Fix it.
I am Generation X!
You could have added a playable transition screen. Like a mini game loading screen.... Each plant could have associated risks. Like cloud covering hazards, sub orbital debris, mountains, giant trees, massive flying animals, even traffic. Taking hits that produce damage that would require an extra mission to repair, or get a reward for successful taking down a pirate and collect a bounty! Nothing that would eliminate you, or restart the loading screen.
Generation X has spoken!
Sincerely, your future.