recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Looking God in the Eye

**Looking God in the Eye** is one of the fictional publications quoted in the game.

It is authored by Chairman Sheng-ji Yang.

## Fragments

[...]
*Einstein would turn over in his grave. Not only does God play dice, the dice are loaded.*
[...]
*Why do you insist that the human genetic code is "sacred" or "taboo"? It is a chemical process and nothing more. For that matter -we- are chemical processes and nothing more. If you deny yourself a useful tool simply because it reminds you uncomfortably of your mortality, you have uselessly and pointlessly crippled yourself.*
[...]
*If our society seems more nihilistic than that of previous eras, perhaps this is simply a sign of our maturity as a sentient species. As our collective consciousness expands beyond a crucial point, we are at last ready to accept life's fundamental truth: that life's only purpose is life itself.*
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Centauri Ecology

"A Comparative Biology of Planet"

**Centauri Ecology** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Finding adequate sources of nutrients, energy, and minerals is the most immediate problem facing the colonists after Planetfall. An understanding of the basics of Centauri Ecology provides the new arrivals with the tools they need to begin shaping the world around them-how plants grow, what geological structures exist, and how natural energy sources may be exploited on Planet.
Ecology

As humans or Progenitors expand and build bases on Planet, they inevitably begin
to cause **ecological damage**. Ecological damage can provoke the native
life forms and cause other unexpected effects, such as a 20 turn bout of global warming that causes sea levels to rise by as much as 333 feet.

## Managing damage

The more mines, solar collectors, roads,
and farmss (but not forests,
which actually help the ecology) you build, the more the potential
damage. Thermal boreholes, Echelon mirrors, and Condensers cause even greater damage. You can
reduce or eliminate this type of damage by building Tree Farm
and Hybrid Forest facilities.

As your industrial output (minerals) increases, ecological damage
will also take place. This effect can be reduced by building the
Centauri Preserve, Temple of Planet,
and Nanoreplicator
facilities.

## Precise formula

The ecological damage formula is complex:

1. For each base total the number of Mines, solar collectors, farms, soil enrichers, roads, mag tubes, Condensers, echelon mirrors, and thermal boreholes. Items in squares which are actually being worked count double.
2. Add an extra +8 for each Borehole, +6 for each Mirror, and +4 for each Condenser.
3. Subract 1 for each Forest.
4. Halve if base has Tree Farm, and Eliminate if also has Hybrid Forest.
5. Divide this value by 8, and reduce by up to 16 plus number of previous damages. Set this number aside.
6. Take the number of minerals produced this turn (but not from Orbit)
7. If result from 5 was reduced by less than 16+#, reduce result 6 by remaining amount.
8. Divide minerals by 1 plus number of Centauri Preserve, Temple of Planet, and Nanoreplicator facilities.
9. Sum the values of (5) and (8), and add +5 for each major atrocity.
10. If Alpha Prime is at perihelion (20 years out of every 80), double your value.

Take the resulting number and compute:

*Ecology% = (ValueFromStep10) \* Difficulty \* Technologies \* (3-PLANET) \* LIFE / 300*
* Difficulty = Normally 3, but 5 on two highest two difficulty levels.
* Technologies = Number of technologies discovered
* PLANET = Social Engineering PLANET value
* LIFE = Native life level (1-3) from Custom Start
Mind worms

**Mind worms** is one of the in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

Mind Worms can appear suddenly, and are closely associated with fungus.
Mind Worms and other alien creatures can engage in Psi Combat, in which weapon and armor strengths are ignored, and the attacker is given a 3 to 2 advantage on land. Morale level is quite important in defending against Mind Worms and other alien units.
With proper breeding and bonding techniques, Mind Worms can also be bred in captivity and controlled by skilled brood trainers. These Mind Worm boils can be used to attack enemy units using Psi Combat, thus bypassing enemy advantages in weapon and armor technology. Biology Labs and other facilities can increase the strength of captivity-bred Mind Worm boils. Like any native unit, players can also release Mind Worms into the wild, to harass and disrupt an enemy.
Probing

**Probing** is *Centauri*'s term for espionage. Once you research Planetary Networks and the requisite probe team gear, you can send probe teams against enemy factions.

## Operations

Probe teams are used against enemy units and bases by coming into direct combat with them. Land and sea chassis types can carry gear and use it with the exact same efficiency. During an operation, probe teams can either make a clean getaway or try to blame another faction leader (with various rates of success).

Against units, probe teams can try to bypass security interlocks and seize control of it.

Against bases, the catalog of options is far greater and includes:

* Stealing credits.
* Destroying base facilities (with a specific or random target).
* Stealing technologies.
* Assassinating researchers (wiping out research progress towards the next milestone).
* Wiping out the population with gene warfare (atrocity).
* Mind-control the base at a significant energy cost.

## Defense

Defending against enemy probing attacks can be either passive or active. Active defense is physically seeking out enemy probe teams and wiping them out in direct combat. Since probe teams carry no flags, they can be attacked with impunity.

