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Sins of a Solar Empire II News

Launch Livestreams

[h2]Join Us for Our Steam Launch Livestreams![/h2]

We are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting a special livestream event to celebrate the launch of our game on Steam!

[h3]📍Location: Right here on Steam![/h3]

[h3]📅 Date: Thursday, August 15, 2024[/h3]
🕐Time:
  • 9am - 11am ET
  • 1pm - 3pm ET
  • 3pm - 5pm ET

[h3]📅 Date: Friday, August 16, 2024[/h3]
🕐Time:
  • 1pm - 3pm ET
  • 3pm - 5pm ET

[h3]📅 Date: Saturday, August 17, 2024[/h3]
🕐Time:
  • 9am - 11am ET


Don't miss out on exclusive gameplay, developer insights, and team chatting. Set your reminders and join us for an exciting afternoon!

Launch Date Announced

[h2]Coming to Steam August 15, 2024[/h2]
Sequel to beloved strategy title features new asymmetric playstyles, dynamically changing maps, deeper tactical combat, expanded strategic depth, and more.

[h3]Check out Rimmy Downunder's latest playthrough and our date announce trailer at the end:
[/h3][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

A new chapter in the never-ending war for the galaxy will be written as Stardock and Ironclad Games announce that Sins of a Solar Empire II is set to release on Steam on Thursday, Aug. 15. The sequel to one of the most beloved strategy titles of all time, Sins of a Solar Empire II will once again feature a seamless combination of real-time strategy and 4X gameplay, delivering sprawling empires, huge tactical fleet battles, and unforgettable gameplay moments that can only be found in Sins II. Players who wishlist now will receive a reminder when the game releases in just under two weeks.

“It’s been amazing to see how hyped fans are for the release of Sins of a Solar Empire II on Steam,” said Brian Clair, Director of Publishing at Stardock Entertainment. “We have seen so many people who were fans of the original Sins, and Sins: Rebellion, sharing their excitement for this long-awaited sequel. Sins of a Solar Empire II will deliver epic galactic warfare and strategy to players. We can’t wait to share more with you and celebrate the launch of Sins of a Solar Empire II on August 15!”

Sins II will give players more tools than ever to form their own play styles as they battle, scheme, monopolize, and manipulate their way to victory. The sequel also introduces new emergent tactics and strategies that reward creative thinking. Players can protect vulnerable units by body-blocking missiles with their Titan, launch a surprise attack from a rogue asteroid when its orbit reaches the enemy's back line, or guard themselves against a backstab with a time-locked alliance.

Sins of a Solar Empire II Key Features:
  • Three unique playable races including the Advent, Vasari, and TEC return with two sub-factions that utilize unique items, mechanics, and Empire Systems to achieve total victory
  • Orbiting planets that dynamically alter the map during play, requiring players to gradually shift their strategies as new challenges and opportunities present themselves
  • Enhanced tactical battles and deeper combat simulation featuring tracking turrets and missiles that can be blocked by ships or shot down
  • Minor factions that provide unique capabilities to players that befriend them through a new influence system
  • New economy model that allows players to truly customize their worlds to fit production needs
  • 10-player multiplayer matches that allow players to seamlessly join or resume games
  • Build and command thousands of high fidelity ships that are effortlessly powered by a new 64-bit multicore engine
  • Capital ships that can be equipped with special augmentations to be more effective in battle
  • New in-game mod browser allows for easy installation for mods and maps


Sins of a Solar Empire II is available to wishlist now. At launch, the base game edition will be offered at a special discount price of $39.99 for a limited time. Additionally, the Sins of a Solar Empire II - Premium Edition will be available for a limited-time price of $79.99 and will include the base game, first Content Pass (4 DLC: 1 small, 1 medium, and 2 expansion level) and the Sins of a Solar Empire II soundtrack.









Dev Journal 7: The Factions of Sins

In the vast, war-torn universe of Sins of a Solar Empire II, three distinct factions vie for dominance: the Trader Emergency Coalition (TEC), the Vasari Empire, and the Advent Unity. Each faction boasts a rich history, unique technological advancements, and a compelling narrative that shapes their strategies and cultures. Here's a concise look at the lore behind these three formidable factions.



