"To Catch a Thargoid" OXP by Thargoid.

A new mission based in Galaxy 3, as a follow-on and sequel to Thargoid Plans. The bugs are back and looking for revenge.

In addition to the mission, this OXP adds several new alien ships plus the response from the Galactic Navy Intelligence to their increased threat - the fearsome Raptor assault strike frigates. 

The Raptors plus a selection of the new Thargoid craft are added generally to the game mix, regardless of galaxy or mission status (if the mission is completed the relevant script parts are automatically removed and do not slow the game). Some may make things a little tougher, but others may come to your rescue!

Requirements -

This OXP is scripted for Oolite v1.75 or later, and will not run on any earlier versions of the game. 

The mission is set in Galaxy 3, and requires the player to have at least 1500 kills to their name and to have completed the "Thargoid Plans" trunk mission. If these conditions are met then the mission may randomly be offered on docking, after which time detailed instructions are provided in mission screens with pointers via the manifest (F5-F5) screen.

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License:

This OXP is released under the Creative Commons Attribution - Non-Commercial - Share Alike 3.0 license with the following clauses:

* Whilst you are free (and encouraged) to re-use any of the scripting, models or texturing in this OXP, the usage must be distinct from that within this OXP. Unique identifiers such as (but not limited to) unique shipdata.plist entity keys, mission variables, script names (this.name), equipment identity strings (EQ_), description list arrays and entity roles must not be re-used without prior agreement. Basically if it's unique or would identify or overwrite anything in the original OXP, then you may not re-use it (for obvious compatibility reasons).
* rebundling of this OXP within another distribution is permitted as long as it is unchanged. The following derivates however are permitted and except from the above:
	* the conversion of files between XML and openStep.
	* the merging of files with other files of the same type from other OXPs.
* The license information (either as this file or merged into a larger one) must be included in the OXP.
* Even though it is not compulsory, if you are re-using any sizable or recognisable piece of this OXP, please let me know :)

https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/metal-surface-with-rust-patches_6600798.htm Image by freepik
https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/cosmic-background-with-black-gold-laser-lights-perfect-digital-wallpaper_11426712.htm Image by freepik

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Instructions:

Unzip the file, and then move the folder "TCAT 2.0.oxp" to the AddOns directory of your Oolite installation. Then start the game up and the ships should be added. 

Version history:

18/05/2010 - Version 1.00, Initial (semi-beta) release, prior to 1.74 test release.
15/06/2010 - Version 1.01, small bugfix (don't try and use the same mission variable for two different purposes!)
16/06/2010 - Version 1.02, two more small fixes (self-correction of 1.00 bug and adding Navy station if save-game in same system).
19/06/2010 - Version 1.03, a couple more small tweaks, plus made the final stage of the mission tougher (no more cloaking device cheating!).
14/07/2010 - Version 1.04, a minor tweak to shipdata.plist to make Raptor turrets actually do some damage!
23/12/2010 - Version 1.05, minor code tweak to ensure Mantis appears even if player goes and saves/restarts during invasion.
13/02/2011 - Version 1.06, removal of upper limit, to allow running with 1.75
19/02/2011 - Version 1.10, 1.75 release. ECM Jammer now equipment-key controlled, and AI glitch fixed in general Thargoid AI.
15/04/2012 - Version 1.11, update of thargoidAI due to recursion frustration issue.
31/03/2025 - Version 2.0
- Updates to all models, applying new textures, normal and specular maps where appropriate.
- Replaced Navy Station model with a customised Ico.
- Replaced Thargoid Interceptor and Sneak with a customised version of Griff's Organic Thargoid Robot Fighter.
- Updates to all scripts, utilising condition scripts, system populators, and non-deprecated spawning methods.
- Prevented mission from starting if the Stealth mission is underway.
- Allowed Raptors to be used by HIMSN as Advanced or Heavy patrols.
- Allowed Raptors to be used by Cataclysm as military ships.
02/02/2026 - Version 2.1
- Updated some PNG files to remove invalid colour profile.

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Acknowledgements:

With thanks to another_commander, Ahruman, Eric Walch, PAGroove and a whole host of others for various inputs and suggestions during the long period that this OXP has been brewing.

And special thanks to UK_Eliter for last-minute playtesting and suggestions for 1.03 improvements