Passive include garrisoning probe teams in vulnerable frontier bases (they act as garrisoned troops and engage enemies in combat), increasing your PROBE rating in social engineering (reducing enemy success rate), or investing in the Hunter-Seeker Algorithm secret project that makes you invulnerable to probing.

Repeated probing attacks in the same turn against the same target are ill-advised, as they carry a major probing penalty.
Golden Age

A **Golden Age** is a special bonus received by bases, in the form of +1 to Economy and +2 to Growth (see social engineering for precise effects).

The requirements are:

1. No Drones.
2. The number of Talents must be equal or greater than the sum of regular workers and specialists.

The Golden Age ends on the first turn after any of the above conditions are no longer true.
Centauri Psi

"Mind Worm, Mind Worm"

**Centauri Psi** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Centauri Genetics (E6) and Advanced Ecological Engineering (B10) revealed the physical composition of native life forms, but did not explain the mysterious and terrifying psionic attacks these creatures employ. Unlocking the mechanics of this directed, psychic assault requires intense investigation of Centauri Psi—the method used by the Mind Worms to communicate and co-ordinate their assaults.
Controlled Singularity

"But for the Grace of God"

**Controlled Singularity** is a Conquer technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

As engineers quickly discovered, it’s one thing to understand Singularity Mechanics (D12) and another thing entirely to attempt Controlled Singularity—harnessing and directing the powers of a black hole. Breakthroughs in Applied Gravitronics (E14) finally make this technology possible, with a host of amazing and potent applications, from radical new types of weaponry to global power sources.
Sealurk

**Sealurk** is one of the in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Description

Sealurks haunt the fungal patches and ocean depths of Planet's seas. As opposed to the
less aggressive Isle of the Deep, the Sealurks seek out and attack
ocean and coastal bases. They may also lie in wait for
easy prey, catching unwary ships that travel too close to fungus. When immobile,
these creatures are extremely hard to detect until they begin their attack.
Sealurks can engage in Psi Combat when attacked,
in which weapon and armor strengths are ignored.
Morale level is quite important when attacking Sealurks.
With proper breeding and bonding techniques, Sealurks can
also be bred in captivity and controlled by skilled brood trainers.
Like any native unit, players can also release Sealurks into the wild, to harass and
disrupt an enemy.
Doctrine: Loyalty

"The Prince", Datalinks

**Doctrine: Loyalty** is a Conquer technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Doctrine: Mobility (E1) proved a sound dogma for the early years on Planet. However, as the struggle for survival against native Mind Worms and rival factions intensifies, many younger officers repudiate the old guard’s emphasis on Mobility as the dominant military policy. Based also on the revelations of Social Psych (B1), the new Doctrine: Loyalty stresses extensive training, defensive facilities, and zealous dedication to faction leaders as the foundation for survival and success in combat. Doctrine: Loyalty emphasizes a two-way fealty—soldiers are expected to lay down their lives without question, but in return they receive respect, power, and positions of authority in the new social hierarchy.
Alpha Centauri Wiki/Section 1

Welcome to the Alpha Centauri WikiWelcome to the Alpha Centauri Wiki
The Alpha Centauri reference written and maintained by the players.
Please feel free to contribute by creating new articles or expanding on existing ones.

We are currently maintaining 2,152 pages (465 articles).

Spotlight: Alpha Centauri
*Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri* and its expansion, *Alien Crossfire*, require no introductions. Commonly considered to be one of the definitive 4X games, the combination of harder science-fiction with refined mechanics drawing on the experiences of *Civilization II* make it one of the must-play titles for any self-respecting strategy gamer.

*SMAC* is currently available on GOG.com, bundled with its expansion as the Planetary Pack!
Frictionless Surfaces

Morgan Industries Researcher

**Frictionless Surfaces** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Discovery of the Unified Field Theory (D10) allowed scientists to alter the fundamental properties of matter itself. The discovery of Frictionless Surfaces proves the most useful application of these iques. As the name implies, Frictionless Surfaces consist of materials that remain unaffected by friction, a force that slows down motion by changing kinetic energy into heat energy. Moving objects made of these materials do not slow down as they come into contact with other matter.
Battle Ogre Mk2

**Battle Ogre Mk2** is one of the Relic units in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Description

Battle Ogres are rare, mechanical remnants of the first [[Progenitor=47> era on Planet.
Several different types of Ogres may be found, each with advanced equipment and
powers. Unfortunately, the convoluted engineering of these units makes it impossible
for them to be repaired even by Progenitor technicians; any damage taken is permanent.
The Battle Ogre Mk2 possesses a Resonance Bolt,
Resonance 8 Armor, and a Fusion Reactor. Its awesome size and fearsome appearance also
help quell drone activity, effectively doubling the police powers of the Ogre. The
Progenitors also built the Mk2 Ogre with the Dissociative Wave special ability.
Fusion Power

"The Science of Our Fathers"

