In this episode of “Answer the Call,” hosts Mike and Ky discuss the ongoing bugs in Star Citizen’s patch 4.2.1, particularly with the resource collection event, and look ahead to the promising new content and cooperative gameplay introduced in patch 4.3’s Onyx facilities. They highlight improvements, new mechanics, and community events while encouraging player feedback to help refine the game before the official release.
In this episode of “Answer the Call,” hosts Mike and Ky discuss the current state of Star Citizen’s patch 4.2.1, which remains plagued with persistent bugs, particularly with the ongoing resource collection event. Despite fixes to stacking boxes at turn-in points, critical issues like freight elevator malfunctions continue to frustrate players, leading to widespread dissatisfaction. Many players resort to “pay-to-win” strategies, using large ships like the Polaris or Idris to quickly complete missions, highlighting gameplay balance problems. The hosts anticipate the event’s extension into patch 4.3 due to these unresolved bugs.
The conversation then shifts to the exciting developments in patch 4.3, which is currently in EVO testing and expected to move quickly to open PTU. The patch introduces the Onyx facilities—complex, multi-wing underground locations filled with puzzles, combat, and exploration elements. These locations are designed as cooperative zones requiring teamwork to solve timed puzzles and navigate challenges. While PvP is possible, it is not the intended focus. The hosts praise the detailed level design, immersive environments, and innovative gameplay mechanics, such as zero-gravity combat and radiation hazards, marking a significant step forward for Star Citizen’s PvE content.
Further details about the Onyx facilities reveal two accessible wings—engineering and research—with a third wing planned for patch 4.3.1. Players explore these areas through mission-driven objectives, encountering various enemy factions that may even fight each other. The research wing features a particularly intriguing and mysterious biological experiment involving a Vanuel blade and constant enemy spawns, adding depth and narrative intrigue. The new sniper rifle is also introduced, featuring a unique charge mechanic balancing power and ammo consumption, enhancing combat variety.
The hosts touch on other improvements coming in 4.3, including hanger spawning that streamlines player entry into locations, minor ladder mechanics enhancements, and quality-of-life changes like improved player name displays in Arena Commander. They also discuss the annual Ship Showdown community event, where players vote on ships to receive special skins, noting the competitive and often humorous nature of the voting process. Despite some server issues and lingering bugs, the overall sentiment is optimistic about 4.3’s potential to enrich Star Citizen’s gameplay experience.
Finally, the episode features callers who share their experiences and opinions. Many express frustration with the current event’s bugs and the impact on their organizations’ activity but remain hopeful about the upcoming patch. They appreciate the fresh content and cooperative gameplay introduced in 4.3, while also acknowledging the need for ongoing polish and bug fixes. The hosts encourage the community to participate actively in testing to help improve the game and look forward to the patch’s official release, emphasizing the importance of player feedback and engagement in Star Citizen’s development.