I don't mind synthesis, in principal, but I definitely think it could be refined to make it less gamey. I definitely don't think materials should stay with you if your ship is destroyed, & I do think there should be means of obtaining minerals outside of shooting up outcrops et al on planets. They could serve as a form of "payment in kind" for doing jobs for factions, & should be available to buy & sell on the open market-though not at prices that would completely deter people from seeking them out on planets!
CMDR Marcus Hicks.
CMDR Marcus Hicks.