First Contact

NOTICE: This page is a Work in Progress as much of the lore/Development for the game is yet to be established.

First Contact refers to the initial encounter and interaction between humans and a sentient alien civilization previously unknown to humanity. In Starship Simulator, it represents a significant moment of discovery and a core element of the game's exploration gameplay. Official First Contact gameplay is planned to be added in future updates.

Identifying Potential Civilizations

The process of finding civilizations ripe for First Contact begins with exploration and diligent use of the ship's Sensors:

1. Detection of Signatures: The first indication of a possible technological presence is typically the detection of Tech Signatures within a star system via Long Range Survey (Level 1 Knowledge). The Galaxy Generation system populates the Milky Way with procedurally generated alien empires and potentially specific Backer Races (Build 0.225.0.63, 0.225.0.79).
2. Further Investigation: Once a Tech Signature is detected, closer investigation using Medium and Short Range scans is required. Reaching Level 3 Knowledge (via Short Range Scan) is necessary to gather detailed information, including potentially identifying the specific civilization's name (Build 0.225.0.69). Detecting Life Signatures (also requiring Level 3 Knowledge) can provide additional context but doesn't guarantee technological capability on its own.

Initiating Contact

(Note: The specific gameplay mechanics for initiating and conducting First Contact have not been detailed and is subject to development. The following outlines the likely process based on game systems.)

Once a civilization has been identified and located, initiating contact would likely involve:

• Approach: Navigating the ship (Helm) into the target system or towards the inhabited world.
• Communication: Utilizing the ship's Communications systems to send hails, attempt to decipher alien signals, or respond to incoming transmissions.
• Diplomacy: Engaging with the alien civilization, potentially through a dedicated dialogue interface. Decisions made by the Captain or designated officers during these interactions would likely influence the outcome. The procedurally generated attributes and political state of the alien civilization (Build 0.225.0.63) would likely affect their disposition and reactions.

Potential Outcomes

(Note: Specific outcomes and consequences are subject to development.)

The results of First Contact could vary widely:

• Establishment of peaceful communication and potentially friendly relations.
• Neutrality or cautious mutual observation.
• Misunderstandings leading to tension or hostility.
• Open conflict requiring the use of Tactical systems.

The success or failure of First Contact could have significant consequences for the player's mission and reputation.

Development Status

The framework for generating alien civilizations and detecting their presence via Sensors is implemented (Galaxy Generation, Life and Tech Signatures). However, the specific gameplay systems governing player interaction, dialogue, AI behavior of alien civilizations, and the detailed consequences of First Contact are key areas for ongoing development. Official first contact is planned for implementation alongside the communications system.