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Vlad77 -> RE: Just how comprehensive are the expansions? (12/10/2013 8:17:12 AM)
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It's been a long while since I've posted here but the preceding message caught my eye. In my estimation this game is very well supported. I started with it at the very first release of the very first game and for me at least it has proven to be the most complex 4X I have ever played. Until Distant Worlds, the idea of a galaxy in a game such as this was perhaps 50 stars with a planet or two per star. While not the size of true galaxies, Distant Worlds manages to capture the immense scale of a galaxy that is very alive and quite huge.
But it is also comprehensive in terms of game play in that you can play the game as you see fit. I love 4X space games, but, Distant Worlds allows to play how you want and for me at least, those are the best games. If you want to play as a starship captain and explore the galaxy, you can. Just turn automation on, go to the in game editor - which is quite elegant I might add - and choose a ship and "engage." No other 4X game of which I am aware allows the player to do this. In fact, it also serves as a great way to learn the game! As you are "trekking" about, you can watch events unfold such that you have a real immersive sense of presence and learning in the game without having to deal with unwieldy tutorials; in other words, the player sets her/his own pace at learning the game.
I should caution you that Distant Worlds is an incredibly deep 4X game that for now at least has no rival. When you are playing it to the point that you are managing an interstellar empire, you have to make a lot of decisions and the sense of urgency as an invasion fleet is about to make what could be a disastrous incursion in your own little pocket of the galaxy is wonderful!
From day one, the support for Distant Worlds has been nothing short of phenomenal. Erik and all at Matrix Games plus the developer at CodeForce - that's right developer as in one person - have worked hard to make this the premiere space 4X game. With each iteration and each patch, the game has improved such that it is the 4X space game that I wager hardcore gamers have been waiting for. As far as how far your wallet will take you I can answer by asking how far do you want to go? The value of money (or bang for the buck - choose your poison) is really unmatched.
Nobody really has any idea of what the "next generation" of 4X games will hold but, that being said, I will state without reservation that if you are a diehard 4X enthusiast, this game is the gold standard. That's a high compliment considering the (pardon the pun) stellar 4X games currently available.
If you are just jumping in, I would suggest getting the base game to see if it's what you are looking for. The menu screen contains an option for checking for the latest patches - something that too few developers and publishers incorporate. For me at least, the game has been wonderfully stable especially considering the sheer amount of galactic shenanigans going on.
I realize this reads like a fanboi post. It isn't. It is however a message from a very satisfied gamer. This is a game that if you allow yourself to make an investment in time will reward you with years of play.
Best,
Vlad
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