Interstellar Jump Drive with System-Based Travel and Access Control

Overview:

I would like to propose a scalable and performance-friendly system for interstellar travel in Space Engineers 2. Instead of traveling based on physical distance between stars, the game could implement a new type of jump drive that allows players to travel between star systems using a system list or map.

Problem:

Traveling between star systems using traditional movement (even with high speeds) is not practical due to the massive distances involved. Simulating multiple star systems in a continuous space would also be extremely demanding in terms of performance and synchronization, especially in multiplayer.

Proposed Solution:

Introduce a new type of Interstellar Jump Drive, distinct from the existing jump drives, with the following characteristics:

• Travel is based on selecting a destination system from a list or galaxy map, not physical distance
• Each star system is treated as a separate instance/server
• Jumping between systems triggers a controlled transition (similar to a warp or loading phase)

Key Features:

1. System-Based TravelPlayers select a destination system from a map or listNo need to simulate continuous space between stars
2. High Energy RequirementInterstellar jumps require significantly more power than regular jumpsEncourages late-game progression and infrastructure
3. Access Control (Very Important)System owners or server admins can:Allow or deny accessRestrict access to friends, factions, or specific playersPrevents griefing and unwanted invasions
4. ScalabilityEach system runs independentlyAllows potentially unlimited expansion without performance issues
5. Multiplayer FriendlySystems can be hosted on different serversPlayers can move between systems without requiring a single massive simulation

Benefits:

• Solves the problem of interstellar scale without breaking performance
• Enables true multi-system gameplay in a controlled way
• Adds meaningful late-game progression
• Supports both PvE and PvP scenarios with access control
• Fits well with the sandbox nature of Space Engineers

Additional Thoughts:

This system could also open the door for:

• Player-owned systems
• Trade routes between systems
• Exploration and discovery mechanics
• Advanced technologies (endgame content similar to Prototech)

Conclusion:

This approach allows Space Engineers 2 to support multiple star systems in a technically feasible and gameplay-friendly way, without requiring full simulation of interstellar space.

I believe this would be a strong addition to the late-game experience and would scale well with both single-player and multiplayer environments.