Frontier Developments has shared a new update explaining Elite Dangerous’ latest update; minor factions.
Minor factions are smaller political entities within star systems that compete to take control of the assets within said star system. The faction that controls the primary starport in said system is generally the one in charge. This means they also get to set the rules for the port.
Joining a faction? Your stake in them is based on their influence level, which indicates how much power they hold. You can increase your faction’s influence levels, and reduce those of rival factions, by doing things like completing missions, picking up bounties, and plain old trading.
Powers and minor factions do not have direct connections. Conversely, they can work together or oppose each other. A star system where the minor faction in charge of the port is squabbling with the major superpower is not an easy one to do business in.
Minor factions will also affect the world of Elite Dangerous in other ways, but if you’re not playing it yet, all you need to know here is that Frontier plans to use them to add layers of depth to gameplay. More complicated socio-economic simulations, in particular, will add an extra layer of engagement.
