Game: Galaxy on Fire - Alliances

It's been said that in space, no one can hear you tap on a touchscreen. Or at least something similar to that was once said. Anyway, it's relevant because Galaxy on Fire - Alliances will have you tapping plenty of times as you try to conquer as much of space as possible. With or without allies, it ends up looking and sounding a lot more fun than it actually is.If the Galaxy on Fire name sounds familiar, there's a good reason for that. The previous games sporting that name were of the action-RPG variety, known for their customizable starships. Alliances is an entirely different beast: an MMO with resource management that is best played by teaming up with others, getting it a "truth in naming" award if nothing else."The galaxy in question this time contains the Shroud Nebula, a previously inaccessible region where three different spacefaring races are vying for power. Each has its own unique racial advantages, and one looks a lot like regular Earth humans. You pick the one that suits your fancy, and then it's off to the tutorial.Your home system contains several planets that allow you to get a feel for core concepts like building and upgrading structures and ships, sending cargo from one world to another, and using drones to unlock single-player missions. In one of the game's best ideas, those starter worlds are completely undetectable at all times. So unlike games of this ilk too numerous to mention, you can't be ganged up on and have all your resources stolen and structures destroyed.