Arena round 6: revert railgun_m damage, correct playtest record

Arena re-run after the playtest-1 adjustments:

- spam-cruiser arena landed at par (default +9%) - the range buff alone
  priced out the small-gun-spam meta, so revert railgun_m damage 16 -> 14
  (range stays 80). The buff had regressed drone-swarm-vs-cruisers to
  +47%, largely via a hit-count breakpoint (60 HP drone: 5 hits at
  14 dmg, 4 at 16).
- battleship +30% / dreadnought +29% vs pure railgun_s fleets accepted
  as reach-doctrine texture (the l gun's 130 m standoff working as
  intended); repair kept at 4 HP/s (below par in-fight is the correct
  price for free between-wave sustain).

Also corrects the playtest-1 record: it was two FULL playthroughs won in
~40 min each with cruisers only (not two pushes) - a 2.5-3x run-length
gap. Pacing knobs deliberately deferred to playtest 2, since those runs
predate the repair nerf and the l-gun siege range.

Co-Authored-By: Claude Fable 5 <noreply@anthropic.com>
Claude-Session: https://claude.ai/code/session_01DyCu8vwChKMbLJQ3xosYEN

bin/app/data/config/modules.toml

@@ -1,21 +1,29 @@
 # modules.toml
 #
-# First real-content iteration: module ids and surface masks are the designed
-# content; stats, materials, and threat costs are placeholders until the
-# recipe and balancing passes.
+# Production tree v2: all weapons are railguns for now — the implementation
+# (instant damage, no projectile, no ammunition) stays as-is and the beam
+# visual reads as a tracer round. Lasers are reserved for a future distinct
+# weapon type (see docs/content_design.md, "Production tree v2 — Weapons").
+# Combat stats are placeholders until the arena balancing pass;
+# production_time_seconds values come from the numbers pass.
+#
+# Unlock progression is mostly disabled (unlock_at_station_level = -1) pending
+# the pacing pass. The railguns are the exception: railgun_m is gated to
+# station level 1, and railgun_l requires railgun_m to be unlocked first
+# (unlock_requires) — a demonstration of the prerequisite chain.
 #
 # Surface mask footprint ladder — footprints gate which hulls can mount a
 # module, purely through geometry (see ships.toml for the matching hull
 # grids):
 #
-#   1x1       laser_cannon_s, salvager, repair_tool   fits every hull, incl. drones
+#   1x1       railgun_s, salvager, repair_tool        fits every hull, incl. drones
 #   1x2       maneuvering_thrusters, sensor_booster,
 #             armor_plates                            frigate and up
 #   1x3       afterburner                             frigate and up (eats most of a frigate)
 #   L-shape   weapon_stabilizer, weapon_primer,
 #             weapon_upgrade                          frigate and up
-#   2x2       laser_cannon_m, drone_bay               cruiser and up (no 2x2 area on s hulls)
-#   3x3       laser_cannon_l                          battleship and up (no 3x3 area on m hulls)
+#   2x2       railgun_m, drone_bay                    cruiser and up (no 2x2 area on s hulls)
+#   3x3       railgun_l                               battleship and up (no 3x3 area on m hulls)
 #   2x6       drone_hangar                            carrier only
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
@@ -23,56 +31,60 @@
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 [[module]]
-id = "laser_cannon_s"
+id = "railgun_s"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
-materials = [{item = "laser_cannon_s_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 0.5
+materials = [{item = "railgun_s_module", amount = 1}]
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#FF8040"
-glyph = "Ls"
+glyph = "Rs"
 
 [module.weapon]
-damage_formula = "2"
-attack_range_m_formula = "50"
-attack_rate_hz_formula = "2.0"
+damage = 2
+attack_range_m = 50
+attack_rate_hz = 2.0
 
 
 [[module]]
-id = "laser_cannon_m"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+id = "railgun_m"
+unlock_at_station_level = 2
 surface_mask = [
     "OO",
     "OO"]
-materials = [{item = "laser_cannon_m_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+materials = [{item = "railgun_m_module", amount = 1}]
+production_time_seconds = 3
 fill_color = "#FF8040"
-glyph = "Lm"
+glyph = "Rm"
 
+# damage 14 keeps a 60 HP drone at 5 hits — 15+ crosses a breakpoint that
+# silently adds ~25% effective DPS vs drones (docs/balancing/history.md,
+# round 6).
 [module.weapon]
-damage_formula = "10"
-attack_range_m_formula = "70"
-attack_rate_hz_formula = "1.5"
+damage = 14
+attack_range_m = 80
+attack_rate_hz = 1.5
 
 
 [[module]]
-id = "laser_cannon_l"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+id = "railgun_l"
+unlock_at_station_level = 6
+unlock_requires = ["railgun_m"]
 surface_mask = [
     "OOO",
     "OOO",
     "OOO"]
-materials = [{item = "laser_cannon_l_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 8
+materials = [{item = "railgun_l_module", amount = 1}]
+production_time_seconds = 4
 fill_color = "#FF8040"
-glyph = "Ll"
+glyph = "Rl"
 
+# attack_range_m 130 deliberately exceeds the station range of 120
+# (stations.toml) — the l gun is the only weapon that can besiege stations
+# without tanking their fire (docs/balancing/history.md, playtest 1).
 [module.weapon]
-damage_formula = "40"
-attack_range_m_formula = "100"
-attack_rate_hz_formula = "0.8"
+damage = 52
+attack_range_m = 130
+attack_rate_hz = 0.8
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Utility tools
@@ -83,31 +95,29 @@ id = "salvager"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "salvager_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#AACC44"
 glyph = "Sv"
 
 [module.salvage]
-collection_range_m_formula = "500"
-cargo_capacity_formula = "10"
-collection_rate_hz_formula = "0.5"
+collection_range_m = 60
+cargo_capacity = 20
+collection_rate_hz = 0.5
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "repair_tool"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 0
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "repair_tool_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#66CCFF"
 glyph = "Rp"
 
 [module.repair]
-repair_rate_hz_formula = "1"
-repair_amount_hp_formula = "5 + x"
-repair_range_m_formula = "80"
+repair_rate_hz = 1
+repair_amount_hp = 4
+repair_range_m = 80
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Propulsion
@@ -115,32 +125,30 @@ repair_range_m_formula = "80"
 
 [[module]]
 id = "afterburner"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 2
 surface_mask = ["OOO"]
 materials = [{item = "afterburner_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "Ab"
 
 [module.movement]
-multiplied_speed_mps_formula = "1.6"
-added_main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "60"
+multiplied_speed_mps = 1.6
+added_main_acceleration_mpss = 60
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "maneuvering_thrusters"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 1
 surface_mask = ["OO"]
 materials = [{item = "maneuvering_thrusters_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "Mt"
 
 [module.movement]
-multiplied_speed_mps_formula = "1.2"
-added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "10"
+multiplied_speed_mps = 1.2
+added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 10
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Defense & sensors
@@ -148,30 +156,28 @@ added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "10"
 
 [[module]]
 id = "armor_plates"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 0
 surface_mask = ["OO"]
 materials = [{item = "armor_plates_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 3
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#808080"
 glyph = "A"
 
 [module.health]
-added_hp_formula = "40"
+added_hp = 1200
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "sensor_booster"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 1
 surface_mask = ["OO"]
 materials = [{item = "sensor_booster_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 2
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "S"
 
 [module.sensor]
-added_sensor_range_m_formula = "50"
+added_sensor_range_m = 50
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Weapon modifiers
@@ -179,54 +185,51 @@ added_sensor_range_m_formula = "50"
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_upgrade"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 4
 surface_mask = [
     "OO",
     "OX",
 ]
 materials = [{item = "weapon_upgrade_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 4
+production_time_seconds = 2
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "Wu"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_damage_formula = "1.2"
+multiplied_damage = 1.2
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_primer"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 4
 surface_mask = [
     "OO",
     "OX",
 ]
 materials = [{item = "weapon_primer_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 4
+production_time_seconds = 2
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "Wp"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_attack_rate_hz_formula = "1.2"
+multiplied_attack_rate_hz = 1.2
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_stabilizer"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 3
 surface_mask = [
     "OO",
     "OX",
 ]
 materials = [{item = "weapon_stabilizer_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 4
+production_time_seconds = 1
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "Ws"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_attack_range_m_formula = "1.5"
-multiplied_attack_rate_hz_formula = "0.8"
+multiplied_attack_range_m = 1.3
+multiplied_attack_rate_hz = 0.8
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Drone modules
@@ -237,25 +240,23 @@ multiplied_attack_rate_hz_formula = "0.8"
 
 [[module]]
 id = "drone_bay"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 5
 surface_mask = [
     "OO",
     "OO"]
 materials = [{item = "drone_bay_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 5
+production_time_seconds = 3
 fill_color = "#CC66FF"
 glyph = "Db"
 
 
 [[module]]
 id = "drone_hangar"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 9
 surface_mask = [
     "OOOOOO",
     "OOOOOO"]
 materials = [{item = "drone_hangar_module", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 20
+production_time_seconds = 6
 fill_color = "#9933CC"
 glyph = "Dh"

bin/app/data/config/recipes.toml

@@ -1,24 +1,26 @@
 # recipes.toml
 #
-# First real-content iteration of the production tree. Quantities and
-# durations are a first guess; the balancing pass will tune them and assign
-# real unlock_at_station_level values (everything is unlocked for now so the
-# full tree is testable).
+# Production tree v2 (structure in docs/content_design.md, numbers with
+# derivations in docs/balancing/derived.md). Quantities and durations are tuned so that every
+# fitted ship lands on the threat-cost ladder and the ratio curve is
+# realized: tier 1 ratios are 1:1, tier 2 ratios are 2:3, tier 3+ ratios
+# are deliberately strange.
 #
-# Input chain per game phase — each phase adds exactly one new base input:
+# Input chain per game phase — each phase transition adds exactly one new
+# base input:
 #
-#   early  iron_ore + copper_ore   -> ingots -> copper_wire, steel_plate,
-#                                    circuit_board
-#   mid    + titanium_ore          -> titanium_frame; assembler-made
-#                                    mechanical_parts, targeting_unit,
-#                                    drive_unit
-#   late   + advanced_alloy        -> reinforced_plating, capital_core.
-#                                    advanced_alloy CANNOT be mined; it only
-#                                    comes from reprocessing salvaged scrap,
-#                                    so capital production requires combat.
+#   early  iron_ore + copper_ore    minable on every asteroid tile (the
+#                                   asteroid is an M-type body — its bulk
+#                                   rock IS ore)
+#   mid    + quartz                 geode deposits in expansion territory
+#                                   (deposit gating pending — see action
+#                                   item 5 in docs/balancing/README.md;
+#                                   until then quartz mines anywhere)
+#   late   + voidsteel              battle-forged: ONLY from reprocessing
+#                                   salvaged scrap, so capital production
+#                                   requires combat
 #
-# Run tools/verify_recipes.py after editing to check that every consumed
-# item has a producer and every item has a visuals.toml entry.
+# Run tools/verify_recipes.py and tools/threat_report.py after editing.
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Mining (tier 0)
@@ -36,404 +38,409 @@ id = "mine_copper_ore"
 building = "miner"
 inputs = []
 outputs = [{item = "copper_ore", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 1.5
+duration_seconds = 1.0
 
-# Titanium is the midgame ore: mined three times slower than iron.
 [[recipe]]
-id = "mine_titanium_ore"
+id = "mine_quartz"
 building = "miner"
 inputs = []
-outputs = [{item = "titanium_ore", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
+outputs = [{item = "quartz", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Smelting (tier 1)
+# Smelting (tier 1) — one recipe per input item; ratios are 1:1 with miners.
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "iron_ingot"
 building = "smelter"
-inputs = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 2}]
+inputs = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 1}]
 outputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 2.0
+duration_seconds = 1.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "copper_ingot"
 building = "smelter"
-inputs = [{item = "copper_ore", amount = 2}]
+inputs = [{item = "copper_ore", amount = 1}]
 outputs = [{item = "copper_ingot", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 2.5
+duration_seconds = 1.0
 
 [[recipe]]
-id = "titanium_ingot"
+id = "silicon"
 building = "smelter"
-inputs = [{item = "titanium_ore", amount = 3}]
-outputs = [{item = "titanium_ingot", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
+inputs = [{item = "quartz", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "silicon", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+# Scrap smelting: the safe, boring sink. Deliberately value-losing (4 threat
+# of scrap becomes a 2-threat ingot) — reprocessing is the value-preserving
+# path.
+[[recipe]]
+id = "scrap_smelting"
+building = "smelter"
+inputs = [{item = "scrap", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Reprocessing
-#
-# The only source of advanced_alloy: salvaged scrap from destroyed ships.
+# Reprocessing — the only source of voidsteel (battle-forged; formed when
+# weapon plasma anneals hull metal in the violence of ship destruction).
+# Weights are authored for the fully unlocked pool state; the pool
+# renormalizes over implicitly unlocked items early game.
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "reprocessing_cycle"
 building = "reprocessing_plant"
-inputs = [{item = "scrap", amount = 5}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
+inputs = [{item = "scrap", amount = 4}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
 
   [[recipe.outputs]]
   item = "iron_ingot"
-  amount = 2
-  probability = 0.45
+  amount = 1
+  probability = 0.3
 
   [[recipe.outputs]]
   item = "copper_ingot"
   amount = 1
-  probability = 0.25
+  probability = 0.3
 
   [[recipe.outputs]]
-  item = "titanium_ingot"
+  item = "silicon"
   amount = 1
-  probability = 0.15
+  probability = 0.2
 
   [[recipe.outputs]]
-  item = "advanced_alloy"
+  item = "voidsteel"
   amount = 1
-  probability = 0.15
+  probability = 0.2
 
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Basic components (tier 2, early game)
+# Tier 2 — early intermediates (clean ratios, ~2:3)
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
-[[recipe]]
-id = "copper_wire"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "copper_ingot", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
-duration_seconds = 1.5
-
 [[recipe]]
 id = "steel_plate"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 2}]
 outputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 3.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "copper_wire"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_ingot", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "copper_coil"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.5
+
+# Depth-3 chain (ore -> ingot -> plate -> block) is the factory's
+# doubling-time knob; see the block economy rules in docs/balancing/rules.md.
+# Explicitly unlocked at start (-1): building blocks appear in no
+# schematic's materials, so implicit unlocking can never reach this recipe.
+[[recipe]]
+id = "building_block"
+unlock_at_station_level = -1
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "building_block", amount = 4}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+# Tier 3 — mid intermediates (strange ratios begin; need quartz)
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "control_chip"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "silicon", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "control_chip", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 5.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "capacitor_bank"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_coil", amount = 2}, {item = "silicon", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "capacitor_bank", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 5.0
+
+# The quality gate for m+ hulls: a deliberately long-running recipe
+# (time-heavy archetype).
+[[recipe]]
+id = "hardened_steel"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 3}]
+outputs = [{item = "hardened_steel", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 12.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "ceramic_plate"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "quartz", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "ceramic_plate", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "drive_unit"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 2},
+    {item = "copper_coil", amount = 2},
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "drive_unit", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 8.0
+
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+# Tier 4 — late intermediates (need voidsteel)
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "voidsteel_plate"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "voidsteel", amount = 1}, {item = "hardened_steel", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "voidsteel_plate", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 8.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "capital_core"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "voidsteel", amount = 2},
+    {item = "capacitor_bank", amount = 1},
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "capital_core", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 10.0
+
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+# Shortcut recipes — drop-only assembler recipe schematics
+# (unlock_at_station_level >= 0). Pure rewards: item threat stays defined by
+# the base (expensive) path via the max rule, so shortcuts give real factory
+# efficiency without shifting any balance.
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "shortcut_steel_plate"
+unlock_at_station_level = 1
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 3}]
+outputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
 duration_seconds = 2.0
 
 [[recipe]]
-id = "circuit_board"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+id = "shortcut_control_chip"
+unlock_at_station_level = 2
 building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
-outputs = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 2.0
+inputs = [{item = "quartz", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "control_chip", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
 
 [[recipe]]
-id = "building_blocks"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+id = "shortcut_hardened_steel"
+unlock_at_station_level = 2
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 4}]
-outputs = [{item = "building_block", amount = 10}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Advanced components (tier 3, midgame)
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "mechanical_parts"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 2}]
-duration_seconds = 2.5
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "targeting_unit"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 2}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "drive_unit"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 1},
-    {item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 1},
-    {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1},
-]
-outputs = [{item = "drive_unit", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "titanium_frame"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "titanium_ingot", amount = 2}, {item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "titanium_frame", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Capital components (tier 4, lategame — gated on advanced_alloy)
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "reinforced_plating"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 2}, {item = "advanced_alloy", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 5.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "capital_core"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1},
-    {item = "drive_unit", amount = 1},
-    {item = "advanced_alloy", amount = 2},
-]
-outputs = [{item = "capital_core", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "hardened_steel", amount = 1}]
 duration_seconds = 8.0
 
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Module items — early game
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "laser_cannon_s_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 2}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "laser_cannon_s_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "salvager_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "salvager_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "repair_tool_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 2}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "repair_tool_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "armor_plates_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 2}]
-outputs = [{item = "armor_plates_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "sensor_booster_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
-outputs = [{item = "sensor_booster_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "maneuvering_thrusters_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "maneuvering_thrusters_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 3.0
-
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Module items — midgame
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "afterburner_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "drive_unit", amount = 1}, {item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "afterburner_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "weapon_upgrade_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1}, {item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "weapon_upgrade_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "weapon_primer_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
-outputs = [{item = "weapon_primer_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "weapon_stabilizer_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1}, {item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "weapon_stabilizer_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "laser_cannon_m_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1}, {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 1}]
-outputs = [{item = "laser_cannon_m_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 6.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "drone_bay_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 1},
-    {item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 1},
-    {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1},
-]
-outputs = [{item = "drone_bay_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 6.0
-
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-# Module items — lategame
-# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "laser_cannon_l_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "targeting_unit", amount = 2},
-    {item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 2},
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 1},
-]
-outputs = [{item = "laser_cannon_l_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 12.0
-
-[[recipe]]
-id = "drone_hangar_module"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
-building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "capital_core", amount = 1},
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 2},
-    {item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 2},
-]
-outputs = [{item = "drone_hangar_module", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 20.0
-
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 # Ship hulls
 # -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "drone_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
-inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 5}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
+inputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
 outputs = [{item = "drone_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 4.0
+duration_seconds = 1.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "frigate_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 3},
-    {item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 1},
-    {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1},
-]
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 2}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 1}]
 outputs = [{item = "frigate_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 8.0
+duration_seconds = 2.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "destroyer_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 5},
-    {item = "mechanical_parts", amount = 2},
-    {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1},
-]
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 3}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 2}]
 outputs = [{item = "destroyer_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 10.0
+duration_seconds = 4.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "cruiser_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
-inputs = [
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 2},
-    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 4},
-    {item = "drive_unit", amount = 1},
-]
+inputs = [{item = "hardened_steel", amount = 2}, {item = "control_chip", amount = 2}]
 outputs = [{item = "cruiser_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 15.0
+duration_seconds = 6.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "battlecruiser_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 3},
-    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 6},
+    {item = "hardened_steel", amount = 3},
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 2},
     {item = "drive_unit", amount = 1},
-    {item = "targeting_unit", amount = 1},
 ]
 outputs = [{item = "battlecruiser_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 20.0
+duration_seconds = 8.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "battleship_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 4},
-    {item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 2},
-    {item = "drive_unit", amount = 2},
+    {item = "voidsteel_plate", amount = 3},
+    {item = "drive_unit", amount = 1},
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 2},
 ]
 outputs = [{item = "battleship_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 30.0
+duration_seconds = 10.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "dreadnought_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [
+    {item = "voidsteel_plate", amount = 5},
     {item = "capital_core", amount = 1},
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 6},
-    {item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 4},
     {item = "drive_unit", amount = 2},
 ]
 outputs = [{item = "dreadnought_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 60.0
+duration_seconds = 12.0
 
 [[recipe]]
 id = "carrier_hull"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
 building = "assembler"
 inputs = [
+    {item = "voidsteel_plate", amount = 5},
     {item = "capital_core", amount = 1},
-    {item = "titanium_frame", amount = 5},
-    {item = "reinforced_plating", amount = 3},
     {item = "drive_unit", amount = 2},
 ]
 outputs = [{item = "carrier_hull", amount = 1}]
-duration_seconds = 60.0
+duration_seconds = 12.0
+
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+# Module prefabs
+# -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "railgun_s_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "railgun_s_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "salvager_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "salvager_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "repair_tool_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}]
+outputs = [{item = "repair_tool_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+# Material-heavy, fast: the armor archetype.
+[[recipe]]
+id = "armor_plates_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 4}]
+outputs = [{item = "armor_plates_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 3.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "maneuvering_thrusters_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "maneuvering_thrusters_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "sensor_booster_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_wire", amount = 2}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "sensor_booster_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "afterburner_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "copper_coil", amount = 2}, {item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "afterburner_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 3.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "weapon_stabilizer_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "steel_plate", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "weapon_stabilizer_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "weapon_primer_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "capacitor_bank", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "weapon_primer_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "weapon_upgrade_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "control_chip", amount = 1}, {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "weapon_upgrade_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "railgun_m_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "capacitor_bank", amount = 1},
+    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 2},
+    {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "railgun_m_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "drone_bay_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 1},
+    {item = "steel_plate", amount = 2},
+    {item = "copper_coil", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "drone_bay_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 4.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "railgun_l_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "capacitor_bank", amount = 1},
+    {item = "hardened_steel", amount = 2},
+    {item = "ceramic_plate", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "railgun_l_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 6.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "drone_hangar_module"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [
+    {item = "voidsteel_plate", amount = 1},
+    {item = "control_chip", amount = 2},
+    {item = "drive_unit", amount = 1},
+]
+outputs = [{item = "drone_hangar_module", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 10.0

bin/app/data/config/ships.toml

@@ -4,6 +4,11 @@
 # content; stats, materials, and production times are placeholders until the
 # recipe and balancing passes.
 #
+# Unlock progression is mostly disabled (unlock_at_station_level = -1) pending
+# the balancing pass. The capital hulls are the exception: battleship is gated
+# to station level 1, and dreadnought (level 2) requires battleship to be
+# unlocked first (unlock_requires) — a demonstration of the prerequisite chain.
+#
 # Size classes:
 #   xs  drone                      1 cell — exactly one 1x1 module
 #   s   frigate, destroyer         no 2x2 area anywhere: only 1x1/1x2/1x3/L modules fit
@@ -19,28 +24,24 @@
 id = "drone"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 layout = ["O"]
-default_modules = [{type = "laser_cannon_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"}]
+default_modules = [{type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"}]
 
 [ship.schematic]
-materials = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 5
+materials = [{item = "drone_hull", amount = 1}]
+production_time_seconds = 1
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "3"
+hp = 60
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "40"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "2"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "1"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "12.56"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "6.28"
+speed_mps = 45
+main_acceleration_mpss = 60
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 30
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 12
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 6
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "150"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 2
+sensor_range_m = 150
 
 
 # Frigate — 5 cells in a plus shape. Holds a couple of small guns plus at
@@ -54,27 +55,28 @@ layout = [
     "OOO",
     "XOX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "frigate_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 10
+production_time_seconds = 2
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "30"
+hp = 300
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "30"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "50"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "25"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "8"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "4"
+speed_mps = 35
+main_acceleration_mpss = 45
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 22
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 8
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 4
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "200"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 5
+sensor_range_m = 200
 
 
 # Destroyer — 8 cells: a long gun deck with three turret bumps on top.
@@ -82,32 +84,35 @@ scrap_drop = 5
 # mount medium hardware.
 [[ship]]
 id = "destroyer"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 0
 layout = [
     "OXOXO",
     "OOOOO",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "destroyer_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 15
+production_time_seconds = 3
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "50"
+hp = 550
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "25"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "40"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "20"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "6"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "3"
+speed_mps = 30
+main_acceleration_mpss = 35
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 18
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 6
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 3
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "220"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 8
+sensor_range_m = 220
 
 
 # Cruiser — 12 cells with notched corners. Fits at most two 2x2 m guns
@@ -115,34 +120,36 @@ scrap_drop = 8
 # supports; no 3x3 area exists for an l gun.
 [[ship]]
 id = "cruiser"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 2
 layout = [
     "XOOX",
     "OOOO",
     "OOOO",
     "XOOX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "cruiser_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 25
+production_time_seconds = 4
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "120"
+hp = 1500
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "20"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "30"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "15"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "4"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "2"
+speed_mps = 24
+main_acceleration_mpss = 25
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 12
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 4
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 2
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "250"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 15
+sensor_range_m = 250
 
 
 # Battlecruiser — 16 cells: a wide bow split into two gun cheeks, tapering
@@ -151,34 +158,39 @@ scrap_drop = 15
 # stern leave no 3x3 area for an l gun and no 2x6 area for a drone hangar.
 [[ship]]
 id = "battlecruiser"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 4
+unlock_requires = ["cruiser"]
 layout = [
     "OOXXOO",
     "OOOOOO",
     "XOOOOX",
     "XXOOXX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 2, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "battlecruiser_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 35
+production_time_seconds = 5
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "180"
+hp = 2400
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "18"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "25"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "12"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "3"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "1.5"
+speed_mps = 20
+main_acceleration_mpss = 20
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 10
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 3
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 1.5
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "260"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 20
+sensor_range_m = 260
 
 
 # Battleship — 24 cells: a broadside hull with notched flanks on every other
@@ -189,7 +201,8 @@ scrap_drop = 20
 # so no 2x6 drone hangar fits.
 [[ship]]
 id = "battleship"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 6
+unlock_requires = ["battlecruiser"]
 layout = [
     "XOOOOX",
     "OOOOOO",
@@ -197,27 +210,31 @@ layout = [
     "OOOOOO",
     "XOOOOX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_l", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "weapon_stabilizer", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "battleship_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 60
+production_time_seconds = 6
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "350"
+hp = 6300
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "14"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "18"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "8"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "2"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "1"
+speed_mps = 15
+main_acceleration_mpss = 14
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 7
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 2
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 1
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "280"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 35
+sensor_range_m = 280
 
 
 # Dreadnought — 36 cells: the main battery deck is split into three 3x3 gun
@@ -227,7 +244,8 @@ scrap_drop = 35
 # stay the only hangar hull. Bow and stern strips hold supports.
 [[ship]]
 id = "dreadnought"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 8
+unlock_requires = ["battleship"]
 layout = [
     "XXXOOOOOXXX",
     "OOOXOOOXOOO",
@@ -235,27 +253,33 @@ layout = [
     "OOOXOOOXOOO",
     "XXOOXXXOOXX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "railgun_l", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_l", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_l", x = 8, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 3, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 5, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 2, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 7, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_s", x = 7, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "dreadnought_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 120
+production_time_seconds = 8
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "800"
+hp = 24000
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "8"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "10"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "5"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "1"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "0.5"
+speed_mps = 10
+main_acceleration_mpss = 8
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 4
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 1
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 0.5
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "300"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 60
+sensor_range_m = 300
 
 
 # Carrier — 37 cells: the top flight deck (rows 0-1) is the only place wide
@@ -264,7 +288,8 @@ scrap_drop = 60
 # the lower decks hold supports and 2x2 point-defense m guns.
 [[ship]]
 id = "carrier"
-unlock_at_station_level = -1
+unlock_at_station_level = 9
+unlock_requires = ["battleship"]
 layout = [
     "XOOOOOOOOX",
     "OOOOOOOOOO",
@@ -272,24 +297,28 @@ layout = [
     "XOOOOOOOOX",
     "XXXOOOOXXX",
 ]
+default_modules = [
+    {type = "drone_hangar", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "railgun_m", x = 6, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "armor_plates", x = 8, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "carrier_hull", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
-production_time_seconds = 120
+production_time_seconds = 8
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "700"
+hp = 24000
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula = "9"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "10"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "5"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula = "1"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula = "0.5"
+speed_mps = 10
+main_acceleration_mpss = 8
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 4
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 1
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 0.5
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "350"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 60
+sensor_range_m = 350

bin/app/data/config/stations.toml

@@ -1,10 +1,18 @@
+# stations.toml
+#
+# Combat-pass anchors (see docs/balancing/targets.md, "Combat anchors"):
+# a fresh player defence station holds one early parity wave unaided; the
+# enemy station at level 0 matches the player station exactly and scales
+# with the push level x. Station scrap drops stay authored (pushing rewards
+# are tuned independently of ship production costs, REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP).
+
 [hq]
 surface_mask = [
   "AAA",
   "AAA",
   "AAA",
 ]
-hp_formula = "1000"
+hp_formula = "5000"
 
 [player_station]
 surface_mask = [
@@ -12,19 +20,19 @@ surface_mask = [
   "SS",
 ]
 level = 1
-hp_formula = "300"
-damage_formula = "5"
-range_m_formula = "200"
+hp_formula = "3000"
+damage_formula = "25"
+range_m_formula = "120"
 fire_rate_hz_formula = "1"
-scrap_drop_formula = "10"
+scrap_drop_formula = "40"
 
 [enemy_station]
 surface_mask = [
   "SS",
   "SS",
 ]
-hp_formula = "300 + 150*x"
-damage_formula = "2 + 1*x"
-range_m_formula = "200"
-fire_rate_hz_formula = "1.0 + 0.2*x"
-scrap_drop_formula = "10 + 5*x"
+hp_formula = "3000 + 1500*x"
+damage_formula = "25 + 12*x"
+range_m_formula = "120"
+fire_rate_hz_formula = "1.0 + 0.1*x"
+scrap_drop_formula = "40 + 30*x"

bin/app/data/config/visuals.toml

@@ -116,11 +116,11 @@ outline = "#201010"
 fill    = "#c47a3a"
 outline = "#3a1a0a"
 
-[items.titanium_ore]
-fill    = "#9aa3ad"
-outline = "#2a2e33"
+[items.quartz]
+fill    = "#e0d4f0"
+outline = "#40345a"
 
-# --- ingots ---
+# --- smelted basics ---
 
 [items.iron_ingot]
 fill    = "#b0b0b8"
@@ -130,9 +130,9 @@ outline = "#202028"
 fill    = "#d48a4a"
 outline = "#402010"
 
-[items.titanium_ingot]
-fill    = "#c8d2dc"
-outline = "#3a4048"
+[items.silicon]
+fill    = "#33415e"
+outline = "#0e1420"
 
 # --- salvage loop ---
 
@@ -140,9 +140,9 @@ outline = "#3a4048"
 fill    = "#7a7268"
 outline = "#201a14"
 
-[items.advanced_alloy]
-fill    = "#a06acc"
-outline = "#201030"
+[items.voidsteel]
+fill    = "#4a3a6a"
+outline = "#151020"
 
 # --- basic components ---
 
@@ -154,9 +154,9 @@ outline = "#3a2008"
 fill    = "#8a92a0"
 outline = "#22262c"
 
-[items.circuit_board]
-fill    = "#2ea35a"
-outline = "#0a2a14"
+[items.copper_coil]
+fill    = "#d07030"
+outline = "#381808"
 
 [items.building_block]
 fill    = "#c8b070"
@@ -164,26 +164,30 @@ outline = "#302810"
 
 # --- advanced components ---
 
-[items.mechanical_parts]
-fill    = "#6f7a66"
-outline = "#1c2018"
+[items.control_chip]
+fill    = "#2ea35a"
+outline = "#0a2a14"
 
-[items.targeting_unit]
-fill    = "#3a9e8c"
-outline = "#0c2824"
+[items.capacitor_bank]
+fill    = "#d0a030"
+outline = "#302408"
+
+[items.hardened_steel]
+fill    = "#6a7280"
+outline = "#181c22"
+
+[items.ceramic_plate]
+fill    = "#e0d8c8"
+outline = "#3a3428"
 
 [items.drive_unit]
 fill    = "#4a6ad0"
 outline = "#101a38"
 
-[items.titanium_frame]
-fill    = "#b8c4d4"
-outline = "#343c48"
-
 # --- capital components ---
 
-[items.reinforced_plating]
-fill    = "#8a6ad0"
+[items.voidsteel_plate]
+fill    = "#7a5aaa"
 outline = "#1c1038"
 
 [items.capital_core]
@@ -192,15 +196,15 @@ outline = "#280c30"
 
 # --- module items ---
 
-[items.laser_cannon_s_module]
+[items.railgun_s_module]
 fill    = "#691313"
 outline = "#f3ff4f"
 
-[items.laser_cannon_m_module]
+[items.railgun_m_module]
 fill    = "#892020"
 outline = "#f3ff4f"
 
-[items.laser_cannon_l_module]
+[items.railgun_l_module]
 fill    = "#a92d2d"
 outline = "#f3ff4f"
 

bin/app/data/config/world.toml

@@ -1,8 +1,9 @@
 [world]
 height_tiles = 40
 refund_percentage = 100
-starting_building_blocks = 1000
-scrap_despawn_seconds = 30
+starting_building_blocks = 200
+scrap_despawn_seconds = 120
+scrap_per_threat = 0.25
 tile_size_m = 10
 belt_speed_mps = 20
 tunnel_max_distance_tiles = 10
@@ -18,7 +19,9 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 20
 
 [expansion]
 columns_per_expansion_tiles = 10
-cost_building_blocks = 200
+# x = expansions already purchased; ~1 per cycle mid-game, decelerating
+# to 2-3 cycles late (docs/balancing/derived.md).
+cost_building_blocks_formula = "300 + 50*x + 10*x*x"
 
 [push]
 push_expand_columns_tiles = 10
@@ -31,11 +34,13 @@ target_hysteresis         = 0.40                   # keep current target unless
 
 [artifacts]
 artifact_chance_formula = "0.05 * x"  # 5% chance per station level
-artifact_win_count      = 3
+artifact_win_count      = 5
 
 [waves]
-threat_rate_formula = "x"
-ship_level_formula = "1"
+# Tuned against the factory-size curve (docs/balancing/targets.md, balancing
+# targets): stays below the player's achievable military output early,
+# crosses it around the late boundary (~cycle 15), overwhelms by ~24.
+threat_rate_formula = "2*x + 0.15*x*x"
 gap_min_seconds = 15
 gap_max_seconds = 45
 spawn_duration_seconds = 10

bin/balancing/data/balancing.toml

@@ -1,73 +1,442 @@
+# balancing.toml — canonical arena suite for the combat stats pass.
+#
+# Ship counts are chosen so both teams have (near-)equal total threat,
+# using the verified fitted threat values from tools/threat_report.py:
+#   drone 10.5, frigate 47, destroyer 99, cruiser 233.5,
+#   battlecruiser 354.5, battleship 722.5, dreadnought 1491.5,
+#   carrier 1436.5, glass destroyer (8 small guns) 92, repair drone 17,
+#   railgun_s-spam cruiser (12 small guns) 178.
+# Module arrays mirror the ships' default_modules loadouts unless a
+# doctrine variant is the point of the arena.
+#
+# Expectations: mirror matches and equal-threat cross-tier matchups should
+# be near-draws (power-per-threat rule); the two-to-one arena must be a
+# decisive win for the larger team. "Cruisers vs carrier" is EXPECTED to be
+# a loss for the carrier until the drone-launching capability exists — the
+# hangar is 224 threat of dead weight.
+
+# --- mirrors (sanity: symmetric outcomes, fight duration in the 30-60 s band) ---
+
 [[arena]]
-name = "Fighters vs Sniper"
-height_tiles = 20
+name = "Mirror: drones 20v20"
+height_tiles = 10
 player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
-contest_zone_width_tiles = 60
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
 enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
 
   [[arena.team]]
   name = "Alpha"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
     schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 5
+    count = 20
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
     ]
 
   [[arena.team]]
   name = "Beta"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
     schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 2
+    count = 20
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-      {type = "weapon_stabilizer",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-      {type = "weapon_stabilizer",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-      {type = "weapon_upgrade",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-      {type = "sensor_booster",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-      {type = "sensor_booster",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
     ]
 
 [[arena]]
-name = "Fighters vs Supported"
-height_tiles = 20
+name = "Mirror: cruisers 6v6"
+height_tiles = 10
 player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
-contest_zone_width_tiles = 60
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
 enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
 
   [[arena.team]]
-  name = "Fighters"
+  name = "Alpha"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
-    schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 5
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 6
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
     ]
 
   [[arena.team]]
-  name = "Supported"
+  name = "Beta"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
-    schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 3
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 6
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
-    ]
-
-    [[arena.team.ship]]
-    schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 2
-    modules = [
-      {type = "repair_tool",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
     ]
 
 [[arena]]
-name = "Stations and Ships"
-height_tiles = 60
+name = "Mirror: battleships 2v2"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Alpha"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "battleship"
+    count = 2
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "weapon_stabilizer", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Beta"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "battleship"
+    count = 2
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "weapon_stabilizer", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+# --- equal-threat cross-tier matchups (power-per-threat: expect near-draws) ---
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Drone swarm vs cruisers (462 vs 467)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Swarm"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "drone"
+    count = 44
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Cruisers"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 2
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Frigates vs battleship (705 vs 723)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Frigates"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "frigate"
+    count = 15
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Battleship"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "battleship"
+    count = 1
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "weapon_stabilizer", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Destroyers vs dreadnought (1485 vs 1492)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Destroyers"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "destroyer"
+    count = 15
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Dreadnought"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "dreadnought"
+    count = 1
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_l", x = 8, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 3, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 5, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 2, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 7, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 7, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Cruisers vs carrier (1401 vs 1437, carrier expected to lose)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Cruisers"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 6
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Carrier"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "carrier"
+    count = 1
+    modules = [
+      {type = "drone_hangar", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 3, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 6, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 8, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 4, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Mixed mid vs battlecruisers (1394 vs 1418)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Mixed"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "destroyer"
+    count = 7
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 3
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Battlecruisers"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "battlecruiser"
+    count = 4
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 2, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+# --- asymmetric checks ---
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Two to one (must be decisive)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Six"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "frigate"
+    count = 6
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Three"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "frigate"
+    count = 3
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Armored vs glass destroyers (1188 vs 1196)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Armored"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "destroyer"
+    count = 12
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "sensor_booster", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Glass"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "destroyer"
+    count = 13
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 4, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Railgun_s-spam cruisers vs default cruisers (1424 vs 1401)"
+# Tracks the playtest-1 meta: cruiser hulls filled with 12 small guns
+# (max DPS/threat, no armor, range 50) against the default m-gun fit.
+# The concentration tax means the spam side SHOULD win a brawl somewhat;
+# this arena bounds its margin — a blowout here means the small-gun
+# premium or the m-gun range edge needs retuning.
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Spam"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 8
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 3, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 3, y = 2, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Default"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "cruiser"
+    count = 6
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_m", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "armor_plates", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 1, y = 3, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Repair escort vs raw numbers (444 vs 444)"
+height_tiles = 10
+player_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+contest_zone_width_tiles = 50
+enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 10
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Escorted"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "frigate"
+    count = 8
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "drone"
+    count = 4
+    modules = [
+      {type = "repair_tool", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+  [[arena.team]]
+  name = "Raw"
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "frigate"
+    count = 9
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 1, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 2, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "maneuvering_thrusters", x = 0, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+    [[arena.team.ship]]
+    schematic = "drone"
+    count = 2
+    modules = [
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
+    ]
+
+[[arena]]
+name = "Station assault (2 stations + 105 vs 315)"
+height_tiles = 10
 player_buffer_width_tiles = 15
 contest_zone_width_tiles = 40
 enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
@@ -76,10 +445,9 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
   name = "Fortified"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
     schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 3
+    count = 10
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",   x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
     ]
     [[arena.team.station]]
     type = "player_station"
@@ -96,8 +464,7 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
   name = "Swarm"
     [[arena.team.ship]]
     schematic = "drone"
-    level = 1
-    count = 8
+    count = 30
     modules = [
-      {type = "laser_cannon_s",  x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"},
+      {type = "railgun_s", x = 0, y = 0, rotation = "east"},
     ]

bin/test/data/config/modules.toml

@@ -3,136 +3,126 @@ id = "armor_plate"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["OO"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 2}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 3
 fill_color = "#808080"
 glyph = "A"
 
 [module.health]
-multiplied_hp_formula = "1.5"
+multiplied_hp = 1.5
 
 [[module]]
 id = "sensor_booster"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 2
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "S"
 
 [module.sensor]
-added_sensor_range_m_formula = "100"
+added_sensor_range_m = 100
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_upgrade"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 4
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "W"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_damage_formula = "1.2"
+multiplied_damage = 1.2
 
 [[module]]
 id = "laser_cannon"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 5
 fill_color = "#FF8040"
 glyph = "L"
 
 [module.weapon]
-damage_formula = "2"
-attack_range_m_formula = "50"
-attack_rate_hz_formula = "2.0"
+damage = 2
+attack_range_m = 50
+attack_rate_hz = 2.0
 
 [[module]]
 id = "salvager"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["OO"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 2}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 5
 fill_color = "#AACC44"
 glyph = "Sv"
 
 [module.salvage]
-collection_range_m_formula = "500"
-cargo_capacity_formula = "10"
-collection_rate_hz_formula = "0.5"
+collection_range_m = 500
+cargo_capacity = 10
+collection_rate_hz = 0.5
 
 [[module]]
 id = "repair_tool"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 2}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 5
 fill_color = "#66CCFF"
 glyph = "Rp"
 
 [module.repair]
-repair_rate_hz_formula = "1"
-repair_amount_hp_formula = "5 + x"
-repair_range_m_formula = "800"
+repair_rate_hz = 1
+repair_amount_hp = 6
+repair_range_m = 800
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_primer"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 4
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "Wp"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_attack_rate_hz_formula = "1.2"
+multiplied_attack_rate_hz = 1.2
 
 [[module]]
 id = "weapon_stabilizer"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 4
 fill_color = "#FF4040"
 glyph = "Ws"
 
 [module.weapon]
-multiplied_attack_range_m_formula = "1.5"
-multiplied_attack_rate_hz_formula = "0.8"
+multiplied_attack_range_m = 1.5
+multiplied_attack_rate_hz = 0.8
 
 [[module]]
 id = "afterburner"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 2
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "Ab"
 
 [module.movement]
-multiplied_speed_mps_formula = "1.6"
-added_main_acceleration_mpss_formula = "60"
+multiplied_speed_mps = 1.6
+added_main_acceleration_mpss = 60
 
 [[module]]
 id = "maneuvering_thrusters"
 unlock_at_station_level = -1
 surface_mask = ["O"]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 1
 production_time_seconds = 2
 fill_color = "#40A0FF"
 glyph = "Mt"
 
