In addition, players can have a tangible effect on the world that is still unusual in the genre. Part of the elaborate system of crafting items includes the establishment and running of personal mines, harvesters and even factories. Together with player housing that can be placed virtually anywhere, such operations tend to result in little ad hoc mining towns, often put together by a single player association. Player-run vendors based in these towns can even appear on the world map given enough time and traffic. When well-run, these towns/shops take on a real life of their own. Finally, you can choose sides in the imperials versus rebels conflict by performing missions for your group of choice. Joining a faction is entirely voluntary, but opens the way not only to player-vs-player combat but other Star Wars-themed goodies as well, such as uniforms, military ranks, and the ability to take control of NPC troopers and combat machinery.