The dangerous ancient evil Shakturi have returned, and their ships have been detected in our galaxy again. They are malevolent aliens who were central to the last cataclysm that almost annihilated the galaxy. Their reappearance now endangers even the mightiest empires, threatening to devastate the galaxy.
The sinister abilities of the Shakturi include Genetic Engineering, which allows them to generate new space creatures they can use for scouting and combat. This mastery also grants the Shakturi to influence existing life forms in the galaxy to serve their purpose. No empire is safe: the knowledge in Biowarfare enables them to spread plagues that weaken the other factions, making them vulnerable to Psychic influence and control. The Shakturi have sharpened their Psychic skills, making them even more dangerous in space and ground combat, diplomacy, espionage, and research. They can even turn our own ships, troops and greatest heroes against us.
However, do not despair! To confront this unprecedented threat, factions now have access to the new Planet Destroyers and Mega Ships, as well as new research that can help level the field against these Shakturi advantages. These assets are vital to have a chance of defeating the Shakturi in large-scale confrontations. Outposts are another weapon to allow us to secure vital territory in previously uncolonizable planets, enabling future expansion and access to more of the ancient ruins. Furthermore, strength in numbers has never been more crucial. The new alliance system allows our empires to forge closer bonds, coordinate strategy, and collaborate more effectively against common enemies.
But be cautious about whom you trust, as every faction can be a sinister Shakturi ally.