Differences between Alliance and Federation?

[Ducimus]

Can someone explain to me the differences between the two factions? I've always just started as Alliance because it's pretty much the first selection to choose, however after glossing over some of the backstory on Seejay's website today, only now do I know that Alliance is short for "Terran Alliance". (which totally does not bring back memories of playing Planetside 1, but thats another topic entirely)

So having read up a little, I kind of wish this was explained a bit more in game, and I find myself filled with a lot of questions. Such as:

- Why are Alliance and Federation frames are the way they are in terms of specifications?

- Speaking of Federation, what is the full name of this faction again?

- In terms of gameplay style, (miner/trader, explorer, combat), which faction suits which gameplay style the best? Right now im mining like crazy to kit out for some serious exploration, while only dabbling in combat.

- Which is the harder of the two factions to play, and why? (im going to guess federation is harder)

- Are the military ship frames the same for both factions?

- Why can I buy Federation ship frames as an Alliance pilot? It doesn't seem like the tech of the enemy faction should be widely available to me. Silly thought I know.


I guess ill start a Federation pilot and see if anything stands out to me, but if someone could explain it all i'd appreciate it.

[Marvin]

So having read up a little, I kind of wish this was explained a bit more in game, and I find myself filled with a lot of questions. Such as:

- Why are Alliance and Federation frames are the way they are in terms of specifications?

The differences are displayed when you're making changes in the shipyard. For example, when selecting the Pheonix frame, you'll get the following description:

The Phoenix class frame is a revised version of the
Raptor, offering a wider, but shorter structure with
more assembly resources and armor. These improvements
are available with a minimal reduction in agility.
Most mercenaries who prefer the advantages of the Raptor
frame choose the Phoenix as the best version.

- Speaking of Federation, what is the full name of this faction again?

I'll pass on that one. Maybe it's explained in the second of the first two quests ... but that's just a guess.

- In terms of gameplay style, (miner/trader, explorer, combat), which faction suits which gameplay style the best? Right now im mining like crazy to kit out for some serious exploration, while only dabbling in combat.

The style is pretty much the same. One of the main differences is in where you can dock. If you like Earth then it's an easier play if you're on the side of the Alliance.

- Which is the harder of the two factions to play, and why? (im going to guess federation is harder)

At the get-go, Alliance pilots have a greater number of resources due to the size of the Pearl system ... and the close proximity of its many planets.

- Are the military ship frames the same for both factions?

Yes. The Federation already had the specifications and a few captured capital ships to work with. Making any major changes would've cost too much in time and money.

- Why can I buy Federation ship frames as an Alliance pilot? It doesn't seem like the tech of the enemy faction should be widely available to me. Silly thought I know.

Both sides have the specifications for the other side's ships. Although you must choose between one faction or the other, the galaxy is filled with rogue AI who sell most anything to the highest bidder ... just approach an AI and ask. You'll see.

[matchbox2022]

You can flip flop sides on MP servers, making it easy to see both.

I have found in building my jack of trades ship...

Alliance generally have more frame config and assembly points.

BUT for the same mass, a federation ship will be more maneuverable.

So a fed ship the next "level" up in size, will have the maneuvering of an alliance ship the next level down....which personally I've seen as an advantage.

Also, the fed ships basic frame, has the same maneuverability as some military fighters with no upgrades!

Now if only I could put tie fighter wings on a ship

That said I REALLY wish we could change the look of military ships.....at the LEAAAAST change their bloody paint colour.

[Edited on 3-12-2016 by matchbox2022]