 [module.movement]
-multiplied_speed_mps_formula = "1.2"
-added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula = "10"
+multiplied_speed_mps = 1.2
+added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 10

bin/test/data/config/recipes.toml

@@ -92,3 +92,60 @@ duration_seconds = 3.0
   item = "advanced_alloy"
   amount = 1
   probability = 0.1
+
+# -------------------------------------------------------------------
+# Extra recipes for ThreatCostCalculator unit tests (fixes 6-9)
+# -------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+# Fix 6: scrap-consuming smelter recipe for iron_ingot. Because iron_ingot
+# already has a scrap-free smelter recipe above, this recipe must be excluded
+# from iron_ingot's threat computation.
+[[recipe]]
+id = "scrap_iron"
+building = "smelter"
+inputs = [{item = "scrap", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+
+# Fix 7: a recipe that produces 2 items per cycle. Per-unit threat must
+# divide by the output amount.
+# dual_wire: (duration=3.0 + iron_ore(1.0)*1) / 2 = 4.0 / 2 = 2.0 per unit.
+[[recipe]]
+id = "dual_wire"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "dual_wire", amount = 2}]
+duration_seconds = 3.0
+
+# Fix 8: an item downstream of a reprocessing-only item (advanced_alloy).
+# advanced_alloy is resolved only by the reprocessing pass; downstream_product
+# can only resolve in a non-reprocessing pass that runs AFTER the reprocessing
+# pass, requiring proper fixpoint iteration.
+# downstream_product: 2.0 + advanced_alloy(80.0)*1 = 82.0
+[[recipe]]
+id = "downstream_product"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "advanced_alloy", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "downstream_product", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 2.0
+
+# Fix 9: two recipes producing the same staggered_item. The cheap recipe
+# resolves before circuit_board is known; the expensive one requires
+# circuit_board. The item must be committed only once BOTH are computable,
+# so the result is max(cheap, expensive).
+# staggered_item_cheap:  1.0 + iron_ore(1.0)*1  =  2.0  (resolves early)
+# staggered_item_expensive: 1.0 + circuit_board(28.0)*1 = 29.0 (resolves later)
+# expected: max = 29.0
+[[recipe]]
+id = "staggered_item_cheap"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "iron_ore", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "staggered_item", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "staggered_item_expensive"
+building = "assembler"
+inputs = [{item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
+outputs = [{item = "staggered_item", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0

bin/test/data/config/ships.toml

@@ -6,24 +6,20 @@ default_modules = [{type = "laser_cannon", x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"}]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 3}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 1}]
-player_production_level = 3
 production_time_seconds = 10
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "40 + 5*x"
+hp = 45
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula               = "2000 + 50*x"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula         = "1000000"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula  = "1000000"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula              = "100000"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula  = "100000"
+speed_mps = 2050
+main_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 100000
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 100000
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "2000"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 2
+sensor_range_m = 2000
 
 
 [[ship]]
@@ -34,24 +30,20 @@ default_modules = [{type = "laser_cannon", x = 1, y = 1, rotation = "east"}]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 5}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 2}]
-player_production_level = 5
 production_time_seconds = 20
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "120 + 15*x"
+hp = 135
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula               = "1200"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula         = "1000000"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula  = "1000000"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula              = "100000"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula  = "100000"
+speed_mps = 1200
+main_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 100000
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 100000
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "3000"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 4
+sensor_range_m = 3000
 
 
 [[ship]]
@@ -61,24 +53,20 @@ layout = ["OOO", "OOO"]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 4}]
-player_production_level = 3
 production_time_seconds = 10
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "40 + 4*x"
+hp = 44
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula               = "1100"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula         = "1000000"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula  = "1000000"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula              = "100000"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula  = "100000"
+speed_mps = 1100
+main_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 100000
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 100000
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "2500"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 2
+sensor_range_m = 2500
 
 
 [[ship]]
@@ -88,21 +76,17 @@ layout = ["XOX", "OOO", "XOX"]
 
 [ship.schematic]
 materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 4}, {item = "circuit_board", amount = 2}]
-player_production_level = 3
 production_time_seconds = 15
 
 [ship.health]
-hp_formula = "60 + 5*x"
+hp = 65
 
 [ship.movement]
-speed_mps_formula               = "1300"
-main_acceleration_mpss_formula         = "1000000"
-maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula  = "1000000"
-angular_acceleration_radpss_formula              = "100000"
-max_rotation_speed_radps_formula  = "100000"
+speed_mps = 1300
+main_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 1000000
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 100000
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 100000
 
 [ship.sensor]
-sensor_range_m_formula = "2500"
-
-[ship.loot]
-scrap_drop = 2
+sensor_range_m = 2500

bin/test/data/config/world.toml

@@ -3,6 +3,7 @@ height_tiles = 60
 refund_percentage = 75
 starting_building_blocks = 100
 scrap_despawn_seconds = 30
+scrap_per_threat = 1.0
 tile_size_m = 10
 belt_speed_mps = 20
 tunnel_max_distance_tiles = 10
@@ -18,7 +19,7 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
 
 [expansion]
 columns_per_expansion_tiles = 10
-cost_building_blocks = 200
+cost_building_blocks_formula = "400 * 2^x"
 
 [push]
 push_expand_columns_tiles = 20
@@ -35,7 +36,6 @@ artifact_win_count      = 3
 
 [waves]
 threat_rate_formula = "x"
-ship_level_formula = "1 + x / 10"
 gap_min_seconds = 15
 gap_max_seconds = 45
 spawn_duration_seconds = 10

docs/balancing/README.md

@@ -0,0 +1,60 @@
+# Balancing Documentation
+
+Everything about balancing Dota Factory, separated by role:
+
+- **[rules.md](rules.md)** — the design rules and principles. Timeless;
+  changes only when the design changes.
+- **[targets.md](targets.md)** — the base numbers (roots/anchors) chosen
+  by design. Change these first; everything else re-derives.
+- **[derived.md](derived.md)** — the current tuned state of all derived
+  numbers, mirroring the configs. Updated whenever configs change.
+- **[process.md](process.md)** — how balancing is done: the pass order,
+  tuning discipline, tools, and the checklist for the next round.
+- **[history.md](history.md)** — chronological record of decisions,
+  findings, bugs, and arena rounds.
+
+Related: game content (hull grids, footprint gating, tree design and
+fiction) in [../content_design.md](../content_design.md); rules with
+REQ-* ids in [../requirements.md](../requirements.md).
+
+## Status
+
+First full balancing round complete (2026-07-06): targets → tree →
+numbers → threat-calculator parity → combat stats (arena-converged) →
+pacing. Playtesting in progress: playtest 1 (two full ~40-min wins,
+cruisers only) found the railgun_s-spam-cruiser meta, confirmed repair
+as overpowered, and exposed a 2.5–3× run-length gap; combat stats
+adjusted and re-checked in arena round 6 (see `history.md`). Next:
+playtest 2 with the new stats — pacing knobs (station scaling, threat
+rate, win pacing) wait for its result.
+
+## Open action items
+
+Agreed changes that require edits to `requirements.md`, the code, or the
+configs. Completed items are removed (their outcomes live in
+`requirements.md`, `history.md`, and the git history).
+
+1. **Fill unfillable schematic slots with artifacts.** With duplicates
+   removed, the schematic drop pool can run dry — previously unreachable.
+   Decision: every slot in the choice dialog that cannot be filled with a
+   schematic because the eligible pool is exhausted is filled with an
+   artifact option instead (in addition to any artifact option granted by
+   the regular artifact roll). A push therefore always awards a full
+   dialog. Update REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP.
+2. **Confirm wave scaling in playtests.** `threat_rate_formula` is the
+   only time-scaling axis; verify the tuned curve (see `derived.md`)
+   produces the intended difficulty race in real runs.
+3. **Gate shortcut-recipe drops on their inputs.** Extend the assembler
+   recipe schematic pool eligibility in REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP: in
+   addition to the existing station-level and output-item checks, all of
+   the recipe's input item types must be implicitly unlocked as well.
+4. **Resource deposits.** Add a terrain deposit layer per the Resource
+   deposits rules (`rules.md`): deposit patches generated in expansion
+   columns (deterministic content per expansion, randomized placement
+   within the new columns), deposit rendering, and a miner condition (a
+   resource recipe is selectable only if the miner's footprint overlaps
+   at least one matching deposit tile). Touches REQ-BLD-MINER ("every
+   asteroid tile is equivalent" no longer holds),
+   REQ-GW-ASTEROID-EXPAND / REQ-EXP-*, `world.toml`, and `visuals.toml`.
+   Until this lands, quartz mines anywhere and the mid-game is
+   knowledge-gated only.

docs/balancing/derived.md

@@ -0,0 +1,171 @@
+# Derived Values (current tuned state)
+
+Everything here is derived from `targets.md` under the rules in
+`rules.md`, and mirrors the config files. Item threats, ship threats,
+ratios, and belt checks are verified by `tools/threat_report.py` — re-run
+it after any recipe or material change and update this file when values
+move. Combat stats were tuned empirically against the arena suite in
+`bin/balancing/data/balancing.toml` (round-by-round record in
+`history.md`).
+
+## Economy constants
+
+- `scrap_per_threat = 0.25` — 1 scrap per 4 threat destroyed (a cruiser
+  kill drops ~59 scrap); threat(scrap) = 4.
+- Scrap smelting: 1 scrap → 1 iron_ingot, 1 s — deliberately
+  value-losing; reprocessing is the value-preserving path.
+- Reprocessing: 4 scrap per cycle, 4 s; full-pool weights iron_ingot 30 /
+  copper_ingot 30 / silicon 20 / voidsteel 20 → threat(voidsteel)
+  = (4·4 + 4)/0.2 = 100.
+- `scrap_despawn_seconds = 120` (a capital kill drops hundreds of scrap,
+  collected one per salvage cycle).
+
+## Recipes and item threats
+
+(dur in seconds; threat is per output unit)
+
+| item | recipe | dur | out | threat |
+|---|---|---|---|---|
+| iron_ore / copper_ore | miner | 1 | 1 | 1 |
+| quartz | miner (deposit) | 2 | 1 | 2 |
+| iron_ingot | 1 iron_ore | 1 | 1 | 2 |
+| copper_ingot | 1 copper_ore | 1 | 1 | 2 |
+| silicon | 1 quartz | 2 | 1 | 4 |
+| steel_plate | 2 iron_ingot | 3 | 1 | 7 |
+| copper_wire | 1 copper_ingot | 1 | 2 | 1.5 |
+| copper_coil | 2 copper_wire | 1.5 | 1 | 4.5 |
+| building_block | 2 steel_plate | 2 | 4 | 4 |
+| control_chip | 1 silicon + 2 copper_wire | 5 | 1 | 12 |
+| capacitor_bank | 2 copper_coil + 1 silicon | 5 | 1 | 18 |
+| hardened_steel | 3 steel_plate | 12 | 1 | 33 |
+| ceramic_plate | 2 quartz | 4 | 1 | 8 |
+| drive_unit | 2 steel_plate + 2 copper_coil + 1 control_chip | 8 | 1 | 43 |
+| voidsteel_plate | 1 voidsteel + 1 hardened_steel | 8 | 1 | 141 |
+| capital_core | 2 voidsteel + 1 capacitor_bank + 1 control_chip | 10 | 1 | 240 |
+
+Shortcut recipes (drop-only; item threat stays defined by the base path
+via the max rule): `shortcut_steel_plate` 3 iron_ore → 1 plate (2 s,
+level 1), `shortcut_control_chip` 2 quartz → 1 chip (4 s, level 2),
+`shortcut_hardened_steel` 4 iron_ingot → 1 hardened (8 s, level 2).
+
+Ratio curve realized: t1 all 1:1 (miner:smelter); t2 clean 2:3
+(ingot→plate, wire→coil); t3 strange — 2:5 (silicon→chip), 3:5
+(coil→capacitor), 3:4 (plate→hardened, plate→drive); t4 inverted 3:2
+(hardened→voidsteel_plate). Belt check: worst input demand 1.33 items/s,
+under the ~2/s single-belt cap everywhere.
+
+## Module prefabs
+
+(contribution = item threat + module production time)
+
+| module | recipe | dur | mod. time | contribution |
+|---|---|---|---|---|
+| railgun_s | 1 copper_coil | 1 | 1 | 6.5 |
+| salvager | 1 steel_plate + 2 copper_wire | 2 | 1 | 13 |
+| repair_tool | 1 steel_plate + 2 copper_wire | 2 | 1 | 13 |
+| armor_plates | 4 steel_plate | 3 | 1 | 32 |
+| maneuvering_thrusters | 1 steel_plate + 1 copper_coil | 2 | 1 | 14.5 |
+| sensor_booster | 2 copper_wire + 1 copper_coil | 2 | 1 | 10.5 |
+| afterburner | 2 copper_coil + 1 steel_plate | 3 | 1 | 20 |
+| weapon_stabilizer | 1 steel_plate + 1 copper_coil | 2 | 1 | 14.5 |
+| weapon_primer | 1 capacitor_bank + 1 copper_coil | 4 | 2 | 28.5 |
+| weapon_upgrade | 1 control_chip + 1 copper_coil | 4 | 2 | 22.5 |
+| railgun_m | 1 capacitor_bank + 2 steel_plate + 1 copper_coil | 4 | 3 | 43.5 |
+| drone_bay | 1 control_chip + 2 steel_plate + 1 copper_coil | 4 | 3 | 37.5 |
+| railgun_l | 1 capacitor_bank + 2 hardened_steel + 1 ceramic_plate | 6 | 4 | 102 |
+| drone_hangar | 1 voidsteel_plate + 2 control_chip + 1 drive_unit | 10 | 6 | 224 |
+
+## Ships
+
+(fitted = hull item + ship base time + default loadout; the default
+loadouts are the `default_modules` used by enemy waves and are
+geometry-validated against the hull grids)
+
+| ship | hull recipe | dur | base | default loadout | fitted |
+|---|---|---|---|---|---|
+| drone | 1 iron_ingot | 1 | 1 | railgun_s | 10.5 |
+| frigate | 2 steel_plate + 1 copper_wire | 2 | 2 | 2× railgun_s, maneuvering_thrusters | 47 |
+| destroyer | 3 steel_plate + 2 copper_coil | 4 | 3 | 3× railgun_s, armor_plates, sensor_booster | 99 |
+| cruiser | 2 hardened_steel + 2 control_chip | 6 | 4 | 2× railgun_m, armor_plates, maneuvering_thrusters | 233.5 |
+| battlecruiser | 3 hardened_steel + 2 control_chip + 1 drive_unit | 8 | 5 | 3× railgun_m, armor_plates, 2× railgun_s | 354.5 |
+| battleship | 3 voidsteel_plate + 1 drive_unit + 2 control_chip | 10 | 6 | railgun_l, 2× railgun_m, weapon_stabilizer, 2× railgun_s | 722.5 |
+| dreadnought | 5 voidsteel_plate + 1 capital_core + 2 drive_unit | 12 | 8 | 3× railgun_l, 4× armor_plates, railgun_s | 1491.5 |
+| carrier | 5 voidsteel_plate + 1 capital_core + 2 drive_unit | 12 | 8 | drone_hangar, 2× railgun_m, 2× armor_plates, sensor_booster | 1436.5 |
+
+## Combat stats
+
+(arena-converged 2026-07, rounds 1–5; playtest-1 adjustments 2026-07-06 —
+see `history.md`)
+
+**Weapons:** railgun_s 2 dmg × 2.0 Hz (4.0 DPS), range 50 m;
+railgun_m 14 × 1.5 (21), range 80; railgun_l 52 × 0.8 (41.6), range 130.
+DPS per threat: s 0.62, m 0.48, l 0.41 — the concentration tax stands;
+reach is the bigger guns' compensation (ranges raised after playtest 1,
+which alone priced out the small-gun-spam meta). railgun_l deliberately
+outranges stations (120 m) to buy the siege role. railgun_m damage is
+breakpoint-sensitive: 15+ drops a 60 HP drone from 5 hits to 4.
+
+**Hull HP** (15/threat prior + empirical trims): drone 60, frigate 300,
+destroyer 550, cruiser 1500, battlecruiser 2400, battleship 6300,
+dreadnought/carrier 24000.
+
+**Mobility ladder** (speed m/s | main accel | maneuvering | angular |
+max rot): drone 45|60|30|12|6, frigate 35|45|22|8|4,
+destroyer 30|35|18|6|3, cruiser 24|25|12|4|2, battlecruiser 20|20|10|3|1.5,
+battleship 15|14|7|2|1, dreadnought/carrier 10|8|4|1|0.5.
+Sensors: 150/200/220/250/260/280/300/350 m.
+
+**Other modules:** armor_plates +1200 HP; repair_tool 4 HP × 1 Hz,
+range 80 (halved after playtest 1 — free between-wave top-offs were never
+priced by the arena escort test); salvager range 60, cargo 20, 0.5 collections/s; afterburner
+×1.6 speed +60 accel; maneuvering_thrusters ×1.2 speed +10 maneuvering;
+sensor_booster +50 m; weapon_upgrade ×1.2 damage; weapon_primer ×1.2
+rate; weapon_stabilizer ×1.3 range ×0.8 rate.
+
+**Stations:** HQ 5000 HP. Player station 3000 HP, 25 dmg × 1 Hz,
+range 120, scrap 40. Enemy station: 3000+1500x HP, 25+12x dmg,
+1.0+0.1x Hz, range 120, scrap 40+30x (x = push level).
+
+## Pacing
+
+**Unlock ladder** (level → unlocks; ← marks `unlock_requires`; starting
+set at −1: drone, frigate, railgun_s, salvager, building_block recipe):
+
+| level | ships | modules | recipes |
+|---|---|---|---|
+| 0 | destroyer | repair_tool, armor_plates | |
+| 1 | | maneuvering_thrusters, sensor_booster | shortcut_steel_plate |
+| 2 | cruiser | railgun_m, afterburner | shortcut_control_chip, shortcut_hardened_steel |
+| 3 | | weapon_stabilizer | |
+| 4 | battlecruiser ← cruiser | weapon_primer, weapon_upgrade | |
+| 5 | | drone_bay | |
+| 6 | battleship ← battlecruiser | railgun_l ← railgun_m | |
+| 8 | dreadnought ← battleship | | |
+| 9 | carrier ← battleship | drone_hangar | |
+
+Level 0's pool has exactly three entries (a full first dialog). Level 2
+is the quartz gate: cruiser and railgun_m are the first schematics whose
+chains reach quartz; the shortcut outputs only become implicitly
+unlocked alongside them, so shortcuts cannot drop early.
+
+**Threat rate** `2*x + 0.15*x*x` (x = boss cycle counter), against the
+factory-size curve with ~half the player's output assumed military:
+
+| cycle x | rate (threat/s) | player military (≈ curve/2) |
+|---|---|---|
+| 2 | 4.6 | ~12 |
+| 6 | 17.4 | ~30 |
+| 15 | 63.8 | ~60 |
+| 20 | 100 | ~75 |
+| 24 | 134 | — |
+
+**Economy:** `starting_building_blocks = 200`; expansion cost formula
+`300 + 50*x + 10*x*x` (x = expansions already purchased: ~1 affordable
+per cycle mid-game at ~1/3 of block income, stretching to 2–3 cycles
+late — quadratic so costs outrun the roughly linear block income
+gradually, never with a hard wall); `artifact_win_count = 5` with
+`artifact_chance_formula = 0.05*x`. Building costs: belt 2, splitter 3,
+tunnels 5, miner 15, smelter 20, assembler 35, reprocessing plant 40,
+salvage bay 25, shipyard 60 — averaging ≈18 blocks per placed building
+(belts included), which meets the 4-minute doubling target at block
+threat 4.

docs/balancing/history.md

@@ -0,0 +1,161 @@
+# Balancing History
+
+Chronological record of the balancing work: what was decided, what was
+found, what changed. Current values live in `derived.md`; this file
+explains how they got there.
+
+## 2026-07-02/03 — rules and structural decisions
+
+- Rules document written (now `rules.md`): ratio curve, shortcut
+  recipes, refactorability, cost archetypes, threat model, growth curve.
+- Scrap derived from threat (`scrap_per_threat`), replacing authored
+  per-ship scrap drops; scrap threat became the constant
+  `1/scrap_per_threat`, removing the old min-scrap_drop derivation and
+  its circularity.
+- Duplicate schematic drops removed (no level-ups); ship/module levels
+  removed entirely — all time scaling lives in the threat rate, push
+  scaling stays on stations. Mk2 upgrade recipes noted as the future
+  per-item progression.
+- Growth-curve rules added: escalating expansion costs, designed
+  doubling time, growth limited by economy not waiting; resource
+  deposits designed (deposit-gated mid resource in expansion territory).
+- Production tree v2 decided: iron/copper everywhere (M-type asteroid),
+  quartz in geodes (mid), voidsteel battle-forged from scrap (late);
+  titanium dropped; lasers renamed to railguns, lasers reserved as a
+  future weapon type.
+
+## 2026-07-03 — targets, tree, numbers
+
+- Balancing targets fixed: ≤2 h run, phases 1–5/6–14/15+, factory curve
+  25/60/120/150, threat ladder, 25-ship swarm, block roots.
+- Tree structure drafted and numbers computed (recursive threat
+  calculator); ratio curve realized; fitted ships within 96–124% of the
+  strawman ladder (small end hot from fixed chain overhead — ladder
+  later adopted the achieved values).
+- **Rule bugs found by the numbers work:** the scrap→ingot smelter
+  recipe would inflate basic materials via the max rule (fixed:
+  scrap-consuming recipes are threat fallback only); recipe output
+  amounts were ignored (fixed: per-unit division); items downstream of
+  reprocessing-only items never resolved (fixed: fixpoint resolution);
+  a shortcut recipe resolving earlier than the base path silently
+  underpriced items (fixed: commit only when all eligible recipes are
+  computable). All four fixed in `ThreatCostCalculator` with tests, and
+  implemented in `tools/threat_report.py`.
+- v2 tree written into the configs; `default_modules` loadouts
+  geometry-validated (the numbers-pass loadouts for battlecruiser and
+  dreadnought were geometrically impossible — L-modifiers don't fit
+  beside full gun complements; corrected loadouts landed closer to the
+  ladder).
+
+## 2026-07-04 — combat stats, arena rounds 1–5
+
+Initial stats derived from the anchors (weapon DPS ≈0.6/threat flat,
+hull 15 HP/threat, armor 20/threat, repair 2 HP/s/threat, station
+range 200).
+
+- **Round 1:** concentrated fleets won all equal-threat cross-tier
+  matchups flawlessly; glass beat armored; repair escort flawless; two
+  stations shrugged off a 3× swarm. Changes: concentration tax on m/l
+  gun damage (railgun_m 17→14, railgun_l 70→52), armor 640→1000,
+  repair 25→12, station range 200→120. (Team-1 "bias" in mirrors later
+  shown to be noise.)
+- **Round 2 (EHP-margin logging added):** battleship +33% while
+  dreadnought −37% (stabilizer range + opposing armor); glass still
+  +11%. Changes: stabilizer range ×1.5→×1.3; per-hull trims introduced
+  (BC 2700→2500, BS 7500→7000, DN/CV 15500→19000).
+- **Round 3 (narrow lanes — geometry fixed into the fixture):**
+  DN closed to −11%, BS +22%, swarm flipped to +14% over cruisers,
+  glass +12% third time. Changes: armor 1000→1200, BC 2500→2000,
+  BS 7000→6300, DN/CV 19000→22500.
+- **Round 4:** glass-vs-armored resolved (+3% armored); noise floor
+  established (~±10%/run: BS ignored a −10% EHP cut; repair drifted
+  14→24% untouched). Convergence policy adopted: two-round signals only,
+  ±20% converged. Changes: BC 2000→2200, DN/CV 22500→24000; BS +23%
+  accepted as doctrine texture (mechanical range edge vs. pure small
+  fleets).
+- **Round 5 (durations logged; end-condition bug fixed upstream):**
+  TTK anchor validated (mirrors 23/71/95 s; DN-vs-swarm 214 s outlier
+  accepted); dreadnought +3%, everything else inside band. Final
+  changes: BC 2200→2400, repair 12→9 (persistent +24% escort margin).
+  **Combat pass declared converged.**
+
+## 2026-07-05/06 — pacing pass
+
+- Unlock ladder set (starting set drone/frigate/railgun_s/salvager;
+  quartz gate at level 2; capitals at 8–9 with `unlock_requires`
+  chains); threat rate `2*x + 0.15*x*x`; starting blocks 1000→200;
+  expansion 400 flat pending the cost formula; artifacts 3→5.
+- **Bug found:** the building_block recipe was silently locked at game
+  start (building blocks appear in no schematic's materials, so implicit
+  unlocking could never reach the recipe) — fixed with an explicit
+  `unlock_at_station_level = -1`.
+- Expansion cost formula implemented and set (`300 + 50*x + 10*x*x`):
+  quadratic, so costs outrun the roughly linear block income gradually
+  — ~1 expansion per cycle mid-game, 2–3 cycles apart late.
+- **First full balancing round complete.** Next: full-game playtests
+  against the run-shape targets.
+
+## 2026-07-06 — playtest 1 (two full playthroughs)
+
+Two complete runs, WON in ~40 min each with cruiser fleets only — never
+needing capitals. (Initially misread as "two pushes in 40 min, pacing on
+target"; corrected in round 6.) That is roughly cycle 8 against the
+win-cycle target of 20–24: a 2.5–3× pacing gap. Pacing knobs deliberately
+untouched this round — the runs rode 9 HP/s repair and stations nothing
+outranged, both nerfed below; playtest 2 measures the remaining gap.
+
+- **Meta finding: cruisers filled with 12× railgun_s dominate.** Predicted
+  by the numbers in hindsight: the concentration tax makes railgun_s the
+  best DPS/threat (0.62 vs m 0.48, l 0.41), range is the big guns' only
+  mechanical edge (armor is added HP, not damage reduction — no anti-swarm
+  mechanic), repair sustain covers the closing distance, and stations
+  outranged every ship gun (120 vs railgun_l's 100), so even capitals had
+  to tank-and-brawl. The cruiser compounds it: first hull with a large
+  1×1 canvas (12 cells) and a nearly quartz-free chain.
+- **Repair tool confirmed overpowered** (second signal after the
+  persistent +24% arena escort margin): the arena only prices in-fight
+  sustain; real runs add free full top-offs in every 15–45 s wave gap
+  across the whole swarm. The 0.7 HP/s-per-threat prior is wrong for
+  wave defence.
+- **Changes:** repair_tool 9→4 HP/s; railgun_l range 100→130 (now
+  outranges stations — buys the siege role the capital ladder promises);
+  railgun_m 14→16 dmg and range 70→80 (tax softened: m sits at 0.55
+  DPS/threat, between s and l). Module threats unchanged (costs
+  untouched), so no ladder recalculation needed.
+- New tracked arena added: railgun_s-spam cruisers (8× 178) vs default
+  cruisers (6× 233.5) — the spam side should win a brawl somewhat, but a
+  blowout means the small-gun premium needs retuning.
+- **Open:** re-run the arena suite to check the range/damage changes
+  against the round 1–5 results; next playtest should verify big guns now
+  feel worth climbing to and repair is merely good.
+
+## 2026-07-06 — arena round 6 (checking the playtest-1 adjustments)
+
+Mirrors healthy (5–8% margins, durations 24/66/91 s). Results:
+
+- **Spam-cruiser arena: default cruisers +9% — the meta is priced out**,
+  and the range buff alone did the work.
+- **Regression: drone swarm vs cruisers +47% for cruisers** (was +14%
+  swarm in round 3). Besides the wider range gap, the damage buff crossed
+  a breakpoint: 14 dmg kills a 60 HP drone in 5 hits, 16 in 4 — a hidden
+  ~25% effective-DPS gain vs drones. Change: **railgun_m damage 16→14**
+  (range stays 80); the tax stands, reach is the compensation.
+- Battleship +30% and dreadnought +29% vs pure railgun_s fleets:
+  **accepted as reach-doctrine texture** (BS was already accepted at
+  +23%) — the l gun's 130 m standoff is exactly what the range buff
+  bought; the counter is your own reach or 2:1 numbers, not equal-threat
+  small guns. Watch, don't tune.
+- Repair escort flipped to raw +16%: **kept at 4 HP/s deliberately** —
+  the arena cannot price the free between-wave top-offs, so slightly
+  below par in-fight is the correct price for a module whose run-value
+  includes them. Playtest 2 decides; 6 is the fallback if repair feels
+  dead.
+- Station assault: the 3× swarm cracked the fortified position keeping
+  45% EHP. No knob this round touched it; together with playtest 1's
+  trivially easy pushes it flags **station strength as the first pacing
+  lever** for the next pass.
+
+**Pacing deferred:** playtest 1's 40-min wins predate the repair nerf
+and the l-gun siege range. If playtest 2 still wins by ~cycle 10, the
+levers are enemy station scaling (`3000 + 1500*x` likely too shallow),
+the threat rate, and possibly `artifact_win_count`.

docs/balancing/process.md

@@ -0,0 +1,98 @@
+# Balancing Process
+
+How balancing is done in this project: the pass order, the tuning
+discipline, and the tools. Refer to this when starting the next
+balancing round.
+
+## The pass order
+
+Each pass depends on the ones before it; a change in an earlier pass
+invalidates the later ones (but not vice versa). Redo from the earliest
+pass whose inputs changed.
+
+1. **Targets** (`targets.md`) — choose the root numbers: run shape,
+   factory curve, threat-cost ladder, fleet size, block roots, combat
+   anchors, pacing anchors. These are design decisions, not
+   measurements. Everything else is derived from them.
+2. **Tree structure** (`../content_design.md`) — items, chains,
+   what-consumes-what, per the production tree rules (one input per
+   phase transition, generic parts, archetypes, refactorability).
+   Structure only, no quantities.
+3. **Numbers** (`derived.md`, recipes/materials in the configs) —
+   quantities and durations so every fitted ship sums to its ladder
+   value, the ratio curve is realized, and the belt/buffer guardrails
+   hold. Verified computationally by `tools/threat_report.py`.
+4. **Calculator/tooling parity** — the game's `ThreatCostCalculator`
+   and `tools/threat_report.py` must produce identical values; the
+   Python tool is the design reference. Any semantic change to
+   REQ-THREAT-* needs both updated plus tests.
+5. **Combat stats** (arena-driven) — derive stats from the combat
+   anchors, then iterate against the arena suite
+   (`bin/balancing/data/balancing.toml`) until equal-threat matchups are
+   near-draws. Threat costs are stat-independent, so arena ship counts
+   stay valid across stat changes.
+6. **Pacing** — unlock ladder, `unlock_requires` edges, threat rate,
+   block/artifact/expansion values, per the pacing anchors.
+
+Then: **full-game playtests**, which are the only check for the pacing
+pass and feed back into targets.
+
+## Tuning discipline (learned in arena rounds 1–5)
+
+- **Change anchors, not symptoms.** When a class of results is off,
+  adjust the anchor that explains all of them (e.g. the concentration
+  tax) rather than individual stats.
+- **Fewest knobs per round.** Attribution dies when many knobs move at
+  once. Prefer one anchor change plus its mechanical compensations.
+- **Shared vs. local knobs.** Guns and module stats are shared across
+  many hulls — changing them moves many matchups. Per-hull HP moves
+  exactly one matchup; it is the designated per-ship trim knob on top of
+  the HP-per-threat prior.
+- **Mind the ride-alongs.** A module buff lands on every default loadout
+  containing it (e.g. an armor buff strengthens the destroyer swarm that
+  opposes the dreadnought). Compute the net effect per matchup before
+  choosing step sizes.
+- **Two-round signal policy.** Single arena runs re-roll by ~±10% EHP
+  margin; a margin inside ±20% counts as converged for v1. Only act on
+  signals that persist across two rounds.
+- **Arena geometry is part of the fixture.** Lane width/height changes
+  the results (full engagement vs. fleets slipping past); margins are
+  only comparable within the same geometry.
+- **Accept mechanical texture.** Not every deviation is a bug: a margin
+  that survives a stat change is mechanical (usually range/kiting under
+  the orbit AI) and may be desirable doctrine texture. Document the
+  acceptance in `targets.md` instead of chasing it.
+- **Range is the strongest stat** under the orbit AI — free approach
+  fire. Price range modifiers conservatively; station dominance is
+  controlled via range, not HP.
+
+## Tools
+
+- `tools/threat_report.py` — item threats, module contributions,
+  hull/fitted ship threats, producer:consumer ratios, belt feasibility;
+  reads the real configs. The design reference for threat semantics.
+- `tools/verify_recipes.py` — recipe tree closure, visuals coverage,
+  orphans, reprocessing-only items.
+- `tools/verify_layouts.py` — module footprint gating matrix per hull.
+- **Balancing tool** (`balancing` target) — parallel arena simulation of
+  `bin/balancing/data/balancing.toml`; logs winner, surviving counts,
+  team EHP %, and fight duration per arena. The suite covers: class
+  mirrors (expect near-mutual annihilation, symmetric winners),
+  equal-threat cross-tier matchups (expect near-draws — power-per-threat
+  made empirical), a 2:1 decisiveness check, doctrine matchups
+  (armored-vs-glass, repair-escort), and station assault.
+
+## Checklist for the next balancing round
+
+1. Pull; run `verify_recipes.py`, `verify_layouts.py`,
+   `threat_report.py`; compare against the tables in `derived.md`.
+2. If recipes/materials changed: re-check fitted threats vs. the ladder
+   in `targets.md`; update arena suite ship counts if fitted values
+   moved.
+3. Run the arena suite; read EHP margins and durations against the
+   expectations noted in `balancing.toml` and the anchors.
+4. Apply changes per the tuning discipline (two-round signals only);
+   record the round and its knob changes in `history.md`.
+5. Update `derived.md` where values moved; if an anchor moved, update
+   `targets.md` and state why.
+6. Commit and push (the review workflow reads the remote).

docs/balancing/rules.md

@@ -0,0 +1,333 @@
+# Balancing & Progression Rules
+
+Rules and principles that govern the production tree, progression pacing,
+and balancing. This document contains **rules only** — the chosen base
+numbers live in `targets.md`, everything derived from them in
+`derived.md`, and the concrete content in the config files and
+`../content_design.md`. All of those must follow the rules stated here.
+
+## Player-experience goals
+
+What each phase of a run should feel like:
+
+- **Early:** learning belts and ratios with forgiving chains. The building
+  block economy is the main constraint; the player bootstraps a
+  self-sustaining factory from the starting stock.
+- **Mid:** deeper chains, the first real ratio puzzles, and the first
+  meaningful drop decisions (which schematic, when to push).
+- **Late:** combat feeds the factory — capital production requires salvage.
+  Progress means extending and refactoring the existing factory, not
+  rebuilding it. Strange ratios are deliberate optimization puzzles.
+
+Overarching: an experienced player gains efficiency through **knowledge** —
+layout foresight, understanding chains, exploiting shortcut recipes — never
+through hidden mechanics. An inexperienced setup should not cost much more
+than an experienced one; experience pays off in how easily the factory
+adapts later (see Refactorability).
+
+## Resource phases
+
+- A run has exactly **four base inputs**:
+  1. Two mined resources available from the start, minable on **every**
+     asteroid tile.
+  2. A third mined resource unlocked mid-game, minable **only on deposit
+     patches** found in expansion territory (see Resource deposits).
+  3. A fourth input unlocked late-game, obtainable **only** from
+     reprocessing salvaged scrap.
+- The fourth input is the core loop hook: capital ship production requires
+  fighting (salvaging and reprocessing), not just mining.
+- Every gating has a fictional reason (concrete fiction in
+  `../content_design.md`): the asteroid is a metal-rich body, so its bulk
+  rock is minable anywhere; the mid resource sits in rare pockets; the
+  late input is battle-forged — created only in the violence of ship
+  destruction, which is why any wreck (including the player's own)
+  yields it and no foundry can make it.
+- The mid resource is **dual-gated**: schematics (knowledge, via drops)
+  and territory (deposits, via expansions). Tuning must guarantee the
+  deposit-bearing expansion is comfortably affordable by the time the
+  first mid-tier schematics drop, or those drops are dead picks.
+- There is no direct "resource unlock" mechanism. Miner recipes unlock
+  **implicitly** (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT) when some unlocked schematic's material
+  chain reaches that resource. Resource pacing is therefore controlled
+  through the `unlock_at_station_level` values of ships, modules, and
+  assembler recipe schematics — and the content must guarantee that the
+  chains actually connect (a mid-game schematic must require an item whose
+  chain reaches the mid resource, or it never unlocks).
+
+### Resource deposits
+
+- **Rule: freedom first, geography later.** The starting resources are
+  minable everywhere, so the player has full layout freedom while
+  learning. Later mined resources are bound to deposit patches — fixed
+  geography as a layout puzzle, introduced once the player is competent.
+- **Rule: deposits exist only in expansion territory.** Expansions buy
+  space *and* access to resource tiers — the second leg of the growth
+  curve (see Building block economy).
+- **Rule: patch area is the throughput cap.** Deposits never deplete but
+  are finite in area; the number of deposit tiles caps how many miners
+  the chain supports. Buying deeper expansions raises the throughput
+  ceiling of high-tier chains.
+- **Rule: no empty expansions.** Deposit content per expansion is
+  deterministic and config-defined; only the placement within the new
+  columns is randomized. Buying an expansion never rolls "nothing".
+- **Rule: mining is binary.** A miner whose footprint overlaps at least
+  one deposit tile of a resource can select that resource's recipe; no
+  partial-coverage rate scaling.
+- Deposits arrive at the periphery (expansions add columns on the left),
+  so each new chain starts in fresh space — supporting the
+  refactorability property — and high-tier chains have the longest belt
+  runs to the shipyards, escalating the logistics puzzle with tier.
+
+## Production tree rules
+
+### Structure
+
+- **Each phase transition adds exactly one new base input chain.** A base
+  input is a bottom-level resource entering the factory from outside — a
+  mined resource or the scrap-only input. The early game starts with two
+  ores as the baseline; the transition to mid adds one (the deposit-bound
+  mid resource), the transition to late adds one (the scrap-only input).
+  No transition ever introduces more than one unfamiliar bottom-level
+  chain, so the factory grows in one direction at a time.
+- **Intermediates are generic shared parts.** Keep the item count low —
+  modules and hulls of a tier draw from a shared pool of that tier's and
+  lower tiers' intermediates rather than each having bespoke inputs.
+- **Thematic naming over thematic items.** Inputs should be plausible for
+  what the recipe produces (crystals for lasers, heat sinks for bigger
+  lasers). Achieve this through naming and chain membership, not by adding
+  item types: rename a generic part, don't add a parallel one.
+
+### Ratios
+
+- **Ratio "niceness" degrades with tier.** The producer:consumer ratios
+  needed for 100% throughput follow a curve:
+  - Tier 1 (ore → basic material): trivially nice (e.g. 1:1 or 1:2
+    miner:smelter).
+  - Tier 2: slightly complex but still clean (e.g. 2:3).
+  - Higher tiers: increasingly strange ratios, as deliberate optimization
+    puzzles.
+- Exceptions in both directions are allowed when there is a reason — a
+  clean late chain as a breather, an odd early chain as a teaser — but the
+  curve is the default.
+
+### Shortcut recipes
+
+- Some strange chains get a **shortcut recipe**: an explicitly unlockable
+  assembler recipe schematic (`unlock_at_station_level ≥ 0`, drop-only per
+  REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT) that skips a step (e.g. t1 → t3 directly) and yields
+  nice ratios for a chain whose base path is strange.
+- **Not every strange chain gets a shortcut.** Some strangeness is
+  permanent; the absence of a fix is a valid design choice.
+- **Shortcuts drop only for known chains.** A shortcut recipe enters the
+  drop pool only when both its input items and its output item are
+  already unlocked (in addition to the station level check). The player
+  is never offered a shortcut for a chain they have not built yet. The
+  output-item half of this check already exists in
+  REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP; the input half is an open action item (see
+  `README.md`).
+- **Shortcuts are pure rewards, never balance factors.** An item's threat
+  value is the *maximum* across its producing recipes (REQ-THREAT-ITEM), so
+  unlocking a cheaper recipe does not lower the item's threat accounting —
+  the player gains real factory efficiency without their ships being
+  valued cheaper and without enemy wave budgets shifting. Consequently:
+  **balance every chain around its base (expensive) path**; the shortcut's
+  savings define the size of the reward.
+
+### Refactorability
+
+- **Rule (the property):** unlocking the next tier or size of a thing must
+  be a *local edit* of the existing production line — adding assemblers
+  and belts, or replacing a machine or two in place — never a rebuild of
+  the line.
+- **What this buys the player:** foresight pays off in space, not blocks.
+  An experienced player leaves a little slack in the middle of a line,
+  knowing the next size or tier upgrade means tearing out one assembler
+  and a few belts there and inserting the new step — plus maybe swapping
+  a recipe or two elsewhere — while the rest of the line keeps running
+  untouched.
+- **Default technique:** the bigger version introduces one new intermediate
+  that is produced from a subset of the smaller version's inputs (possibly
+  plus one additional low-tier material), and otherwise reuses the smaller
+  version's inputs. Existing lines keep running and feed the new
+  intermediate's assemblers.
+- The property is the rule; the technique is only the default. It may be
+  broken where it fights thematic plausibility, as long as the property
+  still holds.
+
+## Cost archetypes
+
+Every item has two cost knobs: **material quantity** and **cycle time**.
+Both feed the threat value identically (threat = recursive
+production-seconds, REQ-MOD-THREAT), so the split between them does not
+change what an item is *worth* — it changes what kind of **factory
+pressure** it creates:
+
+- **Material-heavy, fast** (e.g. armor plates): simple items; stress belt
+  throughput, splitter logistics, and miner/smelter counts.
+- **Time-heavy, lean** (e.g. shield modules): technically complex items;
+  few inputs — possibly higher-tier ones — but long cycles; stress
+  assembler counts and parallelization.
+
+**Rule:** each module family commits to a clear archetype, so factories
+supporting different fleet doctrines feel structurally different to build.
+
+## Threat model (balancing backbone)
+
+- Threat cost = total recursive production-seconds (REQ-MOD-THREAT). One
+  factory-second equals one threat; player output and enemy wave budgets
+  are denominated in the same currency.
+- **Rule: combat power per threat is roughly constant** across all ships,
+  modules, and tiers. Higher tiers are better per *ship* and per *module
+  slot*, not per invested factory-second — their advantage is
+  concentration (fewer, bigger things; slot geometry per
+  `../content_design.md`) and qualitative capabilities, not a better
+  exchange rate. Deviations from this rule are deliberate and documented.
+- **Difficulty race:** the enemy threat rate (`threat_rate_formula`) is
+  tuned against the factory output (threat/s) achievable by a competent
+  player — slightly below it early, crossing above it eventually. The game
+  is endless; enemy scaling must ultimately outpace any factory, and
+  player skill shifts *when*, not *whether*.
+- **All time scaling lives in the threat rate** — waves get bigger, ships
+  of a given schematic never get individually stronger. There is no ship
+  level dimension: stat formulas are plain values, and per-ship level
+  scaling does not exist. Push scaling on enemy defence stations is the
+  separate, player-triggered difficulty axis and keeps its level formulas.
+
+## Unlock & drop pacing
+
+- **Starting set rule:** the schematics unlocked at game start
+  (`unlock_at_station_level = -1`) must be exactly enough to reach the
+  first push unaided — a functioning block loop, small hulls, a basic
+  weapon, and the salvage loop. Nothing more.
+- The `unlock_at_station_level` ladder mirrors the resource phases:
+  mid-tier hulls/modules/recipes at low station levels, capital content at
+  higher levels. A schematic must not become available before the chains
+  its materials need can be unlocked alongside it.
+- **Schematics can require other schematics.** Beyond the station-level
+  gate, a schematic (ship, module, or assembler recipe) may list
+  prerequisite schematics (`unlock_requires`, REQ-LOCK-PREREQ) that must
+  already be unlocked before it enters the drop pool — e.g. the medium
+  gun requires the small gun; a future Mk2 requires its base version.
+  Station level gates the earliest *when*; prerequisites gate the
+  *order*, keeping drop offers coherent with what the player already
+  owns.
+- **No duplicate drops.** Ship and module schematics leave the drop pool
+  once owned, exactly as assembler recipe schematics already do. There are
+  no schematic level-ups; player power grows through unlock breadth and
+  factory scale only, which keeps power-per-threat exact on both sides.
+  The pool therefore shrinks over a run and late pushes increasingly offer
+  artifacts — intended: the late game is a race for the win condition.
+  Per-item progression may return later as Mk2 upgrade recipes (see Future
+  work), never as free level-ups.
+- **Artifacts trade power for progress.** Artifact options compete with
+  schematic picks in the same choice dialog; the artifact chance must be
+  tuned so that taking one is a real decision (giving up an unlock), not
+  automatic in either direction.
+
+## Scrap & reprocessing economy
+
+- Scrap is the bridge from combat back into the factory, with two sinks:
+  **smelting** (same basic materials as ore — the safe, boring option) and
+  **reprocessing** (probabilistic higher intermediates, including the
+  late-game input — the gamble that eventually becomes mandatory).
+- The reprocessing output pool renormalizes over implicitly unlocked items
+  (REQ-LOCK-REPROCESSING-POOL), so its output quality improves
+  automatically as the run progresses. **Rule:** weights are authored for
+  the *fully unlocked* pool state; early-game behavior falls out of
+  renormalization for free and needs no separate staging.
+- **Rule: ship scrap drops are derived, never authored.** A destroyed ship
+  drops `threat cost × scrap_per_threat` (a `world.toml` key), with the
+  threat cost computed from its actual hull plus installed modules
+  (REQ-MOD-THREAT) — a kitted-out ship drops more scrap than a bare hull
+  automatically. `ships.toml` carries no scrap value. Defence stations are
+  the exception: they keep authored `scrap_drop_formula`s, because pushing
+  rewards are tuned independently of ship production costs.
+- Consequence: the threat value of scrap is the constant
+  `1 / scrap_per_threat` (REQ-THREAT-SCRAP). The former min-`scrap_drop`
+  schematic derivation and its potential circularity are gone.
+- **Rule:** the late-game input's income rate meaningfully gates capital
+  production — unlocking a capital hull must not mean spamming it; the
+  input trickles in slowly enough that every capital ship is a noticeable
+  investment. The tuning target is relative, not absolute: assume a
+  reference player who destroys and salvages roughly the threat the game
+  spawns ("fighting at parity"), and tune `scrap_per_threat`, the
+  reprocessing weights, and capital material costs so that this player
+  affords roughly N capital ships per boss cycle. An absolute income rate
+  would be meaningless (income depends entirely on how much the player
+  fights) and would not self-scale; per boss cycle, the target tracks the
+  threat rate as it steps up.
+
+## Building block economy
+
+- Building blocks are the only global currency and the early game's
+  central constraint. The early game is a bootstrap problem: convert the
+  starting stock into a self-sustaining block loop before the first waves
+  bite.
+- **Rule:** the starting stock suffices for a minimal block loop plus the
+  first shipyard — with a little slack for beginner mistakes, but not
+  enough to skip the loop entirely.
+- **Rule: the growth curve lives here.** A saturated building produces
+  exactly 1 threat/s, so the player's output curve *is* their
+  building-count curve — shaping growth over a run means shaping the
+  block and space economy, there is nowhere else it can live. Intended
+  shape: exponential bootstrap (block-limited) → ramp
+  (expansion-limited) → asymptotic squeeze as expansion costs outrun
+  income, racing the enemy threat rate throughout.
+- **Rule: escalating expansion costs.** Expansion cost is a formula of
+  the number of expansions already purchased, rising steeply enough that
+  expansions eventually outrun any block income. The starting asteroid
+  is deliberately small — filled within the first boss cycle or two, so
+  the early exponential burst is a satisfying ramp, not a balance hole —
+  and from then on the output curve is the expansion curve. Blocks keep
+  a meaningful sink for the entire run, and "grow vs. army" stays a live
+  decision at every moment.
+- **Rule: designed doubling time.** Block production is a positive
+  feedback loop (blocks buy assemblers, assemblers make blocks); its
+  time constant is a designed quantity, never an accident of quantity
+  choice. The block chain's depth and the per-building costs are tuned
+  against a stated target of the form: "a factory spending X% of its
+  capacity on blocks doubles in ~T minutes."
+- **Rule: growth is limited by economy, never by waiting.** Construction
+  times stay short; the serial build queue must not be used as a growth
+  brake. Waiting for placed buildings to become operational — especially
+  at the start of a run — is frustration, not gameplay. All growth
+  limiting comes from block income and expansion pricing.
+- Note: block income has a structural ceiling — blocks enter the stock
+  through the HQ's single belt port, so income is capped at belt
+  throughput regardless of assembler count. Per-building costs should be
+  high enough that this cap can bind late-game (see the condensed-block
+  idea under Future work).
+
+## Numeric guardrails
+
+Constraints that every recipe must respect, independent of tuning:
+
+- **Belt throughput:** belt speed and per-tile capacity cap how fast a
+  single belt can feed an input. A recipe whose per-cycle inputs cannot be
+  sustained by one belt per input at 100% duty cycle is a *deliberate*
+  design (forcing parallel belts/splitters as part of a high-tier puzzle)
+  — never an accident of quantity choice.
+- **Buffer burstiness:** input buffers hold 2× the per-cycle amount
+  (REQ-MAT-INPUT-BUFFER), so large per-cycle quantities create bursty belt
+  demand. Low tiers prefer small quantities with short cycles; big-batch
+  recipes are reserved for high tiers where burstiness is part of the
+  puzzle.
+- **Cycle times scale with tier** monotonically — a higher-tier item never
+  has a shorter total chain time than a lower-tier item of the same role.
+
+## Future work
+
+- **Condensed building blocks** — a drop-unlockable shortcut-style
+  recipe that packs several blocks' worth of value into one belt item,
+  relieving the HQ intake ceiling (see Building block economy) as a
+  late-game reward. The ceiling is the puzzle, the drop is the fix —
+  same philosophy as shortcut recipes.
+- **Mk2 upgrade recipes** — the deferred design for per-item progression,
+  to revisit once the config has stabilized. A duplicate-style drop
+  unlocks a distinct `*_mk2` item whose recipe consumes the Mk1 item plus
+  higher-tier parts. This preserves power-per-threat (the extra power is
+  paid in real production-seconds, since threat is recursive), satisfies
+  the refactorability rule (the Mk1 line keeps running and feeds one new
+  assembler), and keeps balancing one-dimensional (no level variable
+  anywhere). Enemy-side progression happens via `default_modules`
+  variants per era instead of a level formula.

