In short make it more realistic, more physics based 1. Change system to our Solar system. 1/20 th of the size or smaller (based on max number of players) 2. Change date to around 2350. Closer techs 3. Change quantum drive to make it more demanding. Like it exerts a lot of pressure on the hull and ship will need repairs after one or two jumps. Also add in more calculations and communication to relays so that the jump path is clear from debris and asteroids. You could jump blind but it could be risky. 4. Add in quantum gates to bypass above problems but they are set points and guarded by authorities. 5. Add in more Ai for ships targeting. Basically what we have now. So you can have auto turrets. You would privilege radar and detection gameplay. Huge armored ships with long range weaponry against small stealthy ships with tactical or boarding capabilities. - More long distance detection and weaponry - More automated counter measures While that can seem a bit OP it would be restricted by the cost of ammo and where to obtain it 6. Ship design based on realism/ physics - Some ships would be designed for space and others for atmospheric flight. - Huge armored ships with multiple airtight sections with independent engines, thrusters,... They could be shot at, pierced and blown up but still float in space with some sections still working/shooting with the crew in EVA suits. > less exploding ships and more floating carcasses to fight in 7. Gravity and planetary revolution around the sun (slower than normal) - More realistic constraints on ships with gravity (hull damage,...) - Ability to sling shot around bodies to save fuel - More depth in jumps to planet that have a moving path 8. Mildly Realistic fuel management - Don't want to make flight tedious and annoying but would welcome a bit more expensive fuel and management gameplay for the following: - incentive to use planet's gravity - Reduce the use of retro thrusters (those that make you stop when you let go of the thrust; I know you can deactivate them). I had more fun in 2.0 when you didn't have those. It seemed more like space flight, and adjusting trajectories and speeds in combat was fun. You'd have all your same jobs, mining, cargo, piracy,.... just a bit more of a simulation and tactical approach.