**Fusion Power** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

An extremely clean, powerful, and efficient source of energy, Fusion Power was known on Earth for decades as the reaction that powered the stars. However, scientists could not control the huge magnitude of released energy, so the only practical application for Fusion Power was in bombs of enormous destructive power. With the advent of Superconductors (C4), and by using Pre-sentient Algorithms (D5) to monitor and control the released energy, future scientists finally have access to cheap, abundant, and reusable power.
Probe team

* Human
* Progenitor

**Probe team** is one of the pre-made units in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

* Probe teams can infiltrate and subvert enemy bases and units. They can also steal enemy research information, sabotage base facilities, assassinate key enemy personnel, and conduct genetic warfare.
* Move a probe team up to an enemy base or unit to engage its powers. Probe teams are considered "pirate" units, in that their affiliation is not revealed until attacked or captured.
* Probe teams can also defend your bases against their enemy counterparts. If a probe team is present in a square when an enemy probe team tries to enter, a combat is resolved between them. The probe team with the highest morale level usually wins.
* Probe teams often receive morale increases when they complete missions successfully. The higher a probe team's morale level, the more likely it is to survive increasingly more complex missions.
Graviton Theory

"For I Have Tasted The Fruit"

**Graviton Theory** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Quantum Machinery (D12) and Mind\Machine Interface (B6) pave the way for an understanding of gravity-the weakest fundamental force in the universe, but one that acts at infinite distances. With Graviton Theory, physicists can detect and measure the long-predicted gravitons-particle strings that ‘carry’ gravitational force.
Nessus mining station

Minerals bonus is halved for bases without Aerospace Complexes, and cannot in any event exceed the size of the base

### Cost

120

Bleak House, Datalinks

**Nessus Mining Station** is a base facility in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Effect

Each Nessus Mining Station increases the minerals output of every base by +1
Can only be produced by bases with Aerospace Complexes
Minerals bonus is halved for bases without Aerospace Complexes, and cannot in any event exceed the size of the base
Advanced Military Algorithms

"Planet: A Survivalist's Guide"

**Advanced Military Algorithms** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Military requirements have historically pushed technology forward, and no better example can be found than sophisticated software development. From the first computers, designed to calculate artillery shell trajectories, to Advanced Military Algorithms developed from Adaptive Doctrine (C3) and Optical Computers (D3), mankind has worked to extend warfare into the digital world.
Nerve gas pods

**Nerve gas pods** is one of the special abilities in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

Faction leaders willing to commit atrocities can equip their combat units with **Nerve Gas Pods.** Units so equipped can employ these pods to gain a +50% attack bonus. If employed against a populated area, Nerve Gas Pods will cause significant civilian casualties.
Battle Ogre Mk1

**Battle Ogre Mk1** is one of the Relic units in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Description

Battle Ogres are rare, mechanical remnants of the first Progenitor era on Planet.
Several different types of Ogres may be found, each with advanced equipment and
powers. Unfortunately, the convoluted engineering of these units makes it impossible
for them to be repaired even by Progenitor technicians; any damage taken is permanent.
The Battle Ogre Mk1 possesses a Resonance Laser, Resonance 3 Armor, and
a Fission Reactor. Its awesome size and fearsome appearance also help quell
drone activity, effectively doubling the police powers of the Ogre.
Missile payloads

**Payloads** determine the effect of your missiles.

## List of equipment

* Fission: **9**
* Fusion: **18**
* Quantum: **27**
* Singularity: **36**"
 Planet buster |  Orbital Spaceflight | Destroys everything in a radius equal to the reactors rating powering it.
 Tectonic payload |  N-Space Compression | A Tectonic Missile detonation causes an earthquake that raises the target terrain by 1-4
level of altitude, depending on the reactor type. A Fission reactor raises the terrain one level,
a Singularity reactor up to four levels. Tectonic missiles are considered
delivery platforms instead of combat units, and so may not target bases or units.
 Fungal payload |  N-Space Compression | A Fungal Missile detonation destroys any improvements in the square. Additionally, the
detonation covers 1-4 squares of terrain with fungus, depending on the reactor type. A Fission
reactor covers one square, a Singularity reactor four squares. The detonation may also trigger
native life forms from dormant spores. Fungal Missiles are considered
delivery platforms instead of combat units, and so may not target bases or units.
Alpha Centauri Wiki

Welcome to the Alpha Centauri WikiWelcome to the Alpha Centauri Wiki
The Alpha Centauri reference written and maintained by the players.
Please feel free to contribute by creating new articles or expanding on existing ones.

We are currently maintaining 2,152 pages (465 articles).

Spotlight: Alpha Centauri
*Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri* and its expansion, *Alien Crossfire*, require no introductions. Commonly considered to be one of the definitive 4X games, the combination of harder science-fiction with refined mechanics drawing on the experiences of *Civilization II* make it one of the must-play titles for any self-respecting strategy gamer.

*SMAC* is currently available on GOG.com, bundled with its expansion as the Planetary Pack!

