I'm fairly new to the mod, so I don't understand all the new mechanics and changes, so I was hoping for some advice.

In my first game as Romulans, playing Alpha and Beta Quadrant map, I thought I was doing ok when the Federation, or alliance of Humans, Tellerites, Andorians and Vulcans declared war. I thought I was ready for them, as (thinking traditional Stellaris) that my battle station with defences close to their border would at least slow them down until my main fleet arrived. Nope. They cross over all over other star systems and completely swarm me from the Saurian territory next to me. I try and send my main fleet to engage, but it is just whack-a-mole at this point.

From reading the discussion board hyperlanes no longer exist and ships can just pretty much travel wherever. Is that right? If so, then this means creating battle stations at key choke-point is a pointless strategy in this game?

Apart from perhaps protecting your home system, and any other planetary system you deem worthy, is there any other point to them or strategy in using them? in BotF, which I know this mod draws inspiration from, Starbases not only protected the territory they were in but they helped project force, as they expanded your fleet range. Stellaris doesn't have the latter mechanic, so I can't see the value in them besides just protecting the one system they are in..

Finally, if choke points no longer exist what strategies are there to not be swarmed by enemy fleets when war breaks out? I appreciate each conflict is unique so forum users can't give specifics, but some general tips would be appreciated.

BTW, his isn't a criticism, as I understand no hyperlanes is in keeping with Star Trek lore. It is more I really want to get into this mod and just not get smashed by using ineffective tactics.

Thanks