Id like to propose a new civilization type: Nomadic Empires. This would allow players to start the game as a truly spacefaring civilization without settled planets. Instead of colonizing, nomadic empires would continuously travel between stars, with their entire population living aboard ships. Their fleets would consist of different specialized vessels some functioning as civilian habitats (similar to a mobile Ring World), while others serve as shipyards or resource-processing centers.
Lore & Justification
The reason for their perpetual movement could be tied to a unique origin. Perhaps their homeworld was destroyed, rendering them unable (or unwilling) to settle permanently. Alternatively, their biology or culture could necessitate constant migration, or they might be fleeing from an ancient menace that still lurks somewhere in the galaxy.
Gameplay Mechanics
No Permanent Territory: Nomadic empires wouldnt own star systems. Instead, they would travel freely through unclaimed space and remain there temporarily.
Survival in a Crowded Galaxy: As the game progresses and neutral systems diminish, nomads would need to adapt. They can:
Fight for Temporary Space: Militarily dominate weaker civilizations to establish temporary camps.
Diplomatically Secure Passage: Certain policies could allow settled empires to grant them temporary residence (e.g., Nomadic Settlement Allowed policy). This could involve trade deals where nomads pay energy credits in exchange for resource access.
Tributary System Instead of War Conquests: Since nomads cant conquer and hold systems, they could subjugate other empires into a tributary status, extracting resources in exchange for protection.
Galactic Community Membership: Unlike traditional enclaves or marauders, nomads could be full members of the Galactic Community, influencing resolutions that shape the fate of the galaxy.
Comparison to Mercenary Enclaves
While somewhat similar to mercenary enclaves, nomadic empires are fully playable civilizations rather than AI entities. They would move dynamically, adapting to the shifting galactic landscape.
This system would introduce a fresh and unique playstyle one focused on survival, adaptation, and diplomacy rather than territorial expansion.
Lore & Justification
The reason for their perpetual movement could be tied to a unique origin. Perhaps their homeworld was destroyed, rendering them unable (or unwilling) to settle permanently. Alternatively, their biology or culture could necessitate constant migration, or they might be fleeing from an ancient menace that still lurks somewhere in the galaxy.
Gameplay Mechanics
No Permanent Territory: Nomadic empires wouldnt own star systems. Instead, they would travel freely through unclaimed space and remain there temporarily.
Survival in a Crowded Galaxy: As the game progresses and neutral systems diminish, nomads would need to adapt. They can:
Fight for Temporary Space: Militarily dominate weaker civilizations to establish temporary camps.
Diplomatically Secure Passage: Certain policies could allow settled empires to grant them temporary residence (e.g., Nomadic Settlement Allowed policy). This could involve trade deals where nomads pay energy credits in exchange for resource access.
Tributary System Instead of War Conquests: Since nomads cant conquer and hold systems, they could subjugate other empires into a tributary status, extracting resources in exchange for protection.
Galactic Community Membership: Unlike traditional enclaves or marauders, nomads could be full members of the Galactic Community, influencing resolutions that shape the fate of the galaxy.
Comparison to Mercenary Enclaves
While somewhat similar to mercenary enclaves, nomadic empires are fully playable civilizations rather than AI entities. They would move dynamically, adapting to the shifting galactic landscape.
This system would introduce a fresh and unique playstyle one focused on survival, adaptation, and diplomacy rather than territorial expansion.
