See, I see affinities as a belief system. Almost like a religion. I don't think an ardent xenophobe will change their minds about hybridizing humanity with aliens just because xenomass happens to be the most convenient strategic resource. Same with a technophobe and cybernetics, as well as a post-humanist or environmentalist and purity standpoint.
However, it might be shaped by the resources available.
If breakthroughs in supercomputers are possible because of Firaxite, cyberphiles might become more influential in society.
If there seems to be a possibility of dramatic industrial technologies because of Floatstone, allowing the alien planet to be overcome, those believing in humanity's greatness would encourage society to reach those goals.
etc.
However other factors may be important as well. Is there the opportunity for humanity to create a great Purity wonder under you, do you need the Harmony/Supremacy tech bonuses.
Hmmm the affinities seem pretty linear, all of them have the same layout basically.
1. Something to do with aliens
2. Something to do with sat coverage
3.plus 4 resource
5. Affinity specific operation.
6. Vcon
I was under the impression that each would be drastically different.
However, im loving how intuitive the interface is, its very clear and apparent what everything is and does and like civ 5 you can tell what good land is just by looking at it.
Well the first few levels are different
Purity=explorer alien immunity, alien attack, orbitals
Supremacy=better explorers, free roads, orbitals
Harmony=nicer aliens, Miasma, miasma
Also we don't know about buildings...
and it seemed Purity got some pretty significant Improvement bonuses.
Different building/improvement bonuses could make a huge difference (he mentioned Supremacy needing lots of energy)
And there are some differences in their unique units
Supremacy=
Angel:Melee+Ranged+2move
SABR: Ranged+1 move
CRVR: Melee+2move
CNDR: Melee+2move
Purity
LEV Destroyer: Ranged+melee+2 move+
Hover
LEV Tank: Ranged+melee+2 move+
Hover
??
??
Harmony
Xenotitan ??
??
??
??
Those ?? could change significantly how battles go