While the game shares themes of space exploration and resource gathering - plus some elements of its interface - with its predecessor, the two are different in gameplay.

New bases built on other planets must be staffed with new teams of Producers in order to construct the shuttles and derricks needed for supply.

In the process the player will meet the Methanoids, colonists from the first game who declared independence when Earth was re-settled.

Now they dominate Trans-Neptunian space and act secretively, only allowing the player to swap mined goods for materials they need.

New technology will allow the player to construct SCGs (star-class galleons) and travel to Proxima Centauri, the first of the seven star systems that have to be conquered.