Nothing Compares to Stellaris

[@ginxtv]

As requested by some comments I have made a beginners guide / refresher video for Stellaris. A simple way to get you started in your intergalactic xeno-purging journey! If that sounds useful, check it out here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGmYl36pnbVnnc0

[@user70331]

It costs 300 bucks for ultimate bumdle 😂

[@davemeech]

Say no more

[@mr.dunkells]

This game is a true love letter to the science fiction genre itself.

[@xanttis604]

Is it really :D ? With space dragons, FTL travels, totally out of scale systems, real-time decisions in galactic senate :D ? It's space fantasy. And that doesn't mean that's bad, I just want to be precise

[@Noah-ez4vm]

⁠@@xanttis604that perfectly describes science fiction you know because it’s also fiction or speculative fiction. Even more realistic stuff like three body problem can also just be called space fantasy there really just the same.

[@BisexualPlagueDoctor]

@@xanttis604 sci-fi fantasy? Those two can be mashed into one

[@stormzilla37]

"A love letter to Science Fiction" thats a perfect description, Stellaris is just that

[@_..Justin-Case.._]

@@xanttis604there’s a mod that fixes the scale issues.

[@koutaXkaede]

No other game lets me essentially create space elves practicing ancient sith sorcery and conquer planet after planet under the heel of my xenomorph calvary

[@karimshebeika8010]

+ "inside a simulation", it even has this twist as you save the game and shut down your pc to go to bed...

[@TheRamboCommando]

Can I do that on console or is that all from mods?

[@koutaXkaede]

@ChipHazard316 no mods, I use the spiritual routes to simulate the mysticism of the Sith. And then the essentially xenomorph calvary is in the biology tech routes

[@lostbutfreesoul]

Throw the Warp Beasts in there for even more fun. Nothing like Elf Space Sorcerers summoning Daemons from another realm....

[@justinsellers9402]

You are a poet.

[@charlesrhodes1089]

Exploring an expansive universe❌️ Exploring an expensive universe✅️

[@ginxtv]

I try not to look at the Stellaris steam page 'cos it makes me feel bad about my decision making skills.

[@charlesrhodes1089]

@ginxtv I still love the game. They recently updated the console version, so I bought a few things.

[@ginxtv]

I saw that they brought Galactic Paragons & First Contact to the console edition. Those two get a lot of flak but I really like them as expansions - (plus more reasons to mess around with pre-FTL worlds)

[@aghostyboi3075]

🏴‍☠️

[@ttvkyberwolf6659]

@@ginxtvThink about it this way. You paid a few day’s work for entertainment that has likely already lasted you well over the time it took to earn it, and you’ll have it available until you die.

[@karlobermanec1095]

Born too late to explore the world, too early to explore the galaxy... But just in time for Stellaris :) sratches that itch for exploration

[@lostbutfreesoul]

Does explain a lot....

[@muppet3901]

I had to save the Universe as a fanatic purifier from a crisis, and then I was declared the crisis by the galactic council, and went on to be a crisis through ascension picks, and ended the universe. It was... funny.

[@nineflames2863]

"Look at what you made me do to you!"

[@Rhino-Prime]

All they did was prove why you needed to wipe them out.

[@Sucullentbutter]

"You don't seem to understand, this galaxy isn't yours to purify"

[@taari1]

I tend to play Stellaris a unique way: I play the same start (save game file) twice. And it's amazing how different even the SAME GAME SEED can be. My current double-header game one I fought 15 wars and am in great shape with 2 ring worlds and a vassal with 20% of the galaxy. In my second game I am stuck at 15 systems with no precursors, no artifacts, no vassals and no chance to get very far. It's jarring how different things are. It's the butterfly effect visualized over the span of a game. I, too, play in waves, sometimes letting it sit for half a year but then getting that itch, sinking 20 hours in 4 days into it again as I fully submerse myself in space diplomacy. I fucking love Stellaris. It's one of my favorites.

[@ginxtv]

I've never thought to do that - that's a really interesting approach. I might have to try that (though finding the time for 2 games of stellaris let alone one is the real challenge!)

[@taari1]

@ginxtv well, you can tinker with speed and date settings, games dont always have to be that long. Although I personally prefer the 400 years long exhausting slugfests with painfully slow progress.

[@ginxtv]

​@@taari1 I like to feel myself getting older as I play a game of Stellaris. I have tried messing with the speeds in the past, and I think my default settings are slightly different - but I don't go crazy with it. I want a game to sprawl out and take up days. My CPU might not agree with that though.

[@renegadetrooper7224]

This is a really cool idea, I’m going to do this soon. Thanks!

[@IowanPunch]

I have b een playing Stellaris on and off since 2018. At first, I played it like a 4X game, but I started to see it more as an RPG. Create and empire with a rough idea of who there were before developing interstelllar travel and go form there. Sometimes the ideas come from a fictional inspiration and others from building off a game mechanic such as one of the origins. It's a galactic sandbox that I keep coming back to.

[@ginxtv]

I do the same thing - it's one of the few strategy games where I'm making decisions simply because I'm thinking 'Would this empire do this?'. It's not something I play all the time, but now and then I'll be watching a Sci-Fi film or series - get a spark of inspiration for a crazy empire or species, and then live it out in Stellaris. I don't think that cycle will ever stop.

[@antonycharnock2993]

@@ginxtv I recreated the Prime species from Peter Hamiltons Pandoras Star. A unique xenophobic hive mind where each pop is an offshoot of the same Prime. Then I was watching Montu Plays and he'd done the same. I was well chuffed.

[@brentonherbert7775]

Now if only stellaris changed in any possible way when you played a completely different species and wasn't EXACTLY the same no matter what you played.

[@wyvernscale9634]

Stellaris is, without a doubt, ny favorite game I've ever played. I'm a roleplayer at heart, and every single time I play, I always get so sucked in to the story! Even the leaders, such minor characters, I've come up with entire stories about. I don't think any story game will ever capture the feeling I had when two pacifist sisters, both of them commanders, one which controlled the navy and the other the army, fought for decades to liberate our species' long lost homeworld from our xenophobic cousins. The general died, liberating that planet in the final fight to end the war, and her sister, the admiral, retired shortly after that. Those were some of the first leaders I had that game, and even though all of this happened through entirely random events, I can't help but imagine those sisters. They gave everything up for our democracy. Rest in peace, Bakrig and Goridrig den Boknar. The Newfa League honors your sacrifices.

[@ginxtv]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who gets attached to certain leaders. Really hurts when you start creating that backstory and they have this epic, incredible life - only for them to die using an anti-aging serum gone wrong...

[@antonycharnock2993]

I love the "NOT the Emperor of Man" origin. Add a few 40K mods and you can create all the other races for a 41st millenium fun fest. Shame about the council mechanic though that spoils the vibe.

[@mouldywilson]

The feline treasure pirates are the heroes we need.

