The galaxy is filled with a diverse spread of planet types, ranging from lush paradises to hostile, irradiated rocks. Not every planet is suitable for every faction.
The Habitability Spectrum
Each faction has an "Ideal" planet type (their homeworld), representing 100% habitability. Habitability dictates population growth speed and resource output efficiency. A world must have at least 50% habitability for population to grow naturally. From their ideal world, habitability scales down through varying tiers: Very Good, Good, Decent, Marginal, Subprime, Bad, Hostile, and Uninhabitable.
Diverse Preferences
What is a paradise to one species is a hellscape to another. The Terran Federation thrives on Terran, Oceanic, and Jungle worlds. Meanwhile, the cybernetic Auric Syndicate and Mech Assembly consider Mineral and Barren worlds to be their ideal habitats, happily colonizing Volcanic and Toxic planets while avoiding humid Swamps.
Planet Categories
Below are all the major planet types found throughout the galaxy, categorized by their general climate and habitability profiles.
Lush Worlds
Biologically rich environments, preferred by organic and adaptable species like the Terran Federation and Verdant Accord.
Arid & Rocky Worlds
Dry, resource-rich worlds favored by hardy warriors like the Krai Dominion or synthetic industrialists like the Auric Syndicate.
Cold Worlds
Frozen, harsh climates that are ideal for specialized species adapted to harsh climates like the Shade Enclave.
Hostile Worlds
Dangerous to most organic life, but some resilient or cybernetic factions can survive and even thrive on them.
Special & Uninhabitable Worlds
Gaia worlds are extremely rare, perfect paradises that offer 120% habitability to every faction. Molten worlds are completely uninhabitable, while Gas Giants and Ice Giants require advanced late-game technologies to colonize.
Terraforming
If a planet is unsuitable, you can Terraform it. Terraforming permanently changes the planet type, shifting it one step closer to your faction's Ideal world. This process takes time and resources, but can eventually turn a marginal rock into a thriving Gaia paradise.