Endless Space_2

Endless Space 2 is a single-player and multiplayer 4X strategy game. Set in a distant future where the once-dominant Endless civilization has vanished, the galaxy is now divided among emergent empires vying for control. Players assume the role of a faction leader, guiding their people in exploration, colonization, and warfare, while uncovering ancient secrets and shaping the political and cultural destiny of their civilization.

Gameplay is turn-based, with each turn representing simultaneous actions across exploration, research, construction, and diplomacy. Star systems form the core of expansion, with planets colonized according to each faction’s unique traits and technological progress. Resources are critical to success, including food for growth, industry for production, dust as a universal currency, science for research, and influence for cultural dominance. Factions range from traditional expansionist empires to nomadic collectives and even artificial life, each offering distinct mechanics that change how they approach colonization, economics, and diplomacy.

Combat occurs when fleets encounter rivals in contested systems or along starlanes. Battles unfold in a semi-automated cinematic format, with players determining fleet composition, ship designs, and tactical stances before the engagement. Ship customization plays a central role, as hull types and module choices allow players to tailor vessels for offense, defense, or support roles. While the actual battle resolution is not fully interactive, preparation, fleet positioning, and card-based tactics influence the outcome.

Progression is tied to a multi-branched technology tree divided into four categories: economy, science, empire development, and military. Research opens access to colonizing new planet types, upgrading infrastructure, enhancing fleets, and enabling diplomatic or cultural expansion. Heroes can be recruited to govern colonies or lead fleets, with their skills offering further specialization and strategic benefits. The game also introduces quests, narrative-driven objectives that provide unique rewards and insight into each faction’s lore.

Secondary systems include a layered political model where factions develop internal governments influenced by player actions and population traits. Ideologies emerge and shift over time, opening or restricting options in laws and edicts, which in turn shape empire strengths. Diplomacy supports alliances, trade agreements, and declarations of war, while influence is used to expand borders and contest star systems without immediate conflict. Multiplayer adds competitive and cooperative dimensions, as players negotiate, ally, or rival each other across shared galaxies.