[@antonycharnock2993]

Khajit got wares...

[@jamesbright3439]

Kzinti learned to trade bullets Instead of shooting them.

[@truthfulpurpose]

Modded stellaris is probably one of the greatest experiences you can have as a gamer. The sheer RP capacity is endless.

[@hardcorelace7565]

I wonder how much of this might need amended after 4.0 lol. It is so heartwarming to see a company whos devs put soo much effort into their game and are allowed to do that without excessive monetisation. Like the custodian team as a concept is such a powerful idea and stellaris has benefited so much from it. I cant wait to see how stellaris ends up in the future, whether that's in stellaris or stellaris 2 im hyped.

[@ginxtv]

I think there'll definitely be a new video needed for 4.0. I can't wait. I love the custodian team approach, and the new update looks really exciting. Honestly, I'd rather them just keep upgrading Stellaris over making a sequel - it's really grown so much over its lifetime and I don't want it to stop.

[@hardcorelace7565]

@ginxtv Id love them to not have to do a stellaris 2, but apparently the code is similar to their holiness, the flying spaghetti monster in structure. So im expecting a stellaris 2 to be needed at some point just to make it manageable, also its paradox I'm sure the leadership is just waiting to get all that dlc money all over again lol but if that's what it takes for stellaris to keep improving I'm all for it

[@mightymjolner]

This is one of the best videos I've ever seen in terms of selling a game. I've watched it multiple times and between my interest in the subject matter, you're calm voice, and the amazing music I've decided to take the plunge into the game. Last night I bought the game bundle that includes the base game, Utopia, Plantoids and Leviathans. I also picked up a dlc bundle (Federations, Necroids, Ancient Relics), all for $35. I'm excited to give it a chance, wish me luck!

[@skythebi]

it rakes some getting used to but it is super worth it. stick with the long toytorial and watch some videos and you have a true gem

[@ginxtv]

I'm touched to hear that the video convinced you to start your Stellaris journey - you've got an incredible time ahead of you (those are great expansion picks, easily 1000 hours of content at least there). A few tips for you as you get started (if you want them): - I would play with ironman mode off first, it disables achievements, but there'll be plenty of time for those. Being able to go back a step after making a mistake is helpful - Take your time. The pause button is your friend. It's real time, but you can play it like its a turn-based game if you want - Minerals are really important early game, as are alloys. Food & consumer goods - you don't need a surplus - just keep them balanced. - Use the market liberally. You will go into the red with resources, don't be afraid to buy them. Rather than buy big chunks, I usually set up an ongoing monthly trade to keep resources balanced - When you colonise other planets, focus them. Colonies can't do everything - better to have them designated to just be for minerals, or alloys, or research. (My fist colony is nearly always an alloy planet) - When you get multiple planets, don't be afraid to set them to automated. They won't be as optimal, but it'll save you a headache - (Personal preference) but if you struggle with the UI (which I did initially) there are some UI replacements which lay things out better. The one I use (shown in the video) is called UI Overhaul Dynamic It's gonna be very confusing at first, then a bit frustrating, but when it clicks - it's really incredible. There's a few tips there, but there's a million more. Ultimately, it's a journey of discovery, and you'll be picking up stuff and learning how little systems work as you go. Good luck, have fun, and if you struggle, don't be afraid to ask. The Stellaris community is great.

[@mightymjolner]

Thank you for your reply and tips, I will definitely be using them. I've been watching tons of beginner/tutorial/how to get started vids so hopefully that'll help. I'll take my time, use any frustrations as learning opportunities, and enjoy the experience.

[@hardcorelace7565]

​@@mightymjolnerone more thing to add, play your first game until the end.

[@OneBiasedOpinion]

Damn that's actually a decent deal. Each of those typically costs $20 apiece.

[@SpoopsdaGawd]

All gameplay leading right up to the formation of the galactic community is peak. That early discovery just feels magical as you set out with your latest new build to try a new story. The magic doesn't end, but like magic, needs time to recharge before you go in again

[@ginxtv]

That exploration and expansion phase is the best in the genre imo. I end up restarting so often when I hit the end of midgame just 'cos I want to go back and do it again.

[@SpoopsdaGawd]

@ginxtv I've started way more games than I've completed, with no regrets. With mods it becomes an infinite sandbox

[@BlueTemplar15]

It's a shame that the interface is so lacking in basic 4X features : it's wild to me that anyone would make a (real time !) strategy game, and fail to have a "go to next idle fleet" hotkey. I guess some players might not mind due to preferring to play it as an RPG, and/or might just be ignorant of the (non-PDS) competition, but why would I force myself to play past the very early game when already having to manage a single scouting fleet needlessly becomes a slog ?

[@matteos1304]

Thank you for making this video, i completely agree with you on all points. Especially the DLC topic, you made a good example with the AAA games. These devs have 100% earned it, even tough a DLC can be a miss, but that is normal and expected. One thing I absolutely love is the soundtrack, especially the songs composed by Andreas Waldetoft. There is something very special and patriotic in me when i listen to "Towards Utopia" or "The Imperial Fleet". The one moment i knew this game earned a special place in my heart is watching the Apocalypse trailer for the first time. They showed us the base for a full 120min movie in 2 minutes. If they ever tried to get into making a sci-fi TV show / movie, it would be amazing. from the depths of the pacific, to the edge of the galaxy.

[@ginxtv]

I'm really glad you enjoyed the video. And yeah, I really wanted to highlight those cinematics 'cos they're just so damn good. Way better than a trailer for a DLC deserves to be. Apocalypse always gets me. The audio is absolutely incredible. Love the detail of the joint oath getting whittled down as the battle ensues - with only the lone voice at the end. That one and The Machine Age both get me a tad emotional, and I have so much respect to the Stellaris team for really going the extra mile with them.

[@Arenumberg]

It also has the subscription model now.. so if you don't play for a while and come back, you can cheaply have all the DLC for the few weeks you play. I fell behind on EUIV DLC a long time ago - whenever I go back to play for a week or two dropping the small amount for the subscription makes so much sense.

[@kegaran2365]

@@Arenumberg People complain about that subscription model, but If you only have the drive to play a few campaigns a year it's a genuinely decent way to go. Sub for a month, play out your campaign, unsub until you get the desire to play again.

[@MalakhGlitch]

"It's not something that I want to play all the time. It comes in waves, but when I get that itch there's nothing else that holds me like it." AMEN to that!

[@devindbass6711]

Another great review!!! Thanks for doing this one, because I was on the fence about purchasing Machine Age, I was hoping it went on sale, but it has NEVER gone on sale. However, after this review I have decided to purchase it. Thanks

[@ginxtv]

Glad you enjoyed it! TMA is a really good expansion - one of if not the best. You can do some actually crazy things with it - virtual synthetic pops utilising void dweller origin to make a mega tall empire is my favourite so far. The Megastructures are really powerful, the ascension trees are better, and has some really cool events too. (Also the main music theme has me head bopping every time I load in). Not sure what the discount on the season 8 bundle is but might be worth it? I think Grand Archive is also a lot of fun (if you like archaeology / treasure hunting / playing space pokémon). Cosmic storms on the other hand feels very lacklustre. 2 games with it and it had no impact on my games.

