With the release of Alpha 7.5 and later Alpha 12, Empyrion Galactic Survival introduced the ability to deeply modify almost every game parameter. On HWS, we’ve harnessed this power to craft an entirely customized multiplayer experience using our exclusive HWS+ Configs.
Whether you’re here to dominate PvP, explore rich PvE content, or build efficiently, this guide will walk you through what makes the HWS+ configuration unique — and how you can explore it yourself.
What Are HWS+ Configs?
HWS+ Configs are custom game settings developed over years to optimize the multiplayer experience. They allow us to tweak core aspects of gameplay including:
Damage values- Hitpoints (HP)
- Rate of Fire (ROF)
- Reload times
- Blast radius and more
These changes shift the game away from its vanilla balance, making it more competitive, strategic, and performance-friendly in a multiplayer setting.
HWS+ Config Objectives
The goals of the HWS+ Configs are:
Enhance PvP by considering performance, weapon balance, blast radius, and tactical diversity.
Establish a Rock-Paper-Scissors weapon system where different weapon types counter specific defenses or targets.
Introduce block/component specialization (e.g., weapons that are effective against other weapons or fuel tanks).
Improve PvE by making POI raids more meaningful with unique Epic loot and enforced combat progression.
Add quality-of-life improvements like:
- Faster Drill and Multi Tool
- Higher stack sizes
- Reduced crafting times
Elemental Weapon System (EWS²)
To bring strategic depth, HWS+ features a unique Elemental Weapon System (EWS²) inspired by the “Rock-Paper-Scissors” principle.
This system defines which weapons are effective against specific material types or combat roles.
Check the chart below to understand which weapons counter which elements:
Mastering EWS² is key to outplaying your enemies in both PvE and PvP combat.
Accessing the HWS+ Scenario
Use the Steam Workshop
Subscribe to the scenario and get automatic updates via Steam:
Link to a new HWS+ Creative Scenario follows soon
Please read the included README.txt for usage terms!
Contribution and Usage Policy
After years of development, I’ve decided to make my work public. However:
You are not allowed to reuse, redistribute, or modify any of my work — especially my custom 3D models and paid assets — without my explicit permission.
Violations will be pursued through legal channels.
Summary
HWS+ is not just a scenario — it’s a fully rebalanced game system designed for serious players looking for immersion, fairness, and strategic depth in Empyrion.
Balanced weapon and block mechanics
PvP and PvE made more meaningful
Performance and QoL boosts
Public access for learning and inspiration (not duplication)