[h2]The Trader Emergency Coalition (TEC)[/h2]
[h3]History and Formation:[/h3]
The TEC was born out of necessity, transforming from a prosperous trading society into a formidable military coalition. Over a thousand years ago, the Trade Order was established by economically driven settlers who expanded rapidly, creating an industrial and commercial powerhouse. However, this golden age of peace and prosperity was shattered several decades ago by the arrival of the Vasari Empire, an alien force that swept through Trader space with ease. In response, the Trade Order sanctioned the creation of the TEC, which quickly marshaled its vast industrial resources for military production. The TEC managed to stall the Vasari advance, but soon faced another threat: the return of the exiled Advent.

[h3]Technology and Industry:[/h3]
The TEC's technology may be primitive compared to its enemies, but it compensates with mass production and heavy firepower. The Coalition excels in mixed alloys and polymers for strong defenses, and its economic prowess allows for rapid urban development and efficient trade routes. Their military doctrine focuses on fortification and attrition, with heavily armored ships and powerful static defenses.

[h3]Strategic and Tactical Strengths:[/h3]
The TEC is an economic juggernaut mobilizing for war, capable of massive resource-gathering and construction. Their fleets, initially refitted civilian vessels, have evolved into heavily armed and armored forces that excel in prolonged battles. The TEC's ability to incite uprisings and disrupt enemy production through propaganda adds a strategic edge to their military might.



[h2]The Vasari Empire[/h2]
[h3]History and Flight:[/h3]
Once rulers of a vast empire, the Vasari's civilization crumbled from within due to an unknown, relentless enemy. Over ten thousand years ago, the inner worlds of the Vasari Empire fell silent, and the Dark Fleet's attempts to quell the threat ended in failure. The Vasari fled, becoming a nomadic fleet constantly on the run, replenishing resources and leaving warning beacons in their wake. Their journey eventually led them to Trader space, where they clashed with the TEC and later, the Advent.

[h3]Culture and Technology:[/h3]
Vasari culture is marked by enforced labor and eugenics, with a focus on genetic manipulation and nanotechnology. Their advanced phase space technology allows for unparalleled FTL communication and fleet mobility. Nanotechnology is integral to Vasari life, enhancing everything from spacecraft armor to medical treatments.

[h3]Strategic and Tactical Strengths:[/h3]
The Vasari's mastery of phase space gives them a significant advantage in detection and mobility. Their ability to create phase lanes and bypass shields with phase missiles makes them a formidable foe. Vasari fleets are technologically superior, with powerful nanites for offense and defense, and their phase stabilizers and moving starbases are testaments to their advanced knowledge.



[h2]The Advent Unity[/h2]
[h3]History and Return:[/h3]
The Advent, a highly advanced pseudo-religious civilization, were exiled by the Trade Order over a thousand years ago for their taboo practices. This exile left an indelible scar, driving the Advent to advance their technology and seek retribution. They returned to Trader space with a vengeance, wielding powerful PsiTech and wreaking havoc until the war reached a stalemate. Internal divisions have since emerged, with Loyalists seeking dominance and revenge, while Rebels advocate for cleansing the Unity of its corrupting hunger for retribution.

[h3]Culture and Technology:[/h3]
Advent society is deeply intertwined with PsiTech, which enhances their mental abilities and fosters a sense of collectivism. Their social hierarchy is based on mastery of navigating, interpreting, and shaping, with females often dominating the higher castes. Advent technology is on par with the Vasari's, focusing on directed energy weapons and sophisticated shield systems.

[h3]Strategic and Tactical Strengths:[/h3]
The Advent's PsiTech allows for powerful mental abilities that enhance their military and civilian capabilities. Their fleets favor sleek, lightly armored ships with advanced shields, and their ability to telekinetically manipulate resources and armor gives them a unique edge. PsiTech also aids in resource gathering and enemy detection, making the Advent a formidable force in both offense and defense.


In the galaxy of Sins of a Solar Empire II, the TEC, Vasari, and Advent each bring their own strengths and strategies to the battlefield. Whether through economic might, technological superiority, or psychic prowess, each faction's rich lore and unique capabilities make for a dynamic and engaging conflict.

For more Lore, check out our wiki.

Video Blog: Evolution of Sins II Pt.5 - eXterminate

Mighty warships, deadly defenses, superior strategies
 Welcome to the universe of Sins of a Solar Empire II! In this latest installment, we delve into the heart of the game’s eXterminate phase, where tactical brilliance and strategic foresight are your greatest allies.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

[h2]eXterminate: The Ultimate Objective[/h2]
In Sins of a Solar Empire, the 4X elements—eXplore, eXpand, and eXploit—culminate in the ultimate goal: to eXterminate your rivals. This involves winning decisive fleet battles, dismantling enemy defenses, and capturing their colonies. In this episode, we’ll explore the significant improvements in both tactical and strategic warfare from Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion to Sins of a Solar Empire II.

