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GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #38 - UI Updates Coming to the v2.2 Ethnology Update

Since the launch of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition in mid-October, we've been hard at work, rolling out updates to enhance your gameplay experience. Following the initial post-release patch (v2.01), addressing those last-minute QA touches, we introduced the significant v2.1 update, packed with features already in our pipeline. But here's where it gets thrilling: Version 2.2 is all about you! This update is a creative blend of your insightful feedback and our vision, transformin... [read more]

12/18/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #10 - Play Your Way

Greetings, fellow gamers and strategists! Today, we delve into the intricate universe of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova, exploring how this 4X game redefines difficulty through its innovative blend of Organic and Traditional Difficulty Modes. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind crafting your own gaming experience and find the challenge that suits you best. Organic Difficulty vs. Traditional Difficulty Modes In the vast realm of strategy gaming, preferences vary... [read more]

12/14/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #37 - New Biomes in the v2.2 Ethnology Update

Another big change coming this Holiday season for GalCiv players in v2.2 (Ethnology) is a massive expansion of the number of biomes that make up worlds. Today we’ll take a look at some of the new ones. First, a recap: The humans of Earth have a specific planet layout that loosely matches the continental layout of Earth (minus Australia – you guys didn’t send the bribe money!!). Earth. Obviously. We did, however, add a lot of new special tiles that have a chance to show up. I see ... [read more]

12/11/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #36 - v2.2 Preview

Greetings! So we have been working on GalCiv IV 2.2 which we are tentatively calling Ethnologies. What’s an ethnology? It’s a branch of anthropology that focuses on the uniqueness of different peoples or even species. And thanks to the overwhelming support we’ve received on the Expansion Pass for GalCiv IV we were able to bring on more people to work on 2.2 and the results, we think, will make players pretty happy. One criticism of GalCiv has always been that the different races in the ga... [read more]

12/7/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #35 - The Juggernaut of Culture

One of Galactic Civilization’s biggest selling points is the ability to play and win in a way that isn’t entirely focused around war and conquest. Sure, you always need to keep a few fleets around as a “Get off my lawn!” signal to potentially unfriendly neighbours, but the 4X genre has always had a bit of a problem with an over-reliance on conquest mechanics and, right from the very first game, the GalCiv series has always put peaceful victory options front and center. Galactic Civilizati... [read more]

12/4/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #34 - v2.1 Genesis Update

Alrighty folks, today we’re going to take a look at some of the changes brought in with our Genesis update (version 2.1) for Galactic Civilizations: Supernova. This is a meaty update full of bugfixes, enhanced features and tweaks to existing mechanics to facilitate a smoother gameplay experience for the player. To kick off, we’ve added 22 minutes of brand new music to GalCiv4’s existing soundtrack, and the midgame music will kick in at 60 turns now instead of 100, so you’ll get to hear it a ... [read more]

11/27/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Steam Autumn Sale is Here - Up to 75% Off Stardock Titles

The Steam Autumn Sale is Here - Get Up to 75% Off* STEAM KEYS ARE PROVIDED WITH PURCHASE NEW TITLES: The Political Machine 2024 Free DLC w/Pre-Order $19.99 Galactic Civilizations IV Now Available $49.99 FEATURED TITLES ON SALE: Star Control: Origins $29.99 Now $10.19 Galactic Civilizations III ( Includes FREE: Crusade and Retribution Expansions, Mega Events DLC) $39.99 Now $13.... [read more]

11/21/2023 By redskittlesonly in Stardock Entertainment Announcements

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #33 - Mod Manager

Modding has been around as long as video games have existed. The earliest games were really only played by other programmers or nerdy academic types with access to university mainframe computers, who were happy to jump in and improve the software made by their colleagues. Nobody called it modding back in the late 70's as far as I can tell, but we can see that same hacker spirit infusing the video gaming community right up to this day. Hell, some genres are almost entirely comprised of ga... [read more]

11/20/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Epic Edition

We are currently working on the base game of the Epic edition. This will come out at GalCiv IV 2.2 next month. To make it easy for future updates to it, we are going to be bringing the code-base up to the Supernova edition. So in essence, GalCiv IV 2.2 base game on Epic will be the same as Supernova except for the new content (and things like AlienGPT). [read more]

11/17/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

v2.1 Genesis Update and Expansion Pass Announced for Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova

Stardock announces the release of the Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition v2.1 Genesis update, alongside the exciting launch of its first Expansion Pass. Limited Time Discount on the Expansion Pass Get in now and gain immediate access to the Soundtrack today, and the remaining 5 as they release. The v2.1 Genesis update of the Supernova Edition introduces a wealth of new features and enhancements, including: Steam Workshop integration for Steam user... [read more]

11/16/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #32 - It's the Little Things...

