A crazy idea I''d like to try!
I had this idea that crossed my mind, and I don't know if someone already tried it or not, but I do think it could work if used correctly and efficiently.
I'd like to set it up where you can go beyond simply buying ships. As a matter of fact, I'd like to get to the point where you could -build- your very own -stations- and -platforms- in space. Limitations would be this - there would be certain 'spheres' you could construct these behemoth facilities, meaning you could only construct them in a given area that was deemed suitable. This would keep folks from placing them directly next to House outposts or trade lanes, and leave it so that it could only be used in an area most likely to be trafficked, like the fringe worlds. Now, keep in mind, a station is great but what do you do with it?
Set up your own trade routes! Build trade lanes to connect your station's glorious post to a nearby settlement and buy your own NPC freighters to tote your cargo back and fourth from civilization to home base. Send them on runs and consistently upgrades your facilities to accommodate other add-ons. You might even be able to set up your own House system if you became powerful enough!
Naturally something like this would have to be enjoyed in a controlled environment, unless of course you simply wanted to be slapped into single player and have a whack at it yourself.
However, it's something I'd definitely like to see happen, even if I had to learn to do it myself. I've done alot of Mod-making in my lifetime, but nothing like Freelancer - creativity and ingenuity are my specialty when it comes to enjoying hobbies (like these) and I'd like to take a whack at it.
Can anyone point me in the direction of either two things:
1) What I would need to accomplish this monstrous task, or;
2) If anyone has already done it and/or working on it
Thank you so much for reading this far and taking time to respond.