Guide:Invasions

Invasions are the act of taking over a region. In an era where intergalactic travel is possible, most commonly this refers to the invasion of the planet. Below is a step by step guide on how to take over other planets.

Step 1: Define the goal
What is the goal of the invasion? If it is to gather resources, consider other alternatives first. Colonizing a barren world devoid of life is far easier than trying to take them from a pre-space faring civilization. Mars has just as much valuable minerals as Earth. The only reason to invade an inhabited world is for any of the following:


 * Extermination of the species.
 * If the natives themselves can be exploited for labor or other uses.
 * The presence of a resource unique to the planet.
 * The exhaustion of all other alternatives within a feasible range.
 * Cutting off supply lines during a war.

Step 2: Preparation
Next, one must check the environmental conditions of the planet. If the planet has a substance that is toxic to your species, be sure they wear pressure suits and other protective gear. It would also be wise to take proper soil samples and study the local flora and fauna months in advance to determine if the planet is suitable for colonization afterwards.

Next, assess the technology levels of the civilization. Take into account of the local species' history. Specifically, look for myths and legends or any particularly advanced technology they might have that can be exploited during the invasion.

Take extreme precaution if the natives have discovered one of your species' technology. Assume they have reverse-engineered it.

Step 3: Tactics
Never approach with direct brute force. It is easier to take over a planet by manipulating the locals first, such as convincing them to attack other settlements. Violence may not even required at all, and your species could just convert them over peacefully. With pre-space civilizations, it is best to avoid a direct confrontation as much as possible in order to conserve resources that could be used elsewhere.

When attacking a space faring empire, this of course, is not the case. Be prepared to fight in a space battle before being able to land on the planet. Ocassionally, something as simple as orbital bombing can achieve the job, but if all else fails, get to the ground as soon as possible. With the lack of proper cover (save for maybe a ring system or a few asteroids) warships in space are sitting ducks.