While eXterminate is a vast topic, we’ll focus on the highlights, giving you a taste of the enhanced warfare mechanics that await you.

[h2]Tactical Combat: A New Era[/h2]
The tactical simulation in Sins of a Solar Empire II has seen substantial upgrades. From destructible missiles to gun-turret tracking speeds and body blocking, the changes are extensive. If you missed our previous videos, we recommend checking them out for a more detailed breakdown.

[h2]Tactical Combat Mechanics[/h2]
Gone are the days of hidden damage modifiers that made Sins Rebellion’s combat a bit of a puzzle. Sins of a Solar Empire II introduces a new system governing damage to ships, making tactical combat more intuitive and engaging.

Warships and defensive structures now feature a mix of Shields, Armour, Hull Points, Durability, Armour Strength, and Hull Regeneration. This complex interplay of stats ensures that each battle is a test of strategy and skill.

For instance, the Kol Battleship is armed with two powerful gauss cannons, four medium autocannons, and three light autocannons. Each weapon type has its own strengths and weaknesses, making positioning and tactical decisions crucial. The gauss cannons, with their high Pierce value, are deadly against heavily defended enemy Cruisers and Capital ships but less effective against smaller, nimble ships.

Durability and Armour Strength add layers of complexity to damage reduction, while Shields can employ a Shield Burst ability for instant replenishment. This makes for dynamic battles where knowing when to engage and when to retreat can make all the difference.

[h2]Capital Ships, Titans, and Starbases[/h2]
Capital Ships, Titans, and Starbases now have a Crippled Hull state, allowing them to survive longer in battle even when their Hull Points are depleted. This forces players to make tough decisions about resource allocation during combat.

The new tooltip system in Sins II provides all these combat statistics at a glance, with additional information available by holding the Alt key. This keeps the interface clean and user-friendly, allowing players to focus on strategy.

[h2]Items and Abilities[/h2]
Capital Ship, Titan, and Starbase Items are a new addition, expanding your fleet’s repertoire of special tricks. From Radiation Bombs to Rapid Reloaders, these items add a new layer of tactical depth.

Crowd control, focused firing solutions, and area-effect buffs and debuffs transform the battlefield into a dynamic combat space requiring forethought and careful planning. The changes to weapon firing arcs, turret tracking speeds, and deployable Item systems open up a whole new dimension of tactical play.

[h2]Strategic Warfare: The Bigger Picture[/h2]
Beyond tactical combat, Sins of a Solar Empire II introduces significant improvements to strategic warfare. Ships can now be constructed directly to a fleet out on campaign, eliminating the need to manually search for a free shipyard. This feature allows for rapid fleet replenishment, while an auto-threat avoidance pathing system ensures incoming replacements avoid hostile systems.

The Selection Window makes it easier to control ships, particularly useful in multiplayer games where pausing can be limited. Defensive structures and Starbases can be rotated around the gravity well, deactivating their functionality while in transit. This feature is essential for adapting to shifting phase-lane connections and unexpected enemy attacks.

[h2]Planetary and Starbase Items[/h2]
Planetary and Starbase Items add a new dimension to strategic warfare. For example, the Traders' Garrison Recruitment Center commissions idle factories to produce an automated garrison fleet, which does not contribute to your overall Supply limit. These ships can defend colonies or roam neighboring gravity wells to clear out enemy outposts.

Other useful Planet Items increase Military Orbital Slots, weapon range, or damage in the gravity well, and summon defensive fleets. These additions make strategic planning more nuanced and rewarding.

[h2]Minor Factions[/h2]
No Sins of a Solar Empire II strategy is complete without considering the Minor Factions. In exchange for Influence points, these factions can be coerced into aiding your military efforts. Whether purchasing Scout Vision sensor data or paying the Aluxian Resurgence to hold a vulnerable flank, the Minor Factions offer invaluable support.


Sins of a Solar Empire II is a war-focused 4X game, and the changes to the eXterminate aspect of gameplay are unique to each faction. Stay tuned for future videos where we’ll cover race and sub-faction specific features, including unique ships, items, technologies, and abilities. Until then, sharpen your strategies and prepare for interstellar warfare!

