Launching/Landing Ships

To Launch: After enabling the planet management frame, click on the Launch button to go to the Launch Screen: 1. Select either ship 1 or ship 2. 2. Select the number of human troops and/or mechs (if you have researched this technology). A running tally of the ship's combat strength is kept in the upper right corner of the launch screen. 3. Select options from the advanced tactics frame: Sabotage Missions and the Cloaking Device are available once the proper technologies have been researched. To launch a sabotage mission, you must have researched Assault Troops (Mechs) and Level I Ship Shields. 4. Click the Launch Button or Cancel the launch and return to the game screen.

When you return to the game screen, your ship will be shown on your warp path, along with its number (1 or 2), combat strength and sector of origin:

Only the sector of origin will be displayed on your opponent's screen, giving the enemy a rough idea of where you came from and where you might end up. Should the other player research the warp scanner, however, they will be able to determine the possible destinations of your ship.

Landing:

To preview possible landing sites, hold down the preview button next to the warp path. Yellow circles will appear around any planets that are within landing range.

To land, click the button for either Ship1 or Ship 2 (or use the number 1 or 2 button on the keyboard). The planets within range will remain circled until you select a landing site or click elsewhere on the game screen. When you select a planet you will be prompted to confirm your choice.

Depending on where you land, other actions may follow. If you land on a planet you already own, the troops/mechs on board are added to the planet's population without incident. If you land on a neutral planet, it is claimed for your empire and you are taken to the Landscape View. If you land on one of your opponent's planets or one held by the Melnikons, combat will ensue.

*Note: when you land on a planet for the first time, you may not launch from that planet until your next turn.