Starsector's strategic depth extends to its diverse weaponry, and orbital artillery is a powerful tool for controlling the battlefield. However, many players encounter difficulties in constructing and utilizing these devastating weapons. This guide will troubleshoot common issues preventing you from building orbital artillery, offering solutions and explanations to get you back to obliterating enemy fleets from orbit.
Why Can't I Build Orbital Artillery? A Breakdown of Potential Problems
The inability to build orbital artillery in Starsector typically stems from one or more of the following factors:
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Missing Required Technologies: Orbital artillery isn't unlocked at the game's start. You need to research specific technologies in the technology tab of your shipyards and research stations. These technologies usually fall under the military or advanced military categories and are often dependent on earlier research breakthroughs. Ensure you've progressed sufficiently down the tech tree.
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Insufficient Resources: Constructing orbital artillery requires significant resources, including minerals, alloys, and possibly rare materials depending on the specific weapon type and its modifications. Check your resource stockpile in your logistics tab to see if you have sufficient materials. If not, increase your mining operations or engage in trade to acquire the necessary resources.
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Missing Infrastructure: Orbital artillery requires specialized construction facilities. You might need to build specific construction yards or upgrade existing ones before you can begin production. Ensure your shipyard or station has the capacity to build the advanced weaponry. Examine the shipyard's or station's construction options carefully to see if orbital artillery is listed; if not, you may need an upgrade.
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Incorrect Shipyard/Station: Not all shipyards or stations can build all types of weapons. Larger, more advanced facilities are typically needed for advanced weaponry like orbital artillery. Try constructing in a larger station, perhaps one located on a high-level colony with significant industrial capacity.
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Mod Conflicts: If you're using any mods, conflicts between mods can sometimes prevent specific buildings or items from functioning correctly. Try disabling mods temporarily to see if that resolves the problem. Review mod compatibility and update to the latest versions of your mods.
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Game Bugs: While less common, it's always possible to encounter a bug that prevents building specific items. Verify that your game is up-to-date with the latest patches. Check the Starsector forums or community sites to see if other players are reporting similar issues; you may find workarounds or confirmations of a bug.
Troubleshooting Specific Scenarios
H2: I've researched the necessary technologies, but still can't build orbital artillery.
Double-check that you have all the prerequisite technologies researched. Often, advanced technologies rely on earlier research. Make sure you have the supporting technologies for the production of necessary components. Additionally, verify that you have sufficient resources and the correct type of shipyard or station capable of constructing this specific weapon.
H2: My shipyard says it's "producing" orbital artillery, but nothing is happening.
This could indicate a resource shortage, even if the game shows you have the necessary resources overall. Verify that you have enough of the specific resources at the shipyard's location. Resources must be transported to the shipyard to be used for construction. Ensure sufficient transport ships are delivering resources to meet the production demands. Also, check the shipyard's production queue and ensure that it is indeed producing orbital artillery and not something else. Pause and unpause the game sometimes to alleviate minor production glitches.
H2: I'm using a mod, and orbital artillery isn't working correctly.
Disabling mods, one by one, can help identify if a mod conflict is the problem. Check for updates to your mods, and check the mod's forum or description for reported bugs or compatibility issues. Some mods may introduce new or altered technologies that affect the base game's mechanics, leading to unexpected outcomes.
By systematically investigating these areas, you should be able to pinpoint the reason why you can’t build orbital artillery in Starsector and get back to commanding your fleets with this powerful weapon. Remember to always check the game's documentation and the community forums for any known bugs or additional insights. Happy Starfaring!
