Nerf Building Quality Progression

[Trusin]

Patents fill a valuable role in encapsulating technological knowledge in a concrete way, without having arbitrary technological differences like a TL1 rifle vs a TL10 rifle. If I develop the technology to make laser rifles, I can share that technology with others; the patent is the token of that knowledge. If someone does not develop laser rifle technology, then they cannot suddenly start mass producing laser rifles.

I disagree that a player should know that developing a patent for plastic today could lead to the discovery of warp drives down the road.

Then don't show that step, show them as they become available to research. I agree with Deantwo, the patent / tech system needs to look different from the mfg system and a tree seems to be the best route.