Gideon Star

So it looks like the components "allowed" for each "Core" ship are defined in GC2Ships.xml. The components themselves are defined in GC2Types.xml (as well as the tech level required for whatever component). Anybody have any tips?

Is there any way to create or add/remove the build slots on a planet? Is it somehow controlled by the planet class or terrain pallette? Oh and what about changing mineral deposits/precurser items? What about plot bonuses? Basically modding a planet from the ground up. Thanks!