Dynamic Infestation

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Dynamic infestation is a Kharaa bacterial growth which spreads from the Hive and Cyst created by the Alien Commander. Infestation grows and advances on surfaces around a cyst, and is the source of nutrition for Kharaa structures. Most Kharaa structures (except the Hive and uprooted Whip) will degenerate until death without infestation beneath them. Infestation also possesses several properties which enhance Kharaa defensive capabilities, most notably the ability to prevent Frontiersmen buildings from being placed. It is similar to the Marine's power network in that both are required for structures to operate, however the mechanics of each differ greatly.

Note: Currently, a prototype version of Dynamic Infestation is in use to allow testing of the gameplay elements, using the decal system for placeholder graphics. The actual dynamic growth will appear in version 1.0, and can be seen (in an older version) here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMMiKKv7g7s

Strategy

Dynamic Infestation can be seen as a network of interconnected nodes representing the territory control of the Kharra. "Pockets" or small outcroppings of structures cannot exist on their own. In other words, each structure must ultimately be connected to the hive though infestation. Because of this, territory expansion needs to be controlled and actively defended when dealing with control and placement of Harvesters as an alien commander.

Since Marines can place structures anywhere on the map with power, they have the advantage of being able to place structures quickly and in any location immediately. This means that a team of 2-3 Marines can effectively move from room-to-room, establish power, and build Extractors very quickly after the start of a round. This can give the Marines a large advantage very early in the game if not effectively countered. However, this also means that Marine Extractors are usually not as defended or watched as often as Harvesters once the round progresses. The Kharra's guerrilla warfare tactics are very well suited to take out these lone Extractors.

The Kharra do not have this luxury, and must "branch out" from the initial hive towards Resource Nozzles. A common beginner mistake as an alien commander is to create very long "limbs" towards Resource Nozzles far away from the hive. If a Marine severs the connection between the hive and Harvester, the unconnected cysts and Harvester will start to die, and an inattentive commander may not take notice until it is too late. Thus, it is better to grow "organically" from the hive to the closest Nozzles first, and actively defend the territory expansion towards others.

Abilities

Alien Building Area
- Description: Alien structures can only be placed on infestation, and Whips can only root while on infestation. Structures will die if infestation recedes from under them.

Marine Building Prevention
- Description: The Marine Commander cannot place unbuilt structures on infestation; however, preexisting structures remain intact.