Last week we talked about some changes made to the way the game AI played when at war, which has gone some way towards addressing the lack of pressure and difficulty some players were experiencing in the mid to late game. We’ve not stopped there, and Frogboy has recently dropped some hints at what will be coming in the upcoming v2.1 . For now though, we’re going to examine some of the smaller changes that came in with v2.01 that you might have missed, but we feel add something significant t... [read more]

11/14/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #31 - The AI Strikes Back!

One of the most common questions I see asked in the 4X gaming communities online is “What are the 4X games with the best game AI?”, and inevitably someone will mention one of the Galactic Civilizations games in amongst some of the other greats of the genre. Usually, it’s GalCiv2, but the original PC game and Galactic Civilizations III pop up occasionally too. With such a respectable heritage, Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova had big boots to fill. We think the AI is pretty good now and u... [read more]

11/9/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Stardock Announces The Political Machine 2024

Stardock Announces "The Political Machine 2024" Pre-order now and get the 'Cabinet of Curiosities' DLC free Stardock announced the latest iteration of its hit political strategy series, The Political Machine 2024 today. The game, which allows players to simulate a run for the American presidency, features an updated roster of politicians and introduces new gameplay mechanics that reflect the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. politics. The Political Machine 2024 ... [read more]

11/7/2023 By redskittlesonly in Political Machine News

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #9 - The Secrets of the Galaxy

In the vast expanse of space, Galactic Civilizations offers players the chance to embark on a grand adventure. The opening moves of this strategy game introduce a sense of wonder and excitement as you explore the sector, discovering star systems and resources, all fuel for the imagination and helping to shape your plans for building a great galactic civilization. But the fun doesn't stop there, as in-game events present you with meaningful choices that can have long-lasting consequences. ... [read more]

11/3/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Vasari Rebels: Echoes of the Past Update - Sins of a Solar Empire II

Vasari Rebels: Echoes of the Past Update Our November 'Echoes of the Past' update brings a number of new player-requested features to try out! Fleet formation and engagement ranges allow players to fine-tune how their ships behave. Create picket-lines or wide formations to avoid area-of-effect damage. When capital ships and titans are destroyed, they now leave behind wreckage that you can harvest - space recycling at its finest. We've also added structure repositioning, allowing you t... [read more]

11/2/2023 By redskittlesonly in Sins of a Solar Empire News

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #30 - Ability Visibility

One of the most common complaints that we’ve received regarding the user interface in Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova is one of visibility of the various characteristics for each Civilization in play. Most notably, players were reporting that after selecting a Civilization, there was no way to check their own Civilization Abilities, Traits and other attached information, without exiting to the main menu, starting a new game and checking those details in the game-setup screens there. Th... [read more]

11/2/2023 By BATTLEMODE in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

v2.01 Update Now Available for Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova

Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova v2.01 brings tons of community requested fixes and updates Now Available: Buy Now The Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova v2.01 update features tons of fixes and updates. Experience a revamped AI with superior decision-making skills, an influx of new in-game events and anomalies for an unpredictable galaxy. Enjoy improved multilingual support, refined multiplayer stability, and balanced gameplay mechanics. Plus, check out the rei... [read more]

11/1/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition Released!

Stardock’s award-winning turn-based strategy game series gets its biggest release ever Buy Now: Steam | Epic Stardock announced the release of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition (Supernova) today. Stardock is celebrating its 30-year anniversary this month with the sequel to the game that started the company back in 1993. “This is, by far, the biggest game release we’ve ever done,” said B... [read more]

10/19/2023 By redskittlesonly in Stardock Entertainment Announcements

Stardock Turns 30: Anniversary Sale & Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Launch

Stardock's 30th Anniversary Event Galactic Civilizations IV - Supernova Launch & Up to 80% Off Celebration! STEAM KEYS ARE PROVIDED WITH PURCHASE GalCiv IV: Supernova Edition | Now Available Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pi... [read more]

10/19/2023 By redskittlesonly in Stardock Entertainment Announcements

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #8 - Playing Tall vs. Wide

In the vast and intricate realm of 4X gaming, empire management takes center stage. Traditionally in this genre, the cardinal rule was simple: the bigger the empire, the better your chances of victory. Resources were tightly intertwined with territory, making rapid expansion a key strategy for acquiring as much land and resource production as possible. But recent times have ushered in a shift, with 4X games offering players the possibility of success with smaller, more focuse... [read more]

10/17/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #29 - What's new in Supernova

There is more new and changed in GalCiv IV: Supernova than all the changes coming from GalCiv II through GalCiv IV (base game) combined. The chart below doesn’t really do justice to the magnitude of the changes. This journal entry will talk about it. First, let me introduce myself. I’m Brad Wardell. I designed the original Galactic Civilizations for OS/2 back in 1992 which went into beta in (wait for it) October 1993 which is when I incorporated Stardock from my dorm room in college. ... [read more]

