The stream explores the current state of cargo hauling in Star Citizen, highlighting restored tractor beam speeds and the challenges posed by the broken Hull-C ship, while demonstrating effective hauling strategies using ships like the Caterpillar, Carrack, and C2 Hercules. The host also discusses gameplay mechanics, economic challenges, and the risks of hauling in dangerous systems like Pyro, concluding with a high-risk cargo run that combines hauling and combat readiness.
In this detailed stream, the host explores the current state of cargo hauling missions in Star Citizen, focusing primarily on the Stanton system and later venturing into the Pyro system. The recent patch has restored the tractor beam speed, making hauling much more efficient compared to previous patches where the speed was significantly reduced. However, the Hull-C ship, previously favored for hauling due to its autoloading and unloading capabilities, is currently broken and unusable for missions. The host expresses concern about whether autoloading features might be permanently removed with upcoming updates, which would make cargo operations more time-consuming.
The host tests various cargo hauling missions, emphasizing the differences between supply grade, small grade, and bulk grade missions. For new players, smaller missions involving starter ships like the Nomad or Mustang Alpha are recommended, although these missions yield lower payouts. More substantial missions require larger ships such as the Caterpillar, Carrack, or C2 Hercules to carry heavier cargo loads. Throughout the stream, the host demonstrates the complexities of loading cargo correctly, dealing with mission-specific cargo box sizes, and the occasional bugs like duplicated cargo items or inability to sell contracted cargo at certain stations.
Several ships are tested for their hauling efficiency, including the Origin 315P, Drake Caterpillar, Carrack, and C2 Hercules. The Caterpillar and Carrack are shown to be capable of completing large missions, though loading and unloading cargo pods can be cumbersome, especially with the Carrack. The C2 Hercules, paired with the Argo Atlas for loading assistance, proves very effective for hauling large quantities of cargo. The host highlights the importance of having the right ship and equipment, like the Atlas or max lift tool, to speed up cargo operations and reduce frustration.
The stream also touches on other gameplay elements such as the upcoming Nyx system, engineering mechanics involving ship fuse replacements, and the evolving economy of Star Citizen. The host mentions the challenges of making money in the game due to recent nerfs in cargo mission payouts and saturated commodity markets. Despite these challenges, cargo hauling remains a viable and engaging gameplay loop, especially with the restored tractor beam speeds. Additionally, the host briefly discusses the risks of hauling in dangerous systems like Pyro, recommending bringing friends for protection during high-risk runs like the Partellium run.
In conclusion, the host successfully completes several cargo hauling missions using different ships and shares insights into the current state and future of hauling in Star Citizen. They emphasize that while some ships like the Hull-C are currently broken, others like the Caterpillar, Carrack, and C2 Hercules remain functional and effective. The stream ends with a demonstration of a risky high-value cargo run in Pyro using the Paladin, showcasing the blend of cargo hauling and combat readiness required in dangerous areas. The host encourages viewers to ask questions and stay tuned for more tests and updates on cargo hauling and other gameplay features.