Why build citadels?

[mcsproot]

The only reason I can think of is to build titans and collosus, as they require citadel specific buildings.

Maybe the extra boost in defense platforms for making fortified choke points.

Other than that, it doesn't seem worth it. Not much need for a citadel level trading hub.

[_ALuX_]

Eh, probably for the construction of Titans and last-ditch planetary defense.

[AcapitalA]

Agreed. Especially since a citadel is the best starbase you can build. With each upgrade you get 3 extra slots, while citadels just free up a single slot. It might be for defence, but starbase defences suck hard against a legitimate fleet ATM.

[ArcticISAF]

Starbase defence performs a lot better if you have a moderate fleet assisting as well I find. Especially if it's a long range engagement - a couple ion cannons in the back firing while your fleet engages can help put a dent in the enemy. Works even if it's 'all their fleet vs all your fleet' kind of battle.

If they do bust through your fleet anyway, then their hopefully damaged fleet will start to get picked apart by the remainder of the defenses.

I find the platforms are generally weaker in hp, but they can output a lot of damage. 4 missiles on one is basically one cruiser in damage (more or less). If you can maneuver the enemy to come in range of those while fighting your fleet - that can be a decent amount of firepower added. Plus your main base firing - I prefer filling with missiles for defenses.

Tricky part is when your fleet engages, it'll drift/fly towards the enemy. So putting it a bit behind the station at first may be necessary - some finesse needed.

[EleventhStar]

i usually build em just cause i can, but they are very low on the mineral allocation priority.

there really needs to be some economic citadel only buildings so the upgrade feels more valuable on a non-shipyard starbase.

[ArcticISAF]

Originally posted by EleventhStar:

i usually build em just cause i can, but they are very low on the mineral allocation priority.

there really needs to be some economic citadel only buildings so the upgrade feels more valuable on a non-shipyard starbase.

I imagine those will come eventually, now that they got the template down for starbases. I know they want to do economic/diplomacy/trade stuff somewhat next, so I think it'd be an easy incorporation once that is implemented. Like a mega trade hub that connects to other systems or similar.