I invaded primitives - a bunch of steam age idiots. Placed troops on the planet and built a fort. The planet started a "SITUATION" to revolt. "Okay," I said to myself, "who cares if they revolt - I'll just beat them again."

WHEN THE SITUATION POPS THEY TAKE MY WHOLE EMPIRE WITH THEM, TAKE MY TROOPS STATIONED ON THEIR PLANETS. NO FIGHT - NO NOTHING. THEY INSTANTLY WIN AND GET A TRUCE. THEY HAVE NO FLEET.

It was a death spiral of the worst kind. The situation system has these checkpoints in which slap on stronger and stronger debuffs. For the revolt - it's a STACKING stability loss. How are players supposed to dig their way out of this? Why can't the player fight back with - I don't know... their armies? In what universe does an Empire give up half its domain because some RECENTLY BULLDOZED primitives just kinda declared independence?

In my mind, I see it going something like this:

“My Emperor! Dire news from the recently acquired colony!”

“What is it?”

“They’ve successfully passed 1000 signatures on change org petition and have declared themselves independent! What should we do, my Emperor?”

“Firstly, immediately disband all the troops. Then give them half the territory of the empire. No… give them all of it. It’s only fair. After that, tell the fleet stationed there to run off in random directions and get hopelessly lost.”

“Brilliant idea, my Emperor. Anything else?”

“Give them a 10-year truce as well. I mean, what would others think of us if we didn’t give them time to build up...?”

Literally. What is this situation system? Are you kidding me paradox? This is the best you could do?

Edit: Also, these "revolt" nations that get spat out get free 10k resources in minerals, energy, and even alloys. Good luck after 10 years in the early game! :)