the player starts as a freelance space pilot in a shuttlecraft, out to make a penny in the vast and unforgiving galaxy. there are many ways to play "nova"; for example, a starting player seeking funds can become a trader or courier, delivering cargo between worlds; become a pirate or bounty hunter, attacking and disabling ships to steal their money, cargo, or the ships themselves; become involved in one of the main storylines; or even conquer the galaxy by subjugating worlds.