Starsector's orbital artillery is a powerful tool, capable of devastating enemy fleets and installations. However, many players encounter difficulties in constructing and utilizing this crucial asset. This guide will delve into the common reasons why you might be struggling to build orbital artillery and offer solutions to get you back on track to conquering the stars.
Why Can't I Build Orbital Artillery in Starsector?
This issue often stems from a combination of factors, rather than a single, straightforward problem. Let's break down the most frequent culprits:
1. Missing Required Technologies
Before you can even consider building orbital artillery, you need to research the necessary technologies. These are typically found under the "Military" or "Ordnance" technology tabs within your research screen. Failure to unlock these prerequisite technologies will prevent you from constructing the artillery platforms themselves, as well as the necessary supporting infrastructure. Carefully examine your tech tree to identify any missing links.
2. Insufficient Resources
Orbital artillery platforms are expensive investments, requiring substantial quantities of various resources. This includes not only common resources like minerals and alloys but also rarer materials like electronics and high-strength components. Check your resource reserves and ensure you have adequate amounts of each required material. You may need to engage in more resource gathering or trade to accumulate the necessary materials.
3. Lack of Suitable Shipyards
Not all shipyards are capable of constructing orbital artillery. You'll need a shipyard with the appropriate level of infrastructure and technological capacity. Check the shipyard's construction options and ensure that orbital artillery is listed among the available projects. Upgrading your shipyards to higher tiers can unlock new construction capabilities.
4. Insufficient Infrastructure
Even with the right shipyard and resources, lacking the essential infrastructure on your colony can halt production. This includes having sufficient power generation, population centers to provide workforce, and possibly specific buildings relating to heavy industry or advanced manufacturing. Make sure your colony can support the construction and operation of orbital artillery platforms.
5. Faction Restrictions
Certain factions in Starsector may have restricted access to certain technologies or construction options. If you are playing a faction with limited military potential or a focus on other technologies, orbital artillery might be unavailable. Consider if you are playing a faction that naturally emphasizes ground combat or civilian applications, as that would impact your military technological options.
6. Mod Conflicts
If you're using mods, conflicts between them can sometimes lead to unexpected issues like the inability to build certain structures. Try disabling mods one by one to identify if a conflicting mod is the source of your problem. Check the mod's documentation or community forums for compatibility issues and known bugs.
Troubleshooting Steps
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Verify Technology: Double-check your technology tree. Have you researched all the necessary prerequisites for orbital artillery construction?
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Resource Check: Examine your resource stocks. Do you have enough minerals, alloys, electronics, and other materials needed for construction?
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Shipyard Upgrade: Ensure your shipyard is up to the task. Is it sufficiently upgraded to build orbital artillery? Does the shipyard show orbital artillery as a constructible option?
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Colony Infrastructure: Assess your colony's infrastructure. Does it possess adequate power generation, population, and supporting structures for the construction and operation of orbital artillery?
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Faction Limitations: Consider the limitations of your chosen faction. Does your faction have access to the technology required for orbital artillery construction?
By systematically checking these aspects, you can pinpoint the exact reason why you can't build orbital artillery in Starsector and take the necessary steps to rectify the situation. Remember to consult the Starsector wiki or community forums for more detailed information and troubleshooting assistance if needed.
