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NETWORK NODE
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This is the first and most basic of your research-enhancing facilities. It also allows you to "link" with alien artifacts to discover new tech ( you don't need a Network Node to use alien artifacts to hurry secret projects or prototypes ). These two abilities are sufficient reason to build your nodes early on. This allows you to pep up your research program, and grab extra techs while artifacts are plentiful and the techs do the most good.
The Network Node really comes into its own, however, when
you have the Virtual World secret project, which
combines the effects of the Hologram Theatre with
your Network Nodes. This combination makes Network Nodes very likely the most
valuable single improvement in the game, on a dollar-per-dollar basis. If you
have or plan to get the Virtual World, you should definately make Network Nodes
either the first facilities in any new base, or the second ( after Children's
Creche ). Network Nodes also figure spectacularly in another secret project,
the late-game Network Backbone.
Not having a Network Node makes your base susceptible
to a special event that wipes out all research on your current project. Having
a node at the same base qualifies you for a research breakthrough event, producing
a free tech. See Random Events