Mini and Micro bases

[Safe-Keeper]

Okay, so in the early game we typically have only one base, without the funds to lay down a second or third one too early. At the same time, we want radar and interceptor coverage over as large an area as possible -- we're tasked with defending the whole world, after all . A possible solution to this dilemma could be the ability to build "mini and micro bases", or Forward Bases and Outposts if you will.

FBs and outposts would work like conventional bases, but they'd be smaller in terms of "grid size" and have less maintenance costs. A forward base would be 4x4 tiles or so, while an outpost would be 2x2.

So, you build an outpost, which measures only 2x2 tiles and won't ever be able to grow past that (except perhaps if we implement a "Base Expansion" system where you can "upgrade" a base at a high one-time cost). You put a radar down and decide you'll build a second one later on when you can afford to. If you're worried about enemy invasion, maybe you also decide to place a defense system or living quarters and general stores, or you could turn it into a secret science facility/factory by adding living quarters and a workshop or lab. Either way, you now have a cheap, affordable listening post, but on the flip side, you won't ever be able to expand it into a proper large-scale base of operations; if you want a proper stronghold at that site later, you will have to build a second base and/or demolish the outpost.

I feel this will fit the "chronically short on cash" approach the game is taking, make the early-game a bit more interesting and fun, and also add some strategic depth by forcing players to decide what kind of bases they want to build at various locations.

[Gorlom]

Isn't this very similar to Jean-Luc's first suggestion in this thread: clicky! ?

[Safe-Keeper]

I can't read every suggestion in every thread, but now that I've checked -- no.

Edited October 23, 2012 by Safe-Keeper

[lemm]

I like this idea, as it would enhance the geoscape element of the game. I like the fact that you cant get to every terror site with your chinook, and that you have to often have to send out a wave of fighters to protect your troop transport. The original Xcom never had this element; you could win the game from one main base, and maybe a couple of radar bases. The ability to quickly build less costly, but more easily detectable and unexpandable outposts above ground would add to the mid-game, when you still have short-ranged fighters, until you establish your presence worldwide with bonafide, subterranean bases and the ultimate flying craft that can go anywhere.

1. Radar station.

This has a detection unit.

2. Outpost

This has 4 hangers (enough for 3 strike craft + 1 troop transport), 1 stores and 1 living quarters and 1 radar station. It can be defended if attacked just like a normal base.

3. Marine (and/or Orbital) Carrier It is essentially a mobile outpost. The carrier holds a few strike craft, a low power detection unit, and it can be moved around the geoscape. If it is attacked, it launches its craft to defend itself. A researchable orbital carrier can move anywhere on the geoscape. Maybe these can be cloaked when they are not moving to lower the chance of detection to that of a normal outpost (would require a research option).