docs/balancing/targets.md

@@ -0,0 +1,104 @@
+# Balancing Targets (base numbers)
+
+The root numbers of the balancing. Everything in `derived.md` is tuned to
+hit these; when rebalancing, **change these first and re-derive — never
+patch derived values directly**. The rules these numbers follow live in
+`rules.md`.
+
+All time targets are in **game time**. The player can pause and
+accelerate, so real session length differs; playtests measure both. The
+time unit is the boss cycle (`world.toml boss_countdown_seconds`, 300 s).
+Destroying a station set advances the boss countdown by
+`boss_advance_seconds` (60 s), so cycles run shorter than nominal when
+pushing actively — targets deliberately ignore that.
+
+## Run shape
+
+1. **Run length** — a winning run takes up to 2 hours of game time: win
+   around boss cycle 20–24. Losing runs end earlier.
+2. **Phase boundaries** — early = cycles 1–5 (iron/copper, small hulls),
+   mid = cycles 6–14 (quartz, medium hulls), late = cycles 15+
+   (voidsteel, capitals). Push cadence: first station set around cycle
+   2–3, roughly one per cycle from mid onward — so the destroyed set's
+   level ℓ is reached around cycle ℓ+2.
+3. **Factory size curve** — producing buildings over time; when
+   saturated, output threat/s equals this count, so this curve IS the
+   player power curve: ~25 when the starting asteroid is full (end of
+   cycle 2), ~60 at the start of mid (cycle 6), ~120 at the start of
+   late (cycle 15), ~150 near the win. `threat_rate_formula` must remain
+   a fraction of this curve; buildings plus belts must physically fit
+   the asteroid plus affordable expansions.
+4. **Threat-cost ladder** — total production-seconds per *fitted* hull
+   (including the typical/default module loadout): drone 10.5,
+   frigate 47, destroyer 99, cruiser 233.5, battlecruiser 354.5,
+   battleship 722.5, dreadnought 1491.5, carrier 1436.5. Every
+   production chain must sum to its ladder value. (The original strawman
+   was 10/40/80/200/350/700/1500; the small end runs ~10–20% hot because
+   fixed chain overhead dominates small hulls — accepted, and the
+   achieved values adopted as the ladder. The ~×2-per-class curve shape
+   is the invariant.)
+5. **Fleet size** — swarm-leaning: ~25 player combat ships as the
+   standing mid-game fleet. Standing fleet = build cadence (4) × average
+   ship lifetime, so this target drives time-to-kill and therefore all
+   combat stat magnitudes.
+6. **Block economy roots** — bootstrap complete (starting asteroid full)
+   by the end of cycle 2; a factory spending ~30% of its capacity on
+   blocks doubles in ~4 minutes early game; one expansion affordable per
+   cycle at ~1/3 of block income mid-game, decelerating to one per 2–3
+   cycles late as escalating costs outrun income.
+
+## Combat anchors
+
+All combat stats derive from these; per-hull HP additionally carries
+empirical trims from arena rounds (values in `derived.md`).
+
+- **Weapon DPS per threat pays a concentration tax that grows with gun
+  size**: small ≈ 0.62, medium ≈ 0.48, large ≈ 0.41 DPS per threat of
+  weapon contribution, compensated by the range ladder 50/70/100 m.
+  Rationale: concentration itself (focus fire, no DPS loss to attrition,
+  range) is worth paying for — with a flat curve, concentrated fleets
+  win equal-threat fights outright (arena round 1).
+- **Hull HP = 15 per threat of hull contribution** as the prior; per-hull
+  HP is the empirical trim knob (guns are shared across hulls, hull HP
+  moves exactly one matchup). The arena consistently prices capitals as
+  *tanks with taxed guns* — capital hulls sit well above the prior.
+- **Armor HP ≈ 37 per threat** — a strong premium over hull HP because
+  armor is pure HP with no capability, and fights snowball: killing
+  removes enemy DPS, surviving merely delays — HP must be cheaper than
+  DPS.
+- **Repair ≈ 0.7 HP/s per threat** — in-combat sustain effectively
+  removes enemy DPS and must be priced like DPS, not like HP.
+- **TTK / fight duration**: parity fights in the 30–60 s band at
+  mid-game scale; capital mirrors ~90 s deliberately; the extreme
+  tank-vs-chip-damage matchup (dreadnought vs destroyer swarm, ~3.5 min)
+  is an accepted outlier.
+- **Mobility is monotone in size** — the smallest hulls are the fastest
+  and nimblest. Sensor ranges (150→350 m) always exceed weapon ranges.
+- **Weapon modifiers are capital economy**: a ×1.2 damage modifier at
+  ~22.5 threat beats adding a gun once a ship carries more than ~68
+  threat of weapons — modifiers pay off on gun-heavy big hulls, waste on
+  small ones. Range modifiers are the strongest and are priced/kept
+  small (×1.3): range is the dominant stat under the orbit AI (free
+  approach fire).
+- **Stations**: a fresh player station holds one early parity wave
+  unaided; the enemy station at level 0 matches the player station
+  exactly and scales per push level. Station range is the dominance
+  lever, not HP (at 4× a small gun's range, two stations annihilated a
+  3× threat swarm through approach fire alone).
+- **Accepted imbalances**: the carrier loses its equal-threat fights
+  until the drone-launching capability exists (the hangar is dead
+  threat) — fix by implementing drones, not stats. A pure smallest-ship
+  fleet modestly loses (~15–25%) to a range-fitted capital — desirable
+  doctrine texture; the fair anti-capital answer is the mixed fleet.
+
+## Pacing anchors
+
+- **Starting set** is the rule-minimum: drone, frigate, small gun,
+  salvager (plus the explicitly unlocked building-block recipe).
+- **Threat rate shape**: below the player's achievable military output
+  (≈ half the factory curve) early, crossing at the late boundary
+  (~cycle 15), overwhelming by ~cycle 24.
+- **Winning = five real decisions**: `artifact_win_count` is set so that
+  across a winning run's ~15–18 pushes (~7 cumulative artifact offers at
+  the current chance formula), the player must choose the artifact over
+  a schematic about five times.

docs/concept.md

@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@
 
 ## Overview
 
-A single-player asymmetric game inspired by DOTA's wave/tower structure, combined with a Factorio-style factory builder. The player builds a factory on an asteroid to supply shipyards that produce autonomous combat ships. Those ships fight off endless enemy waves advancing from the right. The goal is to survive as long as possible; elapsed time is always displayed.
+A single-player asymmetric game inspired by DOTA's wave/tower structure, combined with a Factorio-style factory builder. The player builds a factory on an asteroid to supply shipyards that produce autonomous combat ships. Those ships fight off enemy waves advancing from the right, with tougher boss waves arriving periodically. Pushing into enemy territory and destroying their defence stations occasionally yields artifacts, which are used to upgrade the HQ; the goal is to upgrade the HQ enough to launch it into space, winning the game.
 
 ## Setting & Visuals
 
@@ -62,21 +62,26 @@ Two sources feed the same production tree:
 
 - Waves consist of a single enemy ship type whose stats scale with difficulty.
 - Waves spawn over several seconds; a gap follows before the next wave begins spawning. The previous wave may still be approaching or fighting during the gap.
-- Difficulty scales multiplicatively from two sources:
-  - **Time scaling** — enemy strength increases gradually over elapsed time.
-  - **Push scaling** — destroying a set of enemy defence stations multiplies enemy strength by a configurable factor. The replacement stations are scaled by the same factor.
+- A tougher **boss wave** spawns periodically on its own countdown, on top of normal waves.
+- Enemy strength increases gradually over time and with each boss wave that occurs.
 
 ## Push Mechanic
 
-- The player is not forced to push; purely defensive play is valid.
-- Destroying enemy defence stations applies the push scaling multiplier to all future waves, extends the scrollable area, and places a new (stronger) set of stations at the new boundary.
-- Destroyed enemy defence stations drop ship schematics.
+- The player must push — destroying enemy defence stations is the only way to earn artifacts, which are required to win.
+- Destroying a set of enemy defence stations advances the boss countdown (bringing the next, stronger boss wave sooner), extends the scrollable area, and places a new (stronger) set of stations at the new boundary.
+- Destroyed enemy defence stations drop either a ship/module schematic or, occasionally, an artifact.
+
+## Win Condition
+
+- Artifacts are gathered by defeating enemy defence stations instead of taking a schematic reward.
+- Artifacts are used to upgrade the HQ. Once the HQ is upgraded enough, the player can launch it into space — this is how the game is won.
 
 ## Starting Conditions & Game Over
 
 - The player starts with the HQ and player defence stations pre-placed and a stock of building blocks; no other buildings are pre-placed.
 - There is a grace period before the first wave to allow initial setup.
 - If all ships and player defence stations are destroyed, enemies attack the HQ. The game is lost when the HQ is destroyed. Factory buildings are never targeted.
+- The game is won when the player launches the HQ into space (see Win Condition).
 
 ## Asteroid Expansion
 

docs/content_design.md

@@ -1,9 +1,10 @@
-# Content Design — Ships & Modules
+# Content Design — Ships, Modules & Production Tree
 
-First real-content iterations (June 2026). Pass 1 defined ship hull grids and
-module surface masks; pass 2 defined the production tree (recipes). Stats and
-threat costs in the config files are still placeholders for the balancing
-pass.
+The designed game content: hull layout grids, module footprints and the
+gating between them, and the production tree (items, chains, fiction).
+All numbers — quantities, durations, threat values, stats, unlock levels
+— live in the config files and are documented with their derivations in
+`docs/balancing/` (see `balancing/README.md` for the index).
 
 ## Design principle: footprint gating
 
@@ -17,12 +18,12 @@ and makes them trivially moddable through the config files alone.
 
 | Footprint | Modules | Smallest hull that fits it |
 |-----------|---------|----------------------------|
-| 1x1 | laser_cannon_s, salvager, repair_tool | drone |
+| 1x1 | railgun_s, salvager, repair_tool | drone |
 | 1x2 | maneuvering_thrusters, sensor_booster, armor_plates | frigate |
 | 1x3 | afterburner | frigate (eats most of it) |
 | L-shape (3 cells) | weapon_stabilizer, weapon_primer, weapon_upgrade | frigate |
-| 2x2 | laser_cannon_m, drone_bay | cruiser |
-| 3x3 | laser_cannon_l | battleship |
+| 2x2 | railgun_m, drone_bay | cruiser |
+| 3x3 | railgun_l | battleship |
 | 2x6 | drone_hangar | carrier (only) |
 
 ### Hull grids
@@ -131,64 +132,163 @@ drone hangar — carrier 1.
 
 ## Production tree
 
-Design principle: each game phase adds exactly one new base input chain, so
-factory complexity ramps alongside ship size.
+Designed against the rules in `docs/balancing/rules.md` (ratio curve,
+cost ladder, cost archetypes, refactorability). Quantities, durations,
+and threat values live in `docs/balancing/derived.md`.
 
-| Phase | New input | How acquired | Unlocks |
-|-------|-----------|--------------|---------|
-| early | iron_ore, copper_ore | mined | drone, frigate, destroyer; small guns and basic supports |
-| mid | titanium_ore | mined (3x slower than iron) | cruiser, battlecruiser; m guns, drone bay, weapon modifiers |
-| late | advanced_alloy | ONLY from reprocessing salvaged scrap | battleship, dreadnought, carrier; l guns, drone hangar |
+### Base inputs (4) and fiction
 
-The advanced_alloy gate is the core loop hook: capital ship production
-requires fighting (salvaging scrap from kills and reprocessing it), not just
-mining. The reprocessing plant turns 5 scrap into iron/copper/titanium ingots
-or advanced_alloy probabilistically.
+- **iron_ore, copper_ore** — from the start, minable on every asteroid
+  tile. Fiction: the asteroid is an M-type (metal) body — its bulk rock
+  *is* ore, which is why the shipyard operation was built here at all.
+- **quartz** — mid-game, minable only on geode deposit patches in
+  expansion territory (see the Resource deposits rules in
+  `docs/balancing/rules.md`; the deposit mechanic itself is an open
+  action item — until it lands, quartz mines anywhere). Fiction:
+  ordinary silicate dust is everywhere and worthless; chips and optics
+  need rare, pocket-bound optical-grade crystal.
+- **voidsteel** — late-game, obtained only by reprocessing scrap.
+  Fiction: battle-forged — formed when weapon plasma anneals hull metal
+  in the violence of ship destruction. Any wreck yields it, including the
+  player's own; no foundry can replicate it.
+- **titanium was dropped** (v1 tree). Its hull-gating role moved to
+  quartz-era control systems ("you can smelt all the steel you want, but
+  you cannot steer a battlecruiser without electronics") plus the
+  hardened-steel quality step (a deliberately long-running, time-heavy
+  recipe) — explicitly not sheer steel quantity alone.
 
-Intermediate components, by tier:
+### Material palette (fingerprints per family)
 
-- **Tier 2 (early):** copper_wire (copper), steel_plate (iron), circuit_board
-  (iron + wire), building_block (iron).
-- **Tier 3 (mid):** mechanical_parts (steel + iron), targeting_unit (circuits
-  + wire), drive_unit (steel + mechanical_parts + circuit), titanium_frame
-  (titanium + steel).
-- **Tier 4 (late):** reinforced_plating (steel + advanced_alloy),
-  capital_core (targeting_unit + drive_unit + 2 advanced_alloy).
+- **iron/steel** — structure.
+- **copper** — conduction and heat: wiring, coils, heat sinks.
+- **silicon family** (all derived from quartz): silicon (logic,
+  sensors), ceramics (heat shielding, insulators); glass/optics are cut
+  from v1 — their only consumers would be lasers, which are deferred.
+- **voidsteel** — capital-tier structure and exotics.
+- Deliberately skipped: carbon (mostly redundant with copper/ceramics),
+  plastics (drags in Factorio-style chemical chains; ceramics read more
+  sci-fi anyway), volatiles/ice (materials are build costs only — no
+  consumption mechanic to justify fuel).
 
-Hulls and modules consume intermediates of their tier: early items are built
-from tier-2 parts, midgame items require tier-3 parts (deeper chains, more
-assemblers), capital items require tier-4 parts (and therefore combat). Hull
-items are named `<ship>_hull`; module items `<module>_module`. Every item has
-an `[items.*]` entry in visuals.toml; hull item outlines match the ship's
-fleet color from `[ships.*]`.
+### Weapons
 
-Consistency is checked by `tools/verify_recipes.py` — re-run it after editing
-recipes, ship/module materials, or visuals:
+- All v1 weapons are **railguns** (`railgun_s/m/l`, renamed from the
+  laser placeholders; footprints and the gating matrix unchanged).
+  Implementation is instant damage application with no projectile and no
+  ammunition — the beam visual reads as a tracer round. Materials: iron
+  slugs, copper coils, steel rails — the starting-metal fingerprint.
+- **Lasers are reserved for later** as a genuinely distinct weapon type
+  (e.g. once projectile/ammunition mechanics exist for other families),
+  arriving with quartz optics. More weapon types are planned; railguns
+  are simply the baseline tech that ships with v1.
+- `drone_bay` and `drone_hangar` are footprint-only placeholders: the
+  drone-launching capability does not exist in the simulation yet, so
+  they define no capability section. The carrier is deliberately weak
+  until that capability lands (see the accepted imbalances in
+  `docs/balancing/targets.md`).
+
+### Tree structure
+
+Input lists only — quantities, durations, and per-item threat values are
+in `docs/balancing/derived.md` and the configs.
+
+**Mined (miner):** `iron_ore`, `copper_ore` (every tile), `quartz`
+(geode deposits in expansion territory).
+
+**Smelted (smelter — exactly one recipe per input item):**
+
+| output | input | ratio class |
+|---|---|---|
+| iron_ingot | iron_ore | nice (1:1) |
+| copper_ingot | copper_ore | nice |
+| silicon | quartz | mid entry |
+| iron_ingot | scrap | the safe, boring scrap sink |
+
+**Reprocessing pool (scrap):** `iron_ingot`, `copper_ingot`, `silicon`,
+`voidsteel` — the only source of voidsteel. Weights authored for the
+fully unlocked pool state.
+
+**Tier 2 — early intermediates (clean ratios, ~2:3):**
+
+| item | inputs | role |
+|---|---|---|
+| steel_plate | iron_ingot | structure backbone, highest volume |
+| copper_wire | copper_ingot | conductors |
+| copper_coil | copper_wire | electromagnets: railguns, thrusters |
+| building_block | steel_plate | depth-3 chain = the doubling-time knob |
+
+**Tier 3 — mid intermediates (strange ratios begin, need quartz):**
+
+| item | inputs | role |
+|---|---|---|
+| control_chip | silicon + copper_wire | electronics gate for m+ hulls |
+| capacitor_bank | copper_coil + silicon | power for railgun m/l |
+| hardened_steel | steel_plate (long cycle) | quality gate for m+ hulls; time-heavy |
+| ceramic_plate | quartz | heat shielding: drives, l guns, capitals |
+| drive_unit | steel_plate + copper_coil + control_chip | propulsion for m+ hulls |
+
+**Tier 4 — late intermediates (need voidsteel):**
+
+| item | inputs | role |
+|---|---|---|
+| voidsteel_plate | voidsteel + hardened_steel | capital structure |
+| capital_core | voidsteel + capacitor_bank + control_chip | capital heart |
+
+**Hull items** (`<ship>_hull`, assembler-made; the shipyard consumes the
+hull item plus module materials). The m+ hull gate is **both**
+hardened_steel (quality steel, the time-heavy step) *and* control_chip
+(electronics):
+
+| hull | inputs |
+|---|---|
+| drone_hull | iron_ingot |
+| frigate_hull | steel_plate + copper_wire |
+| destroyer_hull | steel_plate + copper_coil |
+| cruiser_hull | hardened_steel + control_chip |
+| battlecruiser_hull | hardened_steel + control_chip + drive_unit |
+| battleship_hull | voidsteel_plate + drive_unit + control_chip |
+| dreadnought_hull | voidsteel_plate + capital_core + drive_unit |
+| carrier_hull | voidsteel_plate + capital_core + drive_unit |
+
+**Module items** (`<module>_module`, assembler-made prefabs — kept as
+items so shipyard belt inputs stay simple and module production can be
+stockpiled):
+
+| module | inputs | archetype |
+|---|---|---|
+| railgun_s | copper_coil | lean |
+| salvager | steel_plate + copper_wire | balanced |
+| repair_tool | steel_plate + copper_wire | balanced |
+| armor_plates | steel_plate (many) | material-heavy, fast |
+| maneuvering_thrusters | steel_plate + copper_coil | balanced |
+| sensor_booster | copper_wire + copper_coil | lean (an antenna, no chip) |
+| afterburner | copper_coil + steel_plate | balanced |
+| weapon_stabilizer | steel_plate + copper_coil | balanced |
+| weapon_primer | capacitor_bank + copper_coil | mid; time-heavy |
+| weapon_upgrade | control_chip + copper_coil | mid; time-heavy |
+| railgun_m | capacitor_bank + steel_plate + copper_coil | mid |
+| drone_bay | control_chip + steel_plate + copper_coil | mid |
+| railgun_l | capacitor_bank + hardened_steel + ceramic_plate | late |
+| drone_hangar | voidsteel_plate + control_chip + drive_unit | late (carrier only) |
+
+**Refactorability check** (the default technique holds): railgun_s → m
+introduces capacitor_bank, built from a subset of the small gun's inputs
+(copper_coil) plus the new base resource (silicon); the m gun otherwise
+reuses the small gun's inputs. Hulls likewise: the cruiser adds
+hardening (fed by the existing steel line) and chips (fed by the new
+quartz territory) without touching the iron/copper core.
+
+**Shortcut recipes** (drop-only assembler schematics; not every strange
+chain gets one): `iron_ore → steel_plate` (skips the ingot step on the
+highest-volume chain), `quartz → control_chip` (skips silicon),
+`iron_ingot → hardened_steel` (a nicer-ratio route past the deliberately
+awkward hardening step).
+
+Consistency is checked by `tools/verify_recipes.py` — re-run it after
+editing recipes, ship/module materials, or visuals:
 
     python dota_factory/tools/verify_recipes.py
 
 It verifies every consumed item has a producer, every item has a visuals
-entry, flags orphaned items, and prints which items are reprocessing-only
-(currently exactly advanced_alloy).
-
-## Deliberate placeholders / open questions for later passes
-
-- All new hulls have `threat.cost_formula = "0"` so enemy waves do not spawn
-  them yet (WaveSystem treats any ship with positive threat cost as wave-
-  eligible, regardless of unlock level). The balancing pass should set real
-  threat costs together with `default_modules` loadouts so waves spawn them
-  armed.
-- All new hulls and all assembler recipes are `unlock_at_station_level = -1`
-  (available from the start) to make testing easy; the balancing pass should
-  stagger these so mid/lategame recipes drop as schematics from enemy defence
-  stations.
-- Recipe quantities and durations are a first guess, deliberately roughly
-  tiered (capital hulls ~60 s, drones 4 s); the balancing pass tunes them.
-- `drone_bay` and `drone_hangar` are footprint-only placeholders: the drone
-  launching capability does not exist in the simulation yet, so they define
-  no capability section.
-- Renames in this pass: `laser_cannon_xs` → `laser_cannon_s` (the old 2x2
-  `laser_cannon_s` became `laser_cannon_m`), `armor_plate` → `armor_plates`,
-  `manuvering_thrusters` → `maneuvering_thrusters` (typo fix). Test data
-  under `bin/test/data/config` intentionally still uses the old ids — it is
-  an independent fixture set.
+entry, flags orphaned items, and prints which items are
+reprocessing-only (currently exactly voidsteel).

docs/requirements.md

@@ -4,11 +4,11 @@
 
 Config files use the TOML format. The following config files drive game parameters:
 
-- **world.toml** — world dimensions, region widths, expansion amounts, building refund percentage, wave timing, boss wave timing, enemy ship level formula, belt speed, starting building blocks, departure interval, ship orbit factor, rally orbit radius, combat target-selection parameters (target score formula, overclaim penalty formula, target hysteresis), artifact chance formula, and artifact win count.
+- **world.toml** — world dimensions, region widths, expansion amounts, building refund percentage, wave timing, boss wave timing, belt speed, starting building blocks, departure interval, ship orbit factor, rally orbit radius, scrap-per-threat conversion, combat target-selection parameters (target score formula, overclaim penalty formula, target hysteresis), artifact chance formula, and artifact win count.
 - **buildings.toml** — building block cost and construction time per building type.
-- **recipes.toml** — crafting recipes: inputs, outputs, quantities, durations, and reprocessing plant probabilities. Assembler recipe entries may optionally define `unlock_at_station_level` (integer): -1 means the recipe is explicitly unlocked at game start; a value ≥ 0 means the recipe starts locked and a schematic for it can be awarded via defence station destruction (see REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT, REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP).
-- **ships.toml** — per schematic: a human-readable display name (used in the UI), hull stats (HP, max linear speed, sensor range, main acceleration, maneuvering acceleration, angular acceleration, max rotation speed) as formulas of ship level, required build materials, player production level, the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`unlock_at_station_level`; -1 means the player starts with the schematic already unlocked), a layout grid defining the ship's module slots, a `scrap_drop` loot value, and a `default_modules` list used for enemy wave ships (see REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES).
-- **modules.toml** — per module type: id, surface mask, materials list, initial player production level, production time, fill color, glyph, the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`unlock_at_station_level`; -1 means the player starts with the module schematic already unlocked), and an optional capability section and/or stat modifier formulas. A module with a capability section (`[module.weapon]`, `[module.salvage]`, or `[module.repair]`) containing base stat formulas is a **capability module** that grants the ship a weapon, salvage bay, or repair tool per instance (see REQ-MOD-CONFIG for the full list of formulas per capability type). A module with only `added_*`/`multiplied_*` formulas is a **passive module** that modifies stats on the ship or on capability module instances (see REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC).
+- **recipes.toml** — crafting recipes: inputs, outputs, quantities, durations, and reprocessing plant probabilities. Assembler recipe entries may optionally define `unlock_at_station_level` (integer): -1 means the recipe is explicitly unlocked at game start; a value ≥ 0 means the recipe starts locked and a schematic for it can be awarded via defence station destruction (see REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT, REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP). An assembler recipe schematic entry may also define an optional `unlock_requires` list of prerequisite schematic ids (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ).
+- **ships.toml** — per schematic: a human-readable display name (used in the UI), hull stats (HP, max linear speed, sensor range, main acceleration, maneuvering acceleration, angular acceleration, max rotation speed) as plain values, required build materials, the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`unlock_at_station_level`; -1 means the player starts with the schematic already unlocked), an optional `unlock_requires` prerequisite list (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ), a layout grid defining the ship's module slots, and a `default_modules` list used for enemy wave ships (see REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES).
+- **modules.toml** — per module type: id, surface mask, materials list, production time, fill color, glyph, the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`unlock_at_station_level`; -1 means the player starts with the module schematic already unlocked), an optional `unlock_requires` prerequisite list (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ), and an optional capability section and/or stat modifier formulas. A module with a capability section (`[module.weapon]`, `[module.salvage]`, or `[module.repair]`) containing base stat formulas is a **capability module** that grants the ship a weapon, salvage bay, or repair tool per instance (see REQ-MOD-CONFIG for the full list of formulas per capability type). A module with only `added_*`/`multiplied_*` formulas is a **passive module** that modifies stats on the ship or on capability module instances (see REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC).
 - **stations.toml** — HP, damage, range, fire rate, and scrap drop for player and enemy defence stations, defined as formulas of station level.
 - **visuals.toml** — rendering-only config (not game parameters): fill and outline colors and glyphs for every building type, item type, ship schematic, and station type; a distinct beam color per tool type (weapon, repair, salvage) and beam width; overlay and toast colors. Loaded by the UI at startup; the simulation does not read it.
 - **ship_layouts.toml** — named layout blueprints per ship type; written and read by the application to persist the layout blueprint panel (REQ-MOD-UI-BLUEPRINT-PANEL through REQ-MOD-UI-BLUEPRINT-FILE-LOAD). Not a game parameter file; the simulation does not read it.
@@ -117,7 +117,7 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 - REQ-BLD-SMELTER: **Smelter** (2×2): Converts ore or scrap into basic materials. No recipe selection required. Inputs, outputs, and rates are defined in `recipes.toml [[recipe]]` entries with `building = "smelter"`.
 - REQ-BLD-ASSEMBLER: **Assembler** (3×3): The player selects a recipe from the config-defined crafting tree. Produces the selected output item at the rate defined in the corresponding `recipes.toml [[recipe]]` entry with `building = "assembler"`. Only implicitly unlocked recipes are available for selection (REQ-LOCK-UI-RECIPE).
 - REQ-BLD-REPROCESSING: **Reprocessing Plant** (3×3): Consumes scrap per cycle and produces exactly one higher-level intermediate product per cycle via weighted random pick. The input quantity, possible output items, per-output weights, and amounts are defined in `recipes.toml [[recipe]]` entries with `building = "reprocessing_plant"` (`inputs`, `outputs[].item`, `outputs[].amount`, `outputs[].weight`). Weights are normalized at load time; their sum does not need to equal 1. The output is rolled at cycle start (see REQ-MAT-CYCLE); the pool of eligible outputs is restricted to implicitly unlocked item types (REQ-LOCK-REPROCESSING-POOL). The output buffer holds at most one cycle's output — see REQ-MAT-OUTPUT-BUFFER-REPROCESSING.
-- REQ-BLD-SHIPYARD: **Shipyard** (4×2): The player selects a schematic. When all required materials — the ship's base materials (`[ship.schematic].materials`) plus the materials of all modules in the configured layout (REQ-MOD-MATERIALS) — are present in its input buffer, the shipyard consumes them and begins a production cycle lasting the ship's base `[ship.schematic].production_time_seconds` plus the sum of production times contributed by all module instances in the configured layout (REQ-MOD-PRODUCTION-TIME). One ship of that type is spawned at `ships.toml [ship.schematic].player_production_level` (initial value 5, incremented by duplicate schematic drops per REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP) with the configured modules when the cycle completes. The shipyard cannot start a new cycle while one is in progress. If the player confirms a layout change (REQ-MOD-UI-DIALOG) while a production cycle is in progress, the current cycle is cancelled and all consumed materials are discarded; the shipyard returns to idle with the new layout configuration.
+- REQ-BLD-SHIPYARD: **Shipyard** (4×2): The player selects a schematic. When all required materials — the ship's base materials (`[ship.schematic].materials`) plus the materials of all modules in the configured layout (REQ-MOD-MATERIALS) — are present in its input buffer, the shipyard consumes them and begins a production cycle lasting the ship's base `[ship.schematic].production_time_seconds` plus the sum of production times contributed by all module instances in the configured layout (REQ-MOD-PRODUCTION-TIME). One ship of that type is spawned with the configured modules when the cycle completes. The shipyard cannot start a new cycle while one is in progress. If the player confirms a layout change (REQ-MOD-UI-DIALOG) while a production cycle is in progress, the current cycle is cancelled and all consumed materials are discarded; the shipyard returns to idle with the new layout configuration.
 - REQ-BLD-SALVAGE-BAY: **Salvage Bay** (3×2): A dedicated drop-off point for salvage ships. Scrap delivered here is placed onto connected output belts.
 - REQ-BLD-BELT: **Belt** (1×1): Transports items. A belt tile has one direction (N, S, E, W) set at placement (modified by rotation). Curved belts are auto-derived: when a belt tile's outgoing direction leads into another belt whose direction is orthogonal, the downstream belt is rendered and behaves as a curve. Belt speed is defined in `world.toml [world].belt_speed_tiles_per_second` (REQ-GW-BELT-SPEED).
 - REQ-BLD-SPLITTER: **Splitter** (1×1): Distributes incoming items between two output directions. Each output can optionally have a filter (a list of item types), configurable via the selected building panel; only implicitly unlocked item types are available as filter options (REQ-LOCK-UI-SPLITTER). Routing rules:
@@ -149,16 +149,16 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 
 ## Resources
 
-- REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP: Destroyed ships (both player and enemy) and destroyed defence stations (both player and enemy) drop scrap at their location. The scrap amount per ship is defined in `ships.toml [ship.loot].scrap_drop`; for stations it is defined as `stations.toml [player_station].scrap_drop_formula` and `[enemy_station].scrap_drop_formula`. A scrap drop carries an amount; salvage modules collect it one scrap per cycle (REQ-SHP-SALVAGE), and the drop is removed from the world once its remaining amount reaches zero or `world.toml [world].scrap_despawn_seconds` seconds have elapsed since it was dropped, whichever comes first.
+- REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP: Destroyed ships (both player and enemy) and destroyed defence stations (both player and enemy) drop scrap at their location. The scrap amount per ship is derived from the ship's threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) for its as-built layout, multiplied by `world.toml [world].scrap_per_threat` (default 0.01) and rounded to the nearest integer (at least 1 for any ship whose threat cost is greater than 0); for stations it is defined as `stations.toml [player_station].scrap_drop_formula` and `[enemy_station].scrap_drop_formula`. A scrap drop carries an amount; salvage modules collect it one scrap per cycle (REQ-SHP-SALVAGE), and the drop is removed from the world once its remaining amount reaches zero or `world.toml [world].scrap_despawn_seconds` seconds have elapsed since it was dropped, whichever comes first.
 - REQ-RES-SCRAP-COLLECT: Scrap is collected by salvage ships and delivered to a Salvage Bay on the asteroid. From there it can be fed via belt into a smelter (same output as ore) or a Reprocessing Plant.
 
 ## Ships
 
 - REQ-SHP-AUTONOMOUS: Ships are produced by shipyards and are fully autonomous once produced.
-- REQ-SHP-STATS: Base hull stats are defined as formulas of ship level in `ships.toml`: HP (`[ship.health].hp_formula`), max linear speed (`[ship.movement].speed_formula`), sensor range (`[ship.sensors].range_formula`), main acceleration (`[ship.movement].main_acceleration_formula`, tiles/s²), maneuvering acceleration (`[ship.movement].maneuvering_acceleration_formula`, tiles/s²), angular acceleration (`[ship.movement].angular_acceleration_formula`, rad/s²), max rotation speed (`[ship.movement].max_rotation_speed_formula`, rad/s). Required build materials (`[ship.schematic].materials`) and the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`[[ship]].unlock_at_station_level`; -1 = player starts with the schematic already unlocked) are also defined there. Combat, salvage, and repair capabilities are provided by modules (see REQ-MOD-CONFIG). Final hull stats incorporate passive module modifiers per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC.
+- REQ-SHP-STATS: Base hull stats are defined as plain values in `ships.toml`: HP (`[ship.health].hp`), max linear speed (`[ship.movement].speed`), sensor range (`[ship.sensors].range`), main acceleration (`[ship.movement].main_acceleration`, tiles/s²), maneuvering acceleration (`[ship.movement].maneuvering_acceleration`, tiles/s²), angular acceleration (`[ship.movement].angular_acceleration`, rad/s²), max rotation speed (`[ship.movement].max_rotation_speed`, rad/s). Required build materials (`[ship.schematic].materials`) and the station level at which the schematic becomes available for unlock (`[[ship]].unlock_at_station_level`; -1 = player starts with the schematic already unlocked) are also defined there. Combat, salvage, and repair capabilities are provided by modules (see REQ-MOD-CONFIG). Final hull stats incorporate passive module modifiers per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC.
 - REQ-SHP-SPAWN-PLAYER: A ship produced by a shipyard spawns centered on the shipyard's output port tile.
 - REQ-SHP-SPAWN-ENEMY: Enemy ships spawn at a uniformly random position within the current enemy buffer zone — random X across the buffer's width and random Y across the world height.
-- REQ-SHP-MOVEMENT: Ships move using a physics-based model. Each ship has a velocity and a facing direction, both updated each tick. The main acceleration (`main_acceleration_formula`) is applied along the ship's current facing direction only. The maneuvering acceleration (`maneuvering_acceleration_formula`) can be applied in any direction independently of the facing direction, enabling lateral or braking movement without rotating. The angular acceleration (`angular_acceleration_formula`) controls how quickly the ship rotates. Linear speed is capped at the ship's `speed_formula` value; rotation rate is capped at the ship's `max_rotation_speed_formula` value. Ship position refers to the ship's center for all range, sensor, and attack checks.
+- REQ-SHP-MOVEMENT: Ships move using a physics-based model. Each ship has a velocity and a facing direction, both updated each tick. The main acceleration (`main_acceleration`) is applied along the ship's current facing direction only. The maneuvering acceleration (`maneuvering_acceleration`) can be applied in any direction independently of the facing direction, enabling lateral or braking movement without rotating. The angular acceleration (`angular_acceleration`) controls how quickly the ship rotates. Linear speed is capped at the ship's `speed` value; rotation rate is capped at the ship's `max_rotation_speed` value. Ship position refers to the ship's center for all range, sensor, and attack checks.
 - REQ-SHP-ORBIT: Several behaviors keep a ship circling its target at a fixed standoff distance (an **orbit**) rather than approaching a fixed point. The orbit radius depends on the behavior:
   - **Combat engagement** (REQ-SHP-COMBAT, REQ-SHP-ENEMY-AI): `world.toml [world].orbit_factor` multiplied by the maximum weapon `attack_range` across the ship's weapon module instances.
   - **Repair** (REQ-SHP-REPAIR): `orbit_factor` multiplied by the maximum `repair_range` across the ship's repair module instances.
@@ -196,16 +196,16 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
   - `id` — unique identifier, also used as the display name in the UI.
   - `surface_mask` — footprint within the ship layout grid (see Module Surface Mask Format).
   - `materials` — list of materials required per instance (added to the ship's build cost).
-  - `player_production_level` — initial level for this module type; used as `x` in its stat formulas. Incremented by 1 on each duplicate schematic drop (REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP).
   - `unlock_at_station_level` — the enemy defence station level at which this module's schematic becomes available for unlock; -1 means the player starts with the module schematic already unlocked.
+  - `unlock_requires` — optional list of prerequisite schematic ids that must already be unlocked before this module's schematic can drop (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). Defaults to empty.
   - `production_time_seconds` — time added to the ship's production cycle per instance.
   - `fill_color` — fill color used to render this module's cells in the layout grid.
   - `glyph` — single character rendered on this module's cells in the layout grid and preview widget.
-  - An optional **capability section** (`[module.weapon]`, `[module.salvage]`, or `[module.repair]`) containing base stat formulas. A module with base stat formulas is a capability module — each placed instance grants the ship an independent weapon, salvage bay, or repair tool with its own state (cooldown, target). A ship may have multiple capability module instances of the same or different types. Base stat formulas per capability type:
-    - **Weapon** (`[module.weapon]`): `damage_formula`, `attack_range_formula`, `attack_rate_formula`.
-    - **Salvage** (`[module.salvage]`): `collection_range_formula` (tiles), `cargo_capacity_formula` (integer scrap units; contributes to the ship's cargo capacity stat per REQ-MOD-CARGO-CAPACITY), `collection_rate_formula` (collection cycles per second; each cycle collects 1 scrap).
-    - **Repair** (`[module.repair]`): `repair_rate_formula` (repair cycles per second), `repair_amount_hp_formula` (HP restored per repair cycle), `repair_range_formula` (tiles).
-  - Zero or more **passive stat modifier formulas** (`added_*`/`multiplied_*`) that boost stats on the ship hull or on capability module instances (see REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC). A single module may be both a capability module and provide passive modifiers.
+  - An optional **capability section** (`[module.weapon]`, `[module.salvage]`, or `[module.repair]`) containing base stat values. A module with base stat values is a capability module — each placed instance grants the ship an independent weapon, salvage bay, or repair tool with its own state (cooldown, target). A ship may have multiple capability module instances of the same or different types. Base stat values per capability type:
+    - **Weapon** (`[module.weapon]`): `damage`, `attack_range`, `attack_rate`.
+    - **Salvage** (`[module.salvage]`): `collection_range` (tiles), `cargo_capacity` (integer scrap units; contributes to the ship's cargo capacity stat per REQ-MOD-CARGO-CAPACITY), `collection_rate` (collection cycles per second; each cycle collects 1 scrap).
+    - **Repair** (`[module.repair]`): `repair_rate` (repair cycles per second), `repair_amount_hp` (HP restored per repair cycle), `repair_range` (tiles).
+  - Zero or more **passive stat modifiers** (`added_*`/`multiplied_*`) that boost stats on the ship hull or on capability module instances (see REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC). A single module may be both a capability module and provide passive modifiers.
 
