Stellaris Automation: Is it Effective?

Table of Contents

1. Overview of Stellaris Automation
2. The Feasibility of Automation in Recent Patches
3. The Challenges of Automation for Semi-Competent Players
4. Testing Automation in a Challenge Video
5. The Rules of the Challenge
6. The Goals of the Challenge
   • Reaching 100 Alloys per Month
   • Achieving 1k Research per Month
   • Establishing at Least One Vassal
   • Conquer an Empire's Planet
   • Deep Psychological Reasons for Challenging Myself
7. The Gameplay and Settings
8. The Automation of Research
9. Automation of Planetary Actions
10. The Role of the Science Ship
11. Automated Construction and Designation
12. The Role of the Market in Automation
13. The Influence of Decisions on Automation
14. Challenges and Adjustments during Gameplay
15. Ascension Picks and their Impact on Automation
16. Building Districts and Buildings
17. The Role of Synthetic Crystal Plants
18. Formation of Federations and Alliances
19. Managing the Economy and Strategic Resources
20. Challenges in Meeting the Goals
21. The Impact of Automation on War and Military Power
22. The Role of Fleets and Ship Design
23. The Role of Sectors in Automation
24. The Struggle to Reach the Automation Goals
25. Conclusion: Pros and Cons of Automation in Stellaris

Stellaris Automation: A Feasibility Test

Stellaris is a popular strategy game that has gained notoriety for its automation features, which were often criticized for being ineffective. However, recent patches have introduced significant changes and improvements to automation, sparking a debate about its feasibility and potential advantages or disadvantages for semi-competent players.

To put these automation changes to the test, I decided to Create a challenge video, where I would play Stellaris with one simple rule: everything that can be automated must be automated, with no exceptions. The purpose of this challenge was to determine whether automation could compete with a player following their own decision-making process.

But before delving into the gameplay and outcomes of the challenge, let's examine the goals that I set for myself. By reaching these goals, I would be able to assess the effectiveness of automation and its impact on various aspects of the game.

1. Reaching 100 Alloys per Month

One of the primary objectives of the challenge was to achieve a monthly production of 100 alloys. Alloys are essential for advanced construction, shipbuilding, and technological advancements. By assessing the automated processes in place, we can determine whether automation can efficiently manage resource allocation and meet this target.

2. Achieving 1k Research per Month

Research is vital for technological progress and unlocking new advancements. In the challenge, I aimed to achieve a monthly research output of 1k to evaluate whether automation could effectively prioritize research options and utilize resources for scientific advancements.

3. Establishing at Least One Vassal

Creating and managing vassals is a significant aspect of Stellaris gameplay. Vassals provide military support, resources, and can contribute to a player's overall influence. By automating the process of establishing vassals, we can assess whether automation effectively manages diplomatic relations and empire expansion.

4. Conquer an Empire's Planet

Conquest is a fundamental element of gameplay in Stellaris. By automating military actions, we can evaluate whether automation can strategize and execute successful invasions, allowing the player to conquer enemy planets efficiently.

5. Deep Psychological Reasons for Challenging Myself

Throughout the challenge, I aimed to uncover the underlying motivation behind constantly challenging myself with space game scenarios. By examining the psychological aspect of the challenge, we can gain insights into the personal drive behind challenging gameplay and its impact on player satisfaction.

Before delving into the gameplay and assessing the automation's performance, let's take a closer look at the rules of the challenge and the specific goals to be achieved in the 50-year gameplay period.