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Losing your fleet in a single battle is the most frustrating mistake you can make in Xterium. The good news is that this can almost always be prevented. Below, we’ll explain how battles work, why you should “save” your fleet, and how to avoid becoming an easy target.
Where did this guide come from? The rules for combat, defense, and conduct during war were described by the player community on the player wiki and in the forum thread (authors: Storm22073, Shatayev, Kara, and others). The combat mechanics have been verified against the combat section of the encyclopedia.
Step 1. Understand how a fight works
Combat in Xterium follows the "rock-paper-scissors" principle: each ship has a target against which it is particularly effective. Battles are divided into rounds, during which ships deal damage to the enemy’s shields and armor. The higher your fleet’s “Power” (weapon points) and the better your composition is against the enemy, the greater your chances of victory. For more details, see the Combat section.
Step 2. Save the fleet—that's the most important rule
"Save" (from "save") — hide your fleet from attack. Before logging out or going to bed, send your fleet on a flight, on an expedition, or to one of your other planets, so that it returns when you're back online. It’s not worth attacking an empty planet—there’s nothing to take. This is the most reliable way to ensure you lose nothing (the term “save”).
Step 3. Build your defenses
[](/knowledge/encyclopedia/defense)'s defense protects the planet while the fleet is in flight. Light, medium, and heavy defenses (slang: DL/DM/DH) provide protection against different types of attacks. Basic defense deters small-scale attackers: it’s not worth their while to lose ships for a small haul.
Step 4. Don't reveal your fleet and resources
A large fleet [](/knowledge/encyclopedia/ships) (FL/FM/FH — light/medium/heavy) and mountains of resources on a planet are a lure. Attackers choose their targets based on profitability: the more you have lying around unprotected, the more appealing you are as a target. Keep your resources in use, and keep your fleet on the move or under defense.
Step 5. War and War Points
In alliance conflicts, War Points (WP) are awarded for damage dealt to other players’ fleets. Fight strategically: attack only when you are confident in your superiority in strength and composition, and do not expose your fleet to a counterattack. Before a major war, coordinate your actions with [](/knowledge/encyclopedia/alliances) Alliance.
Common Mistakes
- A fleet on the planet overnight. The most common loss is a fleet left unsaved. Always hide it.
- Zero defense. Without defense, the planet is an easy target even for weak attackers.
- A blind attack. Without reconnaissance and a numerical advantage, such an attack can easily result in the loss of one's own fleet.
- Mountains of Resources. Unprotected reserves invite attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "save" for a fleet? "Save" — Protect your fleet from attack: Before logging out, send your fleet on a mission so that it returns when you're back online. It's not worth attacking an empty planet.
How do battles work in Xterium? The battle follows the "rock-paper-scissors" principle: each ship has a target against which it is particularly effective. The battle is divided into rounds.
Why build defenses when you can save the fleet? Defenses protect the planet while the fleet is in flight. Basic defenses deter small-scale attackers—it’s not worth their while to lose ships for a small haul.
What do you earn war points for? In alliance conflicts, War Points (WP) are awarded for damage dealt to other players' fleets.
What to Read Next
Check out Combat (how strength and damage are calculated), Defense, Ships, and Glossary (save, HP, FL/DM, and other terms).
