Satellites

Geoscape

Satellites are launched into geosynchronous orbit of each planet a player occupies.

Purpose: Improves detection of enemy craft, bases & strategic points etc in a specific quadrant of the planet [See Enemy Detection]

Limits: Limit of 4 satellites per planet. Each captured planet starts with one.

How to access: Satellites are awarded throughout the game (winning tough missions, unlocking long research etc). Players can select which quadrant in orbit they want to position above the planet. Satellites can be accessed via the 'ComSat' button found in their base UI. Launches are instant and their effects begin the next 'day'. Satellites cannot be taken down by the player. Enemy can launch their own attacks to attempt to disable the weapon.

Clicking on a satellite shows the progress of getting all

Game Bonuses: Once all 4 satellites are in orbit, the player will be awarded up to 4 bonuses. These can range wildly and help the player in many aspects of the game (Depending on the game's difficulty). An orbital bombardment super weapon is enabled.

--[ Moved to DLC ]--

Orbital bombardment has be moved out of initial release due to constraints on getting the main game done.

Orbital Bombardment

Players have access to an orbital bombardment super weapon once they have all 4 satellites in orbit.

Cooldown: extremely slow build-up/cooldown before the player can use it. Can only be used once. Currently, no plans to allow more than one firing per planet. Players can also capture asteroids and use them as weapons.

Players can select any target not owned by them on the planet. The weapon will fire up to 3 waves. Depending on the type of target, it may either annihilate or just cause a high level of damage. Ideal for softening up a tough enemy base or a heavily fortified strategic point.

Gameplay Consequences

Using this weapon will raise the threat level for the locals, they will also be less willing to help you. There could also be longer-lasting consequences for tactical missions, intelligence gathering and more.

Once the weapon is fired, all bonuses are stripped from the satellites. This acts as a reason for the player to only use the weapon when absolutely necessary.