In some cases we should show the stargate topology at the beginning of the game, especially for that part that is not random. This might encourage players to continue playing (to reach systems that they can see on the galactic map).
Of course, we can't show the actual star image or system name, because that would reveal whether the system is an asteroid system or a nebula system or whatever. Instead, we should have a special unknown system icon to represent known (but unexplored) topology nodes.
We need a flag on a topology node to specify that the node is known at create-time.
Note that random nodes (that do not always appear in a game) should not be known. For the same reason, we cannot draw any stargate connections between these nodes.
Great idea. Often it is difficult to find a stargate in a system so you can never be sure if there is one or if you are in a dead-end system. Not a problem in linear SOTP, but large adventures could use something like this.
The ability to set the nodes as hidden again could be useful for modders.
Implemented in Stars of the Pilgrim.
I’ll need to take notes on how you did that when the new alpha comes out.