I have over 65 hours in this save, and I just finished getting the 3rd crew I need to buy a Command Ship. However, I had to go back to mining to make enough to buy one. Its the fastest way I know w/o having to constantly fight the baddies. I've wondered off the script a couple of times to mine or trade but you have to return and follow the missions to get the three crew you need to buy a Command/Capital Ship. (?)
My new command ship. a Xanthean (looks a bit like a Corvette but smaller)
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A view from the bridge. (I sit in the middle seat to my left)
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Afaik, There's only one Cap Ship which is a Carrier (Mothership) you can buy but I have too many other things to do next before tackling that goal.
I still don't have a full grasp of how Tiers and Levels work. So far it has not slowed me down to not try and increase either one; advancement just happens as you play through the main missions. There is so much I have not done in this game.
Have a nice day
Edit: Fixed bad stuff
+ The Steam Forum for SB2 had really got quiet the last few weeks (kind of like here), until SF hit the streets.