colonization Tech Comparison
Deep Space Colonisation vs Megacity Planning
Comparing the Deep Space Colonisation (Tier 3) and Megacity Planning (Tier 3), both colonization technologies in Starforge MMO. Use this to decide which to queue first when your research lab can only run one project at a time.
Research Comparison
| Attribute | Deep Space Colonisation | Megacity Planning |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T3 | T3 |
| Research time | 40 | 25▼ |
| metal cost | 80,000 | 50,000▼ |
| crystal cost | 40,000 | 25,000▼ |
| gas cost | 10,000▼ | — |
| antimatter cost | 300▼ | — |
| Effect | colonize outer ring: true; +50% colony ship range | +40% max planet population |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Deep Space Colonisation
Long-range colony ships with self-sufficient life support colonise systems beyond the outer ring.
Unlocks buildings: deep space colony hub
Unlocks ships: colony ship mk3
Requires: colonization 8, propulsion 5
Megacity Planning
Arcology design and urban stacking increases maximum planetary population capacity by 40%.
Unlocks buildings: arcology district
Requires: colonization 7
Which Should You Research First?
Both sit at the same tier. The Megacity Planning is the cheaper project, so it's the safer early pick if your economy is tight; otherwise prioritise whichever effect supports your current strategy.