Stellaris Nomads Expansion Launches on Linux, Steam Deck, Mac, and Windows

The Stellaris Nomads expansion is out now, bringing a major shift to the grand strategy title's core gameplay loop. Developed by Paradox Development Studio, the expansion is available immediately for Linux, Steam Deck, Mac, and Windows, purchasable via Steam and GOG.

A New Way to Traverse the Galaxy

For years, Stellaris players have focused on settling worlds and drawing borders. Nomads flips that script by removing the need for traditional planetary ownership. Instead, players command massive Arkships, effectively turning their civilization into a mobile fleet. These Arkships serve as the empire's capital, fortress, and lifeboat, allowing for a playstyle that prioritizes movement over territorial expansion.

The expansion introduces several specialized Arkship types—Military, Scientific, and Civilian—that can be upgraded with specific modules and districts to suit your strategic needs. This makes the Arkship a central identity for your empire rather than just a simple statistic.

Trade Routes and New Origins

Roaming the galaxy requires a different economic approach. The new Wayline Networks allow players to build Waystations, creating trade routes that generate resources as you pass through them. Complementing this is a new contract system, where you can take on specific tasks for other empires or issue your own to gain influence and favour.

The expansion also introduces new origins to define your nomadic path:

• Voidfarers: A standard start for those seeking to learn the nomadic lifestyle.
• Heirs of the Khan: A survival-focused origin where you navigate being the successor to a murdered leader while evading hit-squads.
• The Sacred Path: A spiritual journey centered on guiding pilgrims to holy sites.
• Forever Cruise: A unique setup where you must balance the needs of pampered elites against a weary, hardworking crew.

The 4.4 “Pegasus” Update

Alongside the paid content, Paradox has released the free 4.4 “Pegasus” update for all players. This update includes technical refinements such as improved job systems, job selection logic, and a reworked situation log UI. Most notably, it adds the ability for players to join or leave wars that are already in progress, which should help make galactic politics feel less static.

While Paradox notes that the Pegasus update includes general performance improvements, the developer has not provided specific frame-rate benchmarks for Linux or Steam Deck users. The update is intended to help keep late-game campaigns running smoother as the galaxy becomes crowded with fleets and crises.

Late-Game Ambitions

For those reaching the later stages of a campaign, Nomads adds the “Defender of the Galaxy” Ambition, allowing for the command of Hero Ships during existential threats. Players can also construct the Stellar Canon, a megastructure capable of firing a devastating beam across the galaxy by consuming the empire's energy stockpile. For competitive players, the “Champions Forge Live!” feature brings gladiatorial fleet combat, where the winner earns the Trophy relic.

The Nomads expansion is available as a standalone purchase or as part of the Season 10 Expansion Pass, which offers a 20% discount compared to individual purchases.