Egosoft has launched the substantial 'Empire' update for X4: Foundations, introducing what the developer describes as the space simulator's most significant combat rebalancing to date. The update, which follows a beta period, aims to add tactical depth, make more ship and weapon options viable, and address existing inconsistencies.
Combat and Ship Enhancements
The overhaul touches nearly every aspect of combat, with hundreds of weapons, turrets, shields, and ships rebalanced. Turrets are noted as being more accurate, AI pilots are designed to behave more organically, and capital ship movement has been reworked. Beyond combat tuning, the update introduces the ability to recycle Kha'ak shipwrecks to produce a new resource called Allographyne. Furthermore, players can now build ship showroom modules at their bases to display their vessels. Egosoft has also integrated engines and shields into S and M ship models, intending to improve their aesthetic appeal and increase the variety of modular components available.
Strategic and Operational Additions
A key new feature is the introduction of Priority Orders, described as 'RTS-style orders' that can be issued by pressing control and right-clicking. These commands take precedence over all other directives, allowing for immediate ship responses and streamlining fast-paced strategic situations without the need to manage complex order lists.
The update also includes improvements to the readability of map screens and enhancements to how NPC factions design their space stations. Mining operations have seen a significant adjustment with localized resource distribution. Instead of resources being spread across entire regions, they are now found in specific areas. When a resource location is depleted, new resources may appear elsewhere in the region. This change encourages exploration to find new mining sites and introduces fluctuating resource availability as miners automatically adapt to new efficient locations.
Players interested in X4: Foundations can refer to a 2018 review for foundational insights into the game, though the 'Empire' update signifies substantial changes since its initial release.