Daniel Raymond’s impression of Star Citizen’s crafting tech preview highlights that the system functions more as an automated tool supporting mining and resource gathering rather than traditional, skill-based crafting gameplay. He emphasizes that the true gameplay value lies in sourcing rare materials, which could create new specialized mining roles and, with future trading features, foster a meaningful in-game economy.
In this video, Daniel Raymond from Ray’s Guide shares his impressions of the Evocati tech preview for the crafting gameplay in Star Citizen. He begins by explaining that the new crafting system, as tested with the tier one fabricator, doesn’t quite feel like traditional gameplay or crafting. The fabricator is a physical object in the game, roughly the size of a two SCU cargo box, and the user interface allows players to craft or disassemble items like weapons and armor using various materials. Players can queue up manufacturing jobs and let them run in the background while doing other activities, which raises the question of whether this system truly qualifies as engaging gameplay.
Daniel argues that the crafting system lacks the element of personal skill or artisanal technique typically associated with crafting. Since the process is largely automated and players are not required to be present during production, every item produced is identical if the same materials are used. Additionally, there appears to be no direct progression tied to the act of crafting itself; instead, new blueprints and improvements are obtained through guilds and research activities, which are separate from the crafting process.
He highlights that the real gameplay and progression may come from the gathering of rare and high-quality materials needed for crafting. For example, mining specific minerals like Haydenite is essential to produce certain items. This system effectively extends the mining profession, rewarding players who specialize in finding uncommon or high-quality resources. Daniel suggests that this could create new sub-careers within mining, such as specialty and artisanal mining, focused on sourcing the best possible materials for manufacturing.
To fully realize the potential of this crafting system, Daniel notes the importance of future features like a secure trading system and consignment stores. These would allow miners and crafters to sell their rare materials and crafted goods more effectively, fostering an economy around the production of high-quality items. This integration would enhance the gameplay loop by connecting resource gathering, crafting, and trading in a meaningful way.
In conclusion, Daniel accepts that while the current crafting tech preview may not fit traditional definitions of gameplay or crafting, it serves a valuable purpose within Star Citizen. The system is designed not to be a standalone gameplay loop but a tool that supports and enhances other activities like mining and exploration. He believes this crafting system will significantly improve the mining profession and overall game experience, encouraging players to venture out and discover rare materials rather than spending time on repetitive console interactions.