Survival
Survival Mode is an alternate gameplay mode that challenges players to survive, explore, and thrive in a hostile and evolving galaxy. It features a dynamic story, long-term progression, and unique contracts known as Special Missions. Survival Mode can be accessed from the main menu and operates separately from the campaign.
Getting Started
Before starting a Survival Mode run, the player selects a starting ship from the library. Once chosen, the player begins with a "barebones" ship outfitted with essential systems, a small crew, and initial supplies needed to survive. A short, guided tutorial introduces the player to basic ship operations and initiates the first FTL jump.
New Sector and Special Missions
After completing the first jump, three Special Missions become available. These missions function similarly to Story Contracts and are tracked separately from standard Contracts.
Analysis: Anomaly
The Institute tasks the player with gathering scientific data on the moving Anomaly. Upon accepting the mission, the player receives two Hyperspace Sensors, which must be installed on their ship.
- The sensors collect data automatically during FTL jumps.
- The closer the jump path is to the anomaly, the more data is gathered.
- The Institute contacts the player after mission acceptance with detailed instructions.
- Data thresholds provide monetary rewards and a congratulatory message:
- 10 Data → $10,000
- 100 Data → $100,000
- 1,000 Data → $1,000,000
- 10,000 Data → $10,000,000
Further thresholds may exist but are currently unknown.
Evacuation
This mission involves rescuing civilians from populated Planets before the anomaly reaches them.
- Each completed Passenger Transport Contract counts toward mission progress.
- Rewards are based on the total number of successfully transported passengers:
- 10 passengers → $10,000
- 100 passengers → $200,000
- 1,000 passengers → $2,000,000
Evacuation progress is permanent — passengers do not need to be onboard simultaneously.
Further thresholds may exist but are currently unknown.
Nomad
This mission challenges the player to build a self-sustaining mobile home for as many people as possible.
- Progress is measured by the fleet’s simultaneous total population, including Crew and temporary passengers.
- Rewards are based on the concurrent number of people onboard any ship of the player's fleet:
- 10 population → $10,000
- 100 population → $100,000
- 1,000 population → $1,000,000
To complete this mission, players must significantly expand living space and life support systems.
Further thresholds may exist but are currently unknown.
Regular Contracts
In addition to the Special Missions, players can accept standard Contracts to earn money, gather resources, or improve their ship. These contracts function similarly to those in the main game and remain a key part of progression and survival.
Anomaly Proximity Effects
As the anomaly moves through the sector, its proximity directly affects the economy at Trade stations:
- High-tech items, such as components and equipment, become significantly discounted.
- Essential supplies and Resources (e.g., fuel, food, raw materials) increase in price.
- The closer the anomaly, the steeper the economic impact — both positive and negative.
- Players should consider stockpiling consumables early and timing equipment purchases carefully.
This dynamic market system creates both opportunities and risks, emphasizing smart trade decisions and timing.
Sustainable Operations
Long-term survival depends heavily on a ship’s ability to produce and maintain all vital resources internally. A ship equipped with facilities for food, water, air, and waste Recycling can operate independently for extended periods. Investing in self-sufficiency early — rather than relying on trade — pays off significantly as the anomaly advances and supply shortages increase.
Drones
Drones play a vital role in Survival Mode. They are essential for:
- Automated mining and collection of Ore, Gas, and Wreckage.
- Repairs, resupply, and logistics on large or modular ships.
Players should aim to acquire and maintain a robust fleet of drones early in the game. Ensuring drone bays and spare parts are available can be critical to long-term success.
Notes
- From time to time, the player may encounter ships under pirate attack. Successfully defending them leads to a choice: accept a monetary reward or invite the rescued ship to join the player's fleet.