 - REQ-MOD-LAYOUT: Each ship in `ships.toml` defines a `layout` — a list of strings representing the ship's module grid (see Ship Layout Format). All ships define a layout.
 
@@ -224,29 +224,30 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
   2. The `production_time_seconds` of every module instance in the configured layout.
   3. For every material required (the union of the ship's base materials and all module instance materials, with quantities summed per item type): the recursive production time of that material multiplied by the required quantity (see REQ-THREAT-ITEM).
 
-- REQ-THREAT-ITEM: The threat value of an item type (in seconds) is determined by the recipe that produces it:
-  - **Miner recipe**: the recipe's `duration_seconds`.
-  - **Smelter recipe**: the recipe's `duration_seconds` plus the sum of each input's threat value multiplied by that input's required quantity.
-  - **Assembler recipe**: the recipe's `duration_seconds` plus the sum of each input's threat value multiplied by that input's required quantity.
-  - **Reprocessing-only item** (an item type that has no miner, smelter, or assembler recipe producing it, and is only obtainable via reprocessing): `(scrap_threat × scrap_per_cycle + duration_seconds) / probability`, where `scrap_threat` is the threat value of scrap (see REQ-THREAT-SCRAP), `scrap_per_cycle` is the number of scrap consumed per reprocessing cycle, `duration_seconds` is the reprocessing cycle time, and `probability` is the normalized weight of that item in the reprocessing output pool.
-  - **Multiple recipes**: if an item type can be produced by more than one non-reprocessing recipe (miner, smelter, or assembler), its threat value is the **maximum** across all such recipes. The reprocessing path is only used when no other recipe exists.
+- REQ-THREAT-ITEM: The threat value of an item type (in production-seconds **per unit**) is determined by the recipe that produces it:
+  - **Miner recipe**: `duration_seconds / output_amount`, where `output_amount` is the number of units produced per cycle.
+  - **Smelter recipe**: `(duration_seconds + Σ (input_threat × input_amount)) / output_amount`, where the sum is over all inputs.
+  - **Assembler recipe**: `(duration_seconds + Σ (input_threat × input_amount)) / output_amount`, where the sum is over all inputs.
+  - **Reprocessing-only item** (an item type that has no miner, smelter, or assembler recipe producing it, and is only obtainable via reprocessing): `(scrap_threat × scrap_per_cycle + duration_seconds) / probability`, where `scrap_threat` is the threat value of scrap (see REQ-THREAT-SCRAP), `scrap_per_cycle` is the number of scrap consumed per reprocessing cycle, `duration_seconds` is the reprocessing cycle time, and `probability` is the normalized weight of that item in the reprocessing output pool. (Reprocessing output amounts are 1 in practice, so per-unit division is already implicit in the formula.)
+  - **Multiple recipes**: if an item type can be produced by more than one non-reprocessing recipe (miner, smelter, or assembler), its threat value is the **maximum** across **all** such eligible recipes, and the threat is committed only once every eligible recipe is computable (so a shallow shortcut recipe that resolves earlier than a deeper base recipe cannot lower the item's threat). The reprocessing path is only used when no other recipe exists. If recipe cycles prevent full resolution, the max over the currently computable subset is used as a fallback.
+  - **Scrap-consuming recipe fallback**: a non-reprocessing recipe that takes `scrap` as an input participates in an item's threat computation only if no scrap-free recipe (miner, smelter, or assembler) produces that item. This mirrors the reprocessing fallback rule and prevents the scrap-to-ingot smelter recipe from inflating basic material threats via the max rule.
 
-- REQ-THREAT-SCRAP: The threat value of scrap is derived from the ship schematic with the smallest configured `scrap_drop` value (from `ships.toml [ship.loot].scrap_drop`). Scrap threat = that ship's threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) / that ship's `scrap_drop` value. If multiple schematics share the same smallest `scrap_drop`, any one of them may be used.
+- REQ-THREAT-SCRAP: The threat value of scrap is the constant `1 / world.toml [world].scrap_per_threat`. This is the exact inverse of the scrap-drop conversion in REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP, so a destroyed ship drops scrap worth precisely its own threat cost. Because scrap threat is now a fixed constant, it no longer depends on any ship's threat cost, removing the potential circularity with REQ-MOD-THREAT for ships built from reprocessing-only materials.
 - REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC: For each stat (on the ship hull or on a capability module instance), the final value is computed as: `final = base × total_multiplier + total_additive`, where:
-  - `base` is the stat's base formula evaluated at the ship's production level (for hull stats) or at the capability module's `player_production_level` (for capability module stats).
-  - `total_multiplier` = 1 + sum of (m_i − 1) for each multiplicative modifier m_i from all passive module instances. Each m_i is evaluated from the module's multiplicative formula at the module's `player_production_level`.
-  - `total_additive` = sum of all additive modifier values from all passive module instances. Each additive value is evaluated from the module's additive formula at the module's `player_production_level`.
+  - `base` is the stat's base value — the hull stat value (for hull stats) or the capability module's base stat value (for capability module stats).
+  - `total_multiplier` = 1 + sum of (m_i − 1) for each multiplicative modifier m_i from all passive module instances. Each m_i is the module's multiplicative modifier value.
+  - `total_additive` = sum of all additive modifier values from all passive module instances. Each additive value is the module's additive modifier value.
 
-  Passive modifier formulas follow the naming convention: a module may define `added_<stat>_formula` (additive) and/or `multiplied_<stat>_formula` (multiplicative) under `[module.<category>]`. The category determines what the modifier targets:
+  Passive modifiers follow the naming convention: a module may define `added_<stat>` (additive) and/or `multiplied_<stat>` (multiplicative) under `[module.<category>]`. The category determines what the modifier targets:
   - `[module.health]`, `[module.movement]`, `[module.sensor]` — modifiers apply to the ship hull's stats.
   - `[module.weapon]` — modifiers apply to every weapon module instance on the ship.
   - `[module.salvage]` — modifiers apply to every salvage module instance on the ship.
   - `[module.repair]` — modifiers apply to every repair module instance on the ship.
   - `[module.cargo]` — modifiers (`added_cargo_capacity`/`multiplied_cargo_capacity`) apply to the ship's **cargo capacity**, a ship-level stat (see REQ-MOD-CARGO-CAPACITY).
 
-  Example: `[module.sensor].added_sensor_range_formula` adds to the ship's sensor range. `[module.weapon].multiplied_damage_formula` multiplies the damage of every weapon module instance on the ship.
+  Example: `[module.sensor].added_sensor_range` adds to the ship's sensor range. `[module.weapon].multiplied_damage` multiplies the damage of every weapon module instance on the ship.
 
-- REQ-MOD-CARGO-CAPACITY: **Cargo capacity** is a first-class ship stat — the total number of scrap units the ship can hold in the single shared cargo pool used by its salvage modules (REQ-SHP-SALVAGE). Unlike other ship stats it has no hull base formula; its `base` (per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC) is the **sum** of the `cargo_capacity` base values of every cargo-providing capability module instance on the ship — currently each salvage module's `cargo_capacity_formula`, evaluated at that module instance's `player_production_level`. Passive modifiers targeting `cargo_capacity` are declared under the `[module.cargo]` category and apply to this ship-level sum (`final = base × total_multiplier + total_additive`); they are not salvage-category modifiers and therefore scale the whole pool rather than any single instance. A ship whose cargo capacity is 0 (no cargo-providing module) is given no cargo pool.
+- REQ-MOD-CARGO-CAPACITY: **Cargo capacity** is a first-class ship stat — the total number of scrap units the ship can hold in the single shared cargo pool used by its salvage modules (REQ-SHP-SALVAGE). Unlike other ship stats it has no hull base formula; its `base` (per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC) is the **sum** of the `cargo_capacity` base values of every cargo-providing capability module instance on the ship — currently each salvage module's `cargo_capacity` value. Passive modifiers targeting `cargo_capacity` are declared under the `[module.cargo]` category and apply to this ship-level sum (`final = base × total_multiplier + total_additive`); they are not salvage-category modifiers and therefore scale the whole pool rather than any single instance. A ship whose cargo capacity is 0 (no cargo-providing module) is given no cargo pool.
 
 ### Module UI
 
@@ -260,7 +261,7 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
   - **Right** (below the grid): The layout blueprint panel (see REQ-MOD-UI-BLUEPRINT-PANEL through REQ-MOD-UI-BLUEPRINT-FILE-LOAD).
   - **Bottom**: A "Confirm" button and a "Cancel" button. Cancel discards all changes made in this dialog session and closes the dialog. Confirm applies the changes: the shipyard's configured layout is updated, the required materials and cycle time displayed in the selected building panel are recalculated, and the ship layout preview is refreshed.
 
-- REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL: The **ship stats panel** in the layout configuration dialog shows the stats of the currently configured ship layout as they would be computed at the schematic's `player_production_level`, incorporating all passive module modifiers per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC. The panel updates in real time whenever modules are placed or removed in the layout grid.
+- REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL: The **ship stats panel** in the layout configuration dialog shows the stats of the currently configured ship layout as they would be computed, incorporating all passive module modifiers per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC. The panel updates in real time whenever modules are placed or removed in the layout grid.
 
   The panel always shows all hull stats as final computed values:
   - HP
@@ -277,7 +278,7 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
   - **Salvage** (shown only if at least one salvage module is placed): combined collection rate = Σ(collection_rate_i) across all salvage module instances; maximum range = max(collection_range_i) across all salvage module instances.
   - **Repair** (shown only if at least one repair module is placed): combined repair rate (HP/s) = Σ(repair_rate_i × repair_amount_hp_i) across all repair module instances; maximum range = max(repair_range_i) across all repair module instances.
 
-  All capability module stat values incorporate passive modifiers targeting the relevant capability category per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC. Each capability module instance uses its own `player_production_level` for formula evaluation.
+  All capability module stat values incorporate passive modifiers targeting the relevant capability category per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC.
 
   While debug draw mode is active (REQ-UI-DEBUG-DRAW), the panel additionally shows the ship's derived threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) for the current layout configuration. This value updates in real time as modules are placed or removed.
 
@@ -305,21 +306,22 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 - REQ-DEF-NO-CROSSFIRE: Enemy and player defence stations are never in each other's firing range.
 - REQ-DEF-PUSH: When both enemy defence stations in a set are destroyed, the boss countdown is advanced (REQ-WAV-BOSS-ADVANCE), the scrollable area is extended (REQ-GW-PUSH-EXPAND), a new set of enemy defence stations is placed at the new boundary, and exactly one schematic drop is awarded for the destroyed set (REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP).
 - REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP: Each destroyed set of enemy defence stations awards exactly one schematic drop (not one per station). The drop opens a **schematic choice dialog** — a modal dialog that pauses the game (speed set to 0×; on close, speed is restored to what it was before the dialog opened). Before drawing schematic picks, an artifact roll is made: evaluate `world.toml [world].artifact_chance_formula` with `x` set to the level of the destroyed station set, clamp the result to [0, 1], then compare against a uniform random value in [0, 1). If the roll succeeds, the dialog presents one **artifact option** plus two schematic picks drawn from the eligible pool; otherwise it presents three schematic picks. Up to three (or two, if an artifact option is present) schematic options are drawn uniformly at random **without replacement** from the eligible drop pool. If the pool contains fewer than the required number of entries, only that many schematic options are shown (the artifact option is always shown if the roll succeeded). The eligible drop pool contains:
-  - All **ship schematics** and **module schematics** whose `unlock_at_station_level` is -1 or is ≤ the level of the destroyed station set.
+  - All **ship schematics** and **module schematics** whose `unlock_at_station_level` is ≥ 0 and ≤ the level of the destroyed station set, and which have not yet been unlocked.
   - All **assembler recipe schematics** whose `unlock_at_station_level` is ≥ 0 and ≤ the level of the destroyed station set, whose output item is currently implicitly unlocked (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT), and which have not yet been awarded.
 
-  Each option in the dialog displays: the schematic name (ship `display_name` from `ships.toml`, module `id` from `modules.toml`, or the output item type for assembler recipes), the schematic type (ship, module, or assembler recipe), and whether selecting it would be a **new unlock** or a **level-up** (showing the target level for level-ups). Assembler recipe schematics are always new unlocks since they are removed from the pool once awarded. The artifact option (if present) is displayed as a distinct entry with the name "Artifact" and no unlock/level-up annotation.
+  In addition to the conditions above, a schematic is included in the eligible drop pool only when every prerequisite in its optional `unlock_requires` list is currently satisfied (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). Because the pool is rebuilt for each drop, a schematic gated behind prerequisites first appears only after all of its prerequisites have themselves been unlocked.
+
+  Each option in the dialog displays: the schematic name (ship `display_name` from `ships.toml`, module `id` from `modules.toml`, or the output item type for assembler recipes) and the schematic type (ship, module, or assembler recipe). The artifact option (if present) is displayed as a distinct entry with the name "Artifact".
 
   Each option additionally displays a vertical list of item names labeled "Unlocks recipes for:", showing which recipes would newly become implicitly unlocked (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT) if this option were selected — specifically, the output items of miner recipes and assembler recipes (without `unlock_at_station_level`) that are not currently implicitly unlocked but would become so after applying this option's effect:
-  - For a ship or module schematic that would be a **new unlock**, its `materials` are added to the base set per REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT step 1a before recomputation.
-  - For a ship or module schematic **level-up**, the implicit unlock set is unchanged, so the list is always empty.
+  - For a ship or module schematic, its `materials` are added to the base set per REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT step 1a before recomputation.
   - For an assembler recipe schematic, its output item is added to the base set per REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT step 1b before recomputation.
 
   Item names are deduplicated and sorted alphabetically. If no recipes would be newly unlocked, the list shows "None".
 
   The player selects one option by clicking it. If the player selects the artifact option, the player's artifact count is incremented by 1 (REQ-WIN-ARTIFACT-COUNT) and the dialog closes; no schematic is applied. Otherwise, the selected schematic is applied and the dialog closes:
 
-  For a **ship or module schematic**: if the player does not yet have the schematic, it is unlocked (ship schematics unlock the corresponding shipyard selection; module schematics unlock the module type for placement in the layout configuration dialog (REQ-MOD-UI-DIALOG)). If the player already has it, the schematic's `player_production_level` is incremented by 1 — for ship schematics, subsequent ships of that type are produced at a higher level; for module schematics, all instances of that module type use the higher level in their stat formulas.
+  For a **ship or module schematic**: it is unlocked (ship schematics unlock the corresponding shipyard selection; module schematics unlock the module type for placement in the layout configuration dialog (REQ-MOD-UI-DIALOG)).
 
   For an **assembler recipe schematic**: the recipe is explicitly unlocked and becomes available in the assembler recipe-selection dialog (subject to REQ-LOCK-UI-RECIPE). The schematic is removed from the drop pool permanently (REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT). The implicit unlock set is recomputed (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT).
 
@@ -327,6 +329,8 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 
 - REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT: Ship schematics, module schematics, and **assembler recipe schematics** (assembler recipes in `recipes.toml` that define `unlock_at_station_level`) are **explicitly** locked or unlocked. A schematic starts unlocked if its `unlock_at_station_level` is -1; all others start locked. Locked schematics are unlocked only by REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP. Once unlocked, a schematic is never re-locked within a run; lock states reset to their initial values on Restart (REQ-CFG-RELOAD). Unlike ship and module schematics, an assembler recipe schematic is removed from the drop pool permanently once awarded and cannot be dropped again.
 
+- REQ-LOCK-PREREQ: A ship schematic, module schematic, or assembler recipe schematic may optionally define `unlock_requires` — a list of prerequisite schematic ids (a ship `id`, module `id`, or assembler recipe `id`) that must already be unlocked before this schematic may enter the drop pool. A prerequisite is **satisfied** only when the schematic it names is currently **explicitly unlocked** (REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT) — that is, the referenced schematic either started unlocked with `unlock_at_station_level = -1` or has been awarded via a drop. This prerequisite check is applied in addition to the per-schematic conditions in REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP: a schematic enters the eligible drop pool only when its `unlock_at_station_level` condition is met, it has not yet been unlocked/awarded, and every id in its `unlock_requires` is satisfied. `unlock_requires` defaults to empty (no prerequisites), which reproduces the prior behaviour. The check is re-evaluated against the current explicit-unlock set every time a drop pool is built (after each REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP and on Restart per REQ-CFG-RELOAD), so a gated schematic becomes eligible in the first drop after its last prerequisite is unlocked. Every id listed in any `unlock_requires` must resolve to a schematic that is itself explicitly unlockable (a ship, module, or assembler recipe schematic defined in config); an id that names no such schematic is a configuration error that fails config load with a descriptive message (config is loaded at startup and reloaded on Restart, REQ-CFG-RELOAD). A schematic that lists itself, or a cycle of mutually dependent prerequisites, is not a load error but can never become eligible, since no schematic in the cycle can be the first to unlock.
+
 - REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT: Item types and miner/assembler recipes are **implicitly** unlocked or locked based on the current set of unlocked ship, module, and assembler recipe schematics. The implicit unlock set is recomputed whenever any schematic changes lock state (on Restart or after REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP). Computation:
   1. Start with the union of: (a) all item types listed in `materials` across all currently unlocked ship schematics and all currently unlocked module schematics, and (b) the output item type of every currently explicitly unlocked assembler recipe schematic (REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT).
   2. For each item type in the current set: for every recipe (miner, smelter, or assembler) that produces it — skipping any assembler recipe schematic that defines `unlock_at_station_level` and is not yet explicitly unlocked — add each of that recipe's input item types to the set. If the recipe is a miner recipe or an assembler recipe that does not define `unlock_at_station_level`, mark it as implicitly unlocked. Explicitly unlocked assembler recipe schematics are available in the assembler recipe-selection dialog by virtue of REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT; their inputs are also added to the implicit set in this step.
@@ -345,11 +349,10 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 
 ## Threat Level & Enemy Waves
 
-- REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER: A global **boss wave counter** `x` starts at 1 at game start and increments by 1 immediately after each boss wave fires. It represents the current boss wave cycle number and is used as the variable in the threat rate and ship level formulas.
+- REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER: A global **boss wave counter** `x` starts at 1 at game start and increments by 1 immediately after each boss wave fires. It represents the current boss wave cycle number and is used as the variable in the threat rate formula.
 - REQ-WAV-THREAT-RATE: A global **threat level** accumulates continuously over real game time. The rate of increase per second is determined by `world.toml [waves].threat_rate_formula` where `x` is the boss wave counter (REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER), clamped to a minimum of 0 (negative formula values are treated as 0). The rate is constant within each boss wave cycle and steps up each time `x` increments. Threat accumulation is paused during quiet windows (REQ-WAV-QUIET). Example: `1*x - 30` yields 0 threat/s when x ≤ 30 and increases linearly beyond that.
 - REQ-WAV-GAP: At game start and immediately after each normal wave is triggered, a random inter-wave gap is drawn uniformly from [`world.toml [waves].gap_min_seconds`, `gap_max_seconds`]. The gap timer does not advance while inside a quiet window (REQ-WAV-QUIET); if a gap would expire inside a quiet window, its expiry is deferred until the quiet window ends.
 - REQ-WAV-TRIGGER: When the gap timer expires outside a quiet window, a normal wave is triggered. Ships are selected one at a time: from all schematics whose threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) is > 0, uniformly randomly pick one whose cost fits the remaining threat budget. For wave ship selection, the threat cost is computed using the schematic's `default_modules` layout (REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES). Repeat until no eligible schematic fits. Any remaining threat carries over to the next normal wave. A longer gap results in a larger wave.
-- REQ-WAV-SHIP-LEVEL: Each wave's (normal and boss) enemy ships are assigned a level determined by `world.toml [waves].ship_level_formula` where `x` is the boss wave counter (REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER). Per-ship stats are computed from the ship level via the formulas in `ships.toml` (see REQ-SHP-STATS). Threat cost is level-independent (REQ-MOD-THREAT).
 - REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTDOWN: A **boss countdown** timer starts at `world.toml [waves].boss_countdown_seconds` (default 300) at game start and counts down continuously in real game-time seconds. It is not paused during quiet windows. When it reaches 0, a boss wave is triggered (REQ-WAV-BOSS-TRIGGER). Immediately after the boss wave fires, `x` increments (REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER) and a fresh countdown starts at the same configured value.
 - REQ-WAV-BOSS-ADVANCE: When the player destroys a set of enemy defence stations, the boss countdown is reduced by `world.toml [push].boss_advance_seconds` (default 60), clamped to a minimum of 0. Threat that would have accumulated during the skipped time is not added. If the countdown reaches 0 by this reduction, the boss wave is triggered immediately.
 - REQ-WAV-QUIET: A **quiet window** suppresses normal wave spawning around each boss wave. The pre-boss quiet window begins when the boss countdown falls to or below `world.toml [waves].boss_quiet_before_seconds` and ends when the countdown reaches 0. The post-boss quiet window begins immediately when the boss wave fires and lasts `world.toml [waves].boss_quiet_after_seconds` seconds. Threat accumulation is paused during both windows. The normal wave gap timer does not advance during either window (REQ-WAV-GAP). The new boss countdown runs during the post-boss quiet window.
@@ -364,7 +367,7 @@ Modules in `modules.toml` define a `surface_mask` — a list of strings that des
 ## Asteroid Expansion
 
 - REQ-EXP-UNLOCK: The player can unlock additional asteroid tile columns to the left of the existing asteroid by spending building blocks from the global stock.
-- REQ-EXP-COST: Each expansion adds `world.toml [expansion].columns_per_expansion` columns and costs `[expansion].cost_building_blocks` building blocks.
+- REQ-EXP-COST: Each expansion adds `world.toml [expansion].columns_per_expansion` columns. The building block cost of an expansion is defined by the formula `world.toml [expansion].cost_building_blocks_formula`, where `x` is the number of expansions already purchased (0 for the first expansion, incrementing by 1 for each subsequent expansion). The formula is evaluated at purchase time and its result is floored to an integer number of building blocks.
 