Colonization Basics

Difficulty levels

Customizing the map

Campaign rules

* Humans
* Progenitors
* Victory

* Terrain
* Native life
* Xenofungus
* Ecology
* Random events
* Unity pods

Colonial Management

* Nutrients
* Minerals
* Energy

* Citizens
* Talents
* Drones
* Facilities
* Secret Projects
* Terraforming

* Governors
* Social engineering
* Energy allocation
* Research
* Technology tree

Politics and Warfare

* Units
* Morale
* Chassis types
* Reactors
* Weapons and equipment
* Armor
* Special abilities
* Probe teams

* Treatty
* Pact
* Commerce
* Vendettas
* Council
* Pl. Governor

Setting

Characters

UNS Unity

Earth

Publications

Game script

Wiki Community
We are currently maintaining 2,152 pages (465 articles)!

Recent changes | New pages | Missing pages

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Videos

Main page sections: 1 · 2 · 3 · 4. Changes for the main page can be proposed here.
Factions

**Factions** are selected by you to lead towards a glorious victory on the planet. Or ignoble extinction, depending on the circumstances.

## Human factions

The human factions of Planet are not divided by race, language or place of
ancestral origin. Instead, each faction is guided by the vision of its leader.
These visions, in turn, give each faction a unique set of advantages and disadvantages.
By comparing the strengths
of your
faction to the parameters
of
a
customized
planet, you
can either give
yourself
an edge against
the other
factions,
or set yourself
a unique challenge to overcome.

Human factions enjoy the full *Alpha Centauri* experience with full diplomacy, including the Planetary Council and all Victory options.

## Progenitor factions

The Progenitors are a highly advanced race of starfaring creatures, whose technological
sophistication is evident in the artifacts and monoliths they left behind on Planet.
Research into these structures, or direct contact with the Progenitors should they return, can
yield new technologies, weapons, and base facilities.

In recent millenia, the Progenitors have split into two warring camps: the Manifold Caretakers and the Manifold Usurpers. These factions conflict over
the uses of the Manifolds, which include Planet. The Caretakers wish to leave
the Manifolds in their original, pristine state, while the Usurpers wish to initiate and
control an Ascent to Transcendence. If either faction is successful in their
quest, it most likely means an end to humanity's presence on Planet.

Progenitors cannot join the Planetary Council and need to be exterminated if a human faction pursues the Diplomatic victory.

* Possess a physical scan of Planet's surface
* "Energy Grid" at each base: Increased infrastructure generates additional energy
* All prototyped combat units have 2-square sighting radius ("Resonance" sensitivity)
 Manifold Usurpers | Progenitor Psych, Centauri Ecology, Field Modulation, Applied Physics, Biogenetics | * +1 GROWTH: Abuse Planet's resources for their own gain
* +1 MORALE: Warlike culture
* -1 PLANET: Planet senses Usurper's dark intent
* Possess a physical scan of Planet's surface
* "Energy Grid" at each base: Increased infrastructure generates additional energy
* +25% Offensive combat: Can sense & manipulate "Resonance" fields
* All prototyped combat units have 2-square sighting radius ("Resonance" sensitivity)

## Behind the scenes

Some of the factions had early names and logos. These are broken below:
Polymorphic Software

"Looking God in the Eye"

**Polymorphic Software** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

On Earth, only theoretical mathematicians and entertainment software programmers used Polymorphic Software—self-modifying code—to any success. On Planet, the requirements of the budding Industrial Base (B1) and Information Networks (D1) spur widespread development of neural net applications that rewrite themselves in response to data inputs.
Planet: A Survivalist's Guide

**Planet: A Survivalist's Guide** is one of the fictional publications quoted in the game.

It is authored by Colonel Corazon Santiago .

## Fragments

[...]
*Proper care and education for our children remains a cornerstone of our entire colonization effort. Children not only shape our future; they determine in many ways our present. Men and women work harder knowing their children are safe and close at hand. And never forget that, with children present, parents will defend their home to the death.*
[...]
*It is altogether fitting that we who have sailed the deeps of space now return again to the sea. This is in many ways a water planet, and it can be ruled from the waves. With sea power, rugged terrain can be bypassed and enemy strongholds isolated. Once naval superiority is achieved, Planet is ours for the taking.*
[...]
*I have often been asked: if we have traveled between the stars, why can we not launch the simplest of orbital probes? These fools fail to understand the difficulty of finding the appropriate materials on this Planet, of developing adequate power supplies, and creating the infrastructure necessary to support such an effort. In short, we have struggled under the limitations of a colonial society on a virgin planet. Until now.*
[...]
*Industrial Grade Nano-Paste, Planet's most valuable commodity, can also be one of its most dangerous. Simply pour out several canisters, slide in a programming transponder, and step well away while the stuff cooks. In under an hour the nano will use available materials to assemble a small factory, a hovertank, or enough impact rifles to equip a regiment.*
TECH77
Industrial Base

"The Ethics of Greed"

**Industrial Base** is a Build technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

The first colonies lack any kind of factories or heavy industry, so the creation of an Industrial Base becomes a high priority for economic growth. This Industrial Base emphasizes small-scale manufacturing with primitive assembly lines and simple currency instruments.
Genejack factory

