The Anvil Asgard in Star Citizen Alpha 4.2 is a versatile and well-armed drop ship with substantial cargo capacity, strong ground support capabilities, and functional interior features, making it ideal for extended missions and vehicle transport. However, its high price, lack of a tractor beam, and some design limitations may make it less appealing compared to more affordable competitors like the Constellation Taurus.
The Anvil Asgard in Star Citizen Alpha 4.2 is a versatile drop ship that has generated excitement among players due to its combination of cargo capacity, armament, and solo play effectiveness. Building upon the Valkyrie, the Asgard features a spacious rear cargo bay with 180 SCU of storage, a vehicle ramp, and deployable door guns for ground support. The ship’s interior includes an engineering section, habitation area with bunks, a small bathroom, kitchen, and cockpit, making it functional for extended missions. The manned chin turret and six pilot-controlled Panther repeaters provide substantial firepower, complemented by 16 size 3 missiles, although the capacitor recharge can be slow during sustained combat.
In combat, the Asgard excels in engaging NPC fighters and smaller multi-crew ships, with its armament geared towards ground support and drop ship roles. The manned turret is optimized for targeting enemies below, fitting its role in troop deployment and ground operations. Despite its tank-like appearance, the ship offers reasonable visibility from the cockpit and good maneuverability, aided by VTOL thrusters and a respectable SCM speed of 203 m/s. Its quantum drive allows for efficient travel across the Stanton system, though it is not the fastest available.
Operational costs of the Asgard can vary significantly depending on missile usage, with refueling and repairs being relatively affordable but full restocks potentially costly. The ship offers multiple avenues for profitability, including ground support missions, ship combat contracts, and cargo hauling thanks to its large storage capacity. Its ability to carry vehicles like the Nova tank and support surface mining by transporting rovers adds to its versatility. Upgrades such as a faster quantum drive or alternative weapons can enhance its performance, tailoring it to pilot preferences.
However, the Asgard has some drawbacks. It lacks a tractor beam, requiring players to bring their own or dedicate cargo space to an ATLS for loading and unloading, which reduces available storage. The front section of the cargo bay is underutilized due to design constraints, and despite having four shield generators, the defensive shields feel weaker than expected for a ship of its size. These factors, combined with the ship’s high price point—ranging from $325 to $350—make it a significant investment compared to competitors like the Constellation Taurus, which offers similar capabilities at a lower cost and includes features like a tractor beam.
In conclusion, the Anvil Asgard is a competitive and enjoyable ship that offers a unique blend of cargo capacity, combat capability, and ground support functionality. Its larger vehicle bay and cargo flexibility make it attractive for players needing to transport heavy vehicles or large cargo. Nevertheless, its high price and some design limitations mean it may not be the best choice for everyone, especially given strong alternatives in the same role. The Asgard is best suited for players who value its specific strengths and are willing to invest in a premium drop ship experience.