The Best Galaxy Shape in Stellaris
There are plenty of ways to spice up your next game of Stellaris. From beefing up the end-game crisis to playing as a hive mind, there are endless possibilities to make each playthrough unique. But one of the easiest changes you can make is to switch up the type of map you play on. Since the game’s initial release, the variety of maps available to players has expanded significantly.
This guide will explore the different map shapes, their tactical implications, and provide a few tips for each map. No DLC is necessary for any of these maps, making this guide valuable for base-game enthusiasts.
The best galaxy shapes in Stellaris, from worst to best based on our opinion, are ring, elliptical, spoked, cartwheel, starburst, barred spiral, and spiral. However, the best map shape ultimately depends on your personal preference and the gameplay experience you’re seeking.
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The Best Galaxy Shape in Stellaris
Whether you enjoy a map type in Stellaris or not is a subjective opinion. Some players may not have a preference, while others adamantly defend their favored map type. Therefore, we cannot definitively state which map is the best in Stellaris, and can only offer our own opinion. Regardless of the map you choose, the core gameplay of Stellaris remains unchanged.
Your objective to spread across the galaxy, encounter aliens, and build the most powerful star empire possible remains consistent. Specific galaxy shapes will have an impact on tactical decisions, such as where choke points are located.
In the following sections, we’ll provide information about each map type, ordered according to our personal preference from “worst” to “best”.
While there are no bad choices among the galaxy maps, they are all enjoyable to play on. However, if an order must be determined, this is it.
Ring Galaxy Shape
The Ring Galaxy lives up to its name, as most galaxies in Stellaris are connected to a central point of mass. However, there is a gap between this mass and the hyperlane network that links the stars. This means that fleets must traverse the ring to reach the other side of the galaxy, making it difficult to react to threats. Problems can arise when neighboring empires close their borders, potentially isolating your empire from the rest of the galaxy. Players seeking a slower-paced game should consider the ring galaxy for their next play-through.
Elliptical Galaxy Shape
Also known as the “spaghetti junction”, the elliptical galaxy features a mass of hyperlanes orbiting the center with very few gaps in the circular pattern. Defending your empire’s borders in an elliptical galaxy can be a logistical challenge, as enemies have multiple attack routes to choose from. This situation provides ample opportunities for rapid attacks from various angles, offering an exhilarating experience. Players can tailor their experience by choosing a tiny or huge empire size in an elliptical galaxy.
Spoked Galaxy Shape
The spoked galaxy shape features spokes of stars radiating from the galaxy’s center, akin to the spokes on a wagon wheel. The absence of a wheel on the outside leads to tight avenues that empires must navigate. Successfully defending your empire in a spoked galaxy depends on strategic positioning. Utilizing jump drive technology early can be beneficial to navigate and defend the galaxy.
Cartwheel Galaxy Shape
Similar to a spiral galaxy, the cartwheel galaxy creates a circle pattern around the center, with arms not being separate from one another. This setup accelerates the game’s pace and creates a tight contest for territory and resources. Successful navigation of the non-connected galaxy’s outer regions can be dangerous, making it a thrilling challenge for players.
Starburst Galaxy Shape
The starburst galaxy shape divides the galaxy into two halves, one dense and action-packed, and the other sparse and less populated. Players navigating the farthest reaches of the starburst should maintain good relationships with their neighbors to ensure access to necessary resources and safe passage throughout the galaxy.
Barred Spiral Galaxy Shape
The barred spiral galaxy shape splits the galaxy into two equal halves, each featuring distinct factions. Successfully transitioning between the halves and picking a side to support are crucial tactical decisions. This galaxy does not place any restrictions on size.
Spiral Galaxy Shape
As the most customizable galaxy shape, the spiral galaxy presents the player with the option to choose the number of arms, dictating the minimum galaxy size. Consistently well-balanced, spiral galaxies often feature hyperlanes connecting various points in their arms which reduce the significance of funnels and choke points. This shape offers a strategic and engaging experience for players.
This concludes everything you need to know about the best galaxy shape in Stellaris. If you have any questions or suggestions regarding this guide, please share them in the comments section below. Enjoy choosing the galaxy shape that best suits your play style in Stellaris.