 ## UI
 
@@ -389,9 +392,10 @@ The screen is divided into two columns: a main column (75% width) containing the
            (75% width)                   (25% width)
 ```
 
-- REQ-UI-HEADER: The header bar spans the width of the game world column (75% of the screen width) and always shows the elapsed survival time, the current global building blocks stock, and the artifact count (REQ-WIN-ARTIFACT-COUNT) displayed as `Artifacts: x/y` (where `x` is the current artifact count and `y` is `world.toml [world].artifact_win_count`) on the left, the boss wave counter and boss countdown (REQ-UI-BOSS-STATUS) to the left of the speed buttons, and game speed controls on the right.
+- REQ-UI-HEADER: The header bar spans the width of the game world column (75% of the screen width) and always shows the elapsed survival time, the current global building blocks stock, and the artifact count (REQ-WIN-ARTIFACT-COUNT) displayed as `Artifacts: x/y` (where `x` is the current artifact count and `y` is `world.toml [world].artifact_win_count`) on the left, the boss wave counter and boss countdown (REQ-UI-BOSS-STATUS) and an asteroid expansion button (REQ-UI-EXPAND-BUTTON) to the left of the speed buttons, and game speed controls on the right.
 - REQ-UI-BOSS-STATUS: The header bar displays, to the left of the speed buttons, the current boss wave counter (REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTER) and the time remaining on the boss countdown (REQ-WAV-BOSS-COUNTDOWN). The boss wave counter is shown as `Boss Wave #<x>` and the countdown as `Next boss: <M:SS>`, where `<M:SS>` is the remaining seconds formatted as whole minutes and two-digit seconds. Both values update continuously as the simulation runs.
 - REQ-UI-SPEED: The game speed controls in the header bar are buttons for 0×, 0.5×, 1×, 2×, and 4× speed. The currently active speed is shown as selected. All game simulation (production, movement, threat accumulation, wave timing) scales with the selected speed. 0× pauses the game.
+- REQ-UI-EXPAND-BUTTON: The header bar shows an asteroid expansion button captioned `Expand: <x> Blocks`, where `<x>` is the current expansion cost computed from `world.toml [expansion].cost_building_blocks_formula` at the current number of purchased expansions (REQ-EXP-COST). Clicking the button unlocks the next asteroid expansion (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK, REQ-GW-ASTEROID-EXPAND), spending that many building blocks from the global stock. The button is disabled when the player cannot currently afford the cost (consistent with REQ-UI-BUILD-DISABLED). The caption updates as the cost changes with each purchased expansion.
 - REQ-UI-WORLD-SIZE: The game world view occupies the full height below the header bar in the main column (75% of the screen width).
 - REQ-UI-PANEL-COLUMN: The side panel column occupies 25% of the screen width and the full screen height. It is divided into three equal-height panels stacked top to bottom: selected building panel (top), build button grid (middle), and blueprint panel (bottom).
 
@@ -447,7 +451,7 @@ The screen is divided into two columns: a main column (75% width) containing the
   - For a **ship schematic** (Shipyard): the ship's `display_name`; the name and quantity of each base required material (`[ship.schematic].materials`, excluding any module contributions); the base production time (`[ship.schematic].production_time_seconds`); and "Produces: 1 <ship display name>".
 - REQ-UI-BELT-CLEAR: When one or more belt, splitter, tunnel entry, or tunnel exit tiles are selected, the panel shows a "Clear" button that removes all items from the selected tiles. Clearing a tunnel entry or exit also discards all items currently in transit through that tunnel (REQ-BLD-TUNNEL-TRANSIT). This can be used to resolve stalled belts, splitters, and tunnels.
 - REQ-UI-ENTITY-CLICK-SELECT: The player can click any ship (player or enemy) or any defence station (player or enemy) in the game world to select it. Clicking a ship or defence station clears any existing selection and establishes a single-entity selection containing only that entity. Ships and defence stations cannot participate in multi-select together with buildings. Clicking empty world space (no building, ship, or defence station) clears the selection.
-- REQ-UI-SHIP-STATS-PANEL: When a single ship is selected (REQ-UI-ENTITY-CLICK-SELECT), the selected building panel shows a **ship stats panel**. The panel structure mirrors REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL but reflects the ship's actual live state: stats are computed at the ship's actual level with its installed modules per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC. The panel always shows all hull stats: HP (current / maximum), max linear speed, sensor range, main acceleration, maneuvering acceleration, angular acceleration, and max rotation speed. In addition, capability module summaries are shown conditioned on which module types are installed, using the same aggregation rules as REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL: weapons (combined DPS, maximum range), salvage (combined collection rate, maximum range), and repair (combined repair rate, maximum range), each section appearing only if at least one instance of that module type is installed. While debug draw mode is active (REQ-UI-DEBUG-DRAW), the panel additionally shows the ship's derived threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT).
+- REQ-UI-SHIP-STATS-PANEL: When a single ship is selected (REQ-UI-ENTITY-CLICK-SELECT), the selected building panel shows a **ship stats panel**. The panel structure mirrors REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL but reflects the ship's actual live state: stats are computed from its installed modules per REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC. The panel always shows all hull stats: HP (current / maximum), max linear speed, sensor range, main acceleration, maneuvering acceleration, angular acceleration, and max rotation speed. In addition, capability module summaries are shown conditioned on which module types are installed, using the same aggregation rules as REQ-MOD-UI-STATS-PANEL: weapons (combined DPS, maximum range), salvage (combined collection rate, maximum range), and repair (combined repair rate, maximum range), each section appearing only if at least one instance of that module type is installed. While debug draw mode is active (REQ-UI-DEBUG-DRAW), the panel additionally shows the ship's derived threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT).
 - REQ-UI-STATION-STATS-PANEL: When a single defence station is selected (REQ-UI-ENTITY-CLICK-SELECT), the selected building panel shows a **station stats panel** displaying the station's stats computed at its current level: HP (current / maximum), damage, range, and fire rate.
 
 ### Build Button Grid
@@ -484,7 +488,7 @@ A separate executable target (`balancing`) that links against `lib` but contains
 ### Config
 
 - REQ-BAL-CONFIG: The balancing tool reads arena definitions from a `balancing.toml` file. The file is read at startup and again each time the player triggers a config reload (REQ-BAL-UI-RELOAD). If parsing fails or required fields are missing at startup, the tool aborts with a clear error message. If parsing fails during a reload, a modal error dialog is shown describing the failure and the current arena list is left unchanged.
-- REQ-BAL-CONFIG-GAME: Ship stats are read from `ships.toml` and defence station stats are read from `stations.toml`, using the same config loading as the main game. Formula evaluation uses the levels specified in the arena config.
+- REQ-BAL-CONFIG-GAME: Ship stats are read from `ships.toml` and defence station stats are read from `stations.toml`, using the same config loading as the main game. Ship stats are the plain values from `ships.toml`; defence station formula evaluation uses the station levels specified in the arena config.
 
 ### Arena Definition
 
@@ -494,7 +498,7 @@ A separate executable target (`balancing`) that links against `lib` but contains
   - **World height** (in tiles).
   - Exactly **two teams**, each with a human-readable **team name**.
 - REQ-BAL-TEAM: Each team defines:
-  - A list of **ship entries**, each specifying: ship schematic (type), level, count, and an optional `modules` array defining the module layout applied to every ship of that entry. The `modules` array format is identical to that used in `ship_layouts.toml` (see Layout Blueprint TOML Format). If `modules` is omitted, ships of that entry have no modules. Invalid module instances (unknown type, position outside the grid, position on a non-buildable cell, or overlapping another module in the same entry) are silently skipped during loading.
+  - A list of **ship entries**, each specifying: ship schematic (type), count, and an optional `modules` array defining the module layout applied to every ship of that entry. The `modules` array format is identical to that used in `ship_layouts.toml` (see Layout Blueprint TOML Format). If `modules` is omitted, ships of that entry have no modules. Invalid module instances (unknown type, position outside the grid, position on a non-buildable cell, or overlapping another module in the same entry) are silently skipped during loading.
   - An optional list of **defence station entries**, each specifying: station type (`player_station` or `enemy_station` from `stations.toml`), level, and tile position (x, y).
 - REQ-BAL-HQ: Each team has an HQ placed automatically at the vertical center of the arena at the far end of that team's buffer zone. HQ stats are read from `stations.toml [hq]` at level 1. Team 1's HQ is at the left edge; team 2's HQ is at the right edge.
 - REQ-BAL-SPAWN: Team 1's ships spawn in team 1's buffer zone (left side); team 2's ships spawn in team 2's buffer zone (right side). Spawn positions are uniformly random within the respective buffer zone.
@@ -509,13 +513,17 @@ A separate executable target (`balancing`) that links against `lib` but contains
 
 ### UI
 
-- REQ-BAL-UI-WINDOW: On startup the tool displays a window containing a "Reload Config" button and a "Start All" button at the top (in that order, left to right), followed by a scrollable vertical list of arena widgets, one per arena defined in `balancing.toml`. Simulations do not start automatically on startup. All buttons and controls in the main window are disabled while an arena is being inspected (REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT).
+- REQ-BAL-UI-WINDOW: On startup the tool displays a window containing a "Reload Config" button, a "Start All" button, and a "Log" button at the top (in that order, left to right), followed by a scrollable vertical list of arena widgets, one per arena defined in `balancing.toml`. Simulations do not start automatically on startup. All buttons and controls in the main window are disabled while an arena is being inspected (REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT).
 - REQ-BAL-UI-RELOAD: The "Reload Config" button reloads all config files from disk (`balancing.toml`, `ships.toml`, `stations.toml`), stops any running simulations, and replaces the arena widget list with freshly created widgets from the reloaded config. The button is disabled while any arena simulation is currently running.
 - REQ-BAL-UI-START-ALL: The "Start All" button is placed above the scrollable arena list, to the right of the "Reload Config" button. Clicking it starts (or restarts) the simulation for every arena that is not currently running. The button is disabled when all arenas are currently running.
-- REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET: Each arena widget displays the arena name, an "Inspect" button (to the right of the arena name), and two columns (one per team). Each column shows the team name as a header, then directly below the header the team's **accumulated threat level** — the sum, across the team's configured ship entries, of each entry's `count` multiplied by the threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) of one ship of that entry computed from its level-independent module layout. Only ships contribute; the HQ and defence stations are excluded. This value is static: it is computed once from the full configured roster and does not change as ships are destroyed during the fight. Below the threat level, the column shows a list of entries. The HQ is always the first entry in each column. Below the HQ, ship types are listed, followed by defence stations (if any). Each entry uses the format `surviving/total TypeName Llevel` — for example `2/3 Fighter L5` or `1/1 HQ L1`. The surviving count updates live as the simulation progresses. When the fight ends, the winning team's name header is prefixed with `[WON]`.
+- REQ-BAL-UI-LOG: The "Log" button is placed in the header to the right of the "Start All" button. It is enabled whenever the main window's controls are enabled — including while simulations are running (it captures a live snapshot) — and, like all main window controls, is disabled only while an arena is being inspected (REQ-BAL-UI-WINDOW). Clicking it writes the current state of every arena to a file named `balancing_log.md` in the tool's current working directory, replacing (overwriting) any previous content of that file. The log captures, for every arena in `balancing.toml` order, exactly the information shown in that arena's widget (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET) at the moment the button is clicked. Each arena is written as its own section:
+  - A heading with the arena name followed by the arena's current state — `not started`, `running`, or `ended` (corresponding to the widget border colors of REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET-BORDER). For an `ended` arena, the heading also includes the battle duration (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET), for example `ended, 42.3 s`.
+  - A markdown table with one column per team (team 1 left, team 2 right). Each team's column header shows the team name — prefixed with `[WON]` when that team won, matching REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET — the team's accumulated threat level, and the team's remaining EHP percentage (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET).
+  - Below the header, each table row holds one of that team's entries, in the same order and text format as the widget (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET): the HQ first, then ship types, then defence stations, formatted `surviving/total TypeName` for ship entries and `surviving/total TypeName Llevel` for the HQ and defence station entries. When the two teams have different numbers of entries, the shorter column's remaining cells are left blank.
+- REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET: Each arena widget displays the arena name, an "Inspect" button (to the right of the arena name), and two columns (one per team). Each column shows the team name as a header, then directly below the header the team's **accumulated threat level** — the sum, across the team's configured ship entries, of each entry's `count` multiplied by the threat cost (REQ-MOD-THREAT) of one ship of that entry computed from its level-independent module layout. Only ships contribute; the HQ and defence stations are excluded. This value is static: it is computed once from the full configured roster and does not change as ships are destroyed during the fight. Directly below the threat level, the column shows the team's **remaining EHP percentage** — the sum of the current HP of all of the team's ships and defence stations, divided by the sum of their maximum HP, expressed as a percentage rounded to a whole number. Maximum HP is the final per-entity maximum (REQ-MOD-STAT-CALC), so module HP bonuses such as armor plates are included. (The game has no damage mitigation, so effective HP equals raw HP.) The HQ is excluded from both sums. A destroyed ship or station contributes 0 to the numerator and its maximum HP to the denominator, so the value measures how much of the team's fielded durability remains: it starts at 100% and decreases as units take damage or are destroyed. Unlike the static threat level, this value updates live as the simulation progresses. If the team has neither ships nor defence stations (the denominator is 0), the percentage is shown as `n/a`. Below the EHP percentage, the column shows a list of entries. The HQ is always the first entry in each column. Below the HQ, ship types are listed, followed by defence stations (if any). Each entry uses the format `surviving/total TypeName` for ship entries and `surviving/total TypeName Llevel` for the HQ and defence station entries — for example `2/3 Fighter`, `1/1 HQ L1`, or `2/2 Enemy Station L3`. The surviving count updates live as the simulation progresses. When the fight ends, the winning team's name header is prefixed with `[WON]`. When the fight has ended, the widget also displays the arena's **battle duration** — an arena-level value (not per team) giving the game time the fight lasted, computed as the number of simulated ticks at completion multiplied by the simulation's fixed tick duration (the same tick-based simulation as the main game, REQ-BAL-SIM-ENV). This is game time, not wall-clock time, so it is independent of how fast the arena was simulated (non-inspected arenas run at maximum tick rate, REQ-BAL-SIM-SPEED). It is shown in seconds with one decimal place, for example `Duration: 42.3 s`. The battle duration is shown only for completed (ended) runs; it is not shown while the arena is not started or running.
 - REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET-START: Each arena widget contains a "Start" button that starts the simulation for that arena. The button is disabled while the arena's simulation is running. When a finished arena's Start button is clicked, a fresh simulation is created and started (the widget resets to initial unit counts, the border returns to blue, and the previous results are replaced).
 - REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET-BORDER: Each arena widget has a colored border indicating its state: grey when not yet started, blue while its simulation is running, and green when the fight has ended.
 - REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT: Clicking an arena widget's "Inspect" button opens a new inspect window for that arena. Any previously open inspect window is closed first (its arena's simulation is aborted and its widget border returns to grey). The inspected arena is restarted with a fresh simulation that runs at controllable game speed with full rendering (REQ-BAL-SIM-SPEED). The arena widget updates live during inspection (surviving counts, border color, `[WON]` prefix) as it does for non-inspected arenas. Only one inspect window may be open at a time.
-- REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT-WINDOW: The inspect window consists of three sections, top to bottom: a title bar area containing the arena name and game speed controls (same buttons as the main game: 0×, 0.5×, 1×, 2×, 4×, with Space to toggle pause — see REQ-UI-SPEED and REQ-UI-HOTKEYS), the arena view in the center, and an info panel at the bottom displaying the same team columns and entry format as the arena widget in the main window (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET), updated live.
+- REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT-WINDOW: The inspect window consists of three sections, top to bottom: a title bar area containing the arena name and game speed controls (same buttons as the main game: 0×, 0.5×, 1×, 2×, 4×, with Space to toggle pause — see REQ-UI-SPEED and REQ-UI-HOTKEYS), the arena view in the center, and an info panel at the bottom displaying the same team columns and entry format as the arena widget in the main window (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET), updated live, including the arena's battle duration once the fight has ended (REQ-BAL-UI-WIDGET).
 - REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT-VIEW: The arena view renders all tiles of the arena and displays ships, HQs, defence stations, and laser beams using the same visual elements and `visuals.toml` colors as the main game. Team 1 uses player visual styles; team 2 uses enemy visual styles. The view has a fixed zoom level — no zoom or scroll is possible. The tile size is derived so that the full arena (all tiles) fits within the view.
 - REQ-BAL-UI-INSPECT-CLOSE: Closing the inspect window (via the window's close button) aborts the inspected arena's simulation. The arena widget's border returns to grey and its surviving counts are left as they were at the moment of closing. All main window buttons and controls are re-enabled.

src/balancing/ArenaSimulation.cpp

@@ -2,6 +2,8 @@
 
 #include <algorithm>
 #include <cassert>
+#include <cmath>
+#include <string>
 
 #include <QVector2D>
 
@@ -86,12 +88,49 @@ ArenaSimulation::ArenaSimulation(const GameConfig& gameConfig,
 
     placeStructures();
     spawnShips();
+    computeTeamMaxEhp();
 
     m_shipSystem->triggerRallyDeparture();
 
     updateStatus();
 }
 
+std::string ArenaStatus::TeamStatus::ehpPercentText() const
+{
+    if (maxEhp <= 0.0)
+    {
+        return "n/a";
+    }
+    const int percent = static_cast<int>(std::lround(100.0 * currentEhp / maxEhp));
+    return std::to_string(percent) + "%";
+}
+
+void ArenaSimulation::computeTeamMaxEhp()
+{
+    m_teamMaxEhp[0] = 0.0;
+    m_teamMaxEhp[1] = 0.0;
+
+    // Ships contribute their full max HP.
+    m_admin.forEach<ShipIdentityComponent, FactionComponent, HealthComponent>(
+        [this](entt::entity /*e*/, const ShipIdentityComponent& /*si*/,
+               const FactionComponent& f, const HealthComponent& h)
+        {
+            m_teamMaxEhp[f.isEnemy ? 1 : 0] += static_cast<double>(h.maxHp);
+        });
+
+    // Defence stations contribute their full max HP; the HQ is excluded.
+    m_admin.forEach<StationBodyComponent, FactionComponent, HealthComponent>(
+        [this](entt::entity e, const StationBodyComponent& /*sb*/,
+               const FactionComponent& f, const HealthComponent& h)
+        {
+            if (m_admin.hasAll<HqProxyComponent>(e))
+            {
+                return;
+            }
+            m_teamMaxEhp[f.isEnemy ? 1 : 0] += static_cast<double>(h.maxHp);
+        });
+}
+
 ArenaSimulation::~ArenaSimulation() = default;
 
 BuildingId ArenaSimulation::allocateBuildingId()
@@ -231,7 +270,7 @@ void ArenaSimulation::spawnShips()
             for (int i = 0; i < entry.count; ++i)
             {
                 const QVector2D pos(xDist(m_rng), yDist(m_rng));
-                m_shipSystem->spawn(entry.schematicId, entry.level, pos, false,
+                m_shipSystem->spawn(entry.schematicId, pos, false,
                                     entry.layout);
             }
         }
@@ -248,7 +287,7 @@ void ArenaSimulation::spawnShips()
             for (int i = 0; i < entry.count; ++i)
             {
                 const QVector2D pos(xDist(m_rng), yDist(m_rng));
-                m_shipSystem->spawn(entry.schematicId, entry.level, pos, true,
+                m_shipSystem->spawn(entry.schematicId, pos, true,
                                     entry.layout);
             }
         }
@@ -330,15 +369,11 @@ void ArenaSimulation::tickDeaths()
     {
         const ShipIdentityComponent& si = m_admin.get<ShipIdentityComponent>(deadEntity);
         const PositionComponent& pos    = m_admin.get<PositionComponent>(deadEntity);
-        for (const ShipDef& def : m_gameConfig.ships.ships)
+        if (si.scrapDrop > 0)
         {
-            if (def.id == si.schematicId && def.loot.scrapDrop > 0)
-            {
-                const Tick despawnAt = m_currentTick
-                    + secondsToTicks(m_gameConfig.world.scrapDespawnSeconds);
-                m_scrapSystem->spawn(pos.value, def.loot.scrapDrop, despawnAt);
-                break;
-            }
+            const Tick despawnAt = m_currentTick
+                + secondsToTicks(m_gameConfig.world.scrapDespawnSeconds);
+            m_scrapSystem->spawn(pos.value, si.scrapDrop, despawnAt);
         }
         m_shipSystem->despawn(deadEntity);
     }
@@ -398,10 +433,13 @@ void ArenaSimulation::tickDeaths()
         });
 
     m_admin.forEach<StationBodyComponent, FactionComponent>(
-        [&team1HasUnits, &team2HasUnits](entt::entity /*e*/,
+        [this, &team1HasUnits, &team2HasUnits](entt::entity e,
                                           const StationBodyComponent& /*sb*/,
                                           const FactionComponent& f)
         {
+            // The HQ carries a StationBodyComponent but is not a defence station;
+            // its destruction is a separate end condition (REQ-BAL-SIM-END).
+            if (m_admin.hasAll<HqProxyComponent>(e)) { return; }
             if (f.isEnemy) { team2HasUnits = true; }
             else           { team1HasUnits = true; }
         });
@@ -480,12 +518,41 @@ void ArenaSimulation::updateStatus()
     ArenaStatus newStatus;
     newStatus.finished = m_finished;
     newStatus.winnerTeam = m_winnerTeam;
+    newStatus.durationSeconds = ticksToSeconds(m_currentTick);
+
+    // Live remaining HP of each team's ships and defence stations (HQ excluded);
+    // the EHP-percentage numerator (denominator is the fixed m_teamMaxEhp).
+    double currentEhp[2] = {0.0, 0.0};
+    m_admin.forEach<ShipIdentityComponent, FactionComponent, HealthComponent>(
+        [&currentEhp](entt::entity /*e*/, const ShipIdentityComponent& /*si*/,
+                      const FactionComponent& f, const HealthComponent& h)
+        {
+            if (h.hp > 0.0f)
+            {
+                currentEhp[f.isEnemy ? 1 : 0] += static_cast<double>(h.hp);
+            }
+        });
+    m_admin.forEach<StationBodyComponent, FactionComponent, HealthComponent>(
+        [this, &currentEhp](entt::entity e, const StationBodyComponent& /*sb*/,
+                            const FactionComponent& f, const HealthComponent& h)
+        {
+            if (m_admin.hasAll<HqProxyComponent>(e))
+            {
+                return;
+            }
+            if (h.hp > 0.0f)
+            {
+                currentEhp[f.isEnemy ? 1 : 0] += static_cast<double>(h.hp);
+            }
+        });
 
     for (int ti = 0; ti < 2; ++ti)
     {
         ArenaStatus::TeamStatus& teamStatus = newStatus.teams[ti];
         teamStatus.name = m_arenaConfig.teams[ti].name;
         teamStatus.threatLevel = m_teamThreat[ti];
+        teamStatus.currentEhp = currentEhp[ti];
+        teamStatus.maxEhp = m_teamMaxEhp[ti];
 
         // HQ entry (always first).
         {
@@ -504,7 +571,7 @@ void ArenaSimulation::updateStatus()
         {
             ArenaStatus::Entry entry;
             entry.displayName = shipEntry.schematicId;
-            entry.level = shipEntry.level;
+            // Ships no longer carry a level (level suffix stays empty).
             entry.total = shipEntry.count;
 
             int surviving = 0;
@@ -516,7 +583,6 @@ void ArenaSimulation::updateStatus()
                 {
                     if (f.isEnemy == isEnemyTeam
                         && si.schematicId == shipEntry.schematicId
-                        && si.level == shipEntry.level
                         && h.hp > 0.0f)
                     {
                         ++surviving;

src/balancing/ArenaSimulation.h

@@ -3,6 +3,7 @@
 #include <atomic>
 #include <memory>
 #include <mutex>
+#include <optional>
 #include <random>
 #include <string>
 #include <vector>
@@ -32,7 +33,9 @@ struct ArenaStatus
     struct Entry
     {
         std::string displayName;
-        int level;
+        // Level suffix shown in the widget/inspect display. Set for the HQ and
+        // defence stations; empty for ships, which no longer have a level.
+        std::optional<int> level;
         int total;
         int surviving;
     };
@@ -41,12 +44,24 @@ struct ArenaStatus
     {
         std::string name;
         double threatLevel = 0.0;    // accumulated threat of the team's configured ships
+        // Remaining durability of the team's ships and defence stations (HQ
+        // excluded). currentEhp is summed live; maxEhp is the fixed full-HP
+        // baseline. See ehpPercentText() for the displayed value.
+        double currentEhp = 0.0;
+        double maxEhp = 0.0;
         std::vector<Entry> entries;  // HQ first, then ships, then stations
+
+        // Remaining EHP as a whole-number percentage ("NN%"), or "n/a" when the
+        // team has no ships or stations (maxEhp == 0).
+        std::string ehpPercentText() const;
     };
 
     TeamStatus teams[2];
     bool finished = false;
     int winnerTeam = -1;  // 0 or 1 when finished; -1 while running
+    // Game time the fight has lasted (simulated ticks * fixed tick duration).
+    // Meaningful once finished; the battle duration shown for completed runs.
+    double durationSeconds = 0.0;
 };
 
 class ArenaSimulation
@@ -79,6 +94,7 @@ private:
     BuildingId allocateBuildingId();
     void placeStructures();
     void spawnShips();
+    void computeTeamMaxEhp();
     void tick();
     void tickDeaths();
     void updateStatus();
@@ -112,6 +128,10 @@ private:
     // Static accumulated threat per team, computed once from the configured roster.
     double m_teamThreat[2] = {0.0, 0.0};
 
+    // Full-HP baseline per team (ships + defence stations, HQ excluded), computed
+    // once after spawning; the EHP-percentage denominator.
+    double m_teamMaxEhp[2] = {0.0, 0.0};
+
     std::vector<BeamFiredEvent> m_beamFiredEvents;
 
     mutable std::mutex m_statusMutex;

src/balancing/ArenaWidget.cpp

@@ -33,6 +33,9 @@ void ArenaWidget::buildLayout(const std::string& arenaName)
     m_titleLabel->setFont(titleFont);
     titleRow->addWidget(m_titleLabel);
 
+    m_durationLabel = new QLabel(this);
+    titleRow->addWidget(m_durationLabel);
+
     titleRow->addStretch();
 
     m_inspectButton = new QPushButton(tr("Inspect"), this);
@@ -63,6 +66,8 @@ void ArenaWidget::buildLayout(const std::string& arenaName)
     team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Header);
     m_team1Threat = new QLabel(this);
     team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Threat);
+    m_team1Ehp = new QLabel(this);
+    team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Ehp);
     m_team1Content = new QLabel(this);
     team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Content);
     team1Layout->addStretch();
@@ -75,6 +80,8 @@ void ArenaWidget::buildLayout(const std::string& arenaName)
     team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Header);
     m_team2Threat = new QLabel(this);
     team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Threat);
+    m_team2Ehp = new QLabel(this);
+    team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Ehp);
     m_team2Content = new QLabel(this);
     team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Content);
     team2Layout->addStretch();
@@ -99,13 +106,29 @@ void ArenaWidget::resetToGrey()
     setStyleSheet("ArenaWidget { border: 2px solid #999999; padding: 8px; }");
 }
 
+ArenaWidget::State ArenaWidget::getState() const
+{
+    if (m_wasFinished)
+    {
+        return State::Ended;
+    }
+    if (m_running)
+    {
+        return State::Running;
+    }
+    return State::NotStarted;
+}
+
 void ArenaWidget::updateStatus(const ArenaStatus& status)
 {
+    m_lastStatus = status;
+
     for (int ti = 0; ti < 2; ++ti)
     {
         const ArenaStatus::TeamStatus& team = status.teams[ti];
         QLabel* header = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Header : m_team2Header;
         QLabel* threat = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Threat : m_team2Threat;
+        QLabel* ehp = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Ehp : m_team2Ehp;
         QLabel* content = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Content : m_team2Content;
 
         if (status.finished && status.winnerTeam == ti)
@@ -118,6 +141,7 @@ void ArenaWidget::updateStatus(const ArenaStatus& status)
         }
 
         threat->setText(tr("Threat: %1").arg(QString::number(team.threatLevel, 'f', 0)));
+        ehp->setText(tr("EHP: %1").arg(QString::fromStdString(team.ehpPercentText())));
 
         QString lines;
         for (const ArenaStatus::Entry& entry : team.entries)
@@ -126,15 +150,22 @@ void ArenaWidget::updateStatus(const ArenaStatus& status)
             {
                 lines += "\n";
             }
-            lines += QString("%1/%2 %3 L%4")
+            lines += QString("%1/%2 %3")
                          .arg(entry.surviving)
                          .arg(entry.total)
-                         .arg(QString::fromStdString(entry.displayName))
-                         .arg(entry.level);
+                         .arg(QString::fromStdString(entry.displayName));
+            if (entry.level.has_value())
+            {
+                lines += QString(" L%1").arg(entry.level.value());
+            }
         }
         content->setText(lines);
     }
 
+    m_durationLabel->setText(status.finished
+        ? tr("Duration: %1 s").arg(QString::number(status.durationSeconds, 'f', 1))
+        : QString());
+
     if (status.finished && !m_wasFinished)
     {
         m_wasFinished = true;

src/balancing/ArenaWidget.h

@@ -14,21 +14,35 @@ class ArenaWidget : public QFrame
     Q_OBJECT
 
 public:
+    enum class State
+    {
+        NotStarted,
+        Running,
+        Ended
+    };
+
     ArenaWidget(int arenaIndex, const std::string& arenaName, QWidget* parent = nullptr);
 
     void updateStatus(const ArenaStatus& status);
     void startSimulation();
     void resetToGrey();
 
+    const ArenaStatus& getLastStatus() const { return m_lastStatus; }
+    State getState() const;
+
 private:
     void buildLayout(const std::string& arenaName);
 
     int m_arenaIndex;
+    ArenaStatus m_lastStatus;
     QLabel* m_titleLabel;
+    QLabel* m_durationLabel;
     QLabel* m_team1Header;
     QLabel* m_team2Header;
     QLabel* m_team1Threat;
     QLabel* m_team2Threat;
+    QLabel* m_team1Ehp;
+    QLabel* m_team2Ehp;
     QLabel* m_team1Content;
     QLabel* m_team2Content;
     QPushButton* m_inspectButton;

src/balancing/BalancingConfig.cpp

@@ -125,8 +125,6 @@ BalancingConfig loadBalancingConfig(const std::string& path)
                     ArenaShipEntry entry;
                     entry.schematicId = requireString((*shipTbl)["schematic"],
                                                      sPrefix + ".schematic");
-                    entry.level = static_cast<int>(
-                        requireInt((*shipTbl)["level"], sPrefix + ".level"));
                     entry.count = static_cast<int>(
                         requireInt((*shipTbl)["count"], sPrefix + ".count"));
 

src/balancing/BalancingConfig.h

@@ -18,7 +18,6 @@ struct ArenaStationEntry
 struct ArenaShipEntry
 {
     std::string schematicId;
-    int level;
     int count;
     std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig> layout;
 };

src/balancing/BalancingWindow.cpp

@@ -1,13 +1,70 @@
 #include "BalancingWindow.h"
 
+#include <algorithm>
+
+#include <QFile>
 #include <QHBoxLayout>
 #include <QMessageBox>
+#include <QTextStream>
 #include <QVBoxLayout>
 
 #include "ConfigLoader.h"
 #include "InspectWindow.h"
 #include "VisualsLoader.h"
 
+namespace
+{
+    // Escapes characters that would break a markdown table cell.
+    QString escapeCell(const QString& text)
+    {
+        QString escaped = text;
+        escaped.replace("|", "\\|");
+        return escaped;
+    }
+
+    QString stateText(ArenaWidget::State state)
+    {
+        switch (state)
+        {
+            case ArenaWidget::State::NotStarted:
+                return QStringLiteral("not started");
+            case ArenaWidget::State::Running:
+                return QStringLiteral("running");
+            case ArenaWidget::State::Ended:
+                return QStringLiteral("ended");
+        }
+        return QString();
+    }
+
+    // Team column header: "[WON] Name — threat N", matching the arena widget.
+    QString teamHeaderCell(const ArenaStatus& status, int teamIndex)
+    {
+        const ArenaStatus::TeamStatus& team = status.teams[teamIndex];
+        QString header = QString::fromStdString(team.name);
+        if (status.finished && status.winnerTeam == teamIndex)
+        {
+            header = QStringLiteral("[WON] ") + header;
+        }
+        header += QStringLiteral(" - threat %1").arg(QString::number(team.threatLevel, 'f', 0));
+        header += QStringLiteral(" - EHP %1").arg(QString::fromStdString(team.ehpPercentText()));
+        return escapeCell(header);
+    }
+
+    // Single entry line: "surviving/total DisplayName [L<level>]", matching the arena widget.
+    QString entryCell(const ArenaStatus::Entry& entry)
+    {
+        QString cell = QString("%1/%2 %3")
+                           .arg(entry.surviving)
+                           .arg(entry.total)
+                           .arg(QString::fromStdString(entry.displayName));
+        if (entry.level.has_value())
+        {
+            cell += QStringLiteral(" L%1").arg(entry.level.value());
+        }
+        return escapeCell(cell);
+    }
+}
+
 BalancingWindow::BalancingWindow(const BalancingConfig& balancingConfig,
                                  GameConfig gameConfig,
                                  const std::string& configDir,
@@ -31,13 +88,16 @@ BalancingWindow::BalancingWindow(const BalancingConfig& balancingConfig,
     QHBoxLayout* buttonRow = new QHBoxLayout();
     m_reloadButton = new QPushButton(tr("Reload Config"), this);
     m_startAllButton = new QPushButton(tr("Start All"), this);
+    m_logButton = new QPushButton(tr("Log"), this);
     buttonRow->addWidget(m_reloadButton);
     buttonRow->addWidget(m_startAllButton);
+    buttonRow->addWidget(m_logButton);
     buttonRow->addStretch();
     mainLayout->addLayout(buttonRow);
 
     connect(m_reloadButton, &QPushButton::clicked, this, &BalancingWindow::reloadConfig);
     connect(m_startAllButton, &QPushButton::clicked, this, &BalancingWindow::startAll);
+    connect(m_logButton, &QPushButton::clicked, this, &BalancingWindow::writeLog);
 
     m_scrollArea = new QScrollArea(this);
     m_scrollArea->setWidgetResizable(true);
@@ -255,6 +315,7 @@ void BalancingWindow::setMainControlsEnabled(bool enabled)
 {
     m_reloadButton->setEnabled(enabled);
     m_startAllButton->setEnabled(enabled);
+    m_logButton->setEnabled(enabled);
     for (ArenaEntry& entry : m_arenas)
     {
         for (QPushButton* btn : entry.widget->findChildren<QPushButton*>())
@@ -291,4 +352,58 @@ void BalancingWindow::updateButtons()
 
     m_reloadButton->setEnabled(!anyRunning);
     m_startAllButton->setEnabled(!allRunning);
+    m_logButton->setEnabled(true);
+}
+
+void BalancingWindow::writeLog()
+{
+    QFile file(QStringLiteral("balancing_log.md"));
+    if (!file.open(QIODevice::WriteOnly | QIODevice::Truncate | QIODevice::Text))
+    {
+        QMessageBox::warning(this, tr("Log Failed"),
+            tr("Could not open balancing_log.md for writing."));
+        return;
+    }
+
+    QTextStream out(&file);
+    out.setCodec("UTF-8");
+
+    out << "# Balancing Log\n";
+
+    for (const ArenaEntry& entry : m_arenas)
+    {
+        const ArenaStatus& status = entry.widget->getLastStatus();
+        const ArenaWidget::State state = entry.widget->getState();
+
+        QString stateSuffix = stateText(state);
+        if (state == ArenaWidget::State::Ended)
+        {
+            stateSuffix += QStringLiteral(", %1 s")
+                .arg(QString::number(status.durationSeconds, 'f', 1));
+        }
+
+        out << "\n## Arena: " << QString::fromStdString(entry.config.name)
+            << "  (" << stateSuffix << ")\n\n";
+
+        out << "| " << teamHeaderCell(status, 0) << " | "
+            << teamHeaderCell(status, 1) << " |\n";
+        out << "|---|---|\n";
+
+        const std::size_t rowCount = std::max(status.teams[0].entries.size(),
+                                              status.teams[1].entries.size());
+        for (std::size_t row = 0; row < rowCount; ++row)
+        {
+            QString leftCell;
+            if (row < status.teams[0].entries.size())
+            {
+                leftCell = entryCell(status.teams[0].entries[row]);
+            }
+            QString rightCell;
+            if (row < status.teams[1].entries.size())
+            {
+                rightCell = entryCell(status.teams[1].entries[row]);
+            }
+            out << "| " << leftCell << " | " << rightCell << " |\n";
+        }
+    }
 }

src/balancing/BalancingWindow.h

@@ -46,6 +46,7 @@ private slots:
     void pollStatuses();
     void reloadConfig();
     void startAll();
+    void writeLog();
 
 private:
     void startArena(int index);
@@ -72,6 +73,7 @@ private:
     unsigned int m_nextSeed;
     QPushButton* m_reloadButton;
     QPushButton* m_startAllButton;
+    QPushButton* m_logButton;
     QScrollArea* m_scrollArea;
     QTimer* m_pollTimer;
 

src/balancing/InspectWindow.cpp

@@ -52,6 +52,9 @@ InspectWindow::InspectWindow(ArenaSimulation* sim, const GameConfig* config,
         nameLabel->setFont(nameFont);
         headerLayout->addWidget(nameLabel);
 
+        m_durationLabel = new QLabel(header);
+        headerLayout->addWidget(m_durationLabel);
+
         headerLayout->addStretch();
 
         const char* labels[] = { "0x", "0.5x", "1x", "2x", "10x" };
@@ -93,6 +96,8 @@ InspectWindow::InspectWindow(ArenaSimulation* sim, const GameConfig* config,
         team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Header);
         m_team1Threat = new QLabel(infoPanel);
         team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Threat);
+        m_team1Ehp = new QLabel(infoPanel);
+        team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Ehp);
         m_team1Content = new QLabel(infoPanel);
         team1Layout->addWidget(m_team1Content);
         team1Layout->addStretch();
@@ -104,6 +109,8 @@ InspectWindow::InspectWindow(ArenaSimulation* sim, const GameConfig* config,
         team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Header);
         m_team2Threat = new QLabel(infoPanel);
         team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Threat);
+        m_team2Ehp = new QLabel(infoPanel);
+        team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Ehp);
         m_team2Content = new QLabel(infoPanel);
         team2Layout->addWidget(m_team2Content);
         team2Layout->addStretch();
@@ -198,11 +205,16 @@ void InspectWindow::pollStatus()
 
 void InspectWindow::updateInfoPanel(const ArenaStatus& status)
 {
+    m_durationLabel->setText(status.finished
+        ? tr("Duration: %1 s").arg(QString::number(status.durationSeconds, 'f', 1))
+        : QString());
+
     for (int ti = 0; ti < 2; ++ti)
     {
         const ArenaStatus::TeamStatus& team = status.teams[ti];
         QLabel* header  = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Header  : m_team2Header;
         QLabel* threat  = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Threat  : m_team2Threat;
+        QLabel* ehp     = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Ehp     : m_team2Ehp;
         QLabel* content = (ti == 0) ? m_team1Content  : m_team2Content;
 
         if (status.finished && status.winnerTeam == ti)
@@ -215,6 +227,7 @@ void InspectWindow::updateInfoPanel(const ArenaStatus& status)
         }
 
         threat->setText(tr("Threat: %1").arg(QString::number(team.threatLevel, 'f', 0)));
+        ehp->setText(tr("EHP: %1").arg(QString::fromStdString(team.ehpPercentText())));
 
         QString lines;
         for (const ArenaStatus::Entry& entry : team.entries)
@@ -223,11 +236,14 @@ void InspectWindow::updateInfoPanel(const ArenaStatus& status)
             {
                 lines += "\n";
             }
-            lines += QString("%1/%2 %3 L%4")
+            lines += QString("%1/%2 %3")
                          .arg(entry.surviving)
                          .arg(entry.total)
-                         .arg(QString::fromStdString(entry.displayName))
-                         .arg(entry.level);
+                         .arg(QString::fromStdString(entry.displayName));
+            if (entry.level.has_value())
+            {
+                lines += QString(" L%1").arg(entry.level.value());
+            }
         }
         content->setText(lines);
     }
@@ -256,9 +272,8 @@ void InspectWindow::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const EntitySelectedEvent> event
             const ShipIdentityComponent& identity = admin.get<ShipIdentityComponent>(entity);
             const HealthComponent& health = admin.get<HealthComponent>(entity);
 
-            m_entityTitleLabel->setText(tr("Ship: %1 (Lv %2)")
-                .arg(QString::fromStdString(identity.schematicId))
-                .arg(identity.level));
+            m_entityTitleLabel->setText(tr("Ship: %1")
+                .arg(QString::fromStdString(identity.schematicId)));
             m_entityTitleLabel->show();
 
             const ShipStats stats = buildShipStatsFromEntity(admin, entity);

src/balancing/InspectWindow.h

@@ -54,10 +54,13 @@ private:
     ArenaView*         m_arenaView;
 
     std::vector<QPushButton*> m_speedButtons;
+    QLabel* m_durationLabel;
     QLabel* m_team1Header;
     QLabel* m_team2Header;
     QLabel* m_team1Threat;
     QLabel* m_team2Threat;
+    QLabel* m_team1Ehp;
+    QLabel* m_team2Ehp;
     QLabel* m_team1Content;
     QLabel* m_team2Content;
     QTimer* m_pollTimer;

src/lib/config/ConfigLoader.cpp

@@ -4,6 +4,7 @@
 #include <sstream>
 #include <stdexcept>
 #include <string>
+#include <unordered_set>
 #include <utility>
 #include <vector>
 
@@ -264,6 +265,7 @@ WorldConfig ConfigLoader::loadWorld(const std::string& path)
     cfg.refundPercentage           = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["world"]["refund_percentage"], file, "world.refund_percentage"));
     cfg.startingBuildingBlocks     = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["world"]["starting_building_blocks"], file, "world.starting_building_blocks"));
     cfg.scrapDespawnSeconds        = requireDouble(tbl["world"]["scrap_despawn_seconds"], file, "world.scrap_despawn_seconds");
+    cfg.scrapPerThreat             = requireDouble(tbl["world"]["scrap_per_threat"], file, "world.scrap_per_threat");
     cfg.tileSize_m                 = requireDouble(tbl["world"]["tile_size_m"], file, "world.tile_size_m");
     cfg.beltSpeed_tps              = requireDouble(tbl["world"]["belt_speed_mps"], file, "world.belt_speed_mps") / cfg.tileSize_m;
     cfg.tunnelMaxDistance_tiles    = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["world"]["tunnel_max_distance_tiles"], file, "world.tunnel_max_distance_tiles"));
@@ -276,14 +278,13 @@ WorldConfig ConfigLoader::loadWorld(const std::string& path)
     cfg.regions.contestZoneWidth_tiles  = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["regions"]["contest_zone_width_tiles"],  file, "regions.contest_zone_width_tiles"));
     cfg.regions.enemyBufferWidth_tiles  = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["regions"]["enemy_buffer_width_tiles"],  file, "regions.enemy_buffer_width_tiles"));
 
-    cfg.expansion.columnsPerExpansion_tiles = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["expansion"]["columns_per_expansion_tiles"], file, "expansion.columns_per_expansion_tiles"));
-    cfg.expansion.costBuildingBlocks        = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["expansion"]["cost_building_blocks"],        file, "expansion.cost_building_blocks"));
+    cfg.expansion.columnsPerExpansion_tiles   = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["expansion"]["columns_per_expansion_tiles"], file, "expansion.columns_per_expansion_tiles"));
+    cfg.expansion.costBuildingBlocksFormula   = requireFormula(tbl["expansion"]["cost_building_blocks_formula"],            file, "expansion.cost_building_blocks_formula");
 
     cfg.push.pushExpandColumns_tiles = static_cast<int>(requireInt(tbl["push"]["push_expand_columns_tiles"], file, "push.push_expand_columns_tiles"));
     cfg.push.bossAdvanceSeconds = requireDouble(tbl["push"]["boss_advance_seconds"], file, "push.boss_advance_seconds");
 
     cfg.waves.threatRateFormula         = requireFormula(tbl["waves"]["threat_rate_formula"],         file, "waves.threat_rate_formula");
-    cfg.waves.shipLevelFormula          = requireFormula(tbl["waves"]["ship_level_formula"],          file, "waves.ship_level_formula");
     cfg.waves.gapMinSeconds             = requireDouble(tbl["waves"]["gap_min_seconds"],              file, "waves.gap_min_seconds");
     cfg.waves.gapMaxSeconds             = requireDouble(tbl["waves"]["gap_max_seconds"],              file, "waves.gap_max_seconds");
     cfg.waves.spawnDurationSeconds      = requireDouble(tbl["waves"]["spawn_duration_seconds"],       file, "waves.spawn_duration_seconds");
@@ -383,6 +384,11 @@ RecipesConfig ConfigLoader::loadRecipes(const std::string& path)
             {
                 def.unlockAtStationLevel = static_cast<int>(*level);
             }
+            if (mt.contains("unlock_requires"))
+            {
+                def.unlockRequires = requireStringArray(mt["unlock_requires"], file,
+                    elemPath + ".unlock_requires");
+            }
         }
 
         // inputs may be omitted (e.g. miner recipes). An empty array is fine.
@@ -422,6 +428,10 @@ ShipsConfig ConfigLoader::loadShips(const std::string& path)
         ShipDef def;
         def.id                 = requireString(mt["id"],                 file, elemPath + ".id");
         def.unlockAtStationLevel = static_cast<int>(requireInt(mt["unlock_at_station_level"], file, elemPath + ".unlock_at_station_level"));
+        if (mt.contains("unlock_requires"))
+        {
+            def.unlockRequires = requireStringArray(mt["unlock_requires"], file, elemPath + ".unlock_requires");
+        }
         def.layout             = requireStringArray(mt["layout"],       file, elemPath + ".layout");
 
         // Schematic
@@ -432,8 +442,6 @@ ShipsConfig ConfigLoader::loadShips(const std::string& path)
 
             const toml::array& materials = requireArray(bpMt["materials"], file, bpPath + ".materials");
             def.schematic.materials = parseIngredients(materials, file, bpPath + ".materials");
-            def.schematic.playerProductionLevel = static_cast<int>(requireInt(
-                bpMt["player_production_level"], file, bpPath + ".player_production_level"));
             def.schematic.productionTimeSeconds = requireDouble(
                 bpMt["production_time_seconds"], file, bpPath + ".production_time_seconds");
         }
@@ -443,7 +451,7 @@ ShipsConfig ConfigLoader::loadShips(const std::string& path)
             const std::string hPath = elemPath + ".health";
             const toml::table& hTable = requireTable(mt["health"], file, hPath);
             toml::table& hMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(hTable);
-            def.health.hpFormula = requireFormula(hMt["hp_formula"], file, hPath + ".hp_formula");
+            def.health.hp = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(hMt["hp"], file, hPath + ".hp"));
         }
 
         // Movement
@@ -451,11 +459,11 @@ ShipsConfig ConfigLoader::loadShips(const std::string& path)
             const std::string mPath = elemPath + ".movement";
             const toml::table& mTable = requireTable(mt["movement"], file, mPath);
             toml::table& mMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(mTable);
-            def.movement.speedFormula                   = requireFormula(mMt["speed_mps_formula"],                    file, mPath + ".speed_mps_formula");
-            def.movement.mainAccelerationFormula        = requireFormula(mMt["main_acceleration_mpss_formula"],         file, mPath + ".main_acceleration_mpss_formula");
-            def.movement.maneuveringAccelerationFormula = requireFormula(mMt["maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula"],  file, mPath + ".maneuvering_acceleration_mpss_formula");
-            def.movement.angularAccelerationFormula     = requireFormula(mMt["angular_acceleration_radpss_formula"],      file, mPath + ".angular_acceleration_radpss_formula");
-            def.movement.maxRotationSpeedFormula        = requireFormula(mMt["max_rotation_speed_radps_formula"],        file, mPath + ".max_rotation_speed_radps_formula");
+            def.movement.speed_mps                    = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(mMt["speed_mps"],                    file, mPath + ".speed_mps"));
+            def.movement.mainAcceleration_mpss        = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(mMt["main_acceleration_mpss"],        file, mPath + ".main_acceleration_mpss"));
+            def.movement.maneuveringAcceleration_mpss = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(mMt["maneuvering_acceleration_mpss"], file, mPath + ".maneuvering_acceleration_mpss"));
+            def.movement.angularAcceleration_radpss   = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(mMt["angular_acceleration_radpss"],   file, mPath + ".angular_acceleration_radpss"));
+            def.movement.maxRotationSpeed_radps       = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(mMt["max_rotation_speed_radps"],       file, mPath + ".max_rotation_speed_radps"));
         }
 
         // Sensor
@@ -463,15 +471,7 @@ ShipsConfig ConfigLoader::loadShips(const std::string& path)
             const std::string snsPath = elemPath + ".sensor";
             const toml::table& snsTable = requireTable(mt["sensor"], file, snsPath);
             toml::table& snsMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(snsTable);
-            def.sensor.sensorRangeFormula = requireFormula(snsMt["sensor_range_m_formula"], file, snsPath + ".sensor_range_m_formula");
-        }
-
-        // Loot
-        {
-            const std::string lPath = elemPath + ".loot";
-            const toml::table& lTable = requireTable(mt["loot"], file, lPath);
-            toml::table& lMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(lTable);
-            def.loot.scrapDrop = static_cast<int>(requireInt(lMt["scrap_drop"], file, lPath + ".scrap_drop"));
+            def.sensor.sensorRange_m = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(snsMt["sensor_range_m"], file, snsPath + ".sensor_range_m"));
         }
 
         // Optional: default_modules (REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES)
@@ -583,9 +583,11 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
         def.id                      = requireString(mt["id"], file, elemPath + ".id");
         def.unlockAtStationLevel    = static_cast<int>(
             mt["unlock_at_station_level"].value_or<int64_t>(-1));
+        if (mt.contains("unlock_requires"))
+        {
+            def.unlockRequires = requireStringArray(mt["unlock_requires"], file, elemPath + ".unlock_requires");
+        }
         def.surfaceMask             = requireStringArray(mt["surface_mask"], file, elemPath + ".surface_mask");
-        def.playerProductionLevel = static_cast<int>(requireInt(
-            mt["player_production_level"], file, elemPath + ".player_production_level"));
         def.productionTimeSeconds = requireDouble(
             mt["production_time_seconds"], file, elemPath + ".production_time_seconds");
