I grew up on Universe 1 and recently started playing it again.

I then found Universe 2 and figured I'd give it a try, and while it's similar, it certianly is a different beast.

My biggest issue is I can't figure out how you actually make money in this game. The passengers to fuel doesn't seem to really net a profit, for every 5 goods I buy maybe 1 makes a little money and the rest lose money, ore isn't plentiful enough to make money, at least in the early game, and the same goes for piracy.

So how the heck do you stay afloat? Or are you just supposed to hang on until you're called for "missions"?

If memory serves... (and it may not; I haven't played this game in almost 30 years, so if I'm way off base, I apologize)

1) Find a passenger route or two that maximizes the cost/benefit ratio. Some routes require more jumps than others; you get more money per passenger, but your fuel costs can double or triple. Any time you can upgrade your gear (drives, passenger space, etc.), the ideal routes may change.

2) For market trading, you have to watch the prices and make sure you buy low. I remember hitting Pause A LOT, and also filling pages with notes on various goods.

3) You can carry a full load of passengers and cargo at the same time; once you've found the optimal passenger route(s), pay attention to the types of goods the destination wants, and key on them at the market.

4) If you want to get into mining, don't hire the first specialist to come along. Check at various planets. Also, save up for the better-rated equipment. (Also, don't try to mine when your hold is full of cargo.)

5) Patience. The grind is intentional. You can play optimally and still take forever to feel financially safe.