Getting started
Your first hour: build an economy, unlock technology, scout, then send fleets.
Your empire keeps running while you're away. Production, construction, research and fleets all run on universe time, so plan what happens while you're offline.
1. Build your economy
Start with Metal Mines and Crystal Mines, and add Solar Plants as they need power. Mines without enough energy slow down. Tap the resource bar at the top to see production and storage. See Resources and mines and Energy.
2. Unlock technology
Build a Research Laboratory, then research. Use each item's information button to see what it requires and what it does. Research is shared across your whole empire. See Research.
3. Scout before you commit
Open the Galaxy, pick a target and send Espionage Probes. Reports arrive in Chat. Use the Simulator to estimate a battle before risking ships. See Fleets and combat.
4. Plan the return
Fleet speed changes travel time and fuel. Check arrival and return times before sending, and remember your planets stay attackable while you're away. See Protection and vacation.
5. Grow beyond your homeworld
Research Astrophysics to found colonies, then try the game's own systems: Expeditions into deep space and pirate Excavation sites.