In this video, the creator conducts extensive testing of ballistic weapons in the Star Citizen 4.5 PTU update, focusing on their increased lethality and impact on space combat. The initial test involves the F7A Hornet Mark II equipped with the Super Hornet M2 ballistic turret, which has been historically unrepairable. The presenter examines ammo counts, weapon configurations, and engages in combat with various enemy ships, demonstrating how ballistic weapons can quickly damage shields, coolers, and power plants, making combat more intense and dangerous for both attackers and defenders.
Throughout the tests, the video highlights that ballistic weapons now cause significant component damage beyond just hull and shield depletion. Ships like the Vanguard and Firebird, armed with powerful ballistic cannons, inflict rapid damage to critical systems, including coolers and power plants, often resulting in component failures that can cripple a ship mid-fight. The presenter notes that this creates a high-risk environment where the first to land hits with ballistics usually gains a decisive advantage, emphasizing the strategic importance of hitting first in both PvE and PvP scenarios.
The video also explores the challenges of repairing damaged components during combat, especially since many ships lack physicalized components, preventing manual repairs while in flight. The presenter demonstrates attempts to repair power plants and other systems under fire, often with limited success, underscoring how difficult it is to recover once key systems are compromised. This adds a layer of tactical complexity to engagements, as players must manage not only offensive capabilities but also the vulnerability of their ship’s internal systems.
Further tests on larger multi-crew ships like the Perseus and Polaris reveal that ballistic weapons, particularly larger caliber ones like size four Deadbolt cannons, have enhanced penetration capabilities and can directly damage vital components such as power plants and quantum drives. The video shows that smaller ballistic weapons (size three) have less penetration and damage effect on components, highlighting the importance of weapon size in combat effectiveness. This penetration mechanic makes larger ballistic weapons especially deadly, capable of bypassing shields and inflicting critical system damage.
In conclusion, the video asserts that the 4.5 update has made ballistic weapons significantly more dangerous and impactful in space combat, making engagements more challenging and realistic. The increased damage to ship components requires players to adopt new strategies, as survivability depends heavily on avoiding ballistic hits and managing system repairs under fire. The creator suggests that in future videos, they will delve deeper into the technical aspects of ballistic penetration, but for now, the general takeaway is clear: ballistic weapons have become a formidable force that can quickly turn the tide of battle in Star Citizen.
