[oleg]

I always thought that SE IV layout is not really suitable for "space empires". Strictly speaking, there is no interstellar travel in itself, just instantenious jumps across the galaxy. IMHO Homeworld, MOO (1/2), Starfleet Command, etc model space travel much better.

In fact, I often ponder that SE IV could be made much more "realistic" and "belivable" if you think of the star system as just one planet (with the appropriate background picture)instead and replace planets and asteroids with cities and landscape features. Wormholes would become some sort of "Stargates" linking planets. One can send you exploration and military teams through them (aka SE IV ships). It would also explain why space battles are 2-dimensional, since now they would commence on planet. One will still need troops (infantry) to assault enemy cities which are protected with entranched weapon platforms and air cover (satellites and fighters). Planet destroying weapons will become simple nukes.

What do you think about such kind of mod ?