Turns are a special resource in Space Alpha, generated every tick (minute). Players can utilize turns in a variety of ways, such as earning credits, creating units, mining resources, speeding up barracks or factory production, or accelerating research. Efficient use of turns is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in the game, as they enable players to perform essential actions and advance their in-game objectives.
Players can engage in agricultural activities by planting and harvesting resources. The mechanics of farming are influenced by factors such as the number of farmers, the level of food factories, and possibly the research and expansion towards additional colonies. Utilizing slaves can also significantly boost productivity. The formula for calculating farmers' production without a food factory is "=SQRT($B13/3)+10", where B13 represents the number of farmers, though this formula may not be accurate for very large numbers of farmers.
Happiness is a critical aspect of managing a colony, as it affects productivity and the overall health of the population. Wealth has a significant impact on happiness, and players must balance their economic activities to ensure their colony's contentment. Excessive sickness in a colony can be tackled by training more doctors, managing pollution, and setting the work mode to rest or chill for a few hours.
Active farming in Space Alpha is random, with the total amount and time range varying. Players must strategize their resource acquisition efforts by considering the randomness of farming, the potential benefits of expanding to different star systems, and the strategic placement of their colonies. Having a close colony allows easy resource transfer, while a faraway colony can provide a more extensive view range and opportunities for raiding other systems' inactive players or accessing more resource spots.
Understanding the galaxy's layout and navigating through it is crucial for strategic planning and resource management. Upgrades in astronomy allow players to zoom out further on the galaxy map, offering a broader view of the cosmos and enabling strategic decisions regarding colonization, resource allocation, and potential conflicts. The game scales the view distance based on screen resolution, ensuring a consistent experience across different devices.