## Function

### Effects

Increases minerals output at base by 50%, but also increases the number of Drones at base by one and increases vulnerability to enemy mind control
Cumulative with all other facilities of this type

### Maintenance

2

"Essays on Mind and Matter"

**Genejack Factory** is a base facility in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Effect

Increases minerals output at base by 50%, but also increases the number of Drones at base by one and increases vulnerability to enemy mind control
Cumulative with all other facilities of this type
Nessus

**Nessus**, the outer moon of Chiron, has about 1/2 the diameter and 9% the mass of Earth's moon. Its orbit is also nearly circular, with a radius of about 124,000 miles. Its synodic month is 10.6 local days, and there are 50 such months in a local year. Nessus is relatively bright, with several large craters associated with "rays" of reflective dust.

The orbits of Nessus and Pholus fall in the same plane, and the orbital radius of Nessus is almost exactly twice that of Pholus. As a result, the two moons appear to be roughly the same size from the surface of Chiron, each a little smaller than the Moon once appeared in Earth's sky. Each moon partially eclipses Alpha Centauri A from time to time (they are too small to cover the sun's disk entirely). Far more frequent are lunar eclipses, in which one or the other moon moves through Chiron's shadow. Even more frequent are the occasions on which Pholus passes in front of Nessus from the point of view of observers on Chiron.
Monopole Magnets

"Essays on Mind and Matter"

**Monopole Magnets** is a Build technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Magnetism, like electricity and gravity, is one of the fundamental forces of the universe. Prior to research in Superstring Theory (C5) and Silksteel Alloys (E4), all known magnets were dipolar, with a north and a south pole. Development of a Monopole Magnet permits radical new applications for science and industry.
Photon/Wave Mechanics

"Now We Are Alone"

**Photon/Wave Mechanics** is a Build technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Physicists had puzzled over the mystery of light for centuries: Why does light exhibit properties characteristic of both a wave and a particle? In 1924, Prince Louis-Victor de Broglie, a French scientist, proved that all particles actually possess a wave aspect, which explained how light can act as a wave even though it does consist of particles, called photons. Following breakthroughs in Silksteel Alloys (E4) and Applied Relativity (D5), subsequent scientific inquiry focuses on the manipulation of Photon\Wave Mechanics so that light, even powerful laser beams or intense solar emissions, can be diffused and warped as needed.
Pholus

**Pholus** is the inner moon of Chiron, with about 1/5 the diameter and 1% the mass of Earth ' s moon. Its orbit is almost a perfect circle, with a radius of about 60,000 miles. Its synodic month (the period from one full moon to the next) is 3.7 local days, and there are 144 such months in the course of Chiron's year. Pholus is a battered-looking moon, gray and cratered, which moves visibly against the background stars.

The orbits of Nessus and Pholus fall in the same plane, and the orbital radius of Nessus is almost exactly twice that of Pholus. As a result, the two moons appear to be roughly the same size from the surface of Chiron, each a little smaller than the Moon once appeared in Earth's sky. Each moon partially eclipses Alpha Centauri A from time to time (they are too small to cover the sun's disk entirely). Far more frequent are lunar eclipses, in which one or the other moon moves through Chiron's shadow. Even more frequent are the occasions on which Pholus passes in front of Nessus from the point of view of observers on Chiron.
Quantum Machinery

"We Must Dissent"

**Quantum Machinery** is a Build technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

The discovery of Quantum Power (B11) ushers in a new industrial revolution. In factories across Planet, tiny Quantum Machinery built using Nanometallurgy (E8) techniques provide amazingly powerful and efficient labor for every imaginable type of production and service.
N-Space Compression

"Secret : Space"

**N-Space Compression** is a Conquer technology in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Background

N-Space Compression is a Progenitor term that loosely translates as "The shortest distance between two points is always 0, because any two points in our perceivable space are actually contiguous in some other universe, postulating infinity." Compression simply brings things that appear to be in one place (such as a bulky missile payload) to another place (such as a missile warhead) at will (such as only at a time just prior to detonation). This technology is based on an understanding of Orbital Spaceflight (D6) and Biomachinery (B7).
Brood pit

## Function

### Effects

+1 lifecycle bonus to native units built here
-25% cost of alien units
Negative LIFECYCLE effects cancelled in base square
Base also receives a +2 POLICE rating

### Maintenance

2

"The Shadow Resonance"

**Brood Pit** is a base facility in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Effect

+1 lifecycle bonus to native units built here
-25% cost of alien units
Negative LIFECYCLE effects cancelled in base square
Base also receives a +2 POLICE rating
Matter Compression

Top Secret Report

**Matter Compression** is a Conquer technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Breakthroughs in Nanominiaturization (B8) and Nanometallurgy (E8) lead to complex Matter Compression techniques. Using these techniques, scientists can create materials as dense as the inside of a star, with significant military and industrial applications.
Fungal tower

