Influence measures the soft power of a civilization and the dominance of its culture. A highly influential civilization will command respect and keep enemies at a distance, even if its military forces pale in comparison. 
Influence is important for effective diplomacy. The Influence of a colony or starbase grows over time according to its Influence Growth statistic.
Effects of Influence[ | ]
Diplomacy[ | ]
Influence is a major determinant of the outcome of diplomatic interactions.
Zone of control[ | ]
The regions of the galaxy where the Influence of one civilization dominates is its zone of control. Colonies within the zone of control of another civilization will eventually culture flip and pledge their allegiance to the other civilization. 
Tourism Income depends on the zone of control.
Bonuses to Influence Growth[ | ]
The primary way to increase Influence Growth is through improvements, such as the Embassy, Diplomatic District, Cultural Center, Cultural Beacon, 
Financial Capital, 
Entertainment Capital and 
Snuggler Colony trade resource. Many starbase modules drive the Influence Growth of starbase itself and nearby colonies. Many technologies globally boost Influence Growth, including Cultural Affinity and Technological Outreach.
Other sources of Influence Growth include:
- The
Leader, Diplomat, Cleric and Galactic Tour in - A Cultural Treaty or Culture Alliance with another faction (disabled by )
- A luxury trade route
- Certain planet types
- Certain colonization events
- A culture relic
- The Influential trait
- The Devout, Unrelenting and Certain abilities
- The Prominence ideology
- The Influence anomaly in the Precursor Worlds DLC
- Certain Mercenary ships in
- Certain Governments in