         def.fillColor             = requireString(mt["fill_color"], file, elemPath + ".fill_color");
@@ -608,15 +610,15 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
                 elemPath + "." + se.category);
             toml::table& catMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(catTable);
 
-            const std::string addedKey      = std::string("added_") + se.stat + se.addedKeySuffix + "_formula";
-            const std::string multipliedKey = std::string("multiplied_") + se.stat + se.addedKeySuffix + "_formula";
+            const std::string addedKey      = std::string("added_") + se.stat + se.addedKeySuffix;
+            const std::string multipliedKey = std::string("multiplied_") + se.stat + se.addedKeySuffix;
 
             if (catMt.contains(addedKey))
             {
                 ModuleStatModifier mod;
                 mod.stat         = se.stat;
                 mod.modifierType = "additive";
-                mod.formula      = requireFormula(catMt[addedKey], file,
+                mod.value        = requireDouble(catMt[addedKey], file,
                     elemPath + "." + se.category + "." + addedKey);
                 def.statModifiers.push_back(std::move(mod));
             }
@@ -626,7 +628,7 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
                 ModuleStatModifier mod;
                 mod.stat         = se.stat;
                 mod.modifierType = "multiplicative";
-                mod.formula      = requireFormula(catMt[multipliedKey], file,
+                mod.value        = requireDouble(catMt[multipliedKey], file,
                     elemPath + "." + se.category + "." + multipliedKey);
                 def.statModifiers.push_back(std::move(mod));
             }
@@ -638,16 +640,16 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
             const std::string wPath = elemPath + ".weapon";
             const toml::table& wTable = requireTable(mt["weapon"], file, wPath);
             toml::table& wMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(wTable);
-            if (wMt.contains("damage_formula") || wMt.contains("attack_range_m_formula")
-                || wMt.contains("attack_rate_hz_formula"))
+            if (wMt.contains("damage") || wMt.contains("attack_range_m")
+                || wMt.contains("attack_rate_hz"))
             {
                 ModuleWeaponCapability cap;
-                cap.damageFormula      = requireFormula(wMt["damage_formula"],
-                    file, wPath + ".damage_formula");
-                cap.attackRangeFormula = requireFormula(wMt["attack_range_m_formula"],
-                    file, wPath + ".attack_range_m_formula");
-                cap.attackRateFormula  = requireFormula(wMt["attack_rate_hz_formula"],
-                    file, wPath + ".attack_rate_hz_formula");
+                cap.damage        = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(wMt["damage"],
+                    file, wPath + ".damage"));
+                cap.attackRange_m = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(wMt["attack_range_m"],
+                    file, wPath + ".attack_range_m"));
+                cap.attackRate_hz = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(wMt["attack_rate_hz"],
+                    file, wPath + ".attack_rate_hz"));
                 def.weaponCapability = std::move(cap);
             }
         }
@@ -658,16 +660,16 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
             const std::string sPath = elemPath + ".salvage";
             const toml::table& sTable = requireTable(mt["salvage"], file, sPath);
             toml::table& sMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(sTable);
-            if (sMt.contains("collection_range_m_formula") || sMt.contains("cargo_capacity_formula")
-                || sMt.contains("collection_rate_hz_formula"))
+            if (sMt.contains("collection_range_m") || sMt.contains("cargo_capacity")
+                || sMt.contains("collection_rate_hz"))
             {
                 ModuleSalvageCapability cap;
-                cap.collectionRangeFormula = requireFormula(sMt["collection_range_m_formula"],
-                    file, sPath + ".collection_range_m_formula");
-                cap.cargoCapacityFormula   = requireFormula(sMt["cargo_capacity_formula"],
-                    file, sPath + ".cargo_capacity_formula");
-                cap.collectionRateFormula  = requireFormula(sMt["collection_rate_hz_formula"],
-                    file, sPath + ".collection_rate_hz_formula");
+                cap.collectionRange_m = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(sMt["collection_range_m"],
+                    file, sPath + ".collection_range_m"));
+                cap.cargoCapacity     = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(sMt["cargo_capacity"],
+                    file, sPath + ".cargo_capacity"));
+                cap.collectionRate_hz = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(sMt["collection_rate_hz"],
+                    file, sPath + ".collection_rate_hz"));
                 def.salvageCapability = std::move(cap);
             }
         }
@@ -678,15 +680,15 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
             const std::string rPath = elemPath + ".repair";
             const toml::table& rTable = requireTable(mt["repair"], file, rPath);
             toml::table& rMt = const_cast<toml::table&>(rTable);
-            if (rMt.contains("repair_rate_hz_formula") || rMt.contains("repair_range_m_formula"))
+            if (rMt.contains("repair_rate_hz") || rMt.contains("repair_range_m"))
             {
                 ModuleRepairCapability cap;
-                cap.repairRateFormula     = requireFormula(rMt["repair_rate_hz_formula"],
-                    file, rPath + ".repair_rate_hz_formula");
-                cap.repairAmountHpFormula = requireFormula(rMt["repair_amount_hp_formula"],
-                    file, rPath + ".repair_amount_hp_formula");
-                cap.repairRangeFormula    = requireFormula(rMt["repair_range_m_formula"],
-                    file, rPath + ".repair_range_m_formula");
+                cap.repairRate_hz   = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(rMt["repair_rate_hz"],
+                    file, rPath + ".repair_rate_hz"));
+                cap.repairAmountHp  = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(rMt["repair_amount_hp"],
+                    file, rPath + ".repair_amount_hp"));
+                cap.repairRange_m   = static_cast<float>(requireDouble(rMt["repair_range_m"],
+                    file, rPath + ".repair_range_m"));
                 def.repairCapability = std::move(cap);
             }
         }
@@ -697,6 +699,67 @@ ModulesConfig ConfigLoader::loadModules(const std::string& path)
     return cfg;
 }
 
+namespace
+{
+
+// Throws if any id in requiredIds is not a valid explicitly-unlockable schematic.
+void checkUnlockRequires(const std::vector<std::string>& requiredIds,
+                         const std::unordered_set<std::string>& schematicIds,
+                         const std::string& file,
+                         const std::string& path)
+{
+    for (const std::string& requiredId : requiredIds)
+    {
+        if (schematicIds.count(requiredId) == 0)
+        {
+            throw makeError(file, path,
+                "references unknown schematic '" + requiredId + "'");
+        }
+    }
+}
+
+// Validates that every id listed in an `unlock_requires` (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ)
+// resolves to an explicitly-unlockable schematic: a ship, a module, or an
+// assembler recipe that carries `unlock_at_station_level` (a recipe schematic,
+// per REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT). An unresolved id is a config error surfaced at load.
+void validateUnlockRequires(const GameConfig& cfg)
+{
+    std::unordered_set<std::string> schematicIds;
+    for (const ShipDef& def : cfg.ships.ships)
+    {
+        schematicIds.insert(def.id);
+    }
+    for (const ModuleDef& def : cfg.modules.modules)
+    {
+        schematicIds.insert(def.id);
+    }
+    for (const RecipeDef& def : cfg.recipes.recipes)
+    {
+        if (def.building == BuildingType::Assembler && def.unlockAtStationLevel.has_value())
+        {
+            schematicIds.insert(def.id);
+        }
+    }
+
+    for (const ShipDef& def : cfg.ships.ships)
+    {
+        checkUnlockRequires(def.unlockRequires, schematicIds, "ships.toml",
+                            "ship '" + def.id + "'.unlock_requires");
+    }
+    for (const ModuleDef& def : cfg.modules.modules)
+    {
+        checkUnlockRequires(def.unlockRequires, schematicIds, "modules.toml",
+                            "module '" + def.id + "'.unlock_requires");
+    }
+    for (const RecipeDef& def : cfg.recipes.recipes)
+    {
+        checkUnlockRequires(def.unlockRequires, schematicIds, "recipes.toml",
+                            "recipe '" + def.id + "'.unlock_requires");
+    }
+}
+
+} // namespace
+
 GameConfig ConfigLoader::loadFromDirectory(const std::string& configDir)
 {
     GameConfig cfg;
@@ -706,6 +769,7 @@ GameConfig ConfigLoader::loadFromDirectory(const std::string& configDir)
     cfg.ships     = loadShips(configDir + "/ships.toml");
     cfg.stations  = loadStations(configDir + "/stations.toml");
     cfg.modules   = loadModules(configDir + "/modules.toml");
+    validateUnlockRequires(cfg);
     cfg.threatCosts = computeThreatCostTable(cfg);
     return cfg;
 }

src/lib/config/ModulesConfig.h

@@ -4,7 +4,6 @@
 #include <string>
 #include <vector>
 
-#include "Formula.h"
 #include "RecipesConfig.h"
 
 // A single stat modifier contributed by a module instance.
@@ -13,38 +12,40 @@ struct ModuleStatModifier
 {
     std::string stat;         // e.g. "hp", "speed", "sensor_range"
     std::string modifierType; // "additive" or "multiplicative"
-    Formula formula;
+    double value;
 };
 
 // Capability sections — present when the module grants that capability.
 struct ModuleWeaponCapability
 {
-    Formula damageFormula;
-    Formula attackRangeFormula;
-    Formula attackRateFormula;
+    float damage;
+    float attackRange_m;
+    float attackRate_hz;
 };
 
 struct ModuleSalvageCapability
 {
-    Formula collectionRangeFormula;
-    Formula cargoCapacityFormula;
-    Formula collectionRateFormula;
+    float collectionRange_m;
+    float cargoCapacity;
+    float collectionRate_hz;
 };
 
 struct ModuleRepairCapability
 {
-    Formula repairRateFormula;      // repair cycles per second
-    Formula repairAmountHpFormula;  // HP restored per cycle
-    Formula repairRangeFormula;
+    float repairRate_hz;     // repair cycles per second
+    float repairAmountHp;    // HP restored per cycle
+    float repairRange_m;
 };
 
 struct ModuleDef
 {
     std::string id;
     int unlockAtStationLevel;
+    // Prerequisite schematic ids that must be explicitly unlocked before this
+    // schematic can enter the drop pool (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). Empty = none.
+    std::vector<std::string> unlockRequires;
     std::vector<std::string> surfaceMask;
     std::vector<RecipeIngredient> materials;
-    int playerProductionLevel;
     double productionTimeSeconds;
     std::string fillColor;
     std::string glyph;

src/lib/config/RecipesConfig.h

@@ -36,6 +36,10 @@ struct RecipeDef
     // at game start. >= 0 = locked; schematic enters drop pool at that station
     // level once the output item is implicitly unlocked (REQ-LOCK-EXPLICIT).
     std::optional<int> unlockAtStationLevel;
+    // Assembler recipe schematics only. Prerequisite schematic ids that must be
+    // explicitly unlocked before this schematic can enter the drop pool
+    // (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). Empty = none.
+    std::vector<std::string> unlockRequires;
 };
 
 struct RecipesConfig

src/lib/config/ShipsConfig.h

@@ -3,55 +3,48 @@
 #include <string>
 #include <vector>
 
-#include "Formula.h"
 #include "RecipesConfig.h"  // for RecipeIngredient
 #include "ShipLayout.h"     // for PlacedModule
 
-// Build materials and initial per-schematic production level
-// (REQ-BLD-SHIPYARD, REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP).
+// Build materials and base production time (REQ-BLD-SHIPYARD, REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP).
 struct ShipSchematic
 {
     std::vector<RecipeIngredient> materials;
-    int playerProductionLevel;
     double productionTimeSeconds;
 };
 
 struct ShipHealth
 {
-    Formula hpFormula;  // REQ-SHP-STATS
+    float hp;  // REQ-SHP-STATS
 };
 
 struct ShipMovement
 {
-    Formula speedFormula;                  // max linear speed cap, tiles/s (REQ-SHP-STATS, REQ-SHP-MOVEMENT)
-    Formula mainAccelerationFormula;       // forward acceleration, tiles/s²
-    Formula maneuveringAccelerationFormula;// omnidirectional acceleration, tiles/s²
-    Formula angularAccelerationFormula;    // angular acceleration, rad/s²
-    Formula maxRotationSpeedFormula;       // angular velocity cap, rad/s
+    float speed_mps;                   // max linear speed cap, m/s (REQ-SHP-STATS, REQ-SHP-MOVEMENT)
+    float mainAcceleration_mpss;       // forward acceleration, m/s²
+    float maneuveringAcceleration_mpss;// omnidirectional acceleration, m/s²
+    float angularAcceleration_radpss;  // angular acceleration, rad/s²
+    float maxRotationSpeed_radps;      // angular velocity cap, rad/s
 };
 
 struct ShipSensor
 {
-    Formula sensorRangeFormula;  // REQ-SHP-SENSOR, REQ-SHP-STATS
-};
-
-// Scrap dropped on destruction (REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP).
-struct ShipLoot
-{
-    int scrapDrop;
+    float sensorRange_m;  // REQ-SHP-SENSOR, REQ-SHP-STATS
 };
 
 struct ShipDef
 {
     std::string id;
     int unlockAtStationLevel;
+    // Prerequisite schematic ids that must be explicitly unlocked before this
+    // schematic can enter the drop pool (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). Empty = none.
+    std::vector<std::string> unlockRequires;
     std::vector<std::string> layout;
 
     ShipSchematic schematic;
     ShipHealth health;
     ShipMovement movement;
     ShipSensor sensor;
-    ShipLoot loot;
 
     // Module layout used for enemy wave ships (REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES).
     std::vector<PlacedModule> defaultModules;

src/lib/config/WorldConfig.h

@@ -14,8 +14,8 @@ struct WorldRegions
 // Asteroid expansion (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK, REQ-EXP-COST).
 struct WorldExpansion
 {
-    int columnsPerExpansion_tiles;
-    int costBuildingBlocks;
+    int     columnsPerExpansion_tiles;
+    Formula costBuildingBlocksFormula;  // cost in building blocks; x = expansions already purchased
 };
 
 // Push effects (REQ-PSH-*, REQ-WAV-BOSS-ADVANCE).
@@ -29,7 +29,6 @@ struct WorldPush
 struct WorldWaves
 {
     Formula threatRateFormula;        // threat/s as a function of boss wave counter x
-    Formula shipLevelFormula;         // enemy ship level as a function of boss wave counter x
     double gapMinSeconds;
     double gapMaxSeconds;
     double spawnDurationSeconds;
@@ -60,6 +59,7 @@ struct WorldConfig
     int refundPercentage;               // REQ-BLD-DEMOLISH
     int startingBuildingBlocks;         // REQ-HQ-STARTING-BLOCKS
     double scrapDespawnSeconds;         // REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP
+    double scrapPerThreat;              // REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP, REQ-THREAT-SCRAP (scrap dropped per unit threat)
     double tileSize_m;                  // metres per tile (REQ-GW-TILE-SIZE)
     double beltSpeed_tps;               // REQ-GW-BELT-SPEED (tiles/s, converted from m/s in config)
     int tunnelMaxDistance_tiles;        // REQ-BLD-TUNNEL-PAIR

src/lib/core/EntityAdmin.cpp

@@ -42,7 +42,7 @@ entt::entity EntityAdmin::spawnShip(QVector2D position, float hp, float maxHp,
                                     float maxSpeed_tpt, float mainAcceleration_tptt,
                                     float maneuveringAcceleration_tptt, float maxAngularAcceleration_rptt,
                                     float maxRotationSpeed_rpt, float sensorRange_tiles,
-                                    int level, const std::string& schematicId, bool isEnemy)
+                                    const std::string& schematicId, bool isEnemy)
 {
     entt::entity entity = createEntity();
     add<PositionComponent>(entity, PositionComponent{position});
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ entt::entity EntityAdmin::spawnShip(QVector2D position, float hp, float maxHp,
         0.0f                     // angularAcceleration_rptt
     });
     add<SensorRangeComponent>(entity, SensorRangeComponent{sensorRange_tiles});
-    add<ShipIdentityComponent>(entity, ShipIdentityComponent{level, schematicId});
+    add<ShipIdentityComponent>(entity, ShipIdentityComponent{schematicId});
     add<MovementIntentComponent>(entity, MovementIntentComponent{0, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f)});
     return entity;
 }

src/lib/core/EntityAdmin.h

@@ -56,7 +56,7 @@ public:
                            float maxSpeed_tpt, float mainAcceleration_tptt,
                            float maneuveringAcceleration_tptt, float maxAngularAcceleration_rptt,
                            float maxRotationSpeed_rpt, float sensorRange_tiles,
-                           int level, const std::string& schematicId, bool isEnemy);
+                           const std::string& schematicId, bool isEnemy);
 
     entt::entity spawnStation(QPoint anchor, QSize footprint,
                               const std::vector<QPoint>& bodyCells,

src/lib/core/SchematicChoiceOption.h

@@ -19,8 +19,6 @@ struct SchematicChoiceOption
     std::string schematicId;
     SchematicType type;
     std::string displayName;
-    bool isNewUnlock;
-    int targetLevel;
 
     // Display names of items produced by recipes that would newly become
     // implicitly unlocked (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT) if this option is selected.

src/lib/ecs/component/ShipIdentityComponent.h

@@ -4,6 +4,8 @@
 
 struct ShipIdentityComponent
 {
-    int level;
     std::string schematicId;
+    // Scrap dropped on destruction, derived from the ship's as-built threat cost
+    // at spawn time (REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP).
+    int scrapDrop = 0;
 };

src/lib/ecs/system/ShipSystem.cpp

@@ -1,6 +1,8 @@
 #include "ShipSystem.h"
 
+#include <algorithm>
 #include <cassert>
+#include <cmath>
 #include <map>
 #include <stdexcept>
 #include <utility>
@@ -26,7 +28,9 @@
 #include "SalvagerComponent.h"
 #include "SelectedBehaviorComponent.h"
 #include "SensorRangeComponent.h"
+#include "ShipIdentityComponent.h"
 #include "StandbyBehavior.h"
+#include "ThreatCostCalculator.h"
 #include "Tick.h"
 #include "tracing.h"
 #include "WeaponComponent.h"
@@ -61,48 +65,46 @@ const ModuleDef* ShipSystem::findModuleDef(const std::string& id) const
     return nullptr;
 }
 
-entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level,
+entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId,
                                QVector2D position, bool isEnemy,
-                               const std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig>& layout,
-                               const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides)
+                               const std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig>& layout)
 {
     const ShipDef* def = findShipDef(schematicId);
     assert(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x = static_cast<double>(level);
     const float tickRate = static_cast<float>(kTickRateHz);
     const float tileSize = static_cast<float>(m_config.world.tileSize_m);
 
-    float hp    = static_cast<float>(def->health.hpFormula.evaluate(x));
+    float hp    = def->health.hp;
     float maxHp = hp;
-    float maxSpeed_tpt              = static_cast<float>(def->movement.speedFormula.evaluate(x))
-                                      / tileSize / tickRate;
-    float mainAcceleration_tptt     = static_cast<float>(
-                                          def->movement.mainAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x))
-                                      / tileSize / tickRate;
-    float maneuveringAcceleration_tptt = static_cast<float>(
-                                          def->movement.maneuveringAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x))
+    float maxSpeed_tpt              = def->movement.speed_mps / tileSize / tickRate;
+    float mainAcceleration_tptt     = def->movement.mainAcceleration_mpss / tileSize / tickRate;
+    float maneuveringAcceleration_tptt = def->movement.maneuveringAcceleration_mpss
                                           / tileSize / tickRate;
-    float maxAngularAcceleration_rptt  = static_cast<float>(
-                                          def->movement.angularAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x))
-                                          / tickRate;
-    float maxRotationSpeed_rpt      = static_cast<float>(
-                                          def->movement.maxRotationSpeedFormula.evaluate(x))
-                                          / tickRate;
-    float sensorRange_tiles         = static_cast<float>(
-                                          def->sensor.sensorRangeFormula.evaluate(x))
-                                          / tileSize;
+    float maxAngularAcceleration_rptt  = def->movement.angularAcceleration_radpss / tickRate;
+    float maxRotationSpeed_rpt      = def->movement.maxRotationSpeed_radps / tickRate;
+    float sensorRange_tiles         = def->sensor.sensorRange_m / tileSize;
 
     entt::entity entity = m_admin.spawnShip(
         position, hp, maxHp,
         maxSpeed_tpt, mainAcceleration_tptt, maneuveringAcceleration_tptt,
         maxAngularAcceleration_rptt, maxRotationSpeed_rpt, sensorRange_tiles,
-        level, schematicId, isEnemy);
+        schematicId, isEnemy);
 
     // Determine module list: configured layout takes precedence over default.
     const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules =
         layout.has_value() ? layout->placedModules : def->defaultModules;
 
+    // Derive the scrap dropped on destruction from the ship's as-built threat cost
+    // (REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP): round(threat * scrap_per_threat), floored at 1 for any
+    // ship with threat > 0. Computed once here since threat is level-independent.
+    const double threatCost = calculateShipThreatCost(m_config.threatCosts, m_config,
+                                                      schematicId, modules);
+    const int scrapDrop = threatCost > 0.0
+        ? std::max(1, static_cast<int>(std::lround(threatCost * m_config.world.scrapPerThreat)))
+        : 0;
+    m_admin.get<ShipIdentityComponent>(entity).scrapDrop = scrapDrop;
+
     // --- Pass 1: create capability child entities ----------------------------
     std::vector<entt::entity> weaponChildren;
     std::vector<entt::entity> salvageChildren;
@@ -117,19 +119,12 @@ entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level,
         const ModuleDef* modDef = findModuleDef(pm.moduleId);
         if (!modDef) { throw std::runtime_error("unknown module id '" + pm.moduleId + "'"); }
 
-        const auto overIt = moduleLevelOverrides.find(pm.moduleId);
-        const double mx = static_cast<double>(
-            overIt != moduleLevelOverrides.end() ? overIt->second : modDef->playerProductionLevel);
-
         if (modDef->weaponCapability)
         {
             WeaponComponent w;
-            w.damage        = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->weaponCapability->damageFormula.evaluate(mx));
-            w.range_tiles   = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->weaponCapability->attackRangeFormula.evaluate(mx)) / tileSize;
-            w.fireRateHz    = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->weaponCapability->attackRateFormula.evaluate(mx));
+            w.damage        = modDef->weaponCapability->damage;
+            w.range_tiles   = modDef->weaponCapability->attackRange_m / tileSize;
+            w.fireRateHz    = modDef->weaponCapability->attackRate_hz;
             w.cooldownTicks = 0.0f;
             w.currentTarget = std::nullopt;
 
@@ -141,12 +136,11 @@ entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level,
 
         if (modDef->salvageCapability)
         {
-            cargoCapacityBase += modDef->salvageCapability->cargoCapacityFormula.evaluate(mx);
+            cargoCapacityBase += modDef->salvageCapability->cargoCapacity;
 
             SalvagerComponent salvager;
-            salvager.collectionRange_tiles = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->salvageCapability->collectionRangeFormula.evaluate(mx)) / tileSize;
-            const double rate = modDef->salvageCapability->collectionRateFormula.evaluate(mx);
+            salvager.collectionRange_tiles = modDef->salvageCapability->collectionRange_m / tileSize;
+            const double rate = modDef->salvageCapability->collectionRate_hz;
             salvager.collectionIntervalTicks = (rate > 0.0)
                 ? static_cast<int>(kTickRateHz / rate + 0.5)
                 : 0;
@@ -161,16 +155,13 @@ entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level,
         if (modDef->repairCapability)
         {
             RepairToolComponent rt;
-            const double repairRateHz =
-                modDef->repairCapability->repairRateFormula.evaluate(mx);
+            const double repairRateHz = modDef->repairCapability->repairRate_hz;
             rt.repairIntervalTicks = (repairRateHz > 0.0)
                 ? static_cast<int>(kTickRateHz / repairRateHz + 0.5)
                 : 0;
-            rt.repairAmountHp = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->repairCapability->repairAmountHpFormula.evaluate(mx));
+            rt.repairAmountHp = modDef->repairCapability->repairAmountHp;
             rt.cooldownTicksRemaining = 0;
-            rt.range_tiles   = static_cast<float>(
-                modDef->repairCapability->repairRangeFormula.evaluate(mx)) / tileSize;
+            rt.range_tiles   = modDef->repairCapability->repairRange_m / tileSize;
             rt.currentTarget = std::nullopt;
 
             entt::entity child = m_admin.createModuleEntity();
@@ -196,13 +187,9 @@ entt::entity ShipSystem::spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level,
         const ModuleDef* modDef = findModuleDef(pm.moduleId);
         if (!modDef) { throw std::runtime_error("unknown module id '" + pm.moduleId + "'"); }
 
-        const auto overIt2 = moduleLevelOverrides.find(pm.moduleId);
-        const double mx = static_cast<double>(
-            overIt2 != moduleLevelOverrides.end() ? overIt2->second : modDef->playerProductionLevel);
-
         for (const ModuleStatModifier& sm : modDef->statModifiers)
         {
-            const double val = sm.formula.evaluate(mx);
+            const double val = sm.value;
 
             // Route modifier to the correct accumulator by stat category.
             // weapon/salvage/repair stats go to the corresponding child map;

src/lib/ecs/system/ShipSystem.h

@@ -18,10 +18,9 @@ class ShipSystem
 public:
     ShipSystem(const GameConfig& config, EntityAdmin& admin);
 
-    entt::entity spawn(const std::string& schematicId, int level, QVector2D position,
+    entt::entity spawn(const std::string& schematicId, QVector2D position,
                        bool isEnemy = false,
-                       const std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig>& layout = std::nullopt,
-                       const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides = {});
+                       const std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig>& layout = std::nullopt);
     void despawn(entt::entity entity);
 
     // Reset all movement intents to inactive before behavior systems run.

src/lib/eventsystem/event/CMakeLists.txt

@@ -3,6 +3,7 @@ SET(HDRS
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/TracePrintRequestedEvent.h
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/TickAdvancedEvent.h
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/BuildingBlocksChangedEvent.h
+	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/ExpansionCostChangedEvent.h
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/EntitySelectedEvent.h
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/GameSpeedChangedEvent.h
 	${CMAKE_CURRENT_SOURCE_DIR}/BossWaveUpdatedEvent.h

src/lib/eventsystem/event/ExpansionCostChangedEvent.h

@@ -0,0 +1,17 @@
+#ifndef EXPANSION_COST_CHANGED_EVENT_H
+#define EXPANSION_COST_CHANGED_EVENT_H
+
+#include "Event.h"
+
+// Fired when the current asteroid-expansion cost changes (REQ-EXP-COST): once at
+// startup and again after each expansion is purchased. Carries the cost in
+// building blocks so the header Expand button can update its caption/enabled
+// state (REQ-UI-EXPAND-BUTTON).
+class ExpansionCostChangedEvent : public Event
+{
+public:
+	explicit ExpansionCostChangedEvent(int cost) : cost(cost) {}
+	const int cost;
+};
+
+#endif   // EXPANSION_COST_CHANGED_EVENT_H

src/lib/sim/BuildingSystem.cpp

@@ -24,6 +24,7 @@ BuildingSystem::BuildingSystem(const GameConfig& config,
     , m_spawnShip(std::move(spawnShip))
     , m_isItemUnlocked(std::move(isItemUnlocked))
     , m_rng(rng)
+    , m_asteroidWidth_tiles(config.world.regions.asteroidWidth_tiles)
 {
 }
 
@@ -281,7 +282,7 @@ bool BuildingSystem::bodyCellsWithinWorldBounds(const std::vector<QPoint>& bodyC
                                                 QPoint anchor) const
 {
     const int heightTiles = m_config.world.heightTiles;
-    const int leftEdgeX   = -m_config.world.regions.asteroidWidth_tiles;
+    const int leftEdgeX   = -m_asteroidWidth_tiles;
     for (const QPoint& cell : bodyCells)
     {
         const QPoint worldCell = anchor + cell;

src/lib/sim/BuildingSystem.h

@@ -59,6 +59,11 @@ public:
     bool isPlacementValid(BuildingType type, QPoint anchor,
                           Rotation rotation) const;
 
+    // Sets the current buildable asteroid width in tiles. Grows the left
+    // placement bound as the player unlocks asteroid expansions (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK).
+    // Defaults to world.regions.asteroid_width_tiles at construction.
+    void setAsteroidWidth_tiles(int widthTiles) { m_asteroidWidth_tiles = widthTiles; }
+
     // Remove a building or construction site by id.  Returns the refund in
     // building blocks (floor(cost * refundPercentage / 100)).  Returns 0 for
     // unknown ids.
@@ -179,6 +184,7 @@ private:
                        const std::optional<ShipLayoutConfig>&)> m_spawnShip;
     std::function<bool(const std::string&)>        m_isItemUnlocked;
     std::mt19937&                                  m_rng;
+    int                                            m_asteroidWidth_tiles;
 
     std::vector<Building>           m_buildings;
     std::deque<ConstructionSite>    m_constructionQueue;

src/lib/sim/Command.h

@@ -35,6 +35,7 @@ enum class CommandKind
     SetSplitterFilters,
     ClearBeltTiles,
     ApplySchematicChoice,
+    ExpandAsteroid,
     Reset
 };
 
@@ -129,6 +130,14 @@ struct ApplySchematicChoiceCommand : Command
     int choiceIndex = 0;
 };
 
+// Unlocks the next asteroid expansion (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK). Carries no payload: the
+// simulation derives the cost and column count from its own expansion counter
+// and config, so a recorded command replays identically.
+struct ExpandAsteroidCommand : Command
+{
+    ExpandAsteroidCommand() : Command(CommandKind::ExpandAsteroid) {}
+};
+
 // Restart boundary: reinitializes the simulation with a fresh seed and, if
 // config is set, a reloaded config (GameConfig is move-only, so it is carried by
 // shared_ptr and moved into the sim on apply). A null config keeps the current

src/lib/sim/ShipStatsCalculator.cpp

@@ -17,9 +17,7 @@
 
 ShipStats calculateShipStats(const GameConfig& config,
                               const std::string& shipId,
-                              int level,
-                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules,
-                              const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides)
+                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules)
 {
     ShipStats result{};
 
@@ -39,24 +37,20 @@ ShipStats calculateShipStats(const GameConfig& config,
         return nullptr;
     };
 
-    const double x        = static_cast<double>(level);
     const double tileSize = config.world.tileSize_m;
 
     // --- Base hull stats (convert from SI to display units) ------------------
-    result.hp = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->health.hpFormula.evaluate(x));
+    result.hp = shipDef->health.hp;
     result.maxSpeed_tps = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->movement.speedFormula.evaluate(x) / tileSize);
+        shipDef->movement.speed_mps / tileSize);
     result.sensorRange_tiles = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->sensor.sensorRangeFormula.evaluate(x) / tileSize);
+        shipDef->sensor.sensorRange_m / tileSize);
     result.mainAcceleration_tpss = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->movement.mainAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x) / tileSize);
+        shipDef->movement.mainAcceleration_mpss / tileSize);
     result.maneuveringAcceleration_tpss = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->movement.maneuveringAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x) / tileSize);
-    result.angularAcceleration_radpss = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->movement.angularAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x));
-    result.maxRotationSpeed_radps = static_cast<float>(
-        shipDef->movement.maxRotationSpeedFormula.evaluate(x));
+        shipDef->movement.maneuveringAcceleration_mpss / tileSize);
+    result.angularAcceleration_radpss = shipDef->movement.angularAcceleration_radpss;
+    result.maxRotationSpeed_radps = shipDef->movement.maxRotationSpeed_radps;
 
     // --- Pass 1: base capability stats per module instance -------------------
     struct WeaponInstance  { float damage; float range_tiles; float rate_hz; };
@@ -76,33 +70,29 @@ ShipStats calculateShipStats(const GameConfig& config,
         const ModuleDef* def = findModuleDef(pm.moduleId);
         if (!def) { throw std::runtime_error("unknown module id '" + pm.moduleId + "'"); }
 
-        const auto overIt = moduleLevelOverrides.find(pm.moduleId);
-        const double mx = static_cast<double>(
-            overIt != moduleLevelOverrides.end() ? overIt->second : def->playerProductionLevel);
-
         if (def->weaponCapability)
         {
             WeaponInstance wi;
-            wi.damage      = static_cast<float>(def->weaponCapability->damageFormula.evaluate(mx));
-            wi.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->weaponCapability->attackRangeFormula.evaluate(mx) / tileSize);
-            wi.rate_hz     = static_cast<float>(def->weaponCapability->attackRateFormula.evaluate(mx));
+            wi.damage      = def->weaponCapability->damage;
+            wi.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->weaponCapability->attackRange_m / tileSize);
+            wi.rate_hz     = def->weaponCapability->attackRate_hz;
             weaponInstances.push_back(wi);
         }
         if (def->salvageCapability)
         {
-            cargoCapacityBase += def->salvageCapability->cargoCapacityFormula.evaluate(mx);
+            cargoCapacityBase += def->salvageCapability->cargoCapacity;
 
             SalvageInstance si;
-            si.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->salvageCapability->collectionRangeFormula.evaluate(mx) / tileSize);
-            si.rate        = static_cast<float>(def->salvageCapability->collectionRateFormula.evaluate(mx));
+            si.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->salvageCapability->collectionRange_m / tileSize);
+            si.rate        = def->salvageCapability->collectionRate_hz;
             salvageInstances.push_back(si);
         }
         if (def->repairCapability)
         {
             RepairInstance ri;
-            ri.rate_hz     = static_cast<float>(def->repairCapability->repairRateFormula.evaluate(mx));
-            ri.amount_hp   = static_cast<float>(def->repairCapability->repairAmountHpFormula.evaluate(mx));
-            ri.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->repairCapability->repairRangeFormula.evaluate(mx) / tileSize);
+            ri.rate_hz     = def->repairCapability->repairRate_hz;
+            ri.amount_hp   = def->repairCapability->repairAmountHp;
+            ri.range_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->repairCapability->repairRange_m / tileSize);
             repairInstances.push_back(ri);
         }
     }
@@ -120,13 +110,9 @@ ShipStats calculateShipStats(const GameConfig& config,
         const ModuleDef* def = findModuleDef(pm.moduleId);
         if (!def) { throw std::runtime_error("unknown module id '" + pm.moduleId + "'"); }
 
-        const auto overIt = moduleLevelOverrides.find(pm.moduleId);
-        const double mx = static_cast<double>(
-            overIt != moduleLevelOverrides.end() ? overIt->second : def->playerProductionLevel);
-
         for (const ModuleStatModifier& sm : def->statModifiers)
         {
-            const double val = sm.formula.evaluate(mx);
+            const double val = sm.value;
 
             const bool isWeaponStat  = (sm.stat == "damage"
                                      || sm.stat == "attack_range"

src/lib/sim/ShipStatsCalculator.h

@@ -51,9 +51,7 @@ struct ShipStats
 
 ShipStats calculateShipStats(const GameConfig& config,
                               const std::string& shipId,
-                              int level,
-                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules,
-                              const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides = {});
+                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules);
 
 ShipStats buildShipStatsFromEntity(const EntityAdmin& admin, entt::entity shipEntity);
 

src/lib/sim/Simulation.cpp

@@ -2,6 +2,7 @@
 
 #include <algorithm>
 #include <cassert>
+#include <cmath>
 
 #include "AiSystem.h"
 #include "Command.h"
@@ -61,13 +62,7 @@ Simulation::Simulation(GameConfig config, unsigned int seed)
             {
                 return;
             }
-            std::map<std::string, int> moduleLevels;
-            for (const auto& [mId, mState] : m_moduleSchematicLevels)
-            {
-                moduleLevels[mId] = mState.level;
-            }
-            m_shipSystem->spawn(id, it->second.level, pos, /*isEnemy=*/false, layout,
-                                moduleLevels);
+            m_shipSystem->spawn(id, pos, /*isEnemy=*/false, layout);
         },
         [this](const std::string& itemId) -> bool { return isItemUnlocked(itemId); },
         m_rng);
@@ -86,7 +81,6 @@ Simulation::Simulation(GameConfig config, unsigned int seed)
     {
         SchematicState state;
         state.unlocked = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1);
-        state.level    = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1) ? def.schematic.playerProductionLevel : 0;
         m_schematicLevels[def.id] = state;
     }
 
@@ -95,7 +89,6 @@ Simulation::Simulation(GameConfig config, unsigned int seed)
     {
         SchematicState state;
         state.unlocked = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1);
-        state.level    = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1) ? def.playerProductionLevel : 0;
         m_moduleSchematicLevels[def.id] = state;
     }
 
@@ -140,6 +133,7 @@ void Simulation::reset(unsigned int seed)
     m_nextDepartureTick        = secondsToTicks(m_config.world.departureIntervalSeconds);
     m_nextBuildingId                   = 1;
     m_buildingBlocksStock      = m_config.world.startingBuildingBlocks;
+    m_expansionsPurchased      = 0;
     m_gameOver                      = false;
     m_isWon                         = false;
     m_artifactCount                 = 0;
@@ -167,13 +161,7 @@ void Simulation::reset(unsigned int seed)
             {
                 return;
             }
-            std::map<std::string, int> moduleLevels;
-            for (const auto& [mId, mState] : m_moduleSchematicLevels)
-            {
-                moduleLevels[mId] = mState.level;
-            }
-            m_shipSystem->spawn(id, it->second.level, pos, /*isEnemy=*/false, layout,
-                                moduleLevels);
+            m_shipSystem->spawn(id, pos, /*isEnemy=*/false, layout);
         },
         [this](const std::string& itemId) -> bool { return isItemUnlocked(itemId); },
         m_rng);
@@ -192,7 +180,6 @@ void Simulation::reset(unsigned int seed)
     {
         SchematicState state;
         state.unlocked = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1);
-        state.level    = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1) ? def.schematic.playerProductionLevel : 0;
         m_schematicLevels[def.id] = state;
     }
 
@@ -201,7 +188,6 @@ void Simulation::reset(unsigned int seed)
     {
         SchematicState state;
         state.unlocked = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1);
-        state.level    = (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1) ? def.playerProductionLevel : 0;
         m_moduleSchematicLevels[def.id] = state;
     }
 
@@ -291,6 +277,9 @@ void Simulation::apply(const Command& command)
     case CommandKind::ApplySchematicChoice:
         applySchematicChoice(static_cast<const ApplySchematicChoiceCommand&>(command).choiceIndex);
         break;
+    case CommandKind::ExpandAsteroid:
+        tryExpandAsteroid();
+        break;
     case CommandKind::Reset:
     {
         const ResetCommand& c = static_cast<const ResetCommand&>(command);
@@ -551,15 +540,11 @@ void Simulation::tickDeathsAndLoot()
     {
         const ShipIdentityComponent& si = m_admin.get<ShipIdentityComponent>(deadEntity);
         const PositionComponent& pos    = m_admin.get<PositionComponent>(deadEntity);
-        for (const ShipDef& def : m_config.ships.ships)
+        if (si.scrapDrop > 0)
         {
-            if (def.id == si.schematicId && def.loot.scrapDrop > 0)
-            {
-                const Tick despawnAt = m_currentTick
-                    + secondsToTicks(m_config.world.scrapDespawnSeconds);
-                m_scrapSystem->spawn(pos.value, def.loot.scrapDrop, despawnAt);
-                break;
-            }
+            const Tick despawnAt = m_currentTick
+                + secondsToTicks(m_config.world.scrapDespawnSeconds);
+            m_scrapSystem->spawn(pos.value, si.scrapDrop, despawnAt);
         }
         m_shipSystem->despawn(deadEntity);
     }
@@ -647,19 +632,23 @@ void Simulation::generateSchematicChoices(int destroyedStationLevel)
     struct PoolEntry { std::string id; DropType type; };
     std::vector<PoolEntry> pool;
 
+    // Owned schematics leave the pool (REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP): only offer
+    // ship/module schematics that are gated to a station level in range and not
+    // yet unlocked. Schematics with unlock_at_station_level -1 start unlocked, so
+    // they are always owned and never eligible.
     for (const ShipDef& def : m_config.ships.ships)
     {
-        if (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1 || def.unlockAtStationLevel <= destroyedStationLevel)
-        {
-            pool.push_back({def.id, DropType::Ship});
-        }
+        if (def.unlockAtStationLevel < 0 || def.unlockAtStationLevel > destroyedStationLevel) { continue; }
+        if (m_schematicLevels.at(def.id).unlocked) { continue; }
+        if (!prerequisitesSatisfied(def.unlockRequires)) { continue; }
+        pool.push_back({def.id, DropType::Ship});
     }
     for (const ModuleDef& def : m_config.modules.modules)
     {
-        if (def.unlockAtStationLevel == -1 || def.unlockAtStationLevel <= destroyedStationLevel)
-        {
-            pool.push_back({def.id, DropType::Module});
-        }
+        if (def.unlockAtStationLevel < 0 || def.unlockAtStationLevel > destroyedStationLevel) { continue; }
+        if (m_moduleSchematicLevels.at(def.id).unlocked) { continue; }
+        if (!prerequisitesSatisfied(def.unlockRequires)) { continue; }
+        pool.push_back({def.id, DropType::Module});
     }
     for (const RecipeDef& def : m_config.recipes.recipes)
     {
@@ -674,6 +663,7 @@ void Simulation::generateSchematicChoices(int destroyedStationLevel)
             if (m_unlockedItemIds.count(out.item) > 0) { outputUnlocked = true; break; }
         }
         if (!outputUnlocked) { continue; }
+        if (!prerequisitesSatisfied(def.unlockRequires)) { continue; }
         pool.push_back({def.id, DropType::Recipe});
     }
 
@@ -708,23 +698,15 @@ void Simulation::generateSchematicChoices(int destroyedStationLevel)
         {
             option.type = SchematicType::Ship;
             option.displayName = toDisplayName(entry.id);
-            const SchematicState& state = m_schematicLevels.at(entry.id);
-            option.isNewUnlock = !state.unlocked;
-            option.targetLevel = state.level + 1;
         }
         else if (entry.type == DropType::Module)
         {
             option.type = SchematicType::Module;
             option.displayName = toDisplayName(entry.id);
-            const SchematicState& state = m_moduleSchematicLevels.at(entry.id);
-            option.isNewUnlock = !state.unlocked;
-            option.targetLevel = state.level + 1;
         }
         else
         {
             option.type = SchematicType::Recipe;
-            option.isNewUnlock = true;
-            option.targetLevel = 0;
             for (const RecipeDef& def : m_config.recipes.recipes)
             {
                 if (def.id == entry.id && !def.outputs.empty())
@@ -740,11 +722,11 @@ void Simulation::generateSchematicChoices(int destroyedStationLevel)
         std::set<std::string> hypotheticalModuleIds            = currentModuleIds;
         std::set<std::string> hypotheticalRecipeSchematicIds   = m_unlockedRecipeSchematicIds;
 
-        if (entry.type == DropType::Ship && option.isNewUnlock)
+        if (entry.type == DropType::Ship)
         {
             hypotheticalShipIds.insert(entry.id);
         }
-        else if (entry.type == DropType::Module && option.isNewUnlock)
+        else if (entry.type == DropType::Module)
         {
             hypotheticalModuleIds.insert(entry.id);
         }
@@ -766,8 +748,6 @@ void Simulation::generateSchematicChoices(int destroyedStationLevel)
         artifactOption.schematicId  = "";
         artifactOption.type         = SchematicType::Artifact;
         artifactOption.displayName  = "Artifact";
-        artifactOption.isNewUnlock  = false;
-        artifactOption.targetLevel  = 0;
         m_pendingSchematicChoices.push_back(std::move(artifactOption));
     }
 }
@@ -798,7 +778,6 @@ void Simulation::applySchematicChoice(int choiceIndex)
             ? m_moduleSchematicLevels.at(chosen.schematicId)
             : m_schematicLevels.at(chosen.schematicId);
         state.unlocked = true;
-        state.level   += 1;
     }
 
     recomputeUnlocked();
@@ -837,6 +816,32 @@ std::set<std::string> Simulation::getUnlockedModuleSchematicIds() const
     return ids;
 }
 
+bool Simulation::isSchematicIdExplicitlyUnlocked(const std::string& schematicId) const
+{
+    // A prerequisite is satisfied only by an explicitly-unlocked schematic
+    // (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ): a ship or module schematic marked unlocked, or a recipe
+    // schematic in the explicit-unlock set. Cross-type ids are looked up with
+    // find/count so an id from one namespace never throws against another.
+    const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator shipIt =
+        m_schematicLevels.find(schematicId);
+    if (shipIt != m_schematicLevels.end() && shipIt->second.unlocked) { return true; }
+
+    const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator moduleIt =
+        m_moduleSchematicLevels.find(schematicId);
+    if (moduleIt != m_moduleSchematicLevels.end() && moduleIt->second.unlocked) { return true; }
+
+    return m_unlockedRecipeSchematicIds.count(schematicId) > 0;
+}
+
+bool Simulation::prerequisitesSatisfied(const std::vector<std::string>& unlockRequires) const
+{
+    for (const std::string& requiredId : unlockRequires)
+    {
+        if (!isSchematicIdExplicitlyUnlocked(requiredId)) { return false; }
+    }
+    return true;
+}
+
 Simulation::UnlockedSets Simulation::computeUnlockedSets(
     const std::set<std::string>& unlockedShipSchematicIds,
     const std::set<std::string>& unlockedModuleSchematicIds,
@@ -961,7 +966,6 @@ void Simulation::appendSchematicMap(Hasher& hasher,
     {
         hasher.append(entry.first);
         hasher.append(entry.second.unlocked);
-        hasher.append(entry.second.level);
     }
 }
 
@@ -994,6 +998,7 @@ unsigned long long Simulation::computeStateChecksum() const
     hasher.append(m_gameOver);
     hasher.append(m_isWon);
     hasher.append(m_artifactCount);
+    hasher.append(m_expansionsPurchased);
 
     // WaveSystem scalar state, reached through existing accessors.
     hasher.append(threatLevel());
@@ -1054,7 +1059,6 @@ unsigned long long Simulation::computeStateChecksum() const
         [&hasher](entt::entity entity, const ShipIdentityComponent& c)
     {
         hasher.append(static_cast<std::uint32_t>(entity));
-        hasher.append(c.level);
         hasher.append(c.schematicId);
     });
 
@@ -1102,6 +1106,31 @@ int Simulation::buildingBlocksStock() const
     return m_buildingBlocksStock;
 }
 
+int Simulation::currentAsteroidWidth_tiles() const
+{
+    return m_config.world.regions.asteroidWidth_tiles
+        + m_expansionsPurchased * m_config.world.expansion.columnsPerExpansion_tiles;
+}
+
+int Simulation::currentExpansionCost() const
+{
+    const double cost = m_config.world.expansion.costBuildingBlocksFormula.evaluate(
+        static_cast<double>(m_expansionsPurchased));
+    return static_cast<int>(std::floor(cost));
+}
+
+void Simulation::tryExpandAsteroid()
+{
+    const int cost = currentExpansionCost();
+    if (m_buildingBlocksStock < cost)
+    {
+        return;
+    }
+    m_buildingBlocksStock -= cost;
+    ++m_expansionsPurchased;
+    m_buildingSystem->setAsteroidWidth_tiles(currentAsteroidWidth_tiles());
+}
+
 bool Simulation::isGameOver() const
 {
     return m_gameOver;
@@ -1152,17 +1181,6 @@ Tick Simulation::normalGapRemainingTicks() const
     return m_waveSystem->normalGapRemainingTicks();
 }
 
-int Simulation::schematicLevel(const std::string& shipId) const
-{
-    const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator it =
-        m_schematicLevels.find(shipId);
-    if (it == m_schematicLevels.end())
-    {
-        return 0;
-    }
-    return it->second.level;
-}
-
 bool Simulation::isSchematicUnlocked(const std::string& shipId) const
 {
     const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator it =
@@ -1174,17 +1192,6 @@ bool Simulation::isSchematicUnlocked(const std::string& shipId) const
     return it->second.unlocked;
 }
 
-int Simulation::moduleSchematicLevel(const std::string& moduleId) const
-{
-    const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator it =
-        m_moduleSchematicLevels.find(moduleId);
-    if (it == m_moduleSchematicLevels.end())
-    {
-        return 0;
-    }
-    return it->second.level;
-}
-
 bool Simulation::isModuleSchematicUnlocked(const std::string& moduleId) const
 {
     const std::map<std::string, SchematicState>::const_iterator it =

src/lib/sim/Simulation.h

@@ -72,6 +72,12 @@ public:
     // The seed this run was (re)initialized with; written to the replay header.
     unsigned int getSeed()        const;
     int    buildingBlocksStock()  const;
+    // Current asteroid width in tiles = base width + purchased expansions
+    // (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK, REQ-GW-ASTEROID-EXPAND).
+    int    currentAsteroidWidth_tiles() const;
+    // Building block cost of the next expansion, floored to an integer
+    // (REQ-EXP-COST); x = number of expansions already purchased.
+    int    currentExpansionCost()  const;
     bool   isGameOver()           const;
     bool   isWon()                const;
     int    artifactCount()        const;
@@ -83,12 +89,10 @@ public:
     Tick   bossCountdownTicks()         const;
     Tick   normalGapRemainingTicks()    const;
 
-    // Ship schematic state queries.
-    int  schematicLevel(const std::string& shipId)    const;
+    // Ship schematic state query.
     bool isSchematicUnlocked(const std::string& shipId) const;
 
-    // Module schematic state queries.
-    int  moduleSchematicLevel(const std::string& moduleId)    const;
+    // Module schematic state query.
     bool isModuleSchematicUnlocked(const std::string& moduleId) const;
 
     // Implicit recipe/item unlock queries (REQ-LOCK-IMPLICIT).
@@ -138,6 +142,11 @@ private:
     // Clears the pending choices after application.
     void applySchematicChoice(int choiceIndex);
 
+    // Unlocks one asteroid expansion if affordable (REQ-EXP-UNLOCK): checks the
+    // current cost against the stock, deducts it, increments the expansion
+    // counter, and widens the buildable asteroid. No-op if blocks are short.
+    void tryExpandAsteroid();
+
     // Mutable subsystem accessors; same chokepoint rule as the mutators above.
     BuildingSystem&       buildingsMutable();
     BeltSystem&           beltsMutable();
@@ -167,6 +176,7 @@ private:
     Tick     m_nextDepartureTick;
     BuildingId m_nextBuildingId;
     int      m_buildingBlocksStock;
+    int      m_expansionsPurchased = 0;  // REQ-EXP-COST formula variable x
     bool     m_gameOver    = false;
     bool     m_isWon       = false;
     int      m_artifactCount = 0;
@@ -182,7 +192,6 @@ private:
     struct SchematicState
     {
         bool unlocked;
-        int  level;
     };
     std::map<std::string, SchematicState> m_schematicLevels;
     std::map<std::string, SchematicState> m_moduleSchematicLevels;
@@ -218,6 +227,12 @@ private:
     std::set<std::string> getUnlockedShipSchematicIds() const;
     std::set<std::string> getUnlockedModuleSchematicIds() const;
 
+    // True if schematicId names a currently explicitly-unlocked ship, module, or
+    // assembler recipe schematic (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ satisfaction basis).
+    bool isSchematicIdExplicitlyUnlocked(const std::string& schematicId) const;
+    // True if every prerequisite in unlockRequires is explicitly unlocked (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ).
+    bool prerequisitesSatisfied(const std::vector<std::string>& unlockRequires) const;
+
     // Display names (deduplicated, alphabetical) of output items of recipes in
     // hypothetical.recipeIds that are not yet in m_unlockedRecipeIds.
     std::vector<std::string> computeNewlyUnlockedItemNames(const UnlockedSets& hypothetical) const;

src/lib/sim/ThreatCostCalculator.cpp

@@ -1,6 +1,5 @@
 #include "ThreatCostCalculator.h"
 
