I generally start with the first research options on the left side of the tree to unlock some food resources to help grow the incoming settlements. Beyond that I become a bit overwhelmed, because of the awesome research the Sophons have. I lose my focus and generally end up researching everything without going too deep in to any one tree.



I've had issues in most games of over-expanding and getting crushed under all the unhappiness. In my most recent game, I've forgone all weapon/defense research save a few in to missiles, and have focused on bouncing back and forth between the other three trees. It's on easy, and I'm currently in 2nd while having established an alliance with three other races and no ships of my own to speak of save one GIGA class "observer" as I called it, basically a giant sensor ship to scout for me. I'm at peace with everyone but the Sowers and that is only because they started next to me and my influence has engulfed the better part of their entire empire. Coupled with my alliance, they aren't too happy with me anymore.



Anyways, which path do you Sophon players generally follow. Does it change depending on situations? Which situations dictate which path or research item to take and when? What are some of the "go to" techs you prioritize over others, and why are you prioritizing them?



Thanks in advance!



Upon thinking on it more, I myself have a couple of "go to" techs that I guess I would prioritize. The larger ship frames, the happiness techs, the resource revealing techs, but I feel like every race would prioritize these techs when they get close enough to them.

Well, I mostly research the "lower" / "southern" tree, providing help for the happiness issues

Production/Science increases > Food/Dust increases > Expansion Technologies > Everything else.



As a rule of thumb, if it takes 1 turn to research, queue it up. There aren't a ton of things you need to beeline for. The rest is down to your current situation and needs.

Are there any general guides on how to play early game, with Sophons or anyone else?



I started my first game a couple days ago with the Sophons, and I've gotten so bogged down with ship construction (pirates and enemies all around) for defense, followed by Dust production to maintain said ships that I'm not getting any damn research done. I've divided research pretty evenly around the trees but I guess that's the wrong way to go. Tips?

I can't really sum it up in more details than I already did in this endless space strategy guide. I suggest you have a read of the 'Early' and 'Mid' game sections