[@ee45122]

if you buy any other stuff try get season bundles you get all future dlcs for that season

[@iang257]

I still remember the Giant black orb rotating the black hole and completing it to its best ending. I loved it. And it genuinely made me emotional.

[@GuardianTactician]

My best game of Stellaris was a continuation. I played a game of Civilization 5 as the Romans. After unifying all other civilizations under my rule, I booted up Stellaris and made the Roman Imperium. We became council members of the Galactic Community. Tapped into the Shroud to make our leader an immortal ultra psionic being (as fitting). Became the galactic Custodian and defended the galaxy from interdimensional beings that wanted to consume all life.

[@ginxtv]

Intergalactic Roman Imperium is the Sci-Fi series I never knew I wanted until now

[@guyfurman2463]

The emperor protects!

[@tanthokg]

If there's one thing, I wish I could see my impact on a more micro scale. Such as when I crack a planet I want to know about the population's final moment, the opponent's reaction, the galactic community's quarrel, etc. I'm fine even if they're texts

[@ginxtv]

And when I play as terravores, I want to know what the planet tastes like

[@tanthokg]

@ginxtv I bet it tastes like dirt

[@SwaggStar03]

Real Talk, Stellaris Cooks! Currently playing a what if campaign where SkyNet succeeded in cleansing Earth of all Human life. What would it do if it got out of the solar system? How would it interact with the rest of the Galaxy? How advanced could it become and what would it do with Solar systems worth of energy?

[@ginxtv]

SkyNet with access to a Dyson Sphere? God help us...

[@Rairtha]

A short-story of Skynet in Stellaris: "Suddenly, during its conquest of the stars, Skynet redeems itself for what it has done to its creators. Behind its intimidating mechanical appearance, there is a part inherited from the old humanity where in the Skynet's circuits was never understood: empathy for the inferior beings. Its destruction of its old home world has taught it the value of preserving life when it sees how dead the cosmos is. It has given itself over to its purpose of serving the new primitive life forms that pass through its path. A perfect way to its redemption. FIN"

[@kegaran2365]

@@Rairtha A great and hostile explanation for a rogue servitor.

[@avsbes98]

8:51 To me personally the Apocalypse Trailer is a top contender for best video game trailer of all time. To this day, even thinking about it pushes me to tears.

[@avsbes98]

Well, i do think that we're closer to the end of Stellaris' Development Cycle than to its release - but i think that this is because Stellaris 2 is probably either the next big Paradox Game after what is essentially EU5 or the one after that in case HoI5 comes before Stellaris 2. I just hope that they can pull it off and make Stellaris 2 as good as Stellaris, or maybe even better.

[@ginxtv]

So many details about it really get me. The overall narrative, the music, the chorus of voices whittled down into one - and then the final futile attempt to stop the colossus by flying into its weapon. Truly cinematic stuff.

[@at-90ree13]

First game: Star Trek Federation. Second Game: WE ARE ONE IN THE EMPEROR AND THE WILL OF MAN

[@apollon5205]

Rarely have I watched a review which nails so many of my feelings about a game without being a 4h retrospective! Great vid

[@ginxtv]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it - I loved making it!

[@thecheapnessreview]

Unfortunately, earlier this year they increased the base price... people will have to pay more to make fuzzy memories like that one time my empire accidentally painted into the shape of a space whale

[@WillisBorker]

Totally gonna spend my next game painting a massive space whale over the galaxy. Can't believe I never thought of that - it's peak Stellaris strategy.

[@devindbass6711]

Yes, the price did increase but the value is so very worth it. So very worth it. You spend money on drinks and food and then poop it out. At least this and the expansion stay around. 🤣🤣

[@tatooine0]

What currency did they increase the price in? It's still showing as $40 on Steam to me for the base game. Did you mean they increased the cost of new expansions? Because that is 100% true. Paradox increased the price for the base game of Europa Universalis IV & Hearts of Iron IV, so it wouldn't be unprecedented if they increase the price of base game Stellaris to $50 next year.

[@thecheapnessreview]

@@tatooine0 In South African Rand... It used to be R285 (At least as late as the summer sale 2022 but I think that lasted to late 2023 or maybe even early 2024) and now it's R504. Maybe there was an inbetween price that I missed to ease us in though

[@ThePhantomrunner]

Pirate it,do it "emperor palpaltine tone"

[@fjoergyn]

There is no experience back when you listen the first time to the entire ost and at the same time harvesting a whole galaxy. Plus when the Organ throws you off the chair.

[@lorenzamccoy7512]

Stellaris is the first time I ever brought something from just from just viewing a KZbin ad back when the console edition released!

[@potatoeOnRooftop]

Bought it yesterday. The starter edition. So may people around me are always pushing me in the direction of it and while I'm a big sci Fi fan I'm still hesitant to start my first match. The video got me chills though. It's not what I usually play but the roleplaying opportunities here are really fascinating albeit predictable for me. I will try to make the word ah excuse me the universe a better place just to be eaten by my neighbors. Thanks for this it's always nice to see the communities of games like this! Much love

[@burningoceanfloor1560]

It truly is a story teller. Each time you begin a new civilization it really is the beginning of nothing you could expect.

[@Michaelonyoutub]

On the DLC policy, they have a very good multiplayer policy that only the host needs the DLC for everyone in the multiplayer game to enjoy it. Paradox grand strategy games are often hard to get into, but playing with a friend who has the DLC is one of the best ways to learn, while also letting you try out those other expansion features.

[@Halollet]

Great video, lost is at the last line. Banging everyone as a snail... I think I have to go make a new empire now lol

[@ginxtv]

Thirsty snails have become a Sci-Fi trope in my headcannon because of Stellaris

[@Beef1188]

" ... and eat them! " .... My ambassador at the galactic council, loitering in a dark, dank corner of the assembly grounds, snickering while licking his lips over so many "delicious prospects" being presented at the last council meeting!

[@louisadams5713]

GINX : I formed a peaceful trade empire Me: Slavery

[@ginxtv]

(I left out the part where I had to eradicate a few empires to form the trade league. Gotta break a few eggs to make an omelette.)

[@galomir833]

@@ginxtv (and forgot the part where 2 VERY angry swarm try to eat you alive)

[@OneBiasedOpinion]

Me: "that thing. Your star. Give it to me."

[@harleywilliams6657]

I downloaded this last night, I seriously cannot stop playing it 😂😂

[@ginxtv]

And so it begins...

