However, both regular player activity, such as trading or piracy, and special missions will affect how the ruling faction of the system develops over time. Star systems, as in previous Elite games, differ in their forms of government, local laws, and economies. While altering the local politics of a star system can be done by a lone Commander, it is far easier to support a minor faction with a large, coordinated group, especially as the minor faction grows. In essence, player actions can turn a minor faction into an interstellar empire that controls dozens of systems.
Many players enjoy actively supporting a chosen minor faction by helping to win its battles, defend its territory, and expand its operations into nearby star systems. Struggles between minor factions are commonplace throughout the galaxy and are influenced by the actions of player Commanders both incidentally and intentionally through the mission system and other activities. Elite Dangerous features a complex Background Simulation which drives a dynamic system of ever-changing power and influence.
