Relics in Stellaris are powerful artifacts that provide significant bonuses to empires when activated. These bonuses can range from increased resource production to unique abilities that enhance various aspects of gameplay. Relics were introduced in the Ancient Relics Story Pack DLC, adding depth and intrigue to the Stellaris universe.
Acquiring Relics:
Relics can be found, earned, or bought in various ways:
- Archaeological Sites: Relics are often discovered as rewards in archaeological dig sites. Completing these dig sites uncovers ancient relics, revealing their unique properties.
- Trader Enclaves: Some trader enclaves might offer relics for sale. Players can acquire relics using energy credits in exchange for these valuable artifacts.
- Events: Certain events, anomalies, or special projects might lead to the discovery of relics. Exploring the galaxy and engaging with anomalies can be a source of these artifacts.
Types of Relics:
- Minor Artifacts: These provide small bonuses and are often the most common relics found during gameplay. They can be collected and activated without specific requirements.
- Major Artifacts: Major artifacts offer more significant bonuses. However, they often come with prerequisites, such as completing specific archaeological dig chains or unique events. Major artifacts are rarer and more valuable than minor artifacts.
Activation and Effects:
Relics can be activated by spending minor artifacts (a currency used exclusively for relic activation). Once activated, relics provide empire-wide bonuses, enhancing aspects like resource production, ship capabilities, or leader traits. Each relic has a limited duration and cooldown period before it can be activated again.
Example Relics and Their Effects:
- The Rubricator: This relic, when activated, grants a significant increase in minerals and energy credits production for a limited time, helping boost an empire’s economy.
- The Uplifted Monument: When activated, this relic increases the output of Unity, making it easier for empires to unlock traditions and improve their overall efficiency.
- The Sentinels: This relic provides a powerful fleet, allowing the empire to bolster its military strength significantly during times of conflict.
- The Quarian Artifact: Activating this relic provides a temporary boost to research speed, aiding empires in advancing their technology and gaining an edge in the galaxy.
Relics add an exciting layer of strategy and decision-making to Stellaris gameplay. Players must choose when to activate their relics strategically, aligning their bonuses with their empire’s needs or timing their use for maximum impact during critical moments in the game.