The video argues that Elite Dangerous is falling behind other space games by lacking walkable, meaningful ship interiors that enhance immersion and gameplay cohesion, as demonstrated by recent innovations in games like No Man’s Sky. It calls on Frontier Developments to thoughtfully implement purposeful interiors that complement existing gameplay and UI, thereby modernizing the game and deepening player engagement without alienating current fans.
The video discusses how Elite Dangerous is falling behind other major space games by lacking walkable ship interiors. Recently, No Man’s Sky introduced full ship interiors for player-flown ships, allowing players to move around mid-flight, customize their ship interiors, and even perform EVA (extravehicular activity). This transformation shifts the ship from being merely a vehicle to a mobile base, enhancing immersion and gameplay depth. The presenter argues that this proves the technical feasibility of such features in large, online games and suggests that Elite Dangerous missing out on this innovation indicates deeper issues within its development.
Some players resist the idea of ship interiors in Elite Dangerous, believing they add no value or are unnecessary. However, the video counters this by emphasizing that ship interiors should not be just empty rooms but purposeful spaces that integrate with gameplay. Other space games utilize interiors for mission briefings, logistics, crew roles, and social interaction, adding layers of engagement. The presenter stresses that ship interiors can coexist with existing gameplay styles and UI, offering players the choice to engage with them or not, thereby broadening the game’s appeal without alienating current fans.
The video highlights that ship interiors serve as a unifying element, connecting Elite Dangerous’ distinct gameplay modes such as flight, engineering, and on-foot exploration. Currently, these feel like separate experiences, but interiors could bridge this gap, creating a cohesive whole. The example of No Man’s Sky’s recent update demonstrates how interiors can enrich player interaction with their ship, turning it into a living space and home base. This continuity enhances the fantasy of inhabiting a spaceship and fosters deeper player connection to their in-game environment.
While acknowledging Elite Dangerous’ strengths, particularly its flight model, the video argues that the absence of ship interiors is increasingly seen as a shortcoming compared to other space games like Starfield, Star Citizen, and X4 Foundations. As players grow accustomed to inhabiting their ships physically, Elite Dangerous risks being perceived as outdated. The presenter warns that this gap could affect the game’s long-term success unless Frontier Developments embraces interiors as a quality-of-life and coherence update that complements existing gameplay rather than replacing it.
In conclusion, the video calls for Frontier to consider implementing ship interiors thoughtfully, avoiding pitfalls like empty, purposeless rooms seen in other games such as EVE Online’s Captain’s Quarters. Interiors should enhance gameplay by providing meaningful interactions and maintaining existing UI options. This feature would not only modernize Elite Dangerous but also deepen player immersion, tying together its best elements. The presenter encourages viewers to share their thoughts and hopes that if interiors are introduced, they will be tailored to fit Elite Dangerous’ unique style and strengths.