Dev Journal 6 - The Vasari Kortul Devastator

The Kortul Devastator battleship class has been the backbone of the Vasari military since the days of the old empire. Within the Exodus Fleet, the Kortul still performs as a powerful sustained combat ship, but also houses many civilians as well. The Kortul’s high powered weapons are designed to make short work of armored targets and its special abilities allow it to remain in combat for a prolonged period.


[h3]Armaments[/h3]
  • 3 x Fixed Wave Cannons
  • 7 x Phase Missile Launchers
  • 6 x Beam Cannon Turrets
  • Planetary Bombardment Beam Cannon
  • Hangar Bay (1-3 squadrons)


[h3]Special Abilities[/h3]
  • Power Surge: Greatly increases the Kortul’s weapons fire rate and restores shields over time.
  • Jam Weapons: Disperses nanites in a radius around the Kortul, which causes the weapons of affected enemies to reload more slowly.
  • Disrupt Armor: Grants the Kortul’s weapons the ability to destabilize the target’s hull, applying a stacking armor penalty.
  • Volatile Nanites: Afflicts enemy forces with a film of explosive nanites. These cause increased damage when attacked by the Kortul and deal damage to nearby enemies upon the target’s death.


[h2]The Kortul can be customized for additional combat situations with the addition of special ship items:[/h2]
[h3]Optional Offensive Upgrades[/h3]
  • Nano Attack Swarm (3 uses): A swarm of nanites damage the targeted enemy and then continue to damage it over time.
  • Beam Modulator: Uses advanced modulation of the ship’s beam cannons to increase damage. Can be set to an ‘active’ state to greatly increase the damage for a time.
  • Phase Missile Augments: Customizes warhead launchers and targeting systems specifically for the Kortul, improving the damage of all phase missiles.
  • Wave Modulator: Modulates wave cannons before firing to maintain a more stable waveform. This both increases wave cannon damage and increases their fire rate.


[h3]Optional Defensive Upgrades[/h3]
  • Nano Repair Swarm: Nanites repair the hull and armor of the targeted ally unit.
  • Phase Attenuated Shield: Extends the inner edge of the Kortul’s shield into phase space, increasing the speed of shield regeneration. Also provides a large passive bonus to shield burst restore points.
  • Self-Repairing Armor: Experimental nanites are installed to enable armor regeneration while in combat and to rapidly restore armor capacity in an emergency.
  • Bomber Armor: With a limited population, keeping bomber pilots alive is a top priority for the Vasari. As such, this upgrade was developed to retrofit each bomber strikecraft with additional armor and armor strength.



[h3]Optional Utility Upgrades[/h3]
  • Nano Catalyzer Swarm (5 uses): Adds packages of energized nanites that rapidly restore antimatter to the targeted ally unit during combat.
  • Gravity Stabilizer: An advanced system upgrade that stabilizes and normalizes gravity in the vicinity of the ship, granting it greater speed and maneuverability.
  • Resonance Amplifier: Adds an onboard system that allows the ship to amplify and extend the duration of Phase Resonance effects.
  • Antimatter Recharger: Greatly improves the Kortul’s antimatter recharge rate.
  • Deploy Orkulus Starbase (1 use): Prepares an Orkulus starbase build package that can be deployed at foreign gravity wells.
  • Deploy Phase Gate (1 use): Prepares a permanent Phase Gate build package that can be deployed at foreign gravity wells.


[h3]Optional Infrastructure Upgrades[/h3]
Of course, the Vasari Exodus faction has the ability to return to a fully mobile state once the appropriate technology is unlocked. To maintain a mobile empire, all Exodus capital ships and titans have the option of hosting Infrastructure.
  • Mobile Empire Lab: Adds an onboard holding facility to sure that there are always live subjects to test genetic, social and nanotech advances on.
  • Mobile Warfare Lab: Integrates a specialized onboard lab to safely isolate high energy field tests and hostile nanite culturing.
  • Mobile Adjunct Lab: Adds onboard data relays and support labs to increase the speed of all research conducted by the Exodus Fleet.
  • Mobile Exotic Factory: Integrates an Exotic Factory into the Kortul, allowing it to forge exotic resources.
  • Mobile Rulership: Moves the capital of the Exodus faction to the Kortul. This allows the empire to survive without the need of any planets.
  • Mobile Fleet Beacon: Allows the Kortul to remotely summon all types of ships from the Dark Fleet to its location.
  • Mobile Resonance Capacitor: Permanently integrates a Phase Resonance capacitor into the Kortul, storing it for as long as it survives.