UltraCorps is an online, multi-player, turn-based space strategy game originally developed by VR-1 Entertainment in 1997 and acquired by Microsoft's MSN Gaming Zone in 1998. The game couples distinctive 3-D rendered artwork and the ability to play with hundreds of people in a single game. It was the first multi-player turn-based game that could be played entirely in a web browser. As of 2006, the game is currently under redevelopment by Steve Jackson Games.
Starting with a single planet, the goal of an Ultracorps game is to either conquer as many planets as you possibly can or accumulate score in various categories (the victory condition varies). Since the duration of the game is limited, but the number of planets is effectively unlimited, players are encouraged to be highly aggressive at all times.
Ultracorps has a "tick" based turn system. Players log in and make their moves and purchases, then the moves, battles and economic changes are calculated by the server (the "Acutron") at a set time during the day (or, for player-owned PUB games, whenever they choose), at which point a new turn starts. A player can log in at any time to modify their moves, and the continuation of the game is not contingent on each and every player taking a turn.
The cost of producing a unit is determined by a dynamic economic system. As more players begin to purchase a unit, its price climbs accordingly. When demand for the unit eventually fall, the price of the unit also begins to decrease. Part of the strategy of the game involves taking advantage of price fluctuations to produce units at a lower price.
Also, as of December 8, 2006, certain races now have traits that distinguish them further from their fellows. For example, the Nozama race has the unique ability to produce 'Queens' that can spawn several Nozama Fighters every turn without the use of any resources.
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