-#include <limits>
 #include <set>
 
 #include "GameConfig.h"
@@ -31,6 +30,7 @@ double computeMaterialThreat(const ThreatCostTable& table,
     return total;
 }
 
+// Returns true if every input of the recipe has a resolved threat value.
 bool allInputsResolved(const RecipeDef& recipe,
                        const std::map<std::string, double>& resolved)
 {
@@ -44,15 +44,18 @@ bool allInputsResolved(const RecipeDef& recipe,
     return true;
 }
 
-double computeRecipeThreat(const RecipeDef& recipe,
-                           const std::map<std::string, double>& resolved)
+// Computes the raw recipe threat (duration + sum of input threats × amounts),
+// divided by the output amount to get the per-unit threat.
+double computeRecipeThreatPerUnit(const RecipeDef& recipe,
+                                  int outputAmount,
+                                  const std::map<std::string, double>& resolved)
 {
     double threat = recipe.durationSeconds;
     for (const RecipeIngredient& input : recipe.inputs)
     {
         threat += resolved.at(input.item) * input.amount;
     }
-    return threat;
+    return threat / static_cast<double>(outputAmount);
 }
 
 }  // namespace
@@ -62,138 +65,267 @@ ThreatCostTable computeThreatCostTable(const GameConfig& config)
 {
     ThreatCostTable table;
 
-    // Build lookup: output item → non-reprocessing recipes and reprocessing recipes.
-    std::map<std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>> nonReprocessingRecipes;
+    // Scrap threat (REQ-THREAT-SCRAP) is the constant inverse of the scrap-drop
+    // conversion (REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP): one scrap is worth 1 / scrap_per_threat.
+    // Set it up front so reprocessing-only item threats (below) can use it, and so
+    // it no longer depends on any ship's threat cost.
+    table.scrapThreat = config.world.scrapPerThreat > 0.0
+        ? 1.0 / config.world.scrapPerThreat
+        : 0.0;
+
+    // -------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    // Build per-item recipe lookup tables.
+    // -------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+    // Items that have at least one non-reprocessing recipe that does NOT consume
+    // scrap — these items' scrap-consuming recipes are excluded from threat
+    // computation (REQ-THREAT-ITEM: scrap-consuming recipes are a fallback only).
+    std::set<std::string> scrapFreeItems;
+
+    // nonReprocessingRecipes: item → all eligible non-reprocessing (recipe, output)
+    // pairs. Scrap-consuming recipes are collected here temporarily; they are
+    // filtered out per item after we know which items have a scrap-free producer.
+    struct EligiblePair
+    {
+        const RecipeDef* recipe;
+        int outputAmount;
+        bool consumesScrap;
+    };
+    std::map<std::string, std::vector<EligiblePair>> nonReprocessingCandidates;
+
+    // reprocessingRecipes: item → all reprocessing-recipe refs (probability
+    // values are raw from config; we normalize them per-recipe below).
     std::map<std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>> reprocessingRecipes;
 
     for (const RecipeDef& recipe : config.recipes.recipes)
     {
         if (recipe.building == BuildingType::ReprocessingPlant)
         {
+            // Compute the total weight across all outputs of this reprocessing recipe
+            // so we can normalize each output's probability.
+            double totalWeight = 0.0;
+            for (const RecipeOutput& out : recipe.outputs)
+            {
+                totalWeight += out.probability.value_or(1.0);
+            }
+            if (totalWeight <= 0.0)
+            {
+                continue;
+            }
+
             for (const RecipeOutput& out : recipe.outputs)
             {
                 RecipeRef ref;
                 ref.recipe = &recipe;
                 ref.outputItem = out.item;
                 ref.outputAmount = out.amount;
-                ref.probability = out.probability.value_or(1.0);
+                ref.probability = out.probability.value_or(1.0) / totalWeight;
                 reprocessingRecipes[out.item].push_back(ref);
             }
         }
         else
         {
+            // Check whether this non-reprocessing recipe consumes scrap.
+            bool consumesScrap = false;
+            for (const RecipeIngredient& input : recipe.inputs)
+            {
+                if (input.item == "scrap")
+                {
+                    consumesScrap = true;
+                    break;
+                }
+            }
+
             for (const RecipeOutput& out : recipe.outputs)
             {
-                RecipeRef ref;
-                ref.recipe = &recipe;
-                ref.outputItem = out.item;
-                ref.outputAmount = out.amount;
-                ref.probability = 1.0;
-                nonReprocessingRecipes[out.item].push_back(ref);
+                if (!consumesScrap)
+                {
+                    scrapFreeItems.insert(out.item);
+                }
+
+                EligiblePair pair;
+                pair.recipe = &recipe;
+                pair.outputAmount = out.amount;
+                pair.consumesScrap = consumesScrap;
+                nonReprocessingCandidates[out.item].push_back(pair);
             }
         }
     }
 
-    // Collect all item names that need resolving.
-    std::set<std::string> unresolved;
-    for (const std::pair<const std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>>& entry : nonReprocessingRecipes)
+    // Filter nonReprocessingCandidates: for items that have at least one
+    // scrap-free producer, drop their scrap-consuming recipes.
+    // Build the final per-item list of (recipe, outputAmount) pairs eligible
+    // for the max-across-recipes rule (REQ-THREAT-ITEM).
+    std::map<std::string, std::vector<std::pair<const RecipeDef*, int>>> eligibleRecipes;
+    for (std::map<std::string, std::vector<EligiblePair>>::const_iterator it =
+             nonReprocessingCandidates.begin();
+         it != nonReprocessingCandidates.end();
+         ++it)
     {
-        unresolved.insert(entry.first);
-    }
-    for (const std::pair<const std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>>& entry : reprocessingRecipes)
-    {
-        unresolved.insert(entry.first);
+        const std::string& item = it->first;
+        const std::vector<EligiblePair>& candidates = it->second;
+        bool hasScrapFree = (scrapFreeItems.find(item) != scrapFreeItems.end());
+
+        for (const EligiblePair& candidate : candidates)
+        {
+            if (candidate.consumesScrap && hasScrapFree)
+            {
+                // Scrap-consuming recipe excluded: item has a scrap-free producer.
+                continue;
+            }
+            eligibleRecipes[item].emplace_back(candidate.recipe, candidate.outputAmount);
+        }
     }
 
-    // Iteratively resolve non-reprocessing items.
-    bool progress = true;
-    while (progress)
+    // -------------------------------------------------------------------------
+    // Resolution: seed resolved map with scrap, then alternate the
+    // non-reprocessing pass and the reprocessing pass to a fixpoint.
+    // Fix (8): iterate until neither pass makes progress, rather than running
+    // the reprocessing pass once at the end.
+    // -------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+    std::map<std::string, double>& resolved = table.itemThreat;
+    resolved["scrap"] = table.scrapThreat;
+
+    // Non-reprocessing resolution pass.
+    // Fix (9): commit an item only when EVERY eligible recipe for it is
+    // computable, not just the first one that resolves. This ensures a shallow
+    // shortcut recipe cannot undercut a deeper base recipe by resolving earlier.
+    auto runNonReprocessingPass = [&](bool requireAllRecipes) -> bool
     {
-        progress = false;
-        std::set<std::string> newlyResolved;
-        for (const std::string& item : unresolved)
+        bool progress = false;
+        std::map<std::string, double> newValues;
+
+        for (std::map<std::string, std::vector<std::pair<const RecipeDef*, int>>>::const_iterator
+                 it = eligibleRecipes.begin();
+             it != eligibleRecipes.end();
+             ++it)
         {
-            std::map<std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>>::const_iterator it =
-                nonReprocessingRecipes.find(item);
-            if (it == nonReprocessingRecipes.end())
+            const std::string& item = it->first;
+            if (resolved.find(item) != resolved.end())
             {
                 continue;
             }
 
+            const std::vector<std::pair<const RecipeDef*, int>>& pairs = it->second;
+
+            bool allComputable = true;
             double maxThreat = -1.0;
-            for (const RecipeRef& ref : it->second)
+            for (const std::pair<const RecipeDef*, int>& pair : pairs)
             {
-                if (allInputsResolved(*ref.recipe, table.itemThreat))
+                if (!allInputsResolved(*pair.first, resolved))
                 {
-                    double threat = computeRecipeThreat(*ref.recipe, table.itemThreat);
-                    if (threat > maxThreat)
+                    allComputable = false;
+                    if (requireAllRecipes)
                     {
-                        maxThreat = threat;
+                        break;
                     }
+                    // In fallback mode: skip this recipe but continue gathering
+                    // the computable subset.
+                    continue;
+                }
+                double threat = computeRecipeThreatPerUnit(*pair.first, pair.second, resolved);
+                if (threat > maxThreat)
+                {
+                    maxThreat = threat;
                 }
             }
 
+            if (requireAllRecipes && !allComputable)
+            {
+                continue;
+            }
             if (maxThreat >= 0.0)
             {
-                table.itemThreat[item] = maxThreat;
-                newlyResolved.insert(item);
-                progress = true;
+                newValues[item] = maxThreat;
             }
         }
-        for (const std::string& item : newlyResolved)
+
+        for (std::map<std::string, double>::const_iterator it = newValues.begin();
+             it != newValues.end();
+             ++it)
         {
-            unresolved.erase(item);
+            resolved[it->first] = it->second;
+            progress = true;
         }
-    }
+        return progress;
+    };
 
-    // Compute scrap threat (REQ-THREAT-SCRAP): find the ship with the smallest
-    // scrap_drop and use its threat cost.
-    int minScrapDrop = std::numeric_limits<int>::max();
-    const ShipDef* cheapestScrapShip = nullptr;
-    for (const ShipDef& def : config.ships.ships)
+    // Reprocessing pass: resolve items produced exclusively by reprocessing.
+    // Items that also have a non-reprocessing recipe are skipped here (they are
+    // covered by the non-reprocessing pass or do not need the reprocessing path).
+    auto runReprocessingPass = [&]() -> bool
     {
-        if (def.loot.scrapDrop > 0 && def.loot.scrapDrop < minScrapDrop)
+        bool progress = false;
+        for (std::map<std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>>::const_iterator it =
+                 reprocessingRecipes.begin();
+             it != reprocessingRecipes.end();
+             ++it)
         {
-            minScrapDrop = def.loot.scrapDrop;
-            cheapestScrapShip = &def;
-        }
-    }
-
-    if (cheapestScrapShip != nullptr)
-    {
-        double shipThreat = calculateShipThreatCost(table, config,
-            cheapestScrapShip->id, cheapestScrapShip->defaultModules);
-        table.scrapThreat = shipThreat / minScrapDrop;
-    }
-
-    // Resolve reprocessing-only items.
-    for (const std::string& item : unresolved)
-    {
-        std::map<std::string, std::vector<RecipeRef>>::const_iterator it =
-            reprocessingRecipes.find(item);
-        if (it == reprocessingRecipes.end())
-        {
-            continue;
-        }
-
-        for (const RecipeRef& ref : it->second)
-        {
-            int scrapPerCycle = 0;
-            for (const RecipeIngredient& input : ref.recipe->inputs)
+            const std::string& item = it->first;
+            if (resolved.find(item) != resolved.end())
             {
-                scrapPerCycle += input.amount;
+                continue;
+            }
+            // Reprocessing defines an item's threat only when nothing else
+            // produces it (REQ-THREAT-ITEM).
+            if (scrapFreeItems.find(item) != scrapFreeItems.end())
+            {
+                continue;
+            }
+            // Also skip items covered by eligible (non-reprocessing) recipes.
+            if (eligibleRecipes.find(item) != eligibleRecipes.end())
+            {
+                continue;
             }
 
-            double threat = (table.scrapThreat * scrapPerCycle
-                             + ref.recipe->durationSeconds) / ref.probability;
-            std::map<std::string, double>::iterator existing = table.itemThreat.find(item);
-            if (existing == table.itemThreat.end() || threat > existing->second)
+            for (const RecipeRef& ref : it->second)
             {
-                table.itemThreat[item] = threat;
+                // Sum all scrap inputs for this reprocessing recipe.
+                int scrapPerCycle = 0;
+                for (const RecipeIngredient& input : ref.recipe->inputs)
+                {
+                    scrapPerCycle += input.amount;
+                }
+
+                double threat = (table.scrapThreat * scrapPerCycle
+                                 + ref.recipe->durationSeconds) / ref.probability;
+
+                std::map<std::string, double>::iterator existing = resolved.find(item);
+                if (existing == resolved.end() || threat > existing->second)
+                {
+                    resolved[item] = threat;
+                    progress = true;
+                }
             }
         }
+        return progress;
+    };
+
+    // Main fixpoint loop: alternate non-reprocessing and reprocessing passes
+    // until neither makes any progress (fix 8).
+    bool anyProgress = true;
+    while (anyProgress)
+    {
+        anyProgress = runNonReprocessingPass(true);
+        anyProgress = runReprocessingPass() || anyProgress;
     }
 
+    // Deadlock fallback: if any items remain unresolved due to recipe cycles,
+    // fall back to committing with the max over the currently computable subset
+    // of recipes (fix 9, deadlock guard — same approach as threat_report.py's
+    // require_all_recipes=False mode).
+    anyProgress = true;
+    while (anyProgress)
+    {
+        anyProgress = runNonReprocessingPass(false);
+        anyProgress = runReprocessingPass() || anyProgress;
+    }
+
+    // Remove the sentinel scrap entry — scrapThreat is already stored on the
+    // table struct; having it in itemThreat would confuse callers iterating items.
+    resolved.erase("scrap");
+
     return table;
 }
 

src/lib/sim/WaveSystem.cpp

@@ -55,7 +55,7 @@ void WaveSystem::tickWaveScheduler(Tick currentTick, ShipSystem& ships,
         {
             if (currentTick >= entry.spawnAt)
             {
-                ships.spawn(entry.schematicId, entry.level, entry.position,
+                ships.spawn(entry.schematicId, entry.position,
                             /*isEnemy=*/true, entry.layout);
             }
             else
@@ -174,11 +174,7 @@ std::vector<WaveSystem::SpawnEntry> WaveSystem::selectWaveShips(double& budget,
                                                                   Tick currentTick,
                                                                   int worldHeightTiles)
 {
-    const int shipLevel = std::max(1, static_cast<int>(
-        m_config.world.waves.shipLevelFormula.evaluate(
-            static_cast<double>(m_bossWaveCounter))));
-
-    // Build eligible ship list with their costs at the current level.
+    // Build eligible ship list with their (level-independent) threat costs.
     struct EligibleShip
     {
         std::string               schematicId;
@@ -242,7 +238,6 @@ std::vector<WaveSystem::SpawnEntry> WaveSystem::selectWaveShips(double& budget,
 
         SpawnEntry entry;
         entry.schematicId          = chosen.schematicId;
-        entry.level                = shipLevel;
         entry.spawnAt              = 0;  // set below after all picks are done
         entry.position             = QVector2D(xDist(m_rng),
                                                static_cast<float>(yDist(m_rng)) + 0.5f);

src/lib/sim/WaveSystem.h

@@ -59,7 +59,6 @@ private:
     struct SpawnEntry
     {
         std::string       schematicId;
-        int               level;
         Tick              spawnAt;
         QVector2D         position;
         ShipLayoutConfig  layout;

src/test/BehaviorSystemTest.cpp

@@ -238,7 +238,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: clearMovementIntents resets all ships to inactive",
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.admin.get<MovementIntentComponent>(e) = MovementIntentComponent{true, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f)};
     f.ships.clearMovementIntents();
@@ -254,7 +254,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: tickMovement advances ship by maxSpeed_tpt toward tar
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float speed = f.admin.get<DynamicBodyComponent>(e).maxSpeed_tpt;
     f.admin.get<MovementIntentComponent>(e) = MovementIntentComponent{true, QVector2D(100.0f, 0.0f)};
@@ -269,7 +269,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: tickMovement stops exactly at target without overshoo
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float speed = f.admin.get<DynamicBodyComponent>(e).maxSpeed_tpt;
     const QVector2D target(speed * 0.5f, 0.0f);
@@ -288,7 +288,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: tickMovement stops exactly at target without overshoo
 TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: healthy player ship does not retreat", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).maxHp;  // full HP
 
     f.decide();
@@ -301,7 +301,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: low-HP player ship retreats toward the rally point",
     Fixture f;
     const QVector2D rallyPoint(-50.0f, 0.0f);
     f.ships.setRallyPoint(rallyPoint);
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).maxHp * 0.2f;  // below threshold
 
     f.decide();
@@ -316,8 +316,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: low-HP retreat outranks attacking a nearby enemy", "[
     Fixture f;
     const QVector2D rallyPoint(-50.0f, 0.0f);
     f.ships.setRallyPoint(rallyPoint);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).maxHp * 0.1f;
 
     f.decide();
@@ -329,7 +329,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: low-HP retreat outranks attacking a nearby enemy", "[
 TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: enemy ships never retreat even at low HP", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              /*isEnemy=*/true);
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(enemy).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(enemy).maxHp * 0.05f;
 
@@ -347,8 +347,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: player combat ship acquires nearest enemy ship in ran
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
                                                /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -364,8 +364,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: player combat ship does not target friendly ships",
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e1 = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f));  // also player
+    const entt::entity e1 = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f));  // also player
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -378,8 +378,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: player combat ship ignores enemy beyond engagement ra
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(500.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(500.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -398,10 +398,10 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: overclaim penalty steers a ship off a claimed target"
     SECTION("no claim: the nearer enemy is chosen")
     {
         Fixture f;
-        const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-        const entt::entity nearEnemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(8.0f, 0.0f),
+        const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+        const entt::entity nearEnemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(8.0f, 0.0f),
                                                      /*isEnemy=*/true);
-        f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 12.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+        f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 12.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
         f.decide();
 
@@ -412,15 +412,15 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: overclaim penalty steers a ship off a claimed target"
     {
         const float d = 10.0f;
         Fixture f;
-        const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-        const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
+        const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+        const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
                                                   /*isEnemy=*/true);
-        const entt::entity enemyB = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, d),
+        const entt::entity enemyB = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, d),
                                                   /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
         // A second player ship already commits to enemyA, registering a claim, so
         // the penalised score of enemyA falls below the unclaimed equidistant enemyB.
-        const entt::entity claimant = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(d, 1.0f));
+        const entt::entity claimant = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(d, 1.0f));
         f.admin.get<AttackBehavior>(claimant).currentTarget = enemyA;
 
         f.decide();
@@ -437,10 +437,10 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: hysteresis keeps a ship on its own claimed target",
 {
     const float d = 10.0f;
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/true);
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, d), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, d), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     // The ship already holds enemyA; enemyB is equidistant. Without self-exclusion
     // the ship's own claim would penalise enemyA and flip the choice.
@@ -459,10 +459,10 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: a ship switches off a heavily overclaimed target",
 {
     const float d = 10.0f;
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemyA = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(d, 0.0f),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/true);
-    const entt::entity enemyB = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, d),
+    const entt::entity enemyB = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, d),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.admin.get<AttackBehavior>(player).currentTarget = enemyA;
@@ -471,7 +471,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: a ship switches off a heavily overclaimed target",
     for (int i = 0; i < 5; ++i)
     {
         const entt::entity other =
-            f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(d, static_cast<float>(2 + i)));
+            f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(d, static_cast<float>(2 + i)));
         f.admin.get<AttackBehavior>(other).currentTarget = enemyA;
     }
 
@@ -488,8 +488,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: enemy ship acquires nearest player ship in range",
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
                                                /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -505,7 +505,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: enemy ship with no target advances leftward",
           "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(100.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(100.0f, 0.0f),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -526,7 +526,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: advancing ship targets center between enemy defence s
     f.admin.spawnStation(QPoint(1000, 10), QSize(1, 1), body, 100.0f, 100.0f, /*isEnemy=*/true);
     f.admin.spawnStation(QPoint(1000, 30), QSize(1, 1), body, 100.0f, 100.0f, /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/false);
     // Player ships rally until departure; drop Rally so Advance is the fallback.
     f.ships.triggerRallyDeparture();
@@ -549,7 +549,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: advancing ship falls back to enemy HQ, then off-world
     const QVector2D hqPos(5.0f, 7.0f);
     const entt::entity hq = f.admin.spawnHqProxy(hqPos, 100.0f, 100.0f);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(1000.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(1000.0f, 0.0f),
                                              /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -576,9 +576,9 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: repair ship orbits damaged friendly ship",
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).maxHp * 0.5f;
 
@@ -605,10 +605,10 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: idle repair ship stands by with the fleet instead of
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
     // A healthy ally (nothing to repair) and a far enemy station (no threat in range).
-    const entt::entity ally = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(50.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity ally = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(50.0f, 0.0f));
     const std::vector<QPoint> body{QPoint(0, 0)};
     f.admin.spawnStation(QPoint(1000, 0), QSize(1, 1), body, 100.0f, 100.0f, /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
@@ -628,8 +628,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: repair ship heals damaged ally within repair range",
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, repairLayout);
+    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float initialHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).maxHp * 0.5f;
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).hp = initialHp;
@@ -644,8 +644,8 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: repair ship does not heal above maxHp", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity friendly = f.ships.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, repairLayout);
+    const entt::entity friendly = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).maxHp - 0.001f;
 
@@ -666,9 +666,9 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: tool heals the in-range damaged target chosen by the ex
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float initHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).maxHp * 0.5f;
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).hp = initHp;
@@ -688,12 +688,12 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: tool falls back to in-range target when its target is o
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
     // out of repair range (80) but in sensor range (200)
-    const entt::entity outOfRange = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(90.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity outOfRange = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(90.0f, 0.0f));
     // within repair range
-    const entt::entity fallback   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(20.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity fallback   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(20.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float outInitHp      = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(outOfRange).maxHp * 0.5f;
     const float fallbackInitHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(fallback).maxHp  * 0.5f;
@@ -717,10 +717,10 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: tool falls back when its target is fully healed",
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity healed   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity fallback = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(15.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity healed   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity fallback = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(15.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(healed).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(healed).maxHp;
     const float fallbackInitHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(fallback).maxHp * 0.5f;
@@ -740,10 +740,10 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: tool falls back when its target is destroyed",
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity gone     = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity fallback = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(15.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity gone     = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity fallback = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(15.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float fallbackInitHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(fallback).maxHp * 0.5f;
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(fallback).hp = fallbackInitHp;
@@ -763,10 +763,10 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: tool target is cleared when no repairable target is in
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
     // damaged but beyond repair range (80)
-    const entt::entity outOfRange = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(150.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity outOfRange = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(150.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float initHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(outOfRange).maxHp * 0.5f;
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(outOfRange).hp = initHp;
@@ -785,9 +785,9 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: two repair modules both heal the chosen target additive
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeTwoModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity targetA    = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity targetA    = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
 
     const float initHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(targetA).maxHp * 0.5f;
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(targetA).hp = initHp;
@@ -813,10 +813,10 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: two modules both fall back and heal the same target",
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeTwoModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity healed   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity targetB  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(20.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity healed   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity targetB  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(20.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(healed).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(healed).maxHp;
     const float initHp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(targetB).maxHp * 0.5f;
@@ -847,7 +847,7 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: does not crash when a tool's owner is not a repair ship
     Fixture f;
 
     // Bare child entity: RepairToolComponent + ModuleOwnerComponent, owner is a combat ship.
-    const entt::entity ownerShip = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity ownerShip = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     const entt::entity moduleEntity = f.admin.createModuleEntity();
     RepairToolComponent rt;
     rt.repairAmountHp         = 1.0f;
@@ -868,7 +868,7 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: repair tool does not repair an HQ", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
 
     // A damaged, same-faction HQ in repair range — spawned as a station and tagged
@@ -890,7 +890,7 @@ TEST_CASE("RepairSystem: repair tool still repairs a damaged defence station", "
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
 
     // A damaged, same-faction defence station (no HQ tag) in repair range.
@@ -914,7 +914,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: salvage ship orbits nearest scrap", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
 
     const QVector2D scrapPos(100.0f, 0.0f);
@@ -937,7 +937,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: salvage ship collects scrap on arrival", "[behavior]"
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship       = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship       = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, salvageLayout);
     const entt::entity scrapEntity = f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -967,7 +967,7 @@ TEST_CASE("BehaviorSystem: full-cargo salvage ship moves toward SalvageBay", "[b
     REQUIRE(f.buildings.findBuilding(bayId) != nullptr);
 
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(5.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     {
         REQUIRE(f.admin.isValid(firstSalvageChild(f.admin, ship)));
@@ -1001,7 +1001,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: module does not collect scrap beyond its collection r
     // collection_range_m_formula = "50"; scrap at distance 55 must not be collected.
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(55.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -1016,7 +1016,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: module collects scrap within its collection range",
     // collection_range_m_formula = "50"; scrap at distance 45 must be collected.
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(45.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -1033,7 +1033,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: collection sets cooldown on module", "[behavior]")
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -1051,7 +1051,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: module on cooldown does not collect scrap", "[behavio
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -1066,7 +1066,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: module collects again after cooldown expires", "[beha
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     const entt::entity sc = firstSalvageChild(f.admin, ship);
 
@@ -1093,7 +1093,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: two salvage modules collect independently in same tic
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeTwoModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
 
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
@@ -1110,7 +1110,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: second salvage module does not collect when first is
     // One module on cooldown, one ready: only the ready module collects.
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeTwoModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
 
     // Put the first salvage child on cooldown.
@@ -1141,7 +1141,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SalvagerSystem: second salvage module does not collect when first is
 TEST_CASE("SensorRange: sensorRange is populated from config formula at spawn", "[sensor]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     REQUIRE(f.admin.get<SensorRangeComponent>(e).value_tiles == Approx(200.0f));
 }
 
@@ -1152,8 +1152,8 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: sensorRange is populated from config formula at spawn",
 TEST_CASE("SensorRange: player combat ship acquires enemy just inside sensor range", "[sensor]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(190.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(190.0f, 0.0f),
                                                /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -1164,8 +1164,8 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: player combat ship acquires enemy just inside sensor ran
 TEST_CASE("SensorRange: player combat ship ignores enemy just outside sensor range", "[sensor]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(210.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(210.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -1175,8 +1175,8 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: player combat ship ignores enemy just outside sensor ran
 TEST_CASE("SensorRange: enemy ship ignores player just outside sensor range", "[sensor]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(210.0f, 0.0f),
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(210.0f, 0.0f),
                                               /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -1194,9 +1194,9 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: repair ship retreats from enemy within sensor range", "[
     const QVector2D rallyPoint(-100.0f, 0.0f);
     f.ships.setRallyPoint(rallyPoint);
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(200.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(200.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -1208,9 +1208,9 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: repair ship does not retreat from enemy beyond sensor ra
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(300.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(300.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -1225,9 +1225,9 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: repair ship does not acquire damaged ally beyond sensor
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig repairLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship",  1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity repairShip = f.ships.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                                    false, repairLayout);
-    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(300.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity friendly   = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(300.0f, 0.0f));
     f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).hp = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(friendly).maxHp * 0.5f;
 
     f.decide();
@@ -1243,7 +1243,7 @@ TEST_CASE("SensorRange: salvage ship ignores scrap beyond sensor range", "[senso
 {
     Fixture f;
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity ship = f.ships.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f),
                                              false, salvageLayout);
     f.scraps.spawn(QVector2D(300.0f, 0.0f), 1, 100000);
 
@@ -1261,8 +1261,8 @@ TEST_CASE("Orbit: combat ship's intent carries the target center and orbit radiu
           "[orbit]")
 {
     Fixture f;
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(10.0f, 0.0f),
                                                /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     f.decide();
@@ -1282,7 +1282,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Orbit: rally ship orbits the rally point at the configured rally radi
     Fixture f;
     const QVector2D rallyPoint(-50.0f, 0.0f);
     f.ships.setRallyPoint(rallyPoint);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     f.decide();
 
@@ -1298,8 +1298,8 @@ TEST_CASE("Orbit: combat ship settles near the orbit radius and circles a statio
 {
     Fixture f;
     const QVector2D enemyPos(80.0f, 0.0f);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", 1, enemyPos, /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn("interceptor", enemyPos, /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     const float orbitRadius = f.admin.get<AttackBehavior>(player).orbitRadius_tiles;
     REQUIRE(orbitRadius > 0.0f);

src/test/CMakeLists.txt

@@ -21,6 +21,7 @@ add_files(
     ShipModuleTest.cpp
     ThreatCostCalculatorTest.cpp
     RecipeSchematicTest.cpp
+    UnlockPrereqTest.cpp
     ArtifactWinConditionTest.cpp
     DeterminismTest.cpp
     CommandTest.cpp

src/test/CombatSystemTest.cpp

@@ -14,6 +14,7 @@
 #include "HealthComponent.h"
 #include "HqProxyComponent.h"
 #include "ModuleOwnerComponent.h"
+#include "ScrapDataComponent.h"
 #include "ScrapSystem.h"
 #include "ShipSystem.h"
 #include "Simulation.h"
@@ -106,8 +107,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: ship fires when cooldown=0 and target in range", "[comb
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     const float hpBefore = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).hp;
@@ -126,8 +127,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: cooldown prevents firing before it expires", "[combat]"
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
 
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
     {
@@ -162,8 +163,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: no fire when target is out of range", "[combat]")
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(0.0f,   0.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(500.0f, 0.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(0.0f,   0.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(500.0f, 0.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     std::vector<BeamFiredEvent> events;
@@ -199,7 +200,7 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: player station fires at enemy ship in range", "[combat]
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
     const entt::entity enemyShip = sim.ships().spawn(
-        combatDef->id, 1,
+        combatDef->id,
         QVector2D(stationCenter.x() + 1.0f, stationCenter.y()),
         /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
@@ -237,7 +238,7 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: enemy station fires at player ship in range", "[combat]
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
     sim.ships().spawn(
-        combatDef->id, 1,
+        combatDef->id,
         QVector2D(stationCenter.x() - 1.0f, stationCenter.y()),
         /*isEnemy=*/false);
 
@@ -275,7 +276,7 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: player ship fires at enemy station in range", "[combat]
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
     const entt::entity playerShip = sim.ships().spawn(
-        combatDef->id, 1,
+        combatDef->id,
         QVector2D(stationCenter.x() - 1.0f, stationCenter.y()),
         /*isEnemy=*/false);
 
@@ -303,8 +304,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: damage not applied before impact tick", "[combat]")
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     const float hpBefore = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).hp;
@@ -325,8 +326,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: damage applied exactly at impact tick", "[combat]")
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     const float hpBefore = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).hp;
@@ -344,8 +345,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: damage silently dropped if target already dead", "[comb
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     std::vector<BeamFiredEvent> events;
@@ -365,8 +366,8 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: damage still applied if shooter already dead", "[combat
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(f.cfg);
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
-    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, 1, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
+    const entt::entity enemy  = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), true);
+    const entt::entity player = f.ships.spawn(combatDef->id, QVector2D(4.0f, 5.0f), false);
     f.wireEnemyTarget(enemy, player);
 
     const float hpBefore = f.admin.get<HealthComponent>(player).hp;
@@ -392,7 +393,7 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: dead ship is removed after tick step 9", "[combat]")
     const ShipDef* combatDef = findCombatShip(sim.config());
     REQUIRE(combatDef != nullptr);
 
-    const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn(combatDef->id, 1,
+    const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn(combatDef->id,
         QVector2D(10.0f, 10.0f));
 
     sim.admin().get<HealthComponent>(ship).hp = -1.0f;
@@ -406,24 +407,19 @@ TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: scrap is spawned on ship death", "[combat]")
 {
     Simulation sim(loadConfig(), 42);
 
-    const ShipDef* droppingDef = nullptr;
-    for (const ShipDef& def : sim.config().ships.ships)
-    {
-        if (def.loot.scrapDrop > 0)
-        {
-            droppingDef = &def;
-            break;
-        }
-    }
-    REQUIRE(droppingDef != nullptr);
-
-    const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn(droppingDef->id, 1,
+    // Scrap dropped on death is derived from the ship's as-built threat cost
+    // (REQ-RES-SCRAP-DROP): round(threat * scrap_per_threat). The interceptor's
+    // threat is 59.0 and the test config sets scrap_per_threat = 1.0, so it drops
+    // round(59.0 * 1.0) = 59 scrap.
+    const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
         QVector2D(10.0f, 10.0f));
     sim.admin().get<HealthComponent>(ship).hp = -1.0f;
 
     sim.tick();
 
-    REQUIRE(!sim.scraps().allScrapInfo().empty());
+    const std::vector<ScrapInfo> scraps = sim.scraps().allScrapInfo();
+    REQUIRE(scraps.size() == 1);
+    CHECK(sim.admin().get<ScrapDataComponent>(scraps[0].entity).amount == 59);
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("CombatSystem: HQ death sets game over", "[combat]")

src/test/ConfigLoaderTest.cpp

@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@
 #include <stdexcept>
 #include <string>
 #include <system_error>
+#include <vector>
 
 #include "BuildingType.h"
 #include "ConfigLoader.h"
@@ -75,9 +76,12 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader loads the committed bin/config/ configs end-to-end", "[c
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.regions.playerBufferWidth_tiles == 10);
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.regions.enemyBufferWidth_tiles == 15);
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.expansion.columnsPerExpansion_tiles == 10);
+    REQUIRE(cfg.world.expansion.costBuildingBlocksFormula.evaluate(0) == Approx(400.0));
+    REQUIRE(cfg.world.expansion.costBuildingBlocksFormula.evaluate(1) == Approx(800.0));
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.push.bossAdvanceSeconds == Approx(60.0));
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.orbitFactor == Approx(0.8));
     REQUIRE(cfg.world.rallyOrbitRadius_tiles == Approx(5.0));
+    REQUIRE(cfg.world.scrapPerThreat == Approx(1.0));
 
     // Spot-check that a config-derived formula computes as expected.
     // threat_rate_formula = "x": evaluates to the input value.
@@ -167,6 +171,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Missing field in world.toml is rejected with the field path", "[confi
 height_tiles = 60
 refund_percentage = 75
 scrap_despawn_seconds = 30
+scrap_per_threat = 0.01
 tile_size_m = 10
 belt_speed_mps = 20
 starting_building_blocks = 100
@@ -183,7 +188,7 @@ contest_zone_width_tiles = 30
 
 [expansion]
 columns_per_expansion_tiles = 10
-cost_building_blocks = 200
+cost_building_blocks_formula = "400 * 2^x"
 
 [push]
 push_expand_columns_tiles = 20
@@ -217,6 +222,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Malformed formula in world.toml is rejected with field identification
 height_tiles = 60
 refund_percentage = 75
 scrap_despawn_seconds = 30
+scrap_per_threat = 0.01
 tile_size_m = 10
 belt_speed_mps = 20
 starting_building_blocks = 100
@@ -233,7 +239,7 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
 
 [expansion]
 columns_per_expansion_tiles = 10
-cost_building_blocks = 200
+cost_building_blocks_formula = "400 * 2^x"
 
 [push]
 push_expand_columns_tiles = 20
@@ -268,6 +274,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Inverted wave gap range is rejected", "[config]")
 height_tiles = 60
 refund_percentage = 75
 scrap_despawn_seconds = 30
+scrap_per_threat = 0.01
 tile_size_m = 10
 belt_speed_mps = 20
 
@@ -279,7 +286,7 @@ enemy_buffer_width_tiles = 15
 
 [expansion]
 columns_per_expansion_tiles = 10
-cost_building_blocks = 200
+cost_building_blocks_formula = "400 * 2^x"
 
 [push]
 push_expand_columns_tiles = 20
@@ -339,3 +346,151 @@ duration_seconds = 1.0
         std::runtime_error);
 }
 
+// --- unlock_requires (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ) ------------------------------------
+
+namespace
+{
+
+// Copies every regular file from CONFIG_DIR into dir, giving tests a full,
+// valid config set they can then perturb before calling loadFromDirectory.
+void copyConfigInto(const std::filesystem::path& dir)
+{
+    for (const std::filesystem::directory_entry& entry :
+         std::filesystem::directory_iterator(std::string(CONFIG_DIR)))
+    {
+        if (entry.is_regular_file())
+        {
+            std::filesystem::copy_file(entry.path(), dir / entry.path().filename());
+        }
+    }
+}
+
+} // namespace
+
+TEST_CASE("unlock_requires parses into a ship def", "[config]")
+{
+    TempConfigDir dir;
+    writeFile(dir.path() / "ships.toml", R"(
+[[ship]]
+id = "alpha"
+unlock_at_station_level = 1
+unlock_requires = ["beta", "gamma"]
+layout = ["O"]
+[ship.schematic]
+materials = []
+production_time_seconds = 5
+[ship.health]
+hp = 10
+[ship.movement]
+speed_mps = 1
+main_acceleration_mpss = 1
+maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 1
+angular_acceleration_radpss = 1
+max_rotation_speed_radps = 1
+[ship.sensor]
+sensor_range_m = 10
+)");
+
+    const ShipsConfig cfg = ConfigLoader::loadShips((dir.path() / "ships.toml").string());
+    REQUIRE(cfg.ships.size() == 1);
+    CHECK(cfg.ships[0].unlockRequires == std::vector<std::string>{"beta", "gamma"});
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("unlock_requires parses into a module def", "[config]")
+{
+    TempConfigDir dir;
+    writeFile(dir.path() / "modules.toml", R"(
+[[module]]
+id = "m1"
+unlock_at_station_level = 0
+unlock_requires = ["dep"]
+surface_mask = ["O"]
+materials = [{item = "iron_ingot", amount = 1}]
+production_time_seconds = 1
+fill_color = "#ffffff"
+glyph = "M"
+)");
+
+    const ModulesConfig cfg = ConfigLoader::loadModules((dir.path() / "modules.toml").string());
+    REQUIRE(cfg.modules.size() == 1);
+    CHECK(cfg.modules[0].unlockRequires == std::vector<std::string>{"dep"});
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("unlock_requires parses only for assembler recipes", "[config]")
+{
+    TempConfigDir dir;
+    writeFile(dir.path() / "recipes.toml", R"(
+[[recipe]]
+id = "gated_asm"
+building = "assembler"
+unlock_at_station_level = 1
+unlock_requires = ["prereq_recipe"]
+inputs = []
+outputs = [{item = "foo", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+
+[[recipe]]
+id = "a_miner"
+building = "miner"
+unlock_requires = ["ignored"]
+inputs = []
+outputs = [{item = "ore", amount = 1}]
+duration_seconds = 1.0
+)");
+
+    const RecipesConfig cfg = ConfigLoader::loadRecipes((dir.path() / "recipes.toml").string());
+    REQUIRE(cfg.recipes.size() == 2);
+    CHECK(cfg.recipes[0].unlockRequires == std::vector<std::string>{"prereq_recipe"});
+    // The field is only consumed for assembler recipe schematics; a miner recipe
+    // leaves it unparsed (empty).
+    CHECK(cfg.recipes[1].unlockRequires.empty());
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("unlock_requires referencing an unknown schematic is rejected at load", "[config]")
+{
+    TempConfigDir dir;
+    copyConfigInto(dir.path());
+
+    std::ofstream out((dir.path() / "recipes.toml").string(), std::ios::app);
+    out << "\n[[recipe]]\n"
+           "id = \"gated_bogus\"\n"
+           "building = \"assembler\"\n"
+           "unlock_at_station_level = 1\n"
+           "unlock_requires = [\"___does_not_exist___\"]\n"
+           "inputs = []\n"
+           "outputs = [{item = \"circuit_board\", amount = 1}]\n"
+           "duration_seconds = 1.0\n";
+    out.close();
+
+    try
+    {
+        ConfigLoader::loadFromDirectory(dir.path().string());
+        FAIL("Expected exception");
+    }
+    catch (const std::runtime_error& e)
+    {
+        const std::string msg = e.what();
+        REQUIRE(msg.find("___does_not_exist___") != std::string::npos);
+    }
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("unlock_requires referencing a real schematic loads without error", "[config]")
+{
+    TempConfigDir dir;
+    copyConfigInto(dir.path());
+
+    // "interceptor" is a ship schematic in the test config — a valid prerequisite.
+    std::ofstream out((dir.path() / "recipes.toml").string(), std::ios::app);
+    out << "\n[[recipe]]\n"
+           "id = \"gated_ok\"\n"
+           "building = \"assembler\"\n"
+           "unlock_at_station_level = 1\n"
+           "unlock_requires = [\"interceptor\"]\n"
+           "inputs = []\n"
+           "outputs = [{item = \"circuit_board\", amount = 1}]\n"
+           "duration_seconds = 1.0\n";
+    out.close();
+
+    REQUIRE_NOTHROW(ConfigLoader::loadFromDirectory(dir.path().string()));
+}
+

src/test/ModuleConfigTest.cpp

@@ -38,14 +38,13 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: loadModules parses modules.toml", "[config][modules]")
     CHECK(armor.materials.size() == 1);
     CHECK(armor.materials[0].item == "iron_ingot");
     CHECK(armor.materials[0].amount == 2);
-    CHECK(armor.playerProductionLevel == 1);
     CHECK(armor.productionTimeSeconds == Approx(3.0));
     CHECK(armor.fillColor == "#808080");
     CHECK(armor.glyph == "A");
     REQUIRE(armor.statModifiers.size() == 1);
     CHECK(armor.statModifiers[0].stat == "hp");
     CHECK(armor.statModifiers[0].modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(armor.statModifiers[0].formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(1.5));
+    CHECK(armor.statModifiers[0].value == Approx(1.5));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: loadModules parses additive modifiers", "[config][modules]")
@@ -58,7 +57,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: loadModules parses additive modifiers", "[config][modul
     REQUIRE(sensor.statModifiers.size() == 1);
     CHECK(sensor.statModifiers[0].stat == "sensor_range");
     CHECK(sensor.statModifiers[0].modifierType == "additive");
-    CHECK(sensor.statModifiers[0].formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(100.0));
+    CHECK(sensor.statModifiers[0].value == Approx(100.0));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: multiplicative modifier with unit suffix is parsed (weapon_primer)", "[config][modules]")
