Small idea I had. Since there is going to be day/night cycles I assume a star/sun will be present in the solar system. Why not have different types of stars, with different temperatures, and thus different colors; and as result slightly affecting the general color hue. Main reason I think this would be cool is first, it could allow for slightly different color of ambient lighting. The color/intensity of the lighting would be slightly different depending on the star, so units and the planets are going to have slightly different looks just based on the star. Second potential I see for this is that the star type and distance from said star, could potentially effect the planet temperature along with other general characteristics (lava, ice, etc). I know very little about lighting, but hopefully you guys get what I am saying. It doesn't have to be anything overly complicated. I'm just thinking that this could be something simple that would have the potential to help keep the game looking fresh. I searched and didn't find anything related to this. First time making thread... Forgive me if it has been discussed before.
I agree as well, some color modifications based on stars would keep lighting interesting. Perhaps even make planetary atmosphere modify the light as well.
Anything that hot is going to be one color: white. So, no, it won't have any effect. The only thing that would effect the ambient light would be atmosphere color, and even then it'd be minor.
Yes minor effect. I notice that kind of minor stuff. It really adds to the game I think. And actually stars appear to be different colors depending on their age, heat and other factors. If that actually effects the general color color of atmospheres, lighting on planets in real life I have no clue; probably not or very little. However this is game, it doesn't have to be realistic. I am not thinking of something drastic just a simple very subtle change to the lighting. As you say "minor" Take Starcraft II has an example. Many maps have slightly different atmospheric lighting, that really adds to the map. In PA I was thinking that it would be awesome to have these subtle lighting differences, perhaps not based solely on the type of planets but also the type of star! Thinking about it more I agree... over complicated not necessary. However lighting stuff would be awesome in my book
It would not effect the strategic icon colors. It would only be something you notice if you zoom in bellow atmosphere. I think it would work great if done properly, and would in no way effect visibility. You do raise a valid concern though
These stars appear to be different colours from a long distance away due to throwing off light in certain parts of the spectrum more weakly over a long distance. They're still all burning hot enough to look white to any object in-system. If they didn't, everything on earth would be tinted yellow.