For a solar system with multiple planets, what kind of variety of orbits can we expect? - Will planets have the ability to be rotating in opposite directions? - Will orbits always be circular, or can they be elliptical? - If they can be elliptical, can orbits cross paths? - Can orbits be on multiple planes to allow for some unique interception times? - Will collisions between large celestial bodies alter orbital paths? - Can orbital paths be manipulated to the point of having celestial bodies fall into stars? - Can multiple bodies share the same orbital path? - Will gravity be simple or complex? - If complex, will it use N-body, or patched conics physics calculations? I am sure some of these are known, but I am also sure there are more orbital questions as well. What do you think about these features? Do you have any other orbital features as suggestions?
It's a fairly good bet the gravity will be simple. Enough to slingshot around a planet/star and let things orbit a planet. If you want a universe simulator, use Universe Sandbox. If you want massive destruction with massive armies and a few late game asteroids, you want PA.
And if you want both? :roll: The orbits and gravity will most likely be simple, as scifiz said. Most gamers dosent want it to be too complicated.
Keeping it simple (simplish?) also keeps the interface clutter down. I'll bring up Black & White where they managed quite complex actions WITHOUT an interface, by keeping it simple. I definitely think going simple on the planetary body orbits is the way to go- it'd become a whole game in itself to restabilise orbits otherwise. Plus, the time not spent on planetary gravitational fields and orbital bodies can be spent on bigger explosions. <nod nod>