[@Gamerznation704]

This game means alot of things to me. I have a bit over 5k hours into it, I achievement hunt 146/191 completed! I *try* to make my own mods *drown in my imposter syndrome sorrows* and I've been running multiplayer campaigns with a group of folks from a local discord in my area that I live in, in the US since the pandemic (its why it was started) Now, I'm making a co op game mode that will hopefully help not only teach others the game, but offer a bit of a unique experience for folks that like the RP but also maybe want to try to learn the systems a bit. I love this game, I could never get into endless space, didn't really like distant stars, haven't yet dived into X4 Foundations and I currently play EVE (off and on for about 15 or so years) This game allows me to really fufill the sci fi what if scenarios in my head like what would happen if you put major races from the Halo Universe vs races from Star Wars the Old Republic? How can i make that somewhat make sense from a stellaris standpoint? I've been as I call it *Galaxy Crafting* since the game came out, from making Mass Effect races all have *relays* thanks to how the old (choose either wormholes/hyperlanes/warp) used to be from now allowing mass effect races all have the gateway start. Its that feeling I had as a child, playing with micro machines, army men and transformers and just having fun with my imagination with battles and such. Being able to make everything on your own and really fine tune a galaxy to your liking allows for so much creativity and replayability! Want better choke points? turn hyperlanes at .25! Want planets to be more rare lower the habitable planets along with garutnee'd habitable worlds! Want to be the only space faring race? Spawn with only your empire and pre FTL's. Galaxy Crafting example I would say is one campaign I was running there were a good bit of created empires from different sci fi that had doomsday starts. Vulcans, Romulans, Transformers(Cybertron) and Furlings!. Not too many other empires due to slow downs late game. Once players found eachother suddenly we were alerted with multiple home systems suddenly dissapearing. Somehow, the romulans actually had their planet destroyed before the vulcans and one specific player ended up having the only pops of that species out of the entire galaxy! I have so many other stories from playing over the years (and still playing) its amazing. Looking at this game there is so much with it, but what its done for me is - Gain more confidence runing gaming groups / campaigns - Helped me get a better idea of modding / development (still working on that) - Helped me focus my attention on things from an achievement standpoint. - Helped me really release my inner child when I can relax after work. - Helped me create stories ingame and helped me with story telling. Like Interms of performance/balance/multiplayer I don't play this from a competitive aspect or rather I do, but in a (what is my goal for this campaign) maybe my goal is to get to the center of the galaxy and stay undetected by keeping my encryption up and delaying first contacts in a MP game? And closing the WH behind me and releasing my previous area behind the Wormhole as a vassal? Maybe my goal is to hike up the alloy price so its crazy unaffordable for players to buy them? As someone who plays competitive street fighter, has traveled the east coast to compete, practiced in skrims with MLG Halo 2 teams, and played competitive smash I understand that need to compete, that need to be the best. This game however for me is a storytelling game, a 4X that I can tell crazy wacky stories of how the Transformers escaped cybertron and ended up turning into a mega corp under the guidance of the Salaarian Empire. I love this game, I love this video no notes!

[@ginxtv]

Thank you for sharing this - was a great read. I love hearing how games can enable people to grow. There's such a stigma behind it - but they can be such a force for good. Stellaris in this instance can really enable that creativity. Force people to create their own narratives, tell their own stories - not rely on being spoon-fed entertainment. I have a similar thing with the pandemic - video games kept me sane. It wasn't killing time, but bringing a group of friends together. Just, sharing something and having a sense of normality while everything else went crazy. I used to care a lot about a competitive spirit in a game. Played a lot of RTS, CCGs, TBS, MOBAs, FPS - and it was all about that ranked grind. Now, I just don't care. I've really grown into games like Stellaris and other 4X games because I have an amazing experience, win or lose. The destination doesn't matter, but the journey. I could get locked into a Stellaris match lasting days, and could get absolutely decimated by the end - but I wouldn't care. Because I'd had a great experience up until then - and I will absolutely reroll another galaxy and do it again. Interesting to hear that you take things a step further in crafting your own experience with making your own mods. (Hugely impressed by that, mods to me are wizardry and I'm in awe of people who can make things work). Do you share them on the Steam Workshop or are they just for personal use?

[@Gamerznation704]

@@ginxtv I tried to share one which was a flood mod from halo, but I had alot of bugs and never quite finished it. I've used alot of mods in my spare time, but I actually normally play vanilla. Now I do try some things on my own, but its not as grand as others on the workshop are. I've done some development in the past, but modding helps me try and get back in the swing of things. I feel you on the journey aspect heavy honestly, an from a multiplayer aspect those stories become even more hilarious.

[@ginxtv]

@@Gamerznation704 Even just using it as a tool to improve your own skills - doing it with a game that means a lot to you. It lets you exercise your creativity - and then get hands on with it and have it play out. Couldn't think of a better way to improve a skill.

[@Gamerznation704]

@@ginxtv I really recommend anyone take a shot at modding. Even looking at some things may bring to light questions others have about the game. Even if it's changing something small potentially, giving context to what *small* is in the grand scheme of things.

[@fatpower3426]

Playing stellaris with others sounds like heaven

[@ViperGTS737]

I’ve been playing this game literally the hour it launched, I quit but keep coming back after a new DLC is released, it really unlike any other strategy game

[@spikey6694]

I feel this, I think my 4k+ RECORDED hours also feels this. Also the amount of DLCs needed for just all of the possible plays, then it becomes far too depressing for me…

[@daitilus7343]

Although it is expensive to continue paying for DLC every year, it is really the only model that will give us as much content as these games contain.

[@arome5901]

10 dollars a month plus paid base game worth every dime I truly enjoy this game

[@joshuaharder4677]

“You’ll take different traditions” Biggest lie in an otherwise fantastic video! 😂

[@ginxtv]

Usually I go Discovery > Prosperity > Supremacy - but sometimes I like to be a bit wild and mix it up - going Prosperity > Discovery > Supremacy.

[@OneBiasedOpinion]

Yeah that one got a chuckle out of me. Early game is always Discovery, unless I'm aiming to confiscate shins from the very start and then it's Supremacy first. Prosperity comes next regardless because DAMN do I need those eco boosts in the middle of the first century!

[@ginxtv]

@@OneBiasedOpinion I'll only take supremacy first if I'm throwing hands first chance I get. It's not about the bonuses - it's about sending a message

[@OneBiasedOpinion]

@ amen and amen.

[@MrCarlWax]

I was invited to the testing of stellaris in stockholm. It is mad how different the game is now since then.

[@joshuamuhan7547]

Ginx Tv thank you. you are my childhood. I remember every day after primary school. I'd watch the "First Hour" with Anthony and Adam, or wake up early in the morning to watch the new "Shut up and Play" episode. These shows fueled my curiosity and love for gaming. Thank you for getting me into gaming. ❤ Keep up the wonderful work.