## Properties

### Movement

Immobile

**Fungal tower** is one of the in *Alien Crossfire*.

## Description

These occur randomly wherever native life might be
found. They are immobile and fight using PSI combat, as all native life
forms. They may add a fungus square to an empty space around them. If
all squares around them become fungus, they may start generating mindworms
or spore launchers.
Information Networks

"The Blessed Struggle"

**Information Networks** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Survival equipment from the Unity contained a variety of computers purpose-built for the needs of a frontier society. However, they must first be connected into Information Networks before scientists can utilize their power.
Neural Grafting

"Man and Machine"

**Neural Grafting** is a Conquer technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

The insatiable drive for efficiency spawned by Industrial Automation (B3) drives the development of Neural Grafting. This new technology, based on Secrets of the Human Brain (D2), allows attachment of digital circuitry directly to the neural cortex. With these implants, individuals willing to undergo Neural Grafting can enhance many aspects of their physical being, from heightened senses to faster reaction times.
Our Secret War

**Our Secret War** is one of the fictional publications quoted in the game.

It is authored by Lady Deirdre Skye.

## Fragments

*As the writhing, teeming mass of Mind Worms swarmed over the outer perimeter, we saw the defenders recoil in horror. "Stay calm! Use your flame guns!" shouted the commander, but to no avail. It is well known that the Mind Worm Boil uses psychic terror to paralyze its prey, and then carefully implants ravenous larvae in the brains of its still-conscious victims. Even with the best weapons, only the most disciplined troops can resist this horrific attack.*
[...]
*Symbols are the key to telepathy. The mind wraps its secrets in symbols; when we discover the symbols that shape our enemy's thought, we can penetrate the vault of his mind.*
[...]
*As we approached we were confronted by the ruined splendor of Sparta Command. The true immensity of the place became instantly apparent as our Quantum Tank crunched over the rubble and parked next to a shattered bunker, but the extent of the destruction took weeks to assess. The shielded datacore had sustained several massive breaches and smoke still billowed from the numerous cannon ports. There were few signs of human life.*
Manifold Nexus

The **Manifold Nexus** is a landmark in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

A cluster of mysterious ancient ruins, the Manifold Nexus eventually proved to be the central communications point for all of the alien engineering projects on Planet; in effect, a control center for Planetary intelligence.

## Effect

* +1 Planet rating if in faction territory when playing as humans.
* +1 to Planet *and* Research, if playing as either Progenitor faction.

## Interlude

The ‘speeder trip to the alien building is alternately dry, dusty, wet, and nerve-wracking--and an awfully long way to come to view a long-dead temple--but your assistant was quite adamant that you view the ruins for yourself.

At least the building is spectacular and interesting-looking; formed from rock and metal, it looks quite unlike any other alien structure you’ve found so far, and quite unlike any human structure as well. The most prominent features are the rippled carvings covering the outer walls, especially around the entranceway.

Inside, the motif continues: the walls are covered with grooves of various depths and patterns. Some portions of the wall are bare; most are decorated.

"A temple?" You say aloud. "Votive carvings? They almost look like depictions of sound or radio waves."

Your assistant gives you an admiring look.

"Very close, $TITLE0. They’re not [depictions] of sound waves, though--they [are] sound waves. The carvings distort the localized air patterns--the sounds--in specific ways. Once we realized what they were, we were able to do some crude translation."

"Fascinating." You run your fingers over a rough stone surface, trying to imagine what it might ‘mean’. "So what do they say?"

"Keep in mind that this is rough computer decryption, $TITLE0. Very rough. For example, that far wall there with the concentric rings: we believe that it's a command center of some kind. The grooves around it cause most of the sound in the room to be focussed on that area, giving it dominance."

"And you’re assuming this is a language rather than a simple functionality."

"It’s essentially the same thing, $TITLE0. Language is a way to convey abstract thoughts and ideas in a concrete fashion. Here, the function is to concentrate information from..." He trails off.

"From where?"

"From...elsewhere, $TITLE0. We’re not sure."

"Can't we trace back the pathways to discover their source?"

"Not exactly, $TITLE0. Some of the pathways come from Planet itself--specifically from large fungal masses. The emanations have given us a greater understanding of the Planetary fungal cycle, which is a nice side-benefit. But some pathways come from outer space, $TITLE0. We have no idea where. Or why."
Research

**Research** is the essence of survival in *Alpha Centauri*, allowing you to unlock new facilities, secret projects, weapons and armor for units and more.

## Researching

* Every turn your faction generates a number of research points, multiplied by your current Research indicator up to a maximum of +50%.
* The number of research points depends on the number of research facilities you have built, Specialists working at your bases, technologies, and secret projects.
* These research points are accumulated towards unlocking new techs. Depending on the setting (Blind Research or not), you either unlock a random technology influenced by the chosen focus (Discover, Explore, Conquer, or Build) or the selected technology. Progenitor factors rediscover technologies and have a natural advantage if the default blind setting is selected.
Morale

**Morale** reflects the training and experience of your military units.

## Levels

A unit receives a +12.5% combat bonus for each morale level. Morale plays
a particularly important role in psi combat, and in combat between probe teams,
since no weapon and armor values are considered in those cases. Morale levels are:

* Very Green
* Green
* Disciplined
* Hardened
* Veteran
* Commando
* Elite

Elite units receive a special bonus--an additional move each turn.

