Their large number of utility module slots allows them to serve as entire invasion fleets, or as mega-leechers draining thousands of essence per turn. They are extremely bulky, and with system development upgrades can be very good in combat when supported by a fleet. Arks are useful for more than just being colonies.Consider also researching N-Way Fusion or Ubiquitous Surveillance early, as the first tier of military tech unlocks more Ark module slots. It is very important for your long-term survivabilty. The military tech Focused Plasma unlocks Meditation modules, which prevent Arks from being attacked in space battles while anchored, forcing enemies to ground invade them rather than shoot them out of the sky.Do not neglect reaching higher tiers on the economic sector either, because the system development level of an Ark directly determines that Ark's population cap. Science-wise, planet colonization techs deserve special focus due to the unique Vodyani population mechanics (pick the order according to your situation!) later, mothership module upgrades can multiply your empire performance.Prioritize the first couple of Arks over growing your population, to claim resources and strategic positions, as well as gaining increased Essence production from Ark modules.Pass Species Stability as soon as you can, to smooth out your early essence gain. Both the power law, Righteous Fury, and the starting law, Species Stability, are important for Vodyani early game. Try not to lose the party from the senate.Vodyani get one of the highest bonuses from boosting. Scavenged ramscoop is an especially good module, because its bonus to distance moved is multiplicative. Whenever you have to move an Ark, try to put just enough engines in utility slots to get it to destination as fast as possible.

Send them directions your ships aren't going to explore, it's imperative to find as many minor factions as fast as possible and locate a nearby homeworld

Don't waste your probes exploring curiosities at the beginning of the game.

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