Before attacking another player, scout their base. With high enough scouting technologies, you can get information that will reveal what type of ships they have on defense. Change your formation to give yourself an advantage before attacking.
Repairs
Return to your base after every battle and spend resources to repair your ships. Do not enter a battle with damaged ships. Upgrade your repair bay to have enough space for your repairs.
Setting up
When the game begins, your base will be under the protection of Peace Diplomacy. This blocks other players from attacking your base, and will continue for 24 hours. During this time, build ships and set them to your defense squadron.
Ships
Each type of ship, outside of flagships, are stronger or weaker against another type.
Assaulters (three lasers): Strong good against Cruisers but weak against Frigates.
Cruisers (chain gun): Strong against Frigates but weak against Assaulters.
Frigates (two missiles): Strong against Assaulters but weak against Cruisers.