Just wondering what are thr restrictions now on the number of ship types allowed in game now that rebellion has come out?
You can add as many ships as can fit in the ship building GUI (18 frigates, 9 capitalships, 9 titans) plus possibly more if you use abilities.
How does diplomacy stand in the game now? Can you have minor neutral factions you can trade with other than just conquer?
I guess using the Truce Amongst Rogues mechanic you could give players the choice to ally with minor factions, but this action is not reversible, and trading with them will probably never justify not conquering them.