Ships and Strategy

[Haru]

Hi Guys

I have a question concerning the release of new ships in the star ports. The way I play the game is early on I go to the Javat Mining planets and explore my way to a fortune and I like to do it early because exploring gets harder as the game progresses. I usually like to gather about 300k to 400k before I go off and do my own thing. This puts me somewhere in the 70's as far as years go. However, when I go to Star Ports at lvl 4 or 5 around year 70 or 80 it seems that there are only ships that are worse than the Vae Victus for sale.

So here comes my question. What determines the quality of the ships for sale in the star ports. Turns passed? Captain level?

Also, I would like to know what some more experienced players game strategies are, because mine seemingly doesn't work. I'm lucky if I make it to level 10 the way I've been playing.

[Cory Trese]

The starport, level, rank, reputation, turn, conflict and rumors effect the ships and quality of the ships.

Ship's have a few hidden values (ENG, WAR, etc) that determine the minimum score a planet must achieve to have it for sale.

Therefore, when a Faction is at war, look to buy warships. If they are under a Trade War, expect to see lower quality merchant ships for sale.

In particular, go to the Elite Map's "rich planets" and shop there. Often the quality of the starport and economy make a huge difference.