The video compares the Ares Ion’s weapon damage against the Polaris and A90 Jump ships in Star Citizen’s 4.0.2 PTU, highlighting the Ares Ion’s recent buffs to damage output despite its decreased speed and maneuverability. The testing reveals that while the Ares Ion is effective against larger ships, it remains vulnerable to smaller fighters and requires support in combat situations.
In the video, the host conducts a detailed weapon damage test comparing the Ares Ion against the Polaris and A90 Jump ships in the 4.0.2 PTU of Star Citizen. The Ares Ion has recently undergone significant adjustments, with buffs to its damage output and hull points, while its speed and maneuverability have been nerfed. The host explains the mechanics behind the damage system in Star Citizen, particularly how damage to shields is calculated, which can lead to unexpected results such as not being able to one-shot smaller ships like the Gladius.
The testing begins with the Ares Ion targeting the Polaris. The host measures how many shots it takes to deplete one side of the Polaris’s shields, noting that the Ares Ion’s long-range capabilities are hindered by the bullet curve and speed. After determining that 55 shots are needed to breach the shield, the host turns off the shields of the Polaris to assess how many shots it takes to destroy its engines, discovering that it takes 12 shots to incapacitate each engine.
Moving on, the host tests the Ares Ion against the A90 Jump. The A90 Jump, described as a capital ship, is found to have relatively weak hull integrity compared to the Polaris. The host fires at the A90 Jump from behind and finds that it takes 30 rounds to take down its shields and an additional 45 rounds to achieve a soft death. The testing reveals that the A90 Jump is significantly easier to destroy than the Polaris, showcasing a disparity in durability between the two ships.
Throughout the video, the host emphasizes the Ares Ion’s role as a support ship, particularly effective against larger or capital ships like the Polaris and A90 Jump. However, the Ares Ion’s maneuverability issues make it vulnerable to smaller, more agile fighters. The host advises viewers to be mindful of the Ares Ion’s range and bullet drop when engaging targets to maximize its effectiveness in combat.
In conclusion, the video highlights the ongoing balance changes in Star Citizen and the Ares Ion’s intended role in the game’s ecosystem. While the adjustments have improved its damage capabilities, the host notes that it still requires support in combat situations, particularly against skilled players in smaller ships. The video ends with a reminder of the Ares Ion’s missile options, which can further enhance its combat potential.