In the vast universe of video games, true mind control mechanics are a rarity. While fantasy titles occasionally dabble with mages and necromancers influencing NPCs or raising the dead, the profound impact of psychic powers often remains untapped. Even epic space sagas tend to prioritize laser blasts over Jedi mind tricks. That’s precisely why the arrival of Stellaris’ Shadows of the Shroud DLC is so exciting! This expansion plunges players into the mysterious psionic cult of the Mindwardens, earning its place alongside titles like Control and Psychonauts in the niche genre of games embracing psychic warfare.
Psionic powers, in Stellaris, represent psychic abilities on an immense scale. Known as Psionic Auras by developer Paradox Interactive, these forces within the Shroud can twist entire systems and rewrite destinies. They are not to be underestimated, and with this DLC, their potential has become significantly more formidable.
Video: Stellaris Shadows of the Shroud Trailer
True to the spirit of the best grand strategy games, Stellaris offers you a choice: either reject this emerging psychic race or embrace their ethereal power. Opting for Psionic Ascension unlocks a completely new Shroud tab, where your decisions will determine which Shroud Patron bestows their unique bonuses upon your empire.
Shadows of the Shroud introduces the formidable new Major Patron, the Cradle of Souls, alongside eight minor patrons whose influence shifts based on your empire’s alignment. As you cultivate a deeper Attunement with a specific domain, your empire gains access to Accords and Aura technology, providing passive benefits as slivers of the Shroud’s power seep into your reality.
However, if the notion of mind-bending phenomena leaves you wary, the Mindwardens offer an alternative. With minds fortified against the Shroud’s effects, they provide a range of services, including the ‘Thought Police’ to maintain order and the Shroud Seal, designed to protect against hostile psionic threats.
Beyond these core features, the expansion also brings new origins, civics, ship designs, advisors, and music tracks, ensuring a rich and extensive gameplay experience that promises hours of strategic depth and interstellar fun. This substantial addition is ready to enhance your next playthrough.
The Stellaris: Shadows of the Shroud DLC is now available for purchase, offering a fresh take on galactic conquest. Dive in and explore the depths of psionic power!
If this new expansion has ignited your passion for cosmic exploration, consider diving into other top space games. You might also want to explore some of the best Stellaris mods to further customize your next campaign.
What are your thoughts on Stellaris’ new DLC? Join the conversation and share your insights with fellow players in our community, where we all secretly practice telekinesis.