CLASS ACTIVITY
An Introduction to Data Models, using "No Man's Sky"

"No Man’s Sky" is a computer game. As a player, you start out stranded on an alien planet with nothing but a defective space suit. You must then make your way through the galaxy (as you see fit) … exploring strange new worlds, uncovering alien conspiracies, building networks of planetary bases and holdings, and generally seeking your fortune.

Since it’s a space-based game, your space ship plays an important role. Early in the game you acquire a small (and broken) ship, but have the opportunity to discover or buy better ones as the game progresses. Ship prices are set by the game, and depend on three factors:

(1) The CLASS of the ship. There are four classes, ranging from "C" class (the worst), through "B" class (better), "A" class (even better), and "S" class (top of the line). Generally speaking, the higher the class of the ship, the better its attributes on such factors as fighting damage, shield damage protection, travel range, and maneuverability in space.

(2) The SIZE of the ship. Size is measured in "slots" — basically, places in which equipment can be installed or cargo can be stacked. The smallest ships have 15 slots; the largest have 48.

(3) The TYPE of ship. While all ships can do all things in-game, different types of ships are optimized for different tasks. There are five basic ship types:

(a) FIGHTERS, designed for fighting (doh!) space battles. They can exist in all classes (C, B, A, S) and can have between 15 and 38 slots.

(b) EXPLORERS, designed for discovering new corners of the universe. Once again, all classes and between 15 and 38 slots.

(c) HAULERS, or cargo ships. All classes are possible, but these ships are larger, with 25 to 48 slots.

(d) SHUTTLES, relatively inexpensive utility vessels, all classes and 18 to 28 slots.

(e) EXOTICS, superior ships built by a lost alien race. Only "S" class exists, with 15 to 20 slots.

The data file NMS.xlsx gives the price (in thousands of "Units," the game currency) for each ship configuration. Note that not all combinations of variables are possible. For example, you can get a 15-slot "C" class Explorer for a mere 445,000 Units. However, there is no such thing in game as a 15-slot "S" class Explorer. While the data spreadsheet will facilitate some computations, the focus of this activity is not on elaborate number crunching. Rather, it is on the logic underlying quantitative models for data. In other words: I am asking you to actually think, not just to mindlessly compute.

Working together with your fellow group members, use these data and (most importantly) your brains to answer the following questions:

Q1: In theory, a 20-slot Exotic ship exists in the game. In practice, Dr. Rasp has never actually seen one. What should he expect as the price for this ship?

Q2: What price should you expect to pay for a 48-slot, S-class hauler (the most expensive ship in the game)? Explain your reasoning.

Q3: There (apparently) is no A-class 26-slot fighter. If there were, what should it cost? Explain.