I think there should be variants of certain achievements, for example, speed running.
Something like :
if you start with resource preset A, you get X amount of time to launch the rocket to get the chiev.
If you start with resource preset B, you get Y amount of time to launch the rocket to get the chiev.
If you have customized settings, you get Z amount of time to launch the rocket to get the chiev.
This makes it so people can still enjoy playing factorio the way they want to play it, while also having a bit more challenge.
I'm also in favor of a "no crafting" chiev, where you start with a basic assembler, 2 boilers, 2 inserters, 1 steam engine, 1 burner drill, 1 stone furnace, and an iron pickax(and you can't craft anything in your pocket). Having two variants.
1: Unlimited time to launch the rocket(possible another objective).
2: You have a time limit and must launch the rocket into space before it expires.
As always, I think the devs should listen to the community as they always do to see what works best and what the majority of the fanbase would like
Honestly, the technology screen(as of right now) though it looks like a lot, really isn't very large, or very confusing. Each tech already shows you what you need to research it, what it leads to, and what it lets you make. I haven't actually seen a case of anyone saying that the tech screen was actually confusing, but I understand the want and need to make it look sexy and appealing.
I really hated the idea that every object connected to the network would need an additional entity next to it. It's so unjustly unnecessary and bulky, it isn't so much something to work around and plan for, as much as a large annoyance and waste of resources, especially time. I'll miss having smart inserters that are green, but oh well.
Also, could we please please please please please get fast long handed inserters? It makes a lot of sense to have them in the game, it would make a lot of difference and everyone would appreciate it. <3
I love the fire animation and the fire spread that's finally going to be added, it's been needed for a while.
Also, SUPER excited for new turrets and changes to combat!
It kind of feels like combat has been shoehorned into the game because it needed some kind of threat or enemy, along with the need of the purple sciences from alien artifacts.
Buts it's definitely lacking right now.
I made a very good, thoughtful, and detailed comment on both possible and probable changes that could be made to biters, spitters, bases, and just the enemies in general.
I think particularly, the combat needs to be changed and polished the most.
As always, Factorio is my absolute favorite game, and I will love it until the end of time. Thank you for making such a wonderful masterpiece <3