Cobalt is the defensive energy faction: Overload, Shield Generators, Energy Lab tech, Leviathan and Burster. Slaraash unlocks after Chapter 2 and shifts toward Acid pools, drones, the Acid Vat and Incubator, with Carrier and Stinger as signature ships. Choose by the build engine you want, not a universal tier list.
Cobalt and Slaraash solve fights differently
Official August 2026 faction notes describe two Early Access factions with distinct mechanics, damage types, colonies, ships and progression. Cobalt is the starting story faction; Slaraash becomes freely selectable for Story and Free Play after Chapter 2.
| System | Cobalt Expedition | Slaraash Swarm |
|---|---|---|
| Primary damage identity | Energy → builds Overload | Acid → can create damaging pools |
| Defensive engine | Shield Generators replenish between individual battles | Drones can add damage, healing or mitigation depending on build |
| Build colony | Energy Lab | Acid Vat / Incubator |
| Named unique ships | Leviathan, Burster | Carrier, Stinger |
| Availability | Prelude + first two chapters | Unlocks after Chapter 2 |
Pick Cobalt if you want controlled defense and Overload
Cobalt makes the most sense when you enjoy setting up a protected fleet, building shield infrastructure and turning concentrated energy fire into Overload explosions. Its unique ships cover both heavy specialist pressure and agile close-range assault.
Pick Slaraash if you want area denial and drone scaling
Slaraash builds can turn the battlefield itself into a weapon. Acid pools punish space, while drone packages can be pushed toward firepower, sustain or protection. The Carrier and Stinger reinforce that “swarm + piercing pressure” identity.
Your first story run is a Cobalt run
Because Slaraash stays locked until after Chapter 2, your opening chapters effectively double as a Cobalt tutorial. Plan accordingly: starting relics and colony tech that strengthen shields, Overload or the Energy Lab keep paying off during the only chapters you can play, while Slaraash-specific plans wait for the unlock or for Free Play. July 2026 notes confirm bosses work with any faction in Free Play, which makes it the low-stakes place to learn a new faction without story pressure.
Sources & version note
This guide is verified for the pre-Early Access build window on September 13, 2026. Older playtest footage is used for mechanics and player questions only when it does not conflict with newer official changes.