Alien units such as Mind Worms have life cycles which correspond to morale
levels. Alien units are not affected by Command Centers and military facilities,
but their life cycle levels can be improved by building Biology Labs and other
similar facilities. The transport capacity of an Isle of the Deep is determined
by its life cycle level: one unit for each level.

The alien lifecycles are:

* Hatchling
* Larval Mass
* Pre-Boil
* Boil
* Mature Boil
* Great Boil
* Demon Boil

## Training

New units typically begin with Green morale, though this may be higher or lower
depending on your social engineering morale setting. A new unit's morale can also
be increased if a base has a Command Center or other related facility.

A unit victorious in combat will often receive a morale upgrade (the lower its
morale level, the more likely an upgrade).

A unit with a "+" sign after its morale possesses a combat bonus from its location in a base with a
Children's Creche.
Punishment sphere

## Function

### Effects

Eliminates both Drones and Talents at this base, and decreases vulnerability to enemy mind control, but reduces labs output by half

### Maintenance

2

"The Music of the Spheres"

**Punishment Sphere** is a base facility in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Effect

Eliminates both Drones and Talents at this base, and decreases vulnerability to enemy mind control, but reduces labs output by half.

## Strategy

Very effective in social engineering situations with negative POLICE rankings, especially at bases geared towards manufacturing, rather than research.
Needlejet

* Render
* Icon

**Needlejet** is one of the chassis types in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

Needlejets, the signature aircraft of the 23rd century, appear in Planet's skies once Planet's growing industries begin producing high grade jet fuel in sufficient quantities. Powerful, but limited in range, Needlejets can be used to defend the skies, project air power, and explore Planet.
Needlejets must return to a friendly base or airbase every other turn for refueling.
Monolith

**Monoliths** are mysterious and unexplained alien devices discovered on Planet.

## Description

Here and there about Planet, the
colonists found monoliths standing alone
in the wilderness. Each monolith was a
four-sided obelisk, just under 40 feet in
height, surrounded by a low circular
wall with a single gap for easy access.
Wall and obelisk were both apparently
made of stone and covered with carvings
in the Progenitor language.
Surprisingly, these "stone" artifacts
were millions of years old, and had
somehow avoided damage due to
weathering or earthquake during that
time.

At first, the colonists assumed that the
monoliths were simple markers. They
soon found that people and machinery
which lingered in the vicinity of a
monolith were somehow improved.
Damaged machinery was repaired.
Undamaged machinery began to work
with greater efficiency or effect. Even
human beings who
spent a few days within a monolith's
wall found themselves stronger,
healthier, and thinking more clearly
and with greater force of will. After
centuries of study, the colonists
discovered that the mechanism for
these effects was a local manipulation
of probability
fields.
Visitors
were
benefiting
from
a
kind
of
"retroactive
luck"
that
could
improve
their
situation
in
a variety
of
ways.

## Effect

* A monolith will increase a unit's morale (or life cycle) one level, but an individual

unit can receive only one monolith upgrade (hint: consider saving your upgrade for
those hard-to-get promotions from Commando to Elite).

* A monolith will also completely repair any damaged unit; this can be done any

number of times, even if a unit has already received a morale upgrade from a
monolith.

* Monolith squares can also be tapped for resources, and will produce

2 of each resourcesrperh turn
Locusts of Chiron

**Locusts of Chiron** is one of the in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

Planet's fiercest avatars, the Locusts of Chiron are a ravenous winged variation the land-bound Mind Worms. The appearance of Locusts signifies considerable distress on the part of the originating neural net fungus.
Like any native unit, players can also release Locusts into the wild, to harass and disrupt an enemy.
Pre-Sentient Algorithms

"The Feedback Principle"

**Pre-Sentient Algorithms** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

The philosophy of Cyberethics (B4) and the technology of Advanced Military Algorithms (E3) pave the way for development of Pre-sentient Algorithms. These open-ended neural net programs can sort and process exebytes of data, ‘learning’ as they do so and adapting to the world they observe.
Robotic assembly plant

## Function

### Effects

Increases minerals output at base by 50%
Cumulative with all other facilities of this type

### Maintenance

4

Captain said to big old John Henry,
That old drill keeps a-coming around.
Take that steam drill out and start it on that job
Let it whop, let it whop that steel on down
Let it whop, let it whop that steel on down.

