colonization Tech Comparison
Terraforming II vs Population Cloning Vats
Comparing the Terraforming II (Tier 2) and Population Cloning Vats (Tier 2), 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 | Terraforming II | Population Cloning Vats |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T2 | T2 |
| Research time | 18 | 14▼ |
| metal cost | 25,000 | 20,000▼ |
| crystal cost | 12,000 | 10,000▼ |
| Effect | +2 colonize tier; +100% building slots | +20% population growth |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Terraforming II
Extreme-condition planets become colonizable. +1 building slot per planet.
Requires: colonization 1
Population Cloning Vats
Accelerate population growth rate by 20% on all colonies.
Unlocks buildings: cloning vat
Requires: colonization 1
Which Should You Research First?
Both sit at the same tier. The Population Cloning Vats is the cheaper project, so it's the safer early pick if your economy is tight; otherwise prioritise whichever effect supports your current strategy.