@@ -70,7 +69,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: multiplicative modifier with unit suffix is parsed (wea
     const ModuleStatModifier* sm = findModifier(*primer, "attack_rate");
     REQUIRE(sm != nullptr);
     CHECK(sm->modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(sm->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(1.2));
+    CHECK(sm->value == Approx(1.2));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: weapon_stabilizer parses two multiplicative weapon modifiers", "[config][modules]")
@@ -83,12 +82,12 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: weapon_stabilizer parses two multiplicative weapon modi
     const ModuleStatModifier* rangeMod = findModifier(*stab, "attack_range");
     REQUIRE(rangeMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(rangeMod->modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(rangeMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(1.5));
+    CHECK(rangeMod->value == Approx(1.5));
 
     const ModuleStatModifier* rateMod = findModifier(*stab, "attack_rate");
     REQUIRE(rateMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(rateMod->modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(rateMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(0.8));
+    CHECK(rateMod->value == Approx(0.8));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: afterburner parses multiplicative speed and additive main_acceleration", "[config][modules]")
@@ -101,12 +100,12 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: afterburner parses multiplicative speed and additive ma
     const ModuleStatModifier* speedMod = findModifier(*ab, "speed");
     REQUIRE(speedMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(speedMod->modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(speedMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(1.6));
+    CHECK(speedMod->value == Approx(1.6));
 
     const ModuleStatModifier* accelMod = findModifier(*ab, "main_acceleration");
     REQUIRE(accelMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(accelMod->modifierType == "additive");
-    CHECK(accelMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(60.0));
+    CHECK(accelMod->value == Approx(60.0));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: maneuvering_thrusters parses multiplicative speed and additive maneuvering_acceleration", "[config][modules]")
@@ -119,12 +118,12 @@ TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: maneuvering_thrusters parses multiplicative speed and a
     const ModuleStatModifier* speedMod = findModifier(*mt, "speed");
     REQUIRE(speedMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(speedMod->modifierType == "multiplicative");
-    CHECK(speedMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(1.2));
+    CHECK(speedMod->value == Approx(1.2));
 
     const ModuleStatModifier* accelMod = findModifier(*mt, "maneuvering_acceleration");
     REQUIRE(accelMod != nullptr);
     CHECK(accelMod->modifierType == "additive");
-    CHECK(accelMod->formula.evaluate(1.0) == Approx(10.0));
+    CHECK(accelMod->value == Approx(10.0));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ConfigLoader: loadShips parses layout field", "[config][ships]")

src/test/RecipeSchematicTest.cpp

@@ -300,13 +300,6 @@ TEST_CASE("RecipeSchematic: newlyUnlockedItemNames is sorted, deduplicated, and
             {
                 CHECK(opt.newlyUnlockedItemNames[j - 1] < opt.newlyUnlockedItemNames[j]);
             }
-
-            // A level-up doesn't change the explicit unlock state, so the
-            // implicit unlock set - and thus this preview - must be empty.
-            if (!opt.isNewUnlock)
-            {
-                CHECK(opt.newlyUnlockedItemNames.empty());
-            }
         }
 
         SimulationTestAccess::applySchematicChoice(sim, 0);
@@ -361,3 +354,54 @@ TEST_CASE("RecipeSchematic: newlyUnlockedItemNames matches recipes that actually
     }
 }
 
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+// Owned ship/module schematics leave the drop pool (REQ-DEF-SCHEMATIC-DROP)
+// ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
+
+TEST_CASE("SchematicDrop: an owned ship schematic is never offered again",
+          "[recipe_schematic]")
+{
+    // repair_ship has unlock_at_station_level = 0 in the test config, so it is
+    // locked at start and becomes eligible once a station set is destroyed.
+    Simulation sim(loadConfig());
+    REQUIRE_FALSE(sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"));
+
+    bool wasUnlocked = false;
+    for (int i = 0; i < 200; ++i)
+    {
+        killEnemyStations(sim);
+        if (!sim.hasSchematicChoicesPending()) { continue; }
+
+        const std::vector<SchematicChoiceOption>& choices =
+            sim.getPendingSchematicChoices();
+
+        // Locate the repair_ship option, if present in this drop.
+        int repairShipIndex = -1;
+        for (int j = 0; j < static_cast<int>(choices.size()); ++j)
+        {
+            if (choices[j].schematicId == "repair_ship") { repairShipIndex = j; }
+        }
+
+        // Once owned, it must never appear in the pool again.
+        if (sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"))
+        {
+            CHECK(repairShipIndex == -1);
+        }
+
+        // Prefer picking repair_ship the first time it shows up so we exercise
+        // the transition from unowned to owned; otherwise just take choice 0.
+        int pick = 0;
+        if (repairShipIndex >= 0 && !sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"))
+        {
+            pick = repairShipIndex;
+            wasUnlocked = true;
+        }
+        SimulationTestAccess::applySchematicChoice(sim, pick);
+    }
+
+    // Sanity: we actually unlocked it at some point, so the exclusion CHECK above
+    // was meaningfully exercised.
+    CHECK(wasUnlocked);
+    CHECK(sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"));
+}
+

src/test/ShipModuleTest.cpp

@@ -110,11 +110,9 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: no modules leaves base stats unchanged", "[modules]")
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
-    const float expectedHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hpFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float expectedHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hp);
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, std::nullopt);
 
     REQUIRE(sim.admin().isValid(e));
@@ -127,8 +125,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: multiplicative HP module applies correctly", "[modules]")
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
-    const float baseHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hpFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float baseHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hp);
 
     ShipLayoutConfig layout;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -138,7 +135,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: multiplicative HP module applies correctly", "[modules]")
     layout.placedModules.push_back(pm);
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     REQUIRE(sim.admin().isValid(e));
@@ -154,9 +150,8 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: additive sensor module applies correctly", "[modules]")
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
     const float tileSize = static_cast<float>(sim.config().world.tileSize_m);
-    const float baseRange_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->sensor.sensorRangeFormula.evaluate(x)) / tileSize;
+    const float baseRange_tiles = static_cast<float>(def->sensor.sensorRange_m) / tileSize;
 
     ShipLayoutConfig layout;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -166,7 +161,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: additive sensor module applies correctly", "[modules]")
     layout.placedModules.push_back(pm);
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     REQUIRE(sim.admin().isValid(e));
@@ -181,8 +175,7 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: multiple modules stack correctly", "[modules]")
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
-    const float baseHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hpFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float baseHp = static_cast<float>(def->health.hp);
 
     ShipLayoutConfig layout;
     for (int i = 0; i < 2; ++i)
@@ -195,7 +188,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: multiple modules stack correctly", "[modules]")
     }
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     REQUIRE(sim.admin().isValid(e));
@@ -321,7 +313,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: weapon_primer multiplies attack rate in simulation", "[mo
     }
 
     const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     const entt::entity weapon = findFirstWeaponChild(sim.admin(), ship);
@@ -349,7 +340,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: weapon_stabilizer multiplies attack range in simulation",
     }
 
     const entt::entity ship = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     const entt::entity weapon = findFirstWeaponChild(sim.admin(), ship);
@@ -364,10 +354,9 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: afterburner additive main_acceleration is converted m/s²
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x         = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
     const float tileSize   = static_cast<float>(sim.config().world.tileSize_m);
     const float tickRate   = static_cast<float>(kTickRateHz);
-    const float base_mpss  = static_cast<float>(def->movement.mainAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float base_mpss  = static_cast<float>(def->movement.mainAcceleration_mpss);
 
     ShipLayoutConfig layout;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -377,7 +366,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: afterburner additive main_acceleration is converted m/s²
     layout.placedModules.push_back(pm);
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     // added_main_acceleration_mpss = 60; same conversion as base: / tileSize / tickRate
@@ -391,10 +379,9 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: maneuvering_thrusters additive maneuvering_acceleration i
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(sim.config(), "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x         = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
     const float tileSize   = static_cast<float>(sim.config().world.tileSize_m);
     const float tickRate   = static_cast<float>(kTickRateHz);
-    const float base_mpss  = static_cast<float>(def->movement.maneuveringAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float base_mpss  = static_cast<float>(def->movement.maneuveringAcceleration_mpss);
 
     ShipLayoutConfig layout;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -404,7 +391,6 @@ TEST_CASE("Ship spawn: maneuvering_thrusters additive maneuvering_acceleration i
     layout.placedModules.push_back(pm);
 
     const entt::entity e = sim.ships().spawn("interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel,
         QVector2D(5.0f, 5.0f), false, layout);
 
     // added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 10; same conversion as base: / tileSize / tickRate
@@ -433,7 +419,7 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: weapon_primer multiplies attack rate in stats vie
     }
 
     const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(cfg, "interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel, modules);
+        modules);
 
     REQUIRE(stats.weapons.has_value());
     // base: damage = 2, rate = 2.0 hz; weapon_primer multiplies rate by 1.2 → DPS = 2 * 2.4 = 4.8
@@ -459,7 +445,7 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: weapon_stabilizer multiplies attack range in stat
     }
 
     const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(cfg, "interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel, modules);
+        modules);
 
     REQUIRE(stats.weapons.has_value());
     // base range = 50 m / tileSize; weapon_stabilizer multiplier = 1.5
@@ -472,9 +458,8 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: afterburner additive main_acceleration is convert
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(cfg, "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x        = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
     const float tileSize  = static_cast<float>(cfg.world.tileSize_m);
-    const float base_mpss = static_cast<float>(def->movement.mainAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float base_mpss = static_cast<float>(def->movement.mainAcceleration_mpss);
 
     std::vector<PlacedModule> modules;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -484,7 +469,7 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: afterburner additive main_acceleration is convert
     modules.push_back(pm);
 
     const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(cfg, "interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel, modules);
+        modules);
 
     // added_main_acceleration_mpss = 60; converted to tiles/s²: / tileSize
     const float expected = (base_mpss + 60.0f) / tileSize;
@@ -497,9 +482,8 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: maneuvering_thrusters additive maneuvering_accele
     const ShipDef* def = findSchematic(cfg, "interceptor");
     REQUIRE(def != nullptr);
 
-    const double x        = static_cast<double>(def->schematic.playerProductionLevel);
     const float tileSize  = static_cast<float>(cfg.world.tileSize_m);
-    const float base_mpss = static_cast<float>(def->movement.maneuveringAccelerationFormula.evaluate(x));
+    const float base_mpss = static_cast<float>(def->movement.maneuveringAcceleration_mpss);
 
     std::vector<PlacedModule> modules;
     PlacedModule pm;
@@ -509,7 +493,7 @@ TEST_CASE("calculateShipStats: maneuvering_thrusters additive maneuvering_accele
     modules.push_back(pm);
 
     const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(cfg, "interceptor",
-        def->schematic.playerProductionLevel, modules);
+        modules);
 
     // added_maneuvering_acceleration_mpss = 10; converted to tiles/s²: / tileSize
     const float expected = (base_mpss + 10.0f) / tileSize;

src/test/ShipTest.cpp

@@ -94,7 +94,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor spawn has weapon child and attack behavior, n
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(e));
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(firstWeaponChild(admin, e)));
@@ -118,7 +118,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: enemy combat ship has no rally or retreat behavior", "[sh
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), /*isEnemy=*/true);
 
     REQUIRE(admin.hasAll<AttackBehavior>(e));
     REQUIRE(admin.hasAll<AdvanceBehavior>(e));
@@ -133,7 +133,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: setRetreatEnabled(false) suppresses player retreat behavi
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
     ss.setRetreatEnabled(false);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     // Other player behaviors are unaffected; only retreat is suppressed.
     REQUIRE(admin.hasAll<AttackBehavior>(e));
@@ -147,7 +147,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor level 1 stats match config formulas", "[ship]
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
     // hp_formula = "40 + 5*x" at x=1 → 45
     REQUIRE(admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).maxHp == Approx(45.0f));
@@ -163,28 +163,28 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor level 1 stats match config formulas", "[ship]
     REQUIRE(admin.get<WeaponComponent>(wc).cooldownTicks == Approx(0.0f));
 }
 
-TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor level 5 hp matches formula", "[ship]")
+TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor hp matches config value", "[ship]")
 {
     EntityAdmin admin;
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 5, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
-    // hp_formula = "40 + 5*x" at x=5 → 65
-    REQUIRE(admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).maxHp == Approx(65.0f));
+    // interceptor hp = 45 (plain value) in the test config
+    REQUIRE(admin.get<HealthComponent>(e).maxHp == Approx(45.0f));
 }
 
-TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor level 0 maxSpeed_tpt matches formula / tileSize / kTickRateHz", "[ship]")
+TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: interceptor maxSpeed_tpt matches config value / tileSize / kTickRateHz", "[ship]")
 {
     EntityAdmin admin;
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", 0, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
 
-    // speed_mps_formula = "2000 + 50*x" m/s at x=0 → 2000 m/s; maxSpeed_tpt = 2000/(10*30)
-    const float expected = 2000.0f / 10.0f / static_cast<float>(kTickRateHz);
+    // speed_mps = 2050 m/s in the test config; maxSpeed_tpt = 2050/(10*30)
+    const float expected = 2050.0f / 10.0f / static_cast<float>(kTickRateHz);
     REQUIRE(admin.get<DynamicBodyComponent>(e).maxSpeed_tpt == Approx(expected));
 }
 
@@ -200,7 +200,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: salvage_ship spawn with salvage module has cargo child an
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
     const ShipLayoutConfig layout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
 
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(firstSalvageChild(admin, e)));
     REQUIRE(admin.hasAll<SalvageScrapBehavior>(e));
@@ -216,7 +216,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: salvage_ship cargo capacity matches config", "[ship]")
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
     const ShipLayoutConfig layout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
 
     // salvager: cargo_capacity_formula = "10", collection_range_m_formula = "500" m → 500/10 = 50 tiles
     const entt::entity sc = firstSalvageChild(admin, e);
@@ -241,7 +241,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: repair_ship spawn with repair module has repair child and
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
     const ShipLayoutConfig layout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
 
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(firstRepairChild(admin, e)));
     REQUIRE(admin.hasAll<RepairBehavior>(e));
@@ -256,7 +256,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: repair_ship level 1 repair stats match config formulas",
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
     const ShipLayoutConfig layout = makeSingleModuleLayout("repair_tool");
-    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("repair_ship", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
+    const entt::entity e = ss.spawn("repair_ship", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f), false, layout);
 
     const entt::entity rc = firstRepairChild(admin, e);
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(rc));
@@ -280,9 +280,9 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: spawned ships are valid entities", "[ship]")
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e1 = ss.spawn("interceptor",  1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e1 = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     const ShipLayoutConfig salvageLayout = makeSingleModuleLayout("salvager");
-    const entt::entity e2 = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", 1, QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f), false, salvageLayout);
+    const entt::entity e2 = ss.spawn("salvage_ship", QVector2D(1.0f, 0.0f), false, salvageLayout);
 
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(e1));
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(e2));
@@ -295,7 +295,7 @@ TEST_CASE("ShipSystem: despawn removes the ship and its weapon children", "[ship
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     ShipSystem ss(cfg, admin);
 
-    const entt::entity e  = ss.spawn("interceptor", 1, QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
+    const entt::entity e  = ss.spawn("interceptor", QVector2D(0.0f, 0.0f));
     const entt::entity wc = firstWeaponChild(admin, e);
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(e));
     REQUIRE(admin.isValid(wc));

src/test/ThreatCostCalculatorTest.cpp

@@ -41,16 +41,15 @@ TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: assembler takes max across recipes", "[threat]"
     CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("circuit_board") == Approx(28.0));
 }
 
-TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: scrap threat from cheapest ship", "[threat]")
+TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: scrap threat is 1 / scrap_per_threat", "[threat]")
 {
     const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
     const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
 
-    // Cheapest ship by scrap_drop is interceptor (scrap_drop=2).
-    // Interceptor threat: 10 + iron_ingot(4)*3 + circuit_board(28)*1
-    //   + laser_cannon(5 + iron_ingot(4)*1) = 10 + 12 + 28 + 9 = 59.0
-    // scrapThreat = 59.0 / 2 = 29.5
-    CHECK(table.scrapThreat == Approx(29.5));
+    // REQ-THREAT-SCRAP: scrap threat is the constant 1 / world.scrap_per_threat.
+    // The test config sets scrap_per_threat = 1.0, so scrapThreat = 1.0.
+    CHECK(table.scrapThreat == Approx(1.0 / cfg.world.scrapPerThreat));
+    CHECK(table.scrapThreat == Approx(1.0));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: reprocessing-only item threat", "[threat]")
@@ -59,8 +58,8 @@ TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: reprocessing-only item threat", "[threat]")
     const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
 
     // advanced_alloy: reprocessing recipe with scrap*5, duration 3.0, probability 0.1
-    // (29.5 * 5 + 3.0) / 0.1 = 1505.0
-    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("advanced_alloy") == Approx(1505.0));
+    // scrapThreat = 1.0 (= 1 / scrap_per_threat), so (1.0 * 5 + 3.0) / 0.1 = 80.0
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("advanced_alloy") == Approx(80.0));
 }
 
 TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: ship threat with default modules", "[threat]")
@@ -108,3 +107,62 @@ TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: unknown ship returns zero", "[threat]")
     double threat = calculateShipThreatCost(table, cfg, "nonexistent_ship", {});
     CHECK(threat == Approx(0.0));
 }
+
+// Fix 6: scrap-consuming recipes are a fallback only.
+// iron_ingot has a scrap-free smelter recipe, so the scrap_iron recipe must
+// be excluded. iron_ingot threat must not be inflated by the scrap path.
+TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: scrap-consuming recipe excluded when scrap-free recipe exists", "[threat]")
+{
+    const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
+
+    // scrap_iron recipe: duration=1.0, 1 scrap (threat=1.0) -> 1 iron_ingot.
+    // That would give 1.0 + 1.0*1 = 2.0 per unit — but it must be excluded
+    // because the scrap-free iron_ingot smelter recipe (threat=4.0) exists.
+    // iron_ingot threat stays at 4.0.
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("iron_ingot") == Approx(4.0));
+
+    // The pure reprocessing-only item (advanced_alloy) must still be resolved
+    // via the reprocessing path.
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.count("advanced_alloy") == 1u);
+}
+
+// Fix 7: per-unit item threat divides by output amount.
+// dual_wire: assembler, 1 iron_ore -> 2 dual_wire, duration 3.0.
+// Per-unit threat = (3.0 + iron_ore(1.0)*1) / 2 = 4.0 / 2 = 2.0.
+TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: per-unit division by output amount", "[threat]")
+{
+    const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
+
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("dual_wire") == Approx(2.0));
+}
+
+// Fix 8: fixpoint resolution — items downstream of reprocessing-only items
+// must be resolved after the reprocessing pass re-enables the non-reprocessing
+// pass.
+// downstream_product: assembler, 1 advanced_alloy -> 1, duration 2.0.
+// advanced_alloy = 80.0 (reprocessing-only).
+// downstream_product = 2.0 + 80.0*1 = 82.0.
+TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: downstream-of-reprocessing item resolves via fixpoint", "[threat]")
+{
+    const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
+
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("advanced_alloy") == Approx(80.0));
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("downstream_product") == Approx(82.0));
+}
+
+// Fix 9: max rule across staggered recipes — item is committed only once
+// every eligible recipe for it is computable.
+// staggered_item has two recipes:
+//   cheap:     1 iron_ore (1.0) + 1.0 s  = 2.0  (resolves early)
+//   expensive: 1 circuit_board (28.0) + 1.0 s = 29.0  (resolves later)
+// expected threat = max(2.0, 29.0) = 29.0, not 2.0.
+TEST_CASE("ThreatCostCalculator: staggered recipes committed only when all computable", "[threat]")
+{
+    const GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    const ThreatCostTable& table = cfg.threatCosts;
+
+    CHECK(table.itemThreat.at("staggered_item") == Approx(29.0));
+}

src/test/UnlockPrereqTest.cpp

@@ -0,0 +1,174 @@
+// Drop-pool behaviour for unlock_requires schematic prerequisites
+// (REQ-LOCK-PREREQ). A schematic enters the drop pool only when every id in its
+// unlock_requires is already explicitly unlocked, on top of the station-level
+// (and, for recipes, output-implicitly-unlocked) checks.
+//
+// Configs are built in memory (load the test config, then mutate) so each case
+// is isolated and does not perturb the shared test config used by other suites.
+
+#include <algorithm>
+#include <string>
+#include <utility>
+#include <vector>
+
+#include "catch.hpp"
+
+#include "ConfigLoader.h"
+#include "FactionComponent.h"
+#include "GameConfig.h"
+#include "HealthComponent.h"
+#include "ModulesConfig.h"
+#include "RecipesConfig.h"
+#include "SchematicChoiceOption.h"
+#include "ShipsConfig.h"
+#include "Simulation.h"
+#include "SimulationTestAccess.h"
+#include "StationBodyComponent.h"
+
+namespace
+{
+
+GameConfig loadConfig()
+{
+    return ConfigLoader::loadFromDirectory(CONFIG_DIR);
+}
+
+ShipDef& findShip(GameConfig& cfg, const std::string& id)
+{
+    for (ShipDef& def : cfg.ships.ships)
+    {
+        if (def.id == id) { return def; }
+    }
+    FAIL("ship not found: " + id);
+    return cfg.ships.ships.front();
+}
+
+ModuleDef& findModule(GameConfig& cfg, const std::string& id)
+{
+    for (ModuleDef& def : cfg.modules.modules)
+    {
+        if (def.id == id) { return def; }
+    }
+    FAIL("module not found: " + id);
+    return cfg.modules.modules.front();
+}
+
+RecipeDef& findRecipe(GameConfig& cfg, const std::string& id)
+{
+    for (RecipeDef& def : cfg.recipes.recipes)
+    {
+        if (def.id == id) { return def; }
+    }
+    FAIL("recipe not found: " + id);
+    return cfg.recipes.recipes.front();
+}
+
+// Zeros the HP of both enemy defence stations and advances one tick so that
+// tickDeathsAndLoot fires, triggering the push and schematic choices.
+void killEnemyStations(Simulation& sim)
+{
+    sim.admin().forEach<StationBodyComponent, FactionComponent, HealthComponent>(
+        [](entt::entity, StationBodyComponent&, FactionComponent& faction, HealthComponent& health)
+        {
+            if (faction.isEnemy)
+            {
+                health.hp = 0.0f;
+            }
+        });
+    sim.tick();
+}
+
+void killEnemyStationsAndApply(Simulation& sim)
+{
+    killEnemyStations(sim);
+    if (sim.hasSchematicChoicesPending())
+    {
+        SimulationTestAccess::applySchematicChoice(sim, 0);
+    }
+}
+
+bool optionOffered(const Simulation& sim, const std::string& id)
+{
+    const std::vector<SchematicChoiceOption>& options = sim.getPendingSchematicChoices();
+    return std::any_of(options.begin(), options.end(),
+        [&](const SchematicChoiceOption& o) { return o.schematicId == id; });
+}
+
+} // namespace
+
+TEST_CASE("UnlockPrereq: a recipe gated behind a locked ship is withheld from the pool",
+          "[unlock_prereq]")
+{
+    // quick_circuit (assembler recipe, level 0, output circuit_board is implicitly
+    // unlocked) would normally be eligible at the first station destruction. Gate
+    // it behind repair_ship (ship, level 0, locked at game start).
+    GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    findRecipe(cfg, "quick_circuit").unlockRequires = {"repair_ship"};
+
+    Simulation sim(std::move(cfg), 123);
+    REQUIRE_FALSE(sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"));
+
+    killEnemyStations(sim);  // destroyed set level 0
+    REQUIRE(sim.hasSchematicChoicesPending());
+
+    // Prerequisite unmet -> the gated recipe must not be offered, while the
+    // prerequisite schematic itself (the only other eligible pick) is.
+    CHECK_FALSE(optionOffered(sim, "quick_circuit"));
+    CHECK(optionOffered(sim, "repair_ship"));
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("UnlockPrereq: the gated recipe becomes eligible once its prerequisite is unlocked",
+          "[unlock_prereq]")
+{
+    GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    findRecipe(cfg, "quick_circuit").unlockRequires = {"repair_ship"};
+
+    Simulation sim(std::move(cfg), 123);
+
+    // Applying choice 0 each drop unlocks repair_ship first (the only eligible
+    // pick at level 0), which then opens quick_circuit for a later drop.
+    bool unlocked = false;
+    for (int i = 0; i < 150 && !unlocked; ++i)
+    {
+        killEnemyStationsAndApply(sim);
+        unlocked = sim.isRecipeUnlocked("quick_circuit");
+    }
+
+    CHECK(sim.isSchematicUnlocked("repair_ship"));  // prerequisite got unlocked along the way
+    CHECK(unlocked);
+}
+
+TEST_CASE("UnlockPrereq: a module gated behind another module is withheld until it unlocks",
+          "[unlock_prereq]")
+{
+    // Mirror the app-config demo (laser_cannon_m -> laser_cannon_l) using two
+    // test-config modules made lockable at the same station level.
+    GameConfig cfg = loadConfig();
+    findModule(cfg, "laser_cannon").unlockAtStationLevel = 0;
+    ModuleDef& armor = findModule(cfg, "armor_plate");
+    armor.unlockAtStationLevel = 0;
+    armor.unlockRequires = {"laser_cannon"};
+
+    Simulation sim(std::move(cfg), 7);
+    REQUIRE_FALSE(sim.isModuleSchematicUnlocked("laser_cannon"));
+    REQUIRE_FALSE(sim.isModuleSchematicUnlocked("armor_plate"));
+
+    killEnemyStations(sim);  // level 0
+    REQUIRE(sim.hasSchematicChoicesPending());
+    // armor_plate is gated behind the still-locked laser_cannon module.
+    CHECK_FALSE(optionOffered(sim, "armor_plate"));
+
+    // Drive the drops until the gated module unlocks; it can only do so after its
+    // prerequisite has itself been unlocked.
+    bool armorUnlocked = false;
+    for (int i = 0; i < 300 && !armorUnlocked; ++i)
+    {
+        killEnemyStationsAndApply(sim);
+        armorUnlocked = sim.isModuleSchematicUnlocked("armor_plate");
+        if (armorUnlocked)
+        {
+            CHECK(sim.isModuleSchematicUnlocked("laser_cannon"));
+        }
+    }
+    CHECK(armorUnlocked);
+}

src/ui/GameWorldView.cpp

@@ -10,6 +10,7 @@
 #include <string>
 
 #include <QColor>
+#include <QCoreApplication>
 #include <QCursor>
 #include <QDir>
 #include <QFont>
@@ -58,6 +59,7 @@
 #include "BuilderModeExitedEvent.h"
 #include "BlueprintModeExitedEvent.h"
 #include "BuildingBlocksChangedEvent.h"
+#include "ExpansionCostChangedEvent.h"
 #include "GameSpeedChangedEvent.h"
 #include "SchematicChoicesAvailableEvent.h"
 #include "TickAdvancedEvent.h"
@@ -162,13 +164,15 @@ GameWorldView::GameWorldView(Simulation* sim, const GameConfig* config,
     }
     else
     {
-        // Record every run to disk. Replays live under <data>/replays, alongside
-        // the config dir that was loaded. Attaching the recorder opens the first
-        // file and writes the header for the initial run.
-        QDir replayDir(QString::fromStdString(configDir));
-        replayDir.cdUp();
+        // Record every run to disk, into a "replays" folder next to the executable.
+        // Uses the exe's real directory rather than traversing up from the config
+        // dir: with a symlinked build layout, relative traversal would resolve into
+        // the wrong tree. Attaching the recorder opens the first file and writes the
+        // header for the initial run.
+        const QString replayDir =
+            QDir(QCoreApplication::applicationDirPath()).filePath("replays");
         m_commandManager.setRecorder(std::make_unique<ReplayRecorder>(
-            configDir, replayDir.filePath("replays").toStdString()));
+            configDir, replayDir.toStdString()));
     }
 }
 
@@ -273,6 +277,7 @@ void GameWorldView::onFrame()
     {
         const Tick newTick      = m_sim->currentTick();
         const int  newBlocks    = m_sim->buildingBlocksStock();
+        const int  newExpCost   = m_sim->currentExpansionCost();
         const int  newBoss      = m_sim->bossWaveCounter();
         const Tick newCountdown = m_sim->bossCountdownTicks();
 
@@ -288,6 +293,12 @@ void GameWorldView::onFrame()
             EventManager::getInstance()->sendEventImmediately(
                 std::make_shared<BuildingBlocksChangedEvent>(newBlocks));
         }
+        if (newExpCost != m_lastExpansionCost)
+        {
+            m_lastExpansionCost = newExpCost;
+            EventManager::getInstance()->sendEventImmediately(
+                std::make_shared<ExpansionCostChangedEvent>(newExpCost));
+        }
         if (newBoss != m_lastBossCounter || newCountdown != m_lastBossCountdown)
         {
             m_lastBossCounter   = newBoss;
@@ -432,7 +443,7 @@ QRect GameWorldView::viewportRect() const
 
 float GameWorldView::asteroidLeftEdge() const
 {
-    float leftX = -static_cast<float>(m_config->world.regions.asteroidWidth_tiles);
+    float leftX = -static_cast<float>(m_sim->currentAsteroidWidth_tiles());
     for (const Building& b : m_sim->buildings().allBuildings())
     {
         for (const QPoint& cell : b.bodyCells)
@@ -1824,6 +1835,7 @@ void GameWorldView::resetForNewGame()
     m_prevNonZeroSpeed  = 1.0;
     m_lastTick          = Tick(-1);
     m_lastBlocks        = -1;
+    m_lastExpansionCost = -1;
     m_lastBossCounter   = -1;
     m_lastBossCountdown = Tick(-1);
     m_lastArtifactCount = -1;

src/ui/GameWorldView.h

@@ -226,6 +226,7 @@ private:
 
     Tick m_lastTick          = Tick(-1);
     int  m_lastBlocks        = -1;
+    int  m_lastExpansionCost = -1;
     int  m_lastBossCounter   = -1;
     Tick m_lastBossCountdown = Tick(-1);
     int  m_lastArtifactCount = -1;

src/ui/HeaderBar.cpp

@@ -8,6 +8,8 @@
 #include <QPushButton>
 #include <QSignalMapper>
 
+#include "Command.h"
+#include "CommandRequestedEvent.h"
 #include "EventManager.h"
 #include "SpeedChangeRequestedEvent.h"
 #include "Tick.h"
@@ -32,6 +34,17 @@ HeaderBar::HeaderBar(QWidget* parent)
     layout->addStretch();
     layout->addWidget(m_bossLabel);
 
+    // Asteroid expansion button, to the left of the speed buttons (REQ-UI-HEADER,
+    // REQ-UI-EXPAND-BUTTON). Caption/enabled state are set on the first
+    // ExpansionCostChangedEvent; clicking requests an ExpandAsteroidCommand.
+    m_expandButton = new QPushButton(tr("Expand"), this);
+    layout->addWidget(m_expandButton);
+    connect(m_expandButton, &QPushButton::clicked, this, []() {
+        EventManager::getInstance()->sendEventImmediately(
+            std::make_shared<CommandRequestedEvent>(
+                std::make_shared<ExpandAsteroidCommand>()));
+    });
+
     const char* labels[] = { "0x", "0.5x", "1x", "2x", "10x" };
     QSignalMapper* mapper = new QSignalMapper(this);
     for (int i = 0; i < kSpeedCount; ++i)
@@ -67,7 +80,21 @@ void HeaderBar::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const TickAdvancedEvent> event)
 
 void HeaderBar::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const BuildingBlocksChangedEvent> event)
 {
+    m_blocks = event->blocks;
     m_blocksLabel->setText(tr("Blocks: %1").arg(event->blocks));
+    updateExpandButton();
+}
+
+void HeaderBar::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const ExpansionCostChangedEvent> event)
+{
+    m_expansionCost = event->cost;
+    updateExpandButton();
+}
+
+void HeaderBar::updateExpandButton()
+{
+    m_expandButton->setText(tr("Expand: %1 Blocks").arg(m_expansionCost));
+    m_expandButton->setEnabled(m_blocks >= m_expansionCost);
 }
 
 void HeaderBar::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const GameSpeedChangedEvent> event)

src/ui/HeaderBar.h

@@ -8,6 +8,7 @@
 #include "BossWaveUpdatedEvent.h"
 #include "BuildingBlocksChangedEvent.h"
 #include "EventHandler.h"
+#include "ExpansionCostChangedEvent.h"
 #include "GameSpeedChangedEvent.h"
 #include "Tick.h"
 #include "TickAdvancedEvent.h"
@@ -18,6 +19,7 @@ class QPushButton;
 class HeaderBar : public QWidget,
                   public CombinedEventHandler<TickAdvancedEvent,
                                               BuildingBlocksChangedEvent,
+                                              ExpansionCostChangedEvent,
                                               GameSpeedChangedEvent,
                                               BossWaveUpdatedEvent,
                                               ArtifactCountChangedEvent>
@@ -34,16 +36,25 @@ private slots:
 private:
     void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const TickAdvancedEvent> event) override;
     void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const BuildingBlocksChangedEvent> event) override;
+    void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const ExpansionCostChangedEvent> event) override;
     void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const GameSpeedChangedEvent> event) override;
     void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const BossWaveUpdatedEvent> event) override;
     void handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const ArtifactCountChangedEvent> event) override;
 
+    // Refreshes the Expand button caption and enabled state from the current
+    // expansion cost and building block stock (REQ-UI-EXPAND-BUTTON).
+    void updateExpandButton();
+
     QLabel*                  m_timeLabel;
     QLabel*                  m_blocksLabel;
     QLabel*                  m_artifactsLabel;
     QLabel*                  m_bossLabel;
+    QPushButton*             m_expandButton;
     std::vector<QPushButton*> m_speedButtons;
 
+    int                      m_blocks        = 0;
+    int                      m_expansionCost = 0;
+
     static const double kSpeeds[];
     static const int    kSpeedCount;
 };

src/ui/MainWindow.cpp

@@ -234,20 +234,17 @@ void MainWindow::handleEvent(std::shared_ptr<const LayoutDialogRequestedEvent> e
     }
 
     std::set<std::string> unlockedModuleIds;
-    std::map<std::string, int> moduleLevels;
     for (const ModuleDef& def : m_sim->config().modules.modules)
     {
         if (m_sim->isModuleSchematicUnlocked(def.id))
         {
             unlockedModuleIds.insert(def.id);
         }
-        moduleLevels[def.id] = m_sim->moduleSchematicLevel(def.id);
     }
 
     ShipLayoutDialog dialog(&m_sim->config(), schematicId, currentLayout,
                             m_layoutBlueprints,
                             std::move(unlockedModuleIds),
-                            std::move(moduleLevels),
                             m_gameWorldView->isDebugDrawEnabled(),
                             this);
     if (dialog.exec() == QDialog::Accepted && dialog.result().has_value())

src/ui/SchematicChoiceDialog.cpp

@@ -70,19 +70,6 @@ SchematicChoiceDialog::SchematicChoiceDialog(
             typeLabel->setAlignment(Qt::AlignCenter);
             cardLayout->addWidget(typeLabel);
 
-            QString statusText;
-            if (option.isNewUnlock)
-            {
-                statusText = tr("New unlock");
-            }
-            else
-            {
-                statusText = tr("Level up -> %1").arg(option.targetLevel);
-            }
-            QLabel* statusLabel = new QLabel(statusText, card);
-            statusLabel->setAlignment(Qt::AlignCenter);
-            cardLayout->addWidget(statusLabel);
-
             QLabel* unlocksHeaderLabel = new QLabel(tr("Unlocks recipes for:"), card);
             QFont unlocksHeaderFont = unlocksHeaderLabel->font();
             unlocksHeaderFont.setBold(true);

src/ui/SelectedBuildingPanel.cpp

@@ -821,9 +821,8 @@ void SelectedBuildingPanel::buildEntityShip(entt::entity entity)
     const ShipIdentityComponent& identity = admin.get<ShipIdentityComponent>(entity);
     const HealthComponent& health = admin.get<HealthComponent>(entity);
 
-    m_entityTitleLabel->setText(tr("Ship: %1 (Lv %2)")
-        .arg(QString::fromStdString(identity.schematicId))
-        .arg(identity.level));
+    m_entityTitleLabel->setText(tr("Ship: %1")
+        .arg(QString::fromStdString(identity.schematicId)));
     m_entityTitleLabel->show();
 
     const ShipStats stats = buildShipStatsFromEntity(admin, entity);

src/ui/ShipLayoutDialog.cpp

@@ -365,14 +365,12 @@ ShipLayoutDialog::ShipLayoutDialog(const GameConfig* config,
                                    const ShipLayoutConfig& currentLayout,
                                    std::vector<ShipLayoutBlueprint>& allBlueprints,
                                    std::set<std::string> unlockedModuleIds,
-                                   std::map<std::string, int> moduleLevels,
                                    bool debugDraw,
                                    QWidget* parent)
     : QDialog(parent)
     , m_config(config)
     , m_shipId(shipId)
     , m_unlockedModuleIds(std::move(unlockedModuleIds))
-    , m_moduleLevels(std::move(moduleLevels))
     , m_rows(0)
     , m_cols(0)
     , m_placedModules(currentLayout.placedModules)
@@ -699,16 +697,7 @@ void ShipLayoutDialog::updateGridWidget()
 
 void ShipLayoutDialog::updateStats()
 {
-    int level = 1;
-    for (const ShipDef& def : m_config->ships.ships)
-    {
-        if (def.id == m_shipId)
-        {
-            level = def.schematic.playerProductionLevel;
-            break;
-        }
-    }
-    m_statsPanel->refresh(m_shipId, level, m_placedModules, m_moduleLevels);
+    m_statsPanel->refresh(m_shipId, m_placedModules);
 }
 
 bool ShipLayoutDialog::canPlaceModule(const ModuleDef& def, QPoint position,

src/ui/ShipLayoutDialog.h

@@ -27,7 +27,6 @@ public:
                      const ShipLayoutConfig& currentLayout,
                      std::vector<ShipLayoutBlueprint>& allBlueprints,
                      std::set<std::string> unlockedModuleIds,
-                     std::map<std::string, int> moduleLevels,
                      bool debugDraw,
                      QWidget* parent = nullptr);
 
@@ -63,7 +62,6 @@ private:
     const GameConfig* m_config;
     std::string m_shipId;
     std::set<std::string> m_unlockedModuleIds;
-    std::map<std::string, int> m_moduleLevels;
     std::vector<std::string> m_shipLayout;
     int m_rows;
     int m_cols;

src/ui/ShipStatsPanel.cpp

@@ -116,12 +116,9 @@ ShipStatsPanel::ShipStatsPanel(const GameConfig* config, QWidget* parent)
 }
 
 void ShipStatsPanel::refresh(const std::string& shipId,
-                              int level,
-                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules,
-                              const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides)
+                              const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules)
 {
-    const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(*m_config, shipId, level, modules,
-                                               moduleLevelOverrides);
+    const ShipStats stats = calculateShipStats(*m_config, shipId, modules);
     const QString hpText = tr("HP: %1").arg(static_cast<int>(stats.hp + 0.5f));
     applyStats(stats, hpText);
 

src/ui/ShipStatsPanel.h

@@ -20,9 +20,7 @@ public:
     explicit ShipStatsPanel(const GameConfig* config, QWidget* parent = nullptr);
 
     void refresh(const std::string& shipId,
-                 int level,
-                 const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules,
-                 const std::map<std::string, int>& moduleLevelOverrides = {});
+                 const std::vector<PlacedModule>& modules);
 
     void refreshFromLive(const ShipStats& stats, float currentHp);
 

tools/threat_report.py

@@ -0,0 +1,263 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Report threat values, ship costs, ratios, and belt feasibility.
+
+Reads recipes.toml, ships.toml, modules.toml, and world.toml and prints:
+
+  1. Item threats — production-seconds per item unit, resolved
+     recursively over the recipe tree (REQ-THREAT-ITEM):
+       - non-reprocessing recipe: (duration + sum(input threat * qty))
+         divided by the output amount, so threat is per unit;
+       - multiple recipes: the maximum across them;
+       - recipes consuming scrap participate only if no scrap-free
+         recipe produces the item (fallback rule);
+       - reprocessing-only items: (scrap threat * scrap per cycle
+         + duration) / normalized probability (REQ-THREAT-ITEM).
+     Scrap threat is the constant 1 / world.scrap_per_threat
+     (REQ-THREAT-SCRAP).
+  2. Module contributions — material threat + production time per
+     module instance (the amount a module adds to a ship's threat).
+  3. Ship threats — hull-only and fitted with default_modules (the
+     loadout enemy waves spawn with, REQ-WAV-DEFAULT-MODULES).
+  4. Producer:consumer ratios — buildings of the input recipe needed
+     per building of the consuming recipe at 100% throughput.
+  5. Belt feasibility — input demand in items/s per building vs. the
+     single-belt cap (belt_speed_mps / tile_size_m, in items/s).
+
+NOTE: the semantics described above — per-unit division, scrap fallback
+rule, fixpoint resolution including reprocessing, and the commit-all-
+recipes max rule — are implemented in both this script and in
+src/lib/sim/ThreatCostCalculator.cpp. The two should produce identical
+values for any given config.
+
+Usage (from the repository root or anywhere else):
+
+    python dota_factory/tools/threat_report.py
+    python dota_factory/tools/threat_report.py --config-dir path/to/config
+
+By default the config directory is resolved relative to this script
+(../bin/app/data/config). Requires the 'toml' package on Python < 3.11
+(pip install --user toml); on 3.11+ the standard tomllib is used.
+"""
+
+import argparse
+import os
+import sys
+
+
+def load_toml(path):
+    try:
+        import tomllib
+        with open(path, "rb") as fh:
+            return tomllib.load(fh)
+    except ImportError:
+        import toml
+        return toml.load(path)
+
+
+def consumes_scrap(recipe):
+    return any(inp["item"] == "scrap" for inp in recipe.get("inputs", []))
+
+
+def recipe_threat_per_unit(recipe, output, item_threat):
+    threat = recipe["duration_seconds"]
+    for inp in recipe.get("inputs", []):
+        if inp["item"] not in item_threat:
+            return None
+        threat += item_threat[inp["item"]] * inp["amount"]
+    return threat / output["amount"]
+
+
+def resolve_items(recipes, scrap_threat):
+    """Return {item: threat} resolved per REQ-THREAT-ITEM."""
+    non_repro = [r for r in recipes if r["building"] != "reprocessing_plant"]
+    repro = [r for r in recipes if r["building"] == "reprocessing_plant"]
+
+    # Items with at least one scrap-free producer: their scrap-consuming
+    # recipes never participate (fallback rule).
+    scrap_free_items = set()
+    for recipe in non_repro:
+        if not consumes_scrap(recipe):
+            for output in recipe.get("outputs", []):
+                scrap_free_items.add(output["item"])
+
+    def eligible(recipe, output):
+        if consumes_scrap(recipe) and output["item"] in scrap_free_items:
+            return False
+        return True
+
+    item_threat = {"scrap": scrap_threat}
+
+    # All eligible (recipe, output) pairs per item: the max rule requires
+    # committing an item only once EVERY eligible recipe for it is
+    # computable — otherwise a shallow shortcut recipe that resolves one
+    # pass earlier than the base path would win and underprice the item.
+    recipes_per_item = {}
+    for recipe in non_repro:
+        for output in recipe.get("outputs", []):
+            if eligible(recipe, output):
+                recipes_per_item.setdefault(output["item"], []).append(
+                    (recipe, output))
+
+    def resolve_pass(require_all_recipes=True):
+        progress = False
+        best = {}
+        for item, pairs in recipes_per_item.items():
+            if item in item_threat:
+                continue
+            threats = [recipe_threat_per_unit(r, o, item_threat)
+                       for r, o in pairs]
+            if require_all_recipes and any(t is None for t in threats):
+                continue
+            threats = [t for t in threats if t is not None]
+            if threats:
+                best[item] = max(threats)
+        for item, threat in best.items():
+            item_threat[item] = threat
+            progress = True
+        return progress
+
+    def repro_pass():
+        progress = False
+        for recipe in repro:
+            scrap_per_cycle = sum(inp["amount"]
+                                  for inp in recipe.get("inputs", []))
+            total_weight = sum(out.get("probability", 1.0)
+                               for out in recipe.get("outputs", []))
+            for output in recipe.get("outputs", []):
+                # Reprocessing defines an item's threat only when nothing
+                # else produces it (REQ-THREAT-ITEM).
+                if output["item"] in item_threat:
+                    continue
+                if output["item"] in scrap_free_items:
+                    continue
+                probability = output.get("probability", 1.0) / total_weight
+                if probability <= 0.0:
+                    continue
+                item_threat[output["item"]] = (
+                    (scrap_threat * scrap_per_cycle
+                     + recipe["duration_seconds"]) / probability)
+                progress = True
+        return progress
+
+    # Iterate to a fixpoint: items downstream of reprocessing-only items
+    # (e.g. capital parts built from voidsteel) need another recipe pass
+    # after the reprocessing pass has resolved their inputs.
+    progress = True
+    while progress:
+        progress = resolve_pass()
+        progress = repro_pass() or progress
+
+    # Deadlock guard: if recipe cycles keep items waiting on each other,
+    # fall back to committing with the computable subset of recipes.
+    progress = True
+    while progress:
+        progress = resolve_pass(require_all_recipes=False)
+        progress = repro_pass() or progress
+
+    return item_threat
+
+
+def material_threat(materials, item_threat, missing):
+    total = 0.0
+    for material in materials:
+        if material["item"] in item_threat:
+            total += item_threat[material["item"]] * material["amount"]
+        else:
+            missing.add(material["item"])
+    return total
+
+
+def main():
+    default_dir = os.path.normpath(os.path.join(
+        os.path.dirname(os.path.abspath(__file__)),
+        "..", "bin", "app", "data", "config"))
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(
+        description="Report threat values, ship costs, ratios, and belt"
+                    " feasibility from the config files.")
+    parser.add_argument("--config-dir", default=default_dir,
+                        help="directory containing the config toml files"
+                             " (default: %(default)s)")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    recipes = load_toml(os.path.join(args.config_dir, "recipes.toml"))["recipe"]
+    ships = load_toml(os.path.join(args.config_dir, "ships.toml"))["ship"]
+    modules = load_toml(os.path.join(args.config_dir, "modules.toml"))["module"]
+    world = load_toml(os.path.join(args.config_dir, "world.toml"))["world"]
+
+    scrap_per_threat = world.get("scrap_per_threat", 0.0)
+    scrap_threat = 1.0 / scrap_per_threat if scrap_per_threat > 0 else 0.0
+    belt_cap = world["belt_speed_mps"] / world["tile_size_m"]  # items/s
+
+    item_threat = resolve_items(recipes, scrap_threat)
+    missing = set()
+
+    print("scrap_per_threat = {}  =>  threat(scrap) = {:.2f}".format(
+        scrap_per_threat, scrap_threat))
+    print()
+
+    print("== item threats (production-seconds per unit) ==")
+    for item in sorted(item_threat):
+        if item != "scrap":
+            print("  {:24s} {:10.2f}".format(item, item_threat[item]))
+
+    print()
+    print("== module contributions (materials + production time) ==")
+    module_contribution = {}
+    for module in modules:
+        contribution = (material_threat(module["materials"], item_threat, missing)
+                        + module["production_time_seconds"])
+        module_contribution[module["id"]] = contribution
+        print("  {:24s} {:10.2f}".format(module["id"], contribution))
+
+    print()
+    print("== ship threats (hull-only / fitted with default_modules) ==")
+    for ship in ships:
+        hull = (material_threat(ship["schematic"]["materials"], item_threat, missing)
+                + ship["schematic"]["production_time_seconds"])
+        fitted = hull
+        for placed in ship.get("default_modules", []):
+            fitted += module_contribution.get(placed["type"], 0.0)
+        print("  {:16s} hull {:9.2f}   fitted {:9.2f}".format(
+            ship["id"], hull, fitted))
+
+    print()
+    print("== producer:consumer ratios (producing buildings per consuming"
+          " building) ==")
+    producers = {}  # item -> [(recipe id, items/s per building)]
+    for recipe in recipes:
+        if recipe["building"] == "reprocessing_plant":
+            continue
+        for output in recipe.get("outputs", []):
+            rate = output["amount"] / recipe["duration_seconds"]
+            producers.setdefault(output["item"], []).append((recipe["id"], rate))
+    for recipe in recipes:
+        for inp in recipe.get("inputs", []):
+            need = inp["amount"] / recipe["duration_seconds"]
+            for producer_id, supply in producers.get(inp["item"], []):
+                print("  {:20s} -> {:24s} {:6.3f}".format(
+                    producer_id, recipe["id"], need / supply))
+
+    print()
+    print("== belt feasibility (input demand items/s per building,"
+          " cap {:.2f}/s) ==".format(belt_cap))
+    over = False
+    for recipe in recipes:
+        for inp in recipe.get("inputs", []):
+            rate = inp["amount"] / recipe["duration_seconds"]
+            if rate > belt_cap:
+                print("  OVER: {} <- {}: {:.2f}/s".format(
+                    recipe["id"], inp["item"], rate))
+                over = True
+    if not over:
+        print("  all input demands under the single-belt cap")
+
+    if missing:
+        print()
+        for item in sorted(missing):
+            print("WARNING: no threat value for material '{}'".format(item))
+
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    sys.exit(main())