Completing side quests is another great way of acquiring extra cash and items. Cargo hauling takes you through the massive star map dotted with dozens upon dozens of systems. Regional alliances prevent easy exploration, though. Each system in the galaxy is controlled by a different corporation that holds friendships and animosities toward rivaling companies. While you belong to one of the most progressive entities, you can quickly get drawn into conflict. Simply clicking on a wandering ship triggers a battle. It's a great way of getting additional combat experience, but often these foes are tough and the negative impact it has on your standing with that faction can make it an undesirable option.

Of course, that's entirely up to you. From the start of the game, Galactrix gives you freedom to mold a unique character from two male and two female captains apiece. Throughout your travels, you earn general experience that goes toward leveling up your captain and increasing their capabilities. Points awarded with each new level are assigned at will to four distinct disciplines: gunnery, engineer, science, and pilot skills. As you'd expect, each area enhances a specific set of attributes and offers a different bonus.

All of the customization and crafting possible promise an extensive amount of depth. Surprisingly enough, that's not what impressed me most about the game. It's the amazingly addictive quality that convinces you to play one more battle until you look at the clock and realize an hour has seemingly vanished. While Galactrix provides a bunch of changes over the first game, it does well in holding onto that playability that has made Puzzle Quest among the most entertaining new franchises of this generation.

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