They Are Billions: Phoenix Project & Empire Points Unveiled
Hey guys! Ever get utterly hooked on They Are Billions? Yeah, me too! It's that perfect blend of strategy, base building, and zombie-slaying action that just keeps you coming back for more. If you're anything like me, you're always looking for ways to get a leg up on those relentless hordes. That's where the Phoenix Project and Empire Points come into play. They're not just fancy extras; they're essential tools for dominating the post-apocalyptic world. In this article, we'll dive deep into both, giving you the lowdown on how to use them effectively and maximize your chances of survival. Trust me, understanding these mechanics is a game-changer. So, buckle up, grab your favorite energy drink, and let's get started!
Unpacking the Phoenix Project: Your Tech Savior
Alright, let's kick things off with the Phoenix Project. Think of it as your secret weapon for unlocking advanced technology and giving your colony a serious edge. The Phoenix Project is basically a research system that allows you to invest in powerful upgrades and units. As you progress in the game, you'll accumulate research points that can be spent on various improvements. These improvements can range from beefing up your defenses to unlocking new units and technologies. The Phoenix Project is your lifeline to staying ahead of the zombie curve. It's the key to adapting and evolving your defenses and economy to survive the late-game waves.
Now, how does it actually work? Well, it all starts with your Research Center. This is where the magic happens. You'll need to build one (or several, depending on your colony size and goals) to start accruing research points. The more Research Centers you have, the faster you can unlock new technologies. It's that simple, really. However, the game isn’t going to just hand you these points. You will need to consider building research centers in strategic locations, and ensuring they are well-protected from those pesky infected! These centers act as a huge beacon to the zombies.
Once you’ve got your Research Centers humming, the next step is managing your research queue. This is where you decide what technologies to prioritize. Do you need stronger walls? Better turrets? Or maybe you want to upgrade your units to take on the colossal infected that come swarming in? It’s all up to you, and the choices you make here can significantly impact your colony's fate. You'll want to carefully assess your current situation, identify your weaknesses, and research technologies that address those vulnerabilities. Don't waste your research points on things you don't need, or you’ll find yourself overwhelmed pretty quickly.
Mastering Empire Points: Building Your Legacy
Next up, we have Empire Points. These points are your key to unlocking perks and bonuses that can give you a significant advantage in each mission. You accumulate Empire Points by completing campaign missions and achieving specific objectives. The higher your score, the more points you'll earn. These points are a precious resource and are incredibly important for your long-term success. So, how do you spend these hard-earned points? Well, it's pretty straightforward. In between missions, you can access the Empire Points screen, where you can spend them on various perks. These perks can provide a wide range of benefits, from boosting your starting resources to unlocking powerful units and technologies. Empire points are crucial for a successful campaign and are a core part of advancing through the story.
When it comes to using these perks, it's all about making smart choices. You'll need to consider your playstyle, the challenges you anticipate facing, and the resources you have available. For example, if you tend to struggle with early-game economy, you might want to invest in perks that boost your starting resources. If you prefer to be aggressive and expand rapidly, you might want to unlock perks that give you access to powerful units earlier in the game. It all comes down to what you believe will give you the upper hand.
One of the most valuable uses for Empire Points is unlocking special units and technologies that aren't available through the standard research tree. These units can be absolute game-changers, and can allow you to turn the tide against seemingly insurmountable odds. For instance, you could unlock access to advanced artillery units, which can decimate hordes of zombies from a safe distance. So, when deciding how to spend your Empire Points, don't just focus on the immediate benefits. Think about the long-term impact of your choices and how they'll affect your colony’s ability to thrive. Do not waste them! They are a precious resource.
Strategic Synergy: Phoenix and Empire Together
Alright, so we've covered the basics of the Phoenix Project and Empire Points individually. But here's the kicker: they work best when used together. Think of them as two sides of the same coin, each enhancing the other. Here's how to create synergy.
First of all, Empire Points provide the foundational boosts that will provide a huge edge. They can unlock units that can make an immense difference to your defenses. These extra units can make the difference between success and total failure. As you take advantage of your Empire Points, you can then focus your Phoenix Project research on technologies that complement your chosen perks. For example, if you've unlocked artillery through Empire Points, you might want to research technologies that improve their range, damage, or rate of fire. This integrated approach allows you to create a customized strategy that maximizes your strengths and minimizes your weaknesses.
Moreover, the strategic use of both systems will help you adapt to the challenges that the game throws at you. You might start a map with a set of starting bonuses from your Empire Points. You may feel that you need extra defenses, so you can choose to research improved walls and towers via the Phoenix Project. This kind of adaptability is crucial in They Are Billions. The hordes are relentless and their strategy is constant – to destroy everything. It is crucial for you to be ready for anything and to stay one step ahead of the infected.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of perks and technologies. Try different playstyles and strategies to find what works best for you. The game provides a lot of room for innovation. The best players are those who can find the best ways to exploit the game’s mechanics and adapt to its challenges. This means that you’re going to be changing your strategy from time to time. Make sure you’re ready for the zombies! They never are.
Maximizing Your Score: Tips & Tricks
Now, let's talk about how to get the most out of your experience and boost your scores. Here are some key tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Prioritize Efficiency: Time is precious in They Are Billions. Whether you’re managing your research or your economy, it's important to be efficient. Think about the best and fastest way to get things done, and make sure that nothing is wasted. Efficient gameplay will lead to higher scores, and more resources to get the job done. Make sure you’re optimizing your colony layouts to get the most out of your buildings and resources.
 - Adapt and Overcome: No two games are the same in They Are Billions. Be prepared to adapt your strategy on the fly. Don't be afraid to change things up if something isn't working. If a horde is about to crash your walls, consider putting more defenses up. If an early game swarm is taking its toll on your economy, consider producing more workers. The ability to adapt will be key to your success.
 - Expand Carefully: Expanding your base is vital, but make sure that you're doing so strategically. Expand too quickly, and you could spread your defenses thin. Expand too slowly, and you will quickly become resource-starved. Use walls to control the spread of the zombies. Don’t bite off more than you can chew, especially early on.
 - Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The beauty of They Are Billions is in the strategy of the game. Try different units, technologies, and base layouts. You may find an amazing strategy that you like better than your current one! Not being afraid to experiment is critical. The more you experiment, the better you’ll get.
 
Conclusion: Conquer the Zombie Apocalypse
There you have it, guys! The Phoenix Project and Empire Points are essential tools for anyone looking to master They Are Billions. By understanding how they work, strategically investing in research and perks, and adapting to the challenges, you'll be well on your way to building an impenetrable fortress and surviving the zombie apocalypse. Remember to utilize both systems in combination to maximize your advantages and turn your colony into an unstoppable force.
Now go out there, build your empire, and show those zombies who's boss! Good luck, and happy gaming! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Thanks for reading. I hope this guide helps you to survive!