10/16/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #28 - Replacing the Tech Victory in 4X

Since the first Galactic Civilizations game, we’ve always had the technology victory condition. When the player researched this very expensive technology, they won the game. Simple enough right? Unfortunately, while it was straightforward to win that way, it was very unsatisfying to lose that way. In Galactic Civilizations II, we tried a host of different options including having a warning letting the player know that “Player X is nearing a technological victory.” That doesn’t really work tho... [read more]

10/6/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #7 - Managing Your Space Cats

In the vast cosmos of gaming, we often find ourselves leading empires, commanding armies, and forging alliances. But have you ever wondered about the individuals who make up these galactic civilizations, and the leaders who steer their destinies towards triumph? In this episode, we embark on a cosmic journey to meet the Citizens and Leaders of the Purrshan League, a civilization of peaceful, friendly cat-like creatures navigating the challenges of a universe filled with passi... [read more]

10/4/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #27 - Localization

One of Stardock's big challenges has been localizing our games. GalCiv IV has over 180,000 words in it. That's a lot to translate. But that's not really the biggest issue. The biggest issue is that we are constantly adding new text to the game which makes it hard for our linguistics team to keep up. We typically use Trados for this sort of thing. It's very powerful but it is not fast. So I decided to write my own app called GC4TranslatorUI. ... [read more]

10/2/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Vasari Rebels: The Empire's Arrival Update - Sins of a Solar Empire II

The highly anticipated Vasari Rebels are now available as a playable faction in Sins of a Solar Empire II. Vasari Rebels: The Empire's Arrival After a long journey of 10,000 years the vanguard of the Vasari forces arrives in Trader space. You must quickly establish a foothold and then expand outward to collect the resources you need. Will you ally with the locals or destroy them? Many choices and dangers await in the darkness of this new region. The Vasari feature mor... [read more]

9/28/2023 By redskittlesonly in Sins of a Solar Empire News

v1.9 Early Access Update - Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova

Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition, currently in Early Access on Steam, adds the Modding Workshop, Galactapedia, Missions, and New Civilization Launching October 19, Steam Wishlist Now Highlighted Features: NEW! Korath Civilization : The Korath Clan returns, vicious as ever! NEW! Modding Workshop : Players can now browse, download, and manage custom community created content. NEW! Galactapedia : An in-game encycloped... [read more]

9/27/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #26 - The Animals of AI

When utilizing Stardock's AlienGPT, one might naturally ponder the question: which animals are the most sought-after choices for building a civilization around? Well, here's the answer. Nearly 40% of users opt for cats, followed by foxes, fish, dogs, snakes, and more. Animal Number of Mentions Percentage (%) cat 1445 30.90 fox 331 7.08 fish 320 6.84 dog 319 6.82 snake 258 5.52 bird 251 5.37 tiger 219 4.68 wolf 190 4.0... [read more]

9/25/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #6 - What Kind of Civilization Are You?

The Galactic Civilizations series is known for its rich tapestry of civilizations, each with its own lore and gameplay mechanics that create a symphony of diversity in the intergalactic arena. These civilizations are more than just backstories; they're the driving forces behind the epic narratives that unfold in the game. In this article, we'll delve into the intricate mechanics that define civilizations in Galactic Civilizations and explore how they shape your playstyle and strategies when faci... [read more]

9/20/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition Launches October 19

Stardock announced the release date of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition , the latest entry in its award-winning space turn-based strategy game will be October 19, 2023 and will coincide with Stardock’s 30-year anniversary. Currently in Early access on the Steam and Epic Store, the game is currently available for purchase at a discount over the final release price. Beginning shortly after humanity has discovered faster-than-ligh... [read more]

9/19/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

Sins II: Dev Journal 10 - The Vasari Kultorask Titan

We diverge in this dev diary for a special report on the Vasari Rebel’s Kultorask-class titan. The Kultorask is a true behemoth, with the ability to deal vast amounts of damage to enemy forces while also providing support to its own. In its initial configuration, the Kultorask features an impressive weapons arsenal: 3 Phase Missile Arrays comprised of 16 launchers (fore and aft). 8 Heavy Beam Cannon turrets (forward only). 16 Medium Wave Cannon turrets (fore and aft).... [read more]

9/18/2023 By Yarlen in Sins Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #25 - A Galaxy for Everyone

Greetings! We are coming to the finish line for GalCiv IV: Supernova! Our once reasonable scope has, of course, exploded over the Summer as we got our hands into making this the best space 4X game we've ever made! The next major BETA update, 1.90 will be focusing on making the game more appealing to a much wider group of people. Galactapedia This feature is expected to expand significantly in the coming weeks. We're excited about its potential and... [read more]

