So, I have been thinking about picking up X4. I know some Hexbear users have played it. My question is, what should I expect? Is it good? Do I need mods, or can I play vanilla? Should I get some of the expansions as well, or is the base game enough?
I'm not a stranger to complex games and working my way through them. I do play Paradox games, for example. I also play a lot of strategy games such as Civ and Total War (even on legendary difficulty). So, the game being complex doesn't really scare me, and I consider it a plus.
Just give me your two cents. It would be greatly appreciated. Even if you haven't played it much, any input would be welcome.
It's one of the better 4X space games if you're more of a builder than a fighter. The economic meta is fun, building space stations and trade/mining fleets. Combat is limited by wonky AI. However the game is pretty genericised. All faction interactions, station layouts, and experiences are more or less the same with only minor aesthetic variations. The DLC balloons the cost to the point that you think you're getting a Paradox game but every country is Germany. I pirated it and wouldn't buy it unless it's on deep discount.
edit: The exploration is also generic. Every sector feels more or less the same with few exceptions in the form of sectors that damage your ship. There are just ones with resources and ones with multiple adjacent factions that sometimes clash.
Curious. Is it really a 4x game ? I assumed its more of a rpg with some empire/trade management. I will fully admit I havent looked deeply into it. Just thought the fine folks on Hexbear might have more to say about it.
yeah I wouldn't call it 4x, more like mount and blade in space + you can issue direct orders to lieutenant npcs who can be running other ships/space stations etc.