The Grays Market Shiv is a heavily modified, worn-down ship based on the Drake Cutlass Black, offering a unique, rugged aesthetic and versatile functionality with decent combat and cargo capabilities, though it lacks some features typical of heavy fighters. While it doesn’t revolutionize gameplay, the Shiv appeals to players who appreciate a gritty, survivor-style design and adds a distinctive visual identity to the Star Citizen ship lineup.
In this Star Citizen ship review, Beard of Oz introduces the Grays Market Shiv, a ship that feels like a scrappy, cobbled-together survivor vessel, reminiscent of something patched up to escape a harsh environment like Monox. Positioned between the Anvil Paladin and the Aegis Stinger, the Shiv is based on the Drake Cutlass Black chassis but stripped down and heavily modified to look worn and battle-damaged. Despite being marketed as a heavy fighter, it lacks some traditional features expected of that class, leaving some ambiguity about its intended role.
The Shiv’s specifications mirror many aspects of the Cutlass Black, including a size two power plant, coolers, shields, and quantum drive, though none of these components are physicalized yet. Its armament consists of two size four hardpoints with ballistic miniguns and a turret with four size three laser repeaters, which the reviewer recommends upgrading due to their underwhelming performance. Additionally, it carries a robust missile loadout and a 32 SCU cargo capacity without complicated stacking restrictions, making it versatile for both combat and cargo hauling.
Aesthetically, the Shiv stands out with its rusted, beaten-up appearance, clearly built from a damaged Cutlass Black frame but with notable changes such as the removal of front wings, replaced thrusters, and a rear ramp entrance. The interior is equally rough, featuring exposed cables, scrap panels, and a humorously placed hygiene station where the turret gunner’s entrance used to be. This unique, gritty design appeals to players who appreciate the lore and visual style of a rugged, survivor-type ship, contrasting with the typically sleek and polished Star Citizen vessels.
Performance-wise, the Shiv handles similarly to the Cutlass Black with decent boost response but lacks VTOL thrusters, affecting takeoff dynamics. Its hull health is slightly better than the Cutlass Black, and its armaments can be satisfying depending on customization. However, the limited power plant size restricts full energy weapon usage, making a mixed weapon loadout more practical. Cargo operations are straightforward, and the ship’s audio design adds to its character, featuring electric crackles and rattling metal that enhance the impression of a patched-together, functional vessel.
In conclusion, the Grays Market Shiv does not revolutionize gameplay or set new standards but offers a fresh aesthetic that caters to players who enjoy a grungy, worn-in look and feel. Beard of Oz hopes the Grays Market manufacturer will expand its lineup to satisfy those craving more janky, deteriorated ships in the Star Citizen universe. The Shiv is a niche but welcome addition, blending functionality with a distinct visual identity that stands apart from the usual clean and polished ships. The reviewer invites viewers to share their opinions and engage with the channel for more Star Citizen content.