9/14/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #5 - AlienGPT

Greetings, fellow gamers and intergalactic strategists! Today, we delve into the fascinating world of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova, where we explore the cutting-edge addition to the game, AlienGPT. This groundbreaking feature, developed by Stardock, leverages the power of GPT technology to redefine the way we create custom civilizations in this iconic space 4X gaming series. Wishlist on Steam In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through the exciting universe of Galact... [read more]

9/12/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

v1.8 Early Access Update - Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova

Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition, currently in early access on Steam, gets a major beta update. Wishlist Now | Full Changelog Below Version 1.8 adds hundreds of new changes, improvements, fixes and new content including: New Major Civilizations: The Cosmic Contaminate and The Seeing. Multiplayer (competitive and cooperative). Major combat system update: Ships automatically use weapons on the main map from a distance. ... [read more]

9/7/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

Spheres of Influence Update - Sins of a Solar Empire II

The latest update has just dropped, bringing with it a host of bug fixes, gameplay enhancements, and tantalizing hints of what's to come. Brace for smoother planetary development as underdevelopment penalties vanish, while capital ships and titans gain immediate access to all slots. UI and tooltip improvements enhance usability, and captivating visual effects intensify battles. Get Sins of a Solar Empire II Now | Changelog Below No More Underdevelopmen... [read more]

8/29/2023 By redskittlesonly in Sins of a Solar Empire News

Up to 75% Off Stardock Games During the Steam Strategy Fest

Save up to 75% on Stardock Games STEAM KEYS ARE PROVIDED WITH PURCHASE ( Includes FREE: Crusade and Retribution Expansions, Mega Events DLC) $39.99 Now $12.79 - 68% Off $29.99 Now $9.89 - 67% Off $39.99 Now $12.79 - 68% Off $14.99 Now $5.99 - 60% Off $19.99 Now $9.99 - 50% Off Game Bundles: Up to 73% Off Up to 70% Off Up to&nb... [read more]

8/28/2023 By redskittlesonly in Stardock Entertainment Announcements

GalCiv IV: Supernova Dev Journal #24 - AIs Drinking Coffee on Planets

Generally speaking, in GalCiv games there has been three types of players: The first player is the relatively new or casual player who finds the AI ridiculously hard and will post "The AI is cheating" (the AI doesn't cheat unless you make the settings super high). They say this because the AI is able to expand fairly quickly because it is quite good at scouting (the AI tends to build a lot more scouts than players) and finding planets. It has no idea where the planets are. The second... [read more]

8/28/2023 By Frogboy in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation - v3.2 Now Available

The latest update for Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation has just landed, introducing changes that promise to enhance your gaming experience. Let's delve into the details of what this update brings to the table. Get it Now | Full Changelog Below New Map: Frenzy: A Fresh 1v1 Battleground The brand-new Frenzy map, purpose-built for exhilarating 1v1 encounters. This map is a playground of rapid decision-making and cunning strategies. Brace yourself... [read more]

8/24/2023 By redskittlesonly in Ashes of the Singularity News

Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion v1.98 Now Available

Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion v1.98 introduces extended ranges, refined abilities, and more. Forge alliances, sharpen your tactics, and rise as the ultimate cosmic conqueror. Get Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion now Enhanced Firepower and Tactical Tweaks Anti-fighter frigates from the TEC, Advent, and Vasari factions now come with extended weapon ranges, enabling you to engage enemies from a greater distance. Abilities have been adjusted, including the TEC Light Fr... [read more]

8/23/2023 By redskittlesonly in Sins News

GalCiv IV: Video Dev Blog #4 - The History of Galactic Civilizations Games

Galactic Civilizations: A Journey Through the Stars Discover the captivating history behind one of gaming's most iconic 4X series! From its groundbreaking launch on IBM OS/2 in the 1990s, featuring innovations like multi-threading and customizable starships, to its progression on Windows with expansive maps and refined mechanics. Galactic Civilizations III's leap to a 64-bit engine brought unparalleled ship customization, while Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition showcases Stardo... [read more]

8/18/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv IV Dev Journals

v1.7 Early Access Update - GalCiv IV: Supernova

v1.7 Early Access Update Unveils New Factions, Enhanced Ship Designer/Diplomacy Screen, and Player-Contributed Stars Brace yourself for a celestial adventure enriched with new factions, a revamped ship designer, an enhanced diplomacy screen, and a shining constellation of player-contributed stars. Wishlist Now | Changelog Below Two (3 more to come!) Factions Unlocked The Phalenoid Advance Embark on a celestial journey with The Phalenoid Adva... [read more]

8/10/2023 By redskittlesonly in GalCiv News

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