 Aliens may be cautious , friendly , or hostile , and all have distinctive speech patterns ; the player can influence alien reactions by arming weapons and shields or hailing the aliens with varying communication styles . Alien ships can be also scanned for information . Combat involves maneuvering the ship and firing weapons , either instantly damaging short range lasers or avoidable , but more powerful long range missiles . The weapon used depends on how far away enemy ships are and what the player 's ship is armed with . The player 's ship has ablative armor and regenerative shields , and can take damage to its hull and individual components . 
