The Chief Technology Officer of Star Citizen announced the launch of a technology preview channel for large-scale technology changes, with recent tests including server meshing and AI behavior improvements. The rapid progress in testing server meshing capabilities suggests a promising future for the game, showcasing potential enhancements in server performance, NPC behavior, and player experiences.
The Chief Technology Officer, Ben W, announced exciting developments in Star Citizen’s future, including the establishment of a technology preview channel for large-scale technology changes. Recent tests in this channel have included the pirate playground, aarti replication layer test, and functioning server meshing tests with jump points. The game is moving towards launching its first multi-server mesh in version 4.0, with upcoming tests focusing on various mesh configurations and multiple game servers per solar system.
The upcoming technical preview tests will explore scenarios with servers dedicated to entire planets, moons, landing zones, and key locations, aiming to improve server performance, FPS, and NPC behavior. While cautioning against high expectations for immediate improvements in 4.0, the tests may lead to significant enhancements in server performance and AI functionality. The potential for NPCs to become more challenging adversaries in missions is highlighted, especially in scenarios like fleet battles where AI could be more alert and formidable.
The rapid progress in testing server meshing capabilities within just five months of the initial demo at CitizenCon suggests a faster pace of development than anticipated. The company’s readiness to conduct these tests indicates a shift in expectations for the project’s timeline and potential outcomes. The data gathered from these tests will be crucial for further refining and utilizing the technology developed by Star Citizen.
The tests will assess how well servers scale, the player capacity in landing zones, and the number of servers required per star system. The results of these tests will not only benefit backers by providing insights into the game’s future but will also be vital for the company in leveraging the technology effectively. The ultimate dream scenario could involve hundreds of servers managing different parts of Stanton and Pyro, potentially creating a seamless play space without instances, a vision that now seems more achievable than ever before.
Overall, the upcoming technical preview tests in Star Citizen mark a significant milestone in the development of the game, showcasing the potential for improved server performance, AI behavior, and player experiences. The company’s agility in testing and implementing new technologies suggests a promising future for the project, challenging long-held expectations and opening up possibilities for a more dynamic and immersive gameplay environment.