Core Engineering Features That Would Improve SE2 More Than Water (Plus Feedback on Direct Ore Buildi

Overview:

Space Engineers has always been about engineering, logistics, and problem-solving. While new features like water are exciting, I believe there are several core engineering systems that would have a much greater impact on gameplay and long-term engagement.

At the same time, I want to raise a serious concern about the current direction of allowing blocks to be built directly from raw ore.

⚠ Concern: Building Directly from OreIn my opinion, allowing players to build blocks directly using raw ore is a major step in the wrong direction.

It removes:

• the need for refineries
• the need for assemblers
• the entire production chain

These systems were not just mechanics — they were the foundation of engineering gameplay.

Without them:

• logistics becomes irrelevant
• planning is reduced
• the game becomes simpler, but also shallower

This change feels like a disaster for players who enjoy the engineering depth that defined Space Engineers.

🚀 Core Features That Would Transform the GameI strongly believe the following features would have a deeper and more meaningful impact than water itself:

1. Hermetic Docking Ports (Docking Airlocks)

• Allow two separate grids to connect with a pressurized passage
• Enable seamless movement of players/NPCs between ships and stations
• Eliminate the need for constant depressurization cycles

👉 This would massively improve usability, immersion, and multiplayer gameplay.

2. Landing Platforms / Elevators

• Ships land on a platform that can open or lower
• Direct access from ship to base without jetpack
• Ideal for NPCs and structured base design

👉 This would finally allow proper hangar systems instead of workarounds.

3. Rail Systems

• Physical rails for vehicles or cargo transport
• Stable, predictable movement
• Enables automation and industrial logistics

👉 This would replace many unstable mechanical contraptions and improve large-scale builds.

4. Tracked Vehicle Systems (Tank Tracks)

• Proper tracked movement for planetary vehicles
• Better traction and realism
• More viable ground exploration

👉 This would significantly improve rover gameplay.

5. Hermetic Sealing of Natural Caves (Voxel Sealing)

• Ability to seal asteroid caves by closing the entrance
• No need to build a full grid shell inside the cave

👉 This is a true game-changer:

• enables natural bases
• improves immersion
• reduces unnecessary construction

💡 Why These Matter More Than WaterWater is visually impressive and adds new scenarios.

However, the features above:

• solve long-standing problems from SE1
• improve core gameplay systems
• expand engineering possibilities
• reduce frustration

In terms of gameplay impact, these systems could be even more important than water itself.

🧠 Final ThoughtsSpace Engineers 2 has incredible potential, but it should focus on strengthening what made the original game unique:

• engineering depth
• meaningful systems
• problem-solving

Simplifying core mechanics while adding new features risks losing the identity of the game.

I truly believe that focusing on these engineering improvements would elevate SE2 far beyond being just an improved version of SE1.

Thank you for your work and for listening to the community.