Engine Power

Engine power, typically just called power, is the resource created by engines for propulsion and laser power generation. All vehicles will need a form of engine power to move.

Power Generation

There are three ways to create engine power:

1. Fuel Engines - These are tyically the cheapest form of engines. They have good power density but are often less efficient than steam engines. If you need a lot of power in a small space then a fuel engine is probably the best choice.
2. Steam Engines - Steam engines are highly versatile, being capable of high efficiency or high power density depending on the build. They also scale upwards well, making them a good choice for large power requirements. If you have massive power requirements then a steam engine is probably the best chocie.
3. Electric Engines - Small and expensive, electric engines are safer than fuel or steam engines because there are no explosive parts. This benefit comes with a low power density and a need to recharge the batteries with either expensive RTGs or a fuel/steam engine. They are best utilized as a backup engine or to power small vehicles being powered by a mothership.

Power Usage

Engine power is used in two ways: propulsion and laser weapons.

Propulsion

Most forms of propulsion will require engine power. Jet engines, propellers, ion thrusters, all require engine power. A vehicle without engine power is a stationary vehicle.

Lasers

Any laser weapon or defense will use engine power to create laser energy. Laser Pumps pull power to charge lasers, at a linear value of 30 power per second to create 12 laser energy, for each cubic meter of laser pumps. Large lasers can end up pulling a lot of engine power, so it can be beneficial to have a dedicated secondary engine that only turns on when the laser is being fired.

Best Practices

The type and size of engine will depend on many factors, including available space, power requirements, and weapon choices. There is no one size fits all choice when it comes to engines. It's always important to protect your engines, especially for airborne vehicles or vehicles utilizing a lot of lasers. Larger vehicles will typically benefit from multiple engines spread throughout the craft.

Out of Play

Engine types will produce an average PPM when out of combat. When a vehicle is harvesting materials or moving out of play, the power load will be distributed among the engine types according to their priority. In turn, the PPM determines the rate of material burn.