The latest Star Citizen update introduces two new mining options: the compact Drake Gum mining ship and the versatile Argo Atlas Geo ground-based mining mech, both designed to enhance the mining gameplay experience. The Drake Gum features a minimalist design and detachable containers for efficient solo or team operations, while the Atlas Geo offers mobility with a built-in jetpack and its own scanning capabilities, emphasizing a focus on mining rather than combat.
In the latest update for Star Citizen, two new mining options are introduced: the Drake Gum and the Argo Atlas Geo. The Drake Gum is a compact mining ship featuring a Quantum Drive, designed for efficient mining operations. It is set to be released in patch 4.1, coinciding with a new Banu Mission Giver that offers rewards for mining tasks, including unique armor and a fully equipped Polaris capital ship. The video provides a detailed preview of both mining vehicles, highlighting their features and potential impact on gameplay.
The Drake Gum is characterized by its minimalist and utilitarian design, which aligns with the Drake brand’s ethos. Although not aesthetically pleasing, its compact size allows it to fit inside larger ships like the C2, M2, or A2 Hercules, and even into the hangar of the Carrack. The ship borrows design elements from other Star Citizen vessels, such as the cockpit from the Mule and parts from the Cutter and Buccaneer. Its mining capabilities are enhanced by detachable containers that can hold 16 SU each, making it ideal for solo mining operations or as part of a larger team.
The ship’s cockpit is similar to that of the Mule but includes additional controls necessary for flight. While the Drake Gum is not heavily armed, it does come with two size one ballistic repeaters for basic defense. The ship’s nimbleness allows for quick escapes and maneuverability in tight spaces, making it suitable for mining in caves or asteroids. The integrated mining head, which folds down from the roof, is a key feature, although it lacks gimbaling capabilities, requiring players to maneuver the entire ship for optimal positioning.
In addition to the Drake Gum, the video introduces the Argo Atlas Geo, a ground-based mining mech that enhances mobility with a built-in jetpack. This mech allows players to navigate difficult terrain while mining, making it a versatile option for solo or team operations. Unlike its cargo variant, the Atlas Geo comes equipped with its own scanner to locate minerals independently. However, its mining laser is not designed for combat, emphasizing its intended use for mining rather than fighting.
Both the Drake Gum and Argo Atlas Geo aim to fill gaps in the mining gameplay loop, providing players with more engaging options beyond the existing Rock and Rock DS vehicles. The video encourages players to consider these new additions while also noting that they will be available for in-game purchase, alleviating pressure to buy them with real money. Overall, these new mining vehicles promise to enhance the mining experience in Star Citizen, catering to various play styles and preferences.