote:

These Cats seem like a grave threat that must be confronted if they are near us. We must remain diligent in our united efforts to prepare for the eventual confrontation.
Maybe we can ally ourselves with the Dog-lits and Fluffy, The Destroyer of Worlds.

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Duckfang

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

Some devs don't like to release information on certain gameplay elements before the game releases. They like to leave it to the players to discover for themselves.

Sword of the Stars did the same thing.

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Wade1000

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

Agreed. It could seem like they might be ashamed or embarrassed of some game elements.

quote:

Eh. I actually don't mind. I rather enjoy not finding out certain things until I actually play the game, rather than have everything spoiled for me ahead of time.

quote:

ORIGINAL: LitFuel

quote:

ORIGINAL: Wade1000

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

quote:

ORIGINAL: elliotg

Each of the 20 alien races has a distinct background, but no details on them until post-release sorry.

Matrix seem to have a very strange marketing policy.

Agreed. It could seem like they might be ashamed or embarrassed of some game elements.

Ok thats just a silly thing to say...what, you think you're going to goad them into releasing details...lol..nice try. I have no problem with this, it's really not a big deal and if it is to you just don't buy on day one and get all the info as it comes in after it's released which will be most likely the same day. I like some surprises it's like seeing previews for a movie and the buggers show you so much before it ruins the whole experience. People aren't as patient as they used to be.

quote:

ORIGINAL: ASHBERY76

Aliens have always been promoted before 4X game releases including SOTS.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Sarissofoi

Race previev by Sarissofoi based on customization guide.

Name: Crazy Cats
[image]http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/Velcrovia/CatSoldier4.jpg[/image]
Race family: 7 - Felis
Reproduction rate: Normal=1.0
Intelligence: High(150) Cats are crafty bastards. They know many tricks and know when to use them.
[image]http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x122/tainith/1191862800-1191518727633.jpg[/image]

Agression: High(150) Cats love to fight. They are born hunters after all. Their body is agile also they have great reflex and have adavantage at night. They love to fight but they even more love to win. Thus they show no mercy and fight with great cruelty and determination. And skilz. Mad skilz. No mercy! No surrrender!
[image]http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a140/banain/funny-pictures-leader-cat-gives-ord.jpg[/image]

Caution: High(150) Cat trust no one. Even himself. They are paranoidal little bastards always prepared for any situation.
Friendliness: nonexistent(50) Cats have no friends. Cats are suprerior race and dont have need for any inferior companions. Other races are only good as servants.
Loyalty: nonexisted(50) Real cats are only loyal to themselves. They only keep deals when this give them advantage. If not they easly forget any agreements.
War Weariness attenuation: Cats love to fight. War is fun. They never get bored or tired from fighting.
Native planet type:Continental
Special Component:
13)Duct tape - advanced damage control and repair component.

Troop unit
[image]http://th02.deviantart.net/fs6/300W/i/2005/023/4/4/BattleMech_MadCat_by_SDouglas.jpg[/image]
Mad Cat Commando.

Cats hated enemy are Mighty Chickenz and Stupid Dogs. Becoze Cats fight with everone for fun and profit other races see them as evil bastards. They are wrong thus becoze Cats are Evil Paranoidal Crafty Bastards.
Behold before the great and awesome Cats!

Becoze this is time when Cats become Masters of the Universe!