science Tech Comparison
Exotic Matter Research vs Transcendent Physics
Comparing the Exotic Matter Research (Tier 4) and Transcendent Physics (Tier 5), both science technologies in Starforge MMO. Use this to decide which to queue first when your research lab can only run one project at a time.
Research Comparison
| Attribute | Exotic Matter Research | Transcendent Physics |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | T4 | T5 |
| Research time | 50▼ | 300 |
| metal cost | 80,000▼ | 400,000 |
| crystal cost | 50,000▼ | 200,000 |
| dark matter cost | 3,000▼ | 15,000 |
| antimatter cost | — | 5,000▼ |
| Effect | unlocks resource: exotic matter; +20% research yield | unlocks transcendent branch: true; +20% -research time |
▼ marks the lower resource / time cost. Cheaper isn't always better — weigh it against the effect each tech unlocks.
Exotic Matter Research
Harness exotic matter particles for next-generation propulsion and weaponry. Unlocks exotic_matter as a craftable resource.
Unlocks buildings: exotic matter lab
Requires: science 5
Transcendent Physics
Push beyond known physical laws. Unlocks transcendent-tier technology branch and grants -20% to all future research times.
Unlocks buildings: transcendence institute
Requires: science 7, quantum 3
Which Should You Research First?
The Exotic Matter Research is the lower-tier prerequisite step and typically comes first in the science branch, opening the path toward Transcendent Physics.