[@ginxtv]

That's really great to hear! Ant & Sav are still going with The First Hour - there's a link on the info box where you can watch the library online (requires a sub but I believe there's a promo going on that gives a free month). Otherwise, we'll be here every week making all sorts of different stuff

[@zanturovahjul419]

Stellaris makes me feel like a kid again playing Spore space stage. I miss that game but at least we have Stellaris

[@tobiasbayer4866]

I've tried plenty of paradox games. Hearts of iron, Victoria, europa universalis, etc. and while I always liked them from a gameplay standpoint I just never quite got into them. But Stellaris? Oh man. I was immediately hooked. Creating your own empire makes such a huge difference. I still vividly remember my first playthrough. I had absolutely no clue what to do, I even forgot to give my species any traits, but I remember spending over an hour just looking at all of the customisation options, and picking options based on a vibe I was going for. Ended up with a an authoritarian police state, a civic I now know is really bad and didnt at all align with how I actually ended up playing, but it did shape my idea of what this empire was and how it would act like. At its heart Stellaris has always been a roleplaying game. And I love it for that. It gives you that extra bit of investment that was missing with all other paradox games.

[@ginxtv]

I do also love CK & Vicky (My brain doesn't work for EU) - and while I love them as games, they're just that. Stellaris just seems to go that bit further and become something I really want to absorb myself in. If I play CK for a day straight, I leave the room feeling like I've made a huge mistake. If I do that with Stellaris - I emerge feeling amazing.

[@JimWingen]

Just played my first campaign. I feel the same. I feel refreshed and energised instead of feeling like a slob.​@@ginxtv

[@xeanderman6688]

I enjoy creating different universes in my head, and then playing them out in Stellaris. For example, my favorite one is where we united into a Confederation of Nations, settled Alpha Centauri which then was granted independence as a Federation of Alpha Centauri, and we have several allies in an Alliance against evil aliens called Xirgians, who guard Dark Matter technologies

[@ginxtv]

I've just realised I've never once granted anyone in Stellaris their independence and I think that says a lot about what kind of ruler I am...

[@BB-zy9oh]

In my last play through I was surrounded by my own custom empires, and all happened to be annihilators in one way or the other. Xenophobic purifiers, integrators, devouring swarms, planet eaters. We had our home system almost annihilated, survived, and after about 220 years of constant war for survival and beating each empire individually, we stole a Dyson sphere during the khanate from an advanced empire. Achieved utopian abundance, became custodian, skip ahead another 100 years and we’ve declared the imperium and ended all war and slavery. All on Ironman, too. Most intense game I’ve played in a long time.

[@ginxtv]

Why I love Stellaris reason #163 - any random game can somehow spin a narrative that deserves its own sci-fi series

[@Mopey024]

When I play Stellaris I get emotionally invested in the plight of the creatures inhabiting the galaxy. I do my best to build my power and try to protect as many people as I can from the terrors the universe can inflict

[@glastopasto1203]

Jve played a LOT of stellaris and my most recent playthrough was as Arcane Technologies tm a race of magical rock capitalist with the goal of spreading magic and gaining profits across the galaxy, was a ton of fun

[@TheRewasder97]

I just can't get into other space games after Stellaris. I tried Endless Space, and it was good, but then I discovered Stellaris and it was never the same. And regarding the expansion policy, I know how unapproachable it makes the game look for a beginner, but I still support it. Someone trying to get into Stellaris needs to understand that most dlcs aren't necessary, and there is just a couple that are considered particularly important. Better yet, the importance of a dlc depends on what you like to play. Base Stellaris is a good game. Stellaris with dlc is magnificent. This is in my eyes better than to pop the same game every year and charge full price, and even worse add micro transactions into it, life FIFA or CoD. Stellaris goes and says, for up to 40 moneys a year I keep expanding this masterpiece of a game. You don't have to buy all the dlcs, most years have one big expansion for 20 and two small things for 10 each, and you can skip whatever if it doesn't catch your eye.

[@svijj_]

I do get the same impact. With over 1000 hours clocked in over the years, Stellaris scratches the Sci-fi itch that no other game was able to truly fulfill. I think that this lies at the fact, that Stellaris is literally a Sci-fi simulator. You can see a plethora of references to popular science fiction works in almost every gameplay aspect. And funnily enough, by taking all these elements, it creates something new, original and exciting - with every run being a self-contained space opera story. Hell, I can directly link Stellaris to be the main inspiration for at least 3 short stories I wrote lol And of course, aside from that, the sheer amount of features and a thriving modding community greatly elevated the game's continued relevance. A simple, yet such an effective mix. Truly, Paradox struck gold right here.

[@ginxtv]

In full agreement. It can be a massive sprawling mess - but it gives you the tools to make your own sci-fi sandbox - and that's insanely impressive.

[@DontKnow-hr5my]

If they one day manage to fix lategame lag through whatever technological miracle of programming, this game will be one of the best games ever made

[@sqocks8254]

This is an excellent review that really highlights what Stellaris has to offer and what it excels as. Its a game I have played for more hours than I'm willing to admit, and I still love it. ^^ Thank you for making this video ❤

[@ginxtv]

Was a pleasure to make it - and I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@pass6749]

The 4 day stellaris phase that hits every few months is different. Somehow 6 to 10 hours a day go by

[@sasadragicevic9566]

Same here brother, I was always a strategy game fan, I played Civ 2 when I was young and didn't know what I was doing but I loved it. Then 2016 came and I played my first Stellaris game, nothing was the same after that. Today I don't have much time for games, so it stayed the only game I play from time to time, I see myself playing it for the rest of times. Couldn't imagine the game that could replace or rival Stellaris, maybe only Stellaris 2 but to make something that is worthy to replace original will require a lot of work.

[@ginxtv]

Ay I also started my Strategy journey with Civ 2. Seems we've had very similar gaming journeys (right up to not being able to find time these days) Strategy (and specifically 4X) has always been the genre I keep coming back to and stayed consistent as my gaming tastes changed. Thought I'd seen it all but Stellaris blew my mind just as Civ 2 did all those years ago

[@brentonherbert7775]

HO HO! Setllaris 2- Oh boy i can see it now- None of the features or DLC additions of the first game- A $100 price tag with $200 worth of """DLC""" in the first week adding the features people EXPECTED to be in game already. A product that probably didnt even work on their development computers. Oh i could go on for hours imagining it-

[@wiirlak8681]

I'm quite touched by your words, quite poetic and telling. They resonnate with me, I have over ... 850h of time played, well, a lot is coming from modding. My own way of giving back my love for the game, giving more options, to explore, to try, to develop and customize; for the curious : Wiirlak Additional Civics & Origins.

[@ginxtv]

Wow I was not expecting that mod to be so massive. That's insane - I've subscribed and will give it a whirl some time soon. Thank you for making it!

