Frontier Developments has delayed the release of the Type-11 Prospector mining ship update in Elite Dangerous to address player feedback and improve gameplay balance, visuals, audio, and flight handling. The postponement also affects the planned in-game name change feature, with the update now expected to launch towards the end of September to ensure a polished and satisfying player experience.
Frontier Developments has announced a delay in the release of the Type-11 Prospector, the new dedicated mining ship in Elite Dangerous. This decision was driven by consumer feedback and input from the partner community, streamers, and content creators. The developers want to take extra time to implement an effective rebalance for the ship to ensure it meets player expectations and performs well in-game.
The update postponement also affects the planned feature allowing commanders to change their in-game names for 500 ARCs, as both changes were scheduled to be released together. Frontier is using this additional time to fine-tune several aspects of the Type-11 Prospector, including mining stats like fragments per second, which would improve the efficiency of the ship’s mining volley repeater tool. These adjustments aim to make the mining experience more satisfying and rewarding.
Besides gameplay tweaks, the update will include minor visual changes to the Prospector, such as removing a flashing light in the cockpit during mining that could cause discomfort for players sensitive to flashing lights. Audio balancing is also being addressed to improve the sound distribution of the mining laser, enhancing immersion and user experience. Moreover, the flight model of the ship is being refined, as initial feedback indicated it handled poorly.
The update was originally scheduled for release on September 23rd but is now expected to launch early the following week, towards the end of September. The developer’s approach highlights a commitment to quality over rushing content, a sentiment echoed by many in the community who prefer a polished release rather than a flawed one. The video’s host supported this decision, emphasizing the importance of getting the update right.
In conclusion, while some players were excited about the new mining ship and its features, others were more skeptical about its value. The postponement allows Frontier to address balance and gameplay concerns, hopefully resulting in a more enjoyable and functional mining experience. The community is encouraged to share their thoughts on the delay and the ship itself, as Frontier continues to refine the game based on player feedback.