Datalinks

**Robotic Assembly Plant** is a base facility in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Effect

Increases minerals output at base by 50%
Cumulative with all other facilities of this type
Homo Superior

"Thus Spoke Zarathustra", Datalinks

**Homo Superior** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Breakthroughs in Biomachinery (B9) and Doctrine: Initiative (E5) paved the way for a new kind of organism that is equal parts biological and computer. The biological aspect thrives at physical manipulation and emotional experience, while the digital aspect excels at calculation and data processing. This Homo Superior integrates the best of biological and machine.
Matter Editation

Morgan Polysoft

**Matter Editation** is a Build technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Not long after the breakthroughs in Super Tensile Solids (B10) and Self-aware Machines (B11), engineers clamor to research the last major hurdle in physical manipulation—Matter Editation. This technique actually changes the physical structure of individual atoms, altering characteristics like energy states, spin, atomic weight, and the number of protons as though they were entries in a database. This technology is the modern embodiment of the ancient quest to turn lead into gold-transmutation of elements made possible by atomic manipulation.
Planetary Economics

"The Collected Sermons"

**Planetary Economics** is a Explore technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Early industrial policy on Planet centered on individual markets and sectors, such as Environmental Economics (B5), but these separate sectors create inefficiencies. Proponents of Intellectual Integrity (E3) insist that these inefficiencies are unnecessary, and work to create a system of Planetary Economics where goods and services can flow freely.
Forest

**Forest** squares provide balanced but limited nutrients, minerals, and energy production. Forest square production is dramatically increased for bases containing a Tree Farm and/or a Hybrid Forest.
Forest will sometimes expand into adjacent squares, even driving out native fungus in the process.

## Background

Terraformers sometimes planted Earth-born trees across wide ranges of territory. The resulting forests were a viable source of fruit, wood, and other resources. Some of the trees were genetically modified to extract materials from the soil and concentrate them, and to synthesize a wide variety of useful substances. As with the kelp farms, forests thrived on Planet, spreading rapidly into the wild ecosystem and even displacing xenofungus.

In later years, the colonists improved their crop trees
by splicing in genes from Planet's native life. The
resulting forests were so productive as to encourage the
"paving" of Planet's surface with trees. Forests were
among the most successful terraforming efforts, and
every faction among the colonists used them.
Optical Computers

"For I Have Tasted The Fruit"

**Optical Computers** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

The widespread adoption of Polymorphic Software (D2) increased demand for faster computers. The revolutionary Optical Computers, which use photons traveling at the speed of light for binary calculations, prove nearly 70% faster than old electron-based devices. Based on successes in Applied Physics (C1), Optical Computers also exponentially improve storage capacities and access times.
Mine

## Function

### Effects

+1 in flat and rolling land squares
+2 in rocky
+3 in rocky squares with roads
+1 in areas with minerals resources

### Cost

8 turns

A **mine** increases the minerals output of a square:

* Flat squares: +1 minerals
* Rolling squares: +1 minerals
* Rocky squares: +2 minerals (+3 if road)

A mine provides an additional +1 minerals in Minerals Resource squares.

## Background

As on Earth, where veins of valuable ore were discovered, mining
operations soon followed.
High Energy Chemistry

"The Lord Works"

**High Energy Chemistry** is a Conquer technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Breakthroughs in Applied Physics (C1) and Industrial Base (B1) lead to an understanding of High Energy Chemistry. This discipline seeks to understand the properties and behavior of matter at very high temperatures, and results in new types of materials that remain in a stable plasma state even when superheated by intense laser stimulation.
Secrets of Alpha Centauri

You waited so long to heed us, earthdeirdre,
Almost we pruned you, as we may yet prune your branches.

"Conversations with Planet"

**Secrets of Alpha Centauri** is a Discover technology in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Background

Some digital sentiences churn through exebytes of Planet-related data in their never-ending quest to untangle Sentient Econometrics (E11). The best of these sentiences do not stop at sorting economic data, but extend their inquiries into Centauri Psi (E11) and other Planetary phenomena. They work to reveal these Secrets of Alpha Centauri as a kind of personal challenge, to prove themselves as machines that can not only conquer the intricacies of society, but also the magnificent complexities of a Planet-wide ecosystem.
Probe team gear

**Probe team** is one of the unit equipment types in *Alpha Centauri*.

## Description

The **Probe Team** module can be used to create custom probe teams. Such units function much as regular Probe Teams.

* Probe Teams can infiltrate and subvert enemy bases and units. They can also steal enemy research information, sabotage base facilities, assassinate key enemy personnel, and conduct genetic warfare.
* Move a probe team up to an enemy base or unit to engage its powers.
* Probe teams can also defend your bases against their enemy counterparts. If a probe team is present in a square when an enemy probe team tries to enter, a combat is resolved between them. The probe team with the highest morale level usually wins.

Probe teams often receive morale increases when they complete missions successfully. The higher a probe team's morale level, the more likely it is to survive increasingly more complex missions.
Paradise garden

## Function

### Maintenance

4

That sunny dome! those caves of ice!
And all who heard should see them there,
And all should cry, Beware! Beware!
His flashing eyes, his floating hair!
Weave a circle round him thrice,
And close your eyes with holy dread,
For he on honey-dew hath fed,
And drunk the milk of Paradise.

Datalinks

**Paradise Garden** is a base facility in *Alpha Centauri*.