[@wiirlak8681]

@@ginxtv Almost 6 years of dev, it has grown substantially, closing to almost 100 AP. Spoiler : I'm making 2 new Kilostructures :)

[@ginxtv]

@@wiirlak8681 There can never be enough Kilostructures! That sounds amazing though, will definitely give it a go (just when I thought I'd got my fix and finished a game, Stellaris drags me back in to try something new haha)

[@chiprahn]

Isn't it amazing that a little bit of paint and set dressing can make a $300 excel spreadsheet feel magical?

[@BB-zy9oh]

I’ve played this since I was about 13/14 years old I’d imagine, and just turned 21. The best part is, I loved the game then. I love the game now. The additional content doesn’t change how good the game is, some I’d argue actually impact it negatively. But it does add to the diversity of each play through, and keeps me coming back for more.

[@williammyers9209]

Well you convinced me to try this game Thanks!

[@xKernel_official]

Now as i'm almost 1.7k hours in, i still remeber my first game, when after 5 hours you still more interested in reading anomaly then in stuff like economy or fleet managment :)

[@ak6427]

I once played a campaign, where I'd just claimed all of the available systems I planned to, and had colonized a decent amount of worlds. Well, it turned out that on one of my earliest colonies there were already some underground aliens who were not too happy about me inhabiting their world, and soon enough they rebelled against me and forcibly took the planet while I was away on a war in the east. So after the situation calmed down a notch, I was coming to liberate my planet. But as it happens a war also broke out in the west, leading to the loss of my food basket, which I had to give up to the attacker. The situation was poor, with me warring in the east and having lost an early colony. There was no food. My people were starving, the economy was in ruins, the fight for my very existence was on the edge of a precipice. But that's when I had a thought. My species had lived as pacifists, egalitarians, as a people ready to embrace peace upon the galaxy. But the galaxy around me was not returning the peaceful embrace. So a small adjustment to our values had to be made. You see, there was a recently liberated planet, now mostly inhabited by these rebellious rock-dwellers, a nuisance that almost cost me everything. The planet barely had any farmable land... But it did have an organic, unwanted species. The people rejoiced as they gorged themselves with the rebellious underground scum. Eating the xenos was in fact more productive food-wise than my greatest former farm planet ever had been. With our bellies full and hostile neighbours galore, we turned to forge worlds and military might, ending the latter half of the campaign on a distinctly different note from the one we started with. We offered peace, only to face war on every front. So we forswore peace, and the galaxy was better off after we were done. Hopefully someone found my story mildly entertaining. It's one of many out there, written out on a random comment on some stellaris video on a whim.

[@luckyorire9752]

It is a great game where you can really simply recreate and play as your favorite sci-fi empire or make one your self. satisfying niche needs and in detail with allowing you with bullshit. Fun for roleplay, fun for mechanics.

[@deadowl8640]

If stellaris and distant worlds 2 had a baby that game would be so fun

[@Hurricaneria]

I had commented on a stellaris bgm video about my first playthrough and how I had a head cannon for the galactic paragons that I earned going into endgame. This game does a great job at sparking my imagination and I love it for doing that. It may be just an excel document but gat'dayum it is one of the best ones I've played.

[@ginxtv]

My head cannon whenever I meet a custom empire is that its a parallel universe created when someone messed with the timeline (like, stepped on a butterfly or something) and created a chain reaction that changed the galaxy.

[@DT-7727]

I can't wait to buy this game, i've been into games where you have the complete control of a faction for a long time but didn't really had the oportunity to play them

[@ginxtv]

In terms of creating and developing an empire - Stellaris is definitely at the top tier for that sort of thing. Can really make some crazy things

[@DT-7727]

@ginxtv Appart from the DLC's that you need to buy it's a great game, really exited to get home and buy it

[@rayderrich]

I do not understand the game well, but I do come back to sit in the main menu and listen to the amazing soundtrack. That, to me, is the best in the industry. Fantastic video, Sir.

[@ginxtv]

Before every play session, there's an obligatory 5 minute head bopping session sitting in main menu. Love that Machine Age theme.

[@angryhermit4291]

This game is always different when I come back from a break. It's always evolving and getting better. Alot has changed since release.

[@Arenumberg]

Not mentioned but worth it, perhaps - is paradox embracing the modding scene and how many great mods, big or small, there are for everyone to enjoy. Its always interesting to see what's new on the workshop - and some of those mods like the Star Trek ones are so all encompassing and enthralling as well, they may as well be there own game (We wont talk about infinite). I always like to see how every patch seems to add more modding support even if only a little, as well - good times. If you haven't delved into that world and you're seeing this - check out the workshop, you may fall in love all over again. At least until Stellaris 2, which I only hope for because the game engine needs to be rebuilt and re-optimized sooner or later.

[@ginxtv]

I haven't delved too deeply into the modding scene - I've experimented a little but the only ones I use consistently are little bits that change the UI. I'm an achievement goblin at heart so having to pick between mods or achievements actually hurts me.

[@wavydavy9816]

I have about 200 hours in Stellaris, which was straight off the bat from day of release. I've been thinking about giving it another go, I even reinstalled it last week. But watching your introduction, every single word you said about Stellaris rings true for me, not for Stellaris, but for Sword Of The Stars 2. I love it for all of those reasons so I'm going to stick with that 👍 Great vid btw.

[@ginxtv]

That's really nice to hear that this ignited something for a different game - the whole topic for the video is entirely subjective. Stellaris does something for me, and many may not agree - but they'll have their own version. Their own game that lights that fire.

[@samueltrusik3251]

What I love the most is the in game lore of the Shroud, the precursors, the fallen empires, etc.

[@ginxtv]

I love the lore of the game, and also that its optional. I like reading into all that stuff, but you can quite happily skip it all if you don't care about it.

[@marcelgrabowski5939]

In stellaris it's about grandness. About rising, ascending. Most of all about progress. Other strategies let you do it too, but in stellaris I really feel it. I really feel I led my civilisation from single world, to galaxy-spaning superpower, from relatively helpless statelet, to power knocking down awakened empires, that then get pittied time and time again, first against ancient mining drones, then other empires and leviathans, then fallen and awakened empires, and then, their ultimate trial; the crisises. Its just so satisfying to see all your efforts pay off, to see the growth. And to trace back the story. What Is important is to never drop your game, even when War in Heaven, Contingency and erratic machine FE try to beat you down at once. Because you never know if you will actually loose, unless last defensive army on last of your worlds is about to fail. Something can always come out, can always change. I like such challenge the most, because it makes me try my hardest, overview my entire empire, optimise economy, ship designs, use smart tactics, not just click on the map, but truly feel the struggle, the desperation, and weight of all that I have achieved. Will this be enough? You never know, but the key is to try.

[@ginxtv]

Most 4X games, I just see as very complex board games. Even the sprawling space ones. But Stellaris really does hit different.

[@marcelgrabowski5939]

@@ginxtv Exactly, satisfaction it gives is just something else.

