The video showcases live testing of Star Citizen’s 4.3.2 PTU patch, highlighting improvements to the Aegis Reclaimer’s elevator and salvage mechanics, alongside new pricing changes that reduce the profitability of salvaging. While the rework enhances cargo handling and crafting functionality, concerns remain about the ship’s combat fragility and the overall viability of salvage gameplay, with hopes for future patches to better balance risk and reward.
The video is a live testing session of the Star Citizen 4.3.2 PTU patch, focusing on various gameplay updates including the reclaimer elevator rework, structural salvage mechanics, and new pricing changes. The hosts begin by reviewing patch notes, highlighting adjustments to salvage prices, construction material refinery yields, and the addition of a cargo grid and elevator animation fixes on the Aegis Reclaimer. They also note the introduction of new turrets in shops and performance optimizations for the Onyx facility. Early discussions reveal issues with ammo management, such as the inability to split ammo purchases, and bugs related to inventory and elevators.
The testers then explore the reclaimer’s updated elevator and cargo handling features. They discover that the cargo grid is not present on the main elevator as expected but is instead located on the salvage hold elevator, which has been improved with a larger opening to facilitate easier cargo movement. They test the tractor beams and cargo lifts, finding the new system smoother and more efficient for moving large salvage containers. Despite some bugs and the elevator not fully reaching the ground, the improvements are seen as a positive step toward better salvage logistics.
Salvaging gameplay is extensively tested by dismantling a Polaris ship and collecting Raw Material Components (RMC) and Construction Materials (CM). The team confirms that the reclaimer now yields low-quality construction materials (powder type), while other ships like the Vulture and Fortune yield different types of salvage materials. They also test crafting on the reclaimer, confirming that a previous bug preventing crafting has been fixed. However, the yield from refining construction materials is very low, and the selling price for RMC has been significantly reduced, leading to concerns about the profitability and future viability of salvaging as a money-making activity.
Combat testing with the reclaimer reveals weaknesses in its defensive capabilities. The team attempts a PvP mission using the reclaimer’s turrets and Point Defense Cannons (PDCs), but the PDCs are found to be non-functional or ineffective, and the turrets have limited mobility. The ship feels fragile, easily taking damage from enemy fire, which raises concerns about its survivability during combat scenarios. Despite these issues, the group enjoys the immersive experience of Star Citizen’s detailed ship interiors, animations, and environmental effects like rain, emphasizing the game’s unique appeal compared to other space simulators.
Finally, the testers discuss broader gameplay implications and community feedback. They note that the current salvage pricing and refining yields represent a nerf compared to previous patches, potentially discouraging players from engaging in multi-crew salvage operations. The hosts speculate that upcoming patches may introduce new salvage ships to access different material types and improve profitability. They also touch on other game elements like cargo hauling, mission tabs, and ship storage mechanics, expressing hope that future updates will balance risk and reward better to keep these gameplay loops engaging. The stream concludes with anticipation for the upcoming roadmap update and CitizenCon event.