Research is the key to winning in this game. The bonuses to your units and planets later on, is well worth the grind and slow pace in the beginning. I always start an invasion with a max salvo of chem or nukes. Otherwise you will just pile up casualties. End game I assume the boosts you can purchase with research credits will be the only way to stay competitive.
I personally think new players should start with a focus on urban, food, and research planet accumulation. I know its tempting to start attacking and invading other players but that 50 turns of peace is priceless. Also don't go for the credit or boost impulse buy using your reward points, spend them on extra turns only (it will give you an edge). Only attack Pirate clans that are weaker than you so you can maximize the number of planets u steal in a raid, and keep your casualties low.
We need to market this game better. Have Kongregate feature this game with a winnable badge and we will hook more players. Barely able to get a match goin right now, I know its a beta but its a great game.
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