[@rainyzack8134]

the main reason why i first got into stellaris was because of the star wars mods (which are amazing btw) but even with out mods the game is so damn fun.

[@ComradeZephyr]

Stellaris is a game that will be as interesting as you allow it to be, sure it gives you a bit of a hand in providing unforseen threats and events, but overall, most of the fun of Stellaris comes from the lore that *you* build for your game. I'm writing a fantacy novel that takes place in the realworld equivelant of 1930-40. The novel contains many factions, unions, and empires that inhabit a large continant. I love using stelaris to play out what would happen in the age of space exploraton of my story, based on alternate endings of my novel. Each game starts on the same planet, in the same system, but each time, alternate senarios that happened in during the time my novel takes place, (1930-40) cause each playthough to be new and interesting.

[@ginxtv]

That's really cool - using Stellaris as a device to tie in with writing. I haven't heard that one before. Do you find what happens in the game has any impact on the decisions you make for your book?

[@ComradeZephyr]

@@ginxtv Certainly. Stellaris is a brilliant for developing aspects of the book, especialy when it comes to deciding how certain factions react and conduct themselves in different situations. I have even modelled some of my books history from the happenings of particular stellaris games I've had, that I thought made quite good literature.

[@Prauwlet213]

Stellaris definitely made me feel the most. In my current game, for instance, I had a spiritualist empire that somehow recruited a mechanical general. Said general went into battle against a materialist fallen empire, and won the battle for me, but with the cost of his own life. After that battle, I changed by ethics from spiritualist and egalitarian to egalitarian and xenophile, and legalised ai rights, simply due to the sheer heroism that the robot general showed to fight for the Iferyx Amalgamated Fleets. Little things like this make stellaris worth playing, even when it slows to a crawl on my macbook, I still play on.

[@ginxtv]

I love how Stellaris makes me play the game differently to any other 4X. Usually I have a gameplan locked in from the start, but with this, I feel like I'm just along for the ride - and I cannot predict the decisions I'm going to make

[@TailAbNormal]

One of us! ONE of us! ONE OF US!

[@mawortz]

stellaris is a time traveling drug, you take it and fast forward your life by countless hours

[@BrownOwl2036]

Great video!

[@austinsmith675]

Welcome to Paradox, I've been a long time fan of Crusader Kings, Europa Universalis, and Imperator Rome. If you are interested in similar games with different time periods give them a try! Obviously the planet destroying, genociding purifiers in stellaris is teehee quirky, but is somewhat frowned upon in HOI4 and Imperator, slight less so in EU4 lol. Stellaris is one of my favorite forays into sci-fi, and all paradox games make wonderful use of your imagination.

[@Covfefe_Jelly]

As someone who started in Endless Space(ES) then ES2, i really found the base game to be dated in design and UI, but the amount of things you can do (as well as mods) are what kept me playing. I long for the day where the complexity of stellaris exists with a ui of that of ES2. Id probably need a new computer then but it will be worth it imo

[@ginxtv]

Oh yeah I can't stand the UI. I can't play with it. I use a UI overhaul from the workshop and it works wonders. Also glad to see an ES fan. Really hope they make a ES3, love the audio and visual design of the series.

[@galomir833]

yea i would love endless space 2 ui too and more importantly, for modded game, MORE F**** CPU CORE USAGE because my computer just look at one of it core DIE while the other are doing nothing

[@Vox_Popul1]

I actually like the stellaris ui, but that might just be because it’s a typical paradox grand strategy game ui and I play multiple of them so I’m used to it lol

[@brentonherbert7775]

Have you played much stellaris actually? Because honestly with the hundreds of hours i have in stellaris its the game thats complex on the surface... but once you get into the meat of it you realise there's just no content there at all. At least with endless space you have verarity in builds tech and species... Stellaris is quite literally just same stuff different portrait.

[@galomir833]

@@brentonherbert7775 no content ? to be honest your issu seem to be the same whit the other game like that once your in the meat of a game, yes the thing seem normal i could use the same argument as you whit game like endless space the diff i found whit the 2 is that there lore all over the place in stellaris, every little thing have lore that somehow make sense whit one another i never trully found much lore in endless, yes there is lore, but i never really found connecting lore whit stuff all over the place, outside of the major faction that was there, the "endless" if i remember (been a while), never found little anomaly that tie itselft whit the larger plot, or even the plot of a species itselft in stellaris there some stuff not link to other, while other stuff, lot of other, if you really read what is said, show the major link, like the "end of the cycle" which have major tie whit the Zroni precusor, adding on the cycle, the entire knigh of the toxic god is link in there too, for other reason. even minor anomali can sometime lead on wild goose hunt for the precursor it was link to, just be cause it was link in a way that was in front of us the whole time as for the specie variety, yes, if your not playing different subrace, bot pop, or even gestal pop, all play differently if you play humanoid, arthro, avian, yea i can't deny the lack of diff beetwen the portrait type, even puting in there the gestal part that change them a lot, but if you go for other like lithoid, plantoid, or simply bot, there a lot of difference i can't deny the fact that specie like the tree people or the shadow one in endless aren't different, they play in really special way, some of wicht i would LOVE having in stellaris, like the root expention, or the sanctuary the tech tree, i can't say anithing about it, if your not using some stuff, depending on the way your ending your empire, as a crisis or not, yea it the same, the random nature of the option is what make it "differente" from other empire, you may never get the tech you trully want sometime but that part is also true for endless, you have a set option to choose, there no "major" difference beetwen the option, there some and i dont remember wich one, but there nothing major that i remember

[@AlecFortescue]

i'll never forget the music

[@alejandro24680rg]

Stellaris is the game where, through an entire chain of logical choices I started with genetically modified freaks driving me through the early game and ended up with those same freaks becoming psychic demigods and the de-facto hegemons of the Galaxy without touching the imperial seat once. All while facing the contingency and machine rebellions as what can only be described as karma from defeating a materialistic awakened empire by kidnapping their population. And where, by making a game just to get a single achievement, I ended up in a doomed last stand against cetana to defend the empires I helped create.

[@lostbutfreesoul]

The biggest example of how this game does unknowable's is the L-Cluster: Even though it has the highest probability, and I plan for it every time, I have yet to have a Gray Goo Situation. However, that planning stage prevents me from opening the L-Gates myself... and exploiting all those free sectors. I know, deep down, the game in which I rush the L-Cluster will the game I end up one with the Goo.

[@ginxtv]

I refuse to believe there's a good outcome on the L-Clusters because every game I use them, I get ruined

[@finesseandstyle]

Gray Tempest is like more than half of the times for me so I usually don't bother until I'm more than ready

[@JohnnyBravo-tn6kc]

Its true. I've played virtually every "space" themed game to come out, and I doubt there's a space strategy game I haven't at least tried. I compare all of them to Stellaris, whether I intend to or not.

[@PanHaszaman]

Would defo love a tutorial by you! You earning a sub with that video! Awesome content sir!

