Space is simply too big to cover it in any noticeable density.
If there are mines then they need to be homing - in some shape or form.
Possible variations would be:
- "Mines" are actually one-shot missile launchers.
That lets each mine cover a considerable chunk of space. - As proven for years in X3, mines without IFF are completely useless if they cause a reputation hit when they destroy something.
Possible solutions:
- Make the act of laying mines give a rep hit with all who see you doing it.
Mines might have some activation time during which they are visible... before they go into hiding.
Have fun stealth-mining the area around that station you never liked anyway. - Have mines only attack "enemies". Duh. =P
- Make the act of laying mines give a rep hit with all who see you doing it.
- Mines are mobile.
They are hard to detect and move at a crawl but if they detect a ship early enough, they can crawl onto an intercept course. - Mines react to different target sizes.
You can't just send a cheap fighter into a minefield to attract the attention of all mines, then drive your big ships through the opening. - Ship equipment: Mine scanner
"Heavy" equipment that detects them at long range. You still need missiles or something comparable to dispatch them at a safe range. - Ship equipment: Decoy Drone
Small, re-usable (can collect if it survives) drone that simulates the signature size of [your ship].
If you suspect mines in the area, you have a chance to not instantly turn into a fireball. Doesn't really clear a minefield but you know when to get the hell out. - Ship equipment: Early warning system.
Detects radiation leaking from the mines' cloaking jingamabobs.
Tells you that this is not a good place to be but doesn't target / uncover the actual mines for you.