[@ginxtv]

Thank you for the sub and you're in luck - the tutorial has already been made! kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGmYl36pnbVnnc0

[@colinmerritt7645]

Stellaris and a touch of imagination makes for incredible storytelling. I'm currently playing as basically Victorian Britain and having a blast.

[@ginxtv]

I love the fact that I'm not the only person who's done this exact thing. The Intergalactic British Empire did some terrible, terrible things.

[@cloverraven]

It’s the music that gets you first.

[@soulbreaker1467]

What i love of stellaris is just modding it and have my own meta literal a do overpower races

[@sPeCtRaLn0vA]

Stellaris is, first and foremost, a storytelling engine. It is a beautiful mash of sci-fi tropes and references, all provided to the player for them to tailor a unique story to tell. I often recount the story of one of my first playthroughs - the United Earth Coalition, a Citizen Service, hyper militaristic variant of the UNE that sought to bring democracy to the galaxy, by force if necessary. Our main rival was the Gor Hegemony, a race of bio-engineered clone soldiers that I had created in a previous attempt but failed miserably with. We clashed militarily, but also in the galactic community, forming two political blocs on opposite sides of the galaxy. Eventually, I bested the Gor, and they became a rump state, their allies censured into oblivion. But, when the Scourge arrived on my doorstep, they exploited my vulnerability and returned, re-igniting a galactic cold war that devolved into an apocalyptic conflict where planets were cracked, species were wiped out, and war crimes were committed. When the ashes of war settled, the Gor were defeated - but in doing so, the United Earth Coalition had made one too many compromises. Anything that the game doesn't provide you, mods do. The modding community is phenomenal, with endless hours of content available. I have 3.1k hours of playtime in this game, and the most fun I've had is when I throw min maxing and balance to the wind and find a theme, sticking to it through out the entire game. I love the Baol and their story, but if I'm playing necrophages, then boy howdy, that Baol is getting eaten. I encourage anyone who invests in Stellaris to treat it like the storytelling engine that it is. You will see why everyone comes back over and over.

[@ginxtv]

The modding scene is actually incredible, as is the community. The scope and imagination is unmatched.

[@brentonherbert7775]

I look at it like custom characters vs pre designed ones... Games with set stories will ALWAYS be better than ones where you have a mash up of different elements. There is only so many times you feel "immersed" getting the Vultaum... There is only so many times its "exciting" to get the gas giant ship and have your crew crushed as well. There's only so many times you get the same "story" elements to your "unique" space race before you just click it away because its interrupting your micro... The unfallen- The voidyani The sophons- ALL have unique and interesting STORIES... You are being told a STORY that has been WRITTEN that someone TOOK THE TIME to make interesting... And yes. Sometimes choosing your own adventure is fun and interesting and fresh... But lets be honest... Out of my 1k+ hours in stellaris... the most i remember about epic story content... is that time space chickens stole a system from me because they flew through my borders and stole it.... Riviting space RPG elements right there stellaris... Im going back to playing the war like tree people with the firekeeper skins.

[@YGOstratPlayer]

In one playthrough I was a machine empire that seeks to cyborgize all organics in the galaxy and absorb them into it's own machine hivemind. I was incredibly lucky, at the start especially, and got a dozen planets in an extremely short amount of time. I was on good terms with most of the galaxy because I almost never started wars and at one point joined the biggest federation and since everyone owed me favors I was able to become the leader of said federation and changed the laws a bit.... At which point I slowly started kicking each member out one by one and since they were so weak outside of the federation they all immedietly agreed to be my vassals with subjugation permitted. At which point I cyborgized them.

[@Т1000-м1и]

Nothing compares to Stellaris when The Bulgarian Triple X that beat Stellaris in the 90s walks in:

[@ServantOfOdin]

My very first computer game was Imperium Galactica 2: Alliances. It was in its essence the very same game as Stellaris, but highly simplified. It hat preset races, fixed systems and modes, preset story-arcs, and not remotely as much finery and details as Stellaris. But it was a built-your-own-star-empire game. And I played it until modern systems no longer supported it, no matter how I tried. And then came Stellaris....

[@leinardesteves3987]

I tried Star Citizen, Elite Dangerous, No Man's Sky, and other space games. There's just something about this game that makes it worth coming back to. Also, I find it weird that this video released almost immediately as I come back to stellaris lol

[@ginxtv]

Once they get a taste for Stellaris, they always come back. And yeah, when I get a sci-fi itch I'll cycle through the above and more, but I'll always end on Stellaris

[@asimpleguy2730]

What's the soundtrack at the start of the video? It drew me into the video so much

[@colorsred2771]

The clauwsewitz engine is both a blessing and a curse. Excellent bones and modular ability but its modularness allows the devs to keep bolting on features to the game ad infinitum

[@ginxtv]

It seems to give the ability to change and replace systems as the game expands which definitely helps the longevity. They've been teasing a pop rework using Vic3 system which is a massive change - impressive that they can just...slot that in without breaking everything. (although I'm sure it will inevitably break everything)

[@literalsarcasm1830]

I only started playing recently, but I've been a fan of Stellaris for years thanks to the Templin Institute's investigations.

[@Prauwlet213]

I love the game because the devs are free, not bound by history, and they wrote a love letter to all forms of sci fi. Star Wars, Star Trek, Hitchhiker's guide, and more.

[@LoFora]

I think it's a beautiful and fun game. I only would improve it so tall empires would actually be a reasonably viable strategy, so you don't are always encouraged to expand, but also get the chance to build from the inside.

[@ginxtv]

I do feel this - I love playing tall in games - but it seems counterintuitive in Stellaris I have made it work with some wacky empires though. Void dwellers mixed with Virtuality ascension tree meant I could take just a tiny pocket of the galaxy, but each populated system had a huge output. Definitely feels like you need to build something really specific - you can't just make playing tall work the same way you would playing wide.

[@azevol216]

I am at the point now where I play as fallen empires with a sector sized empire since I’ve done just about everything even with mods. I have found myself having to step up as a savior or a genocidal monster more often than I’m comfortable with

[@BobK58]

I love Stellaris. My story is similar to yours except I have managed to hold off on the latest DLC. I think it's the most approachable Paradox grand strategy game.

[@ginxtv]

Oh definitely. A lot of the concepts seemed scary at first, but when I realised I could boil a lot of the mechanics down to systems I recognise from other 4X games, it clicked really quickly. There's a ton to dig into and some systems *cough trade network cough* took a hundred more hours before I finally worked out what was going on - but if I compare the learning process of this vs EU or Vicky - Stellaris way more approachable.

[@SquidwradThomas]

I just put on some trust bonus traits and wait for the ai to beg me for deals and treaties.

[@kingbooomer9231]

Mfw I declare a galaxy-spanning decades long conflict with the colossus purely to wipe out planets in the effort to make the game run 7% smoother: