“This week we get the scoop on mining consumables and get a load of the Esperia Prowler.”
The latest episode of Inside Star Citizen focuses on the development of mining gameplay in the game. The journey to bring mining to Star Citizen has been ongoing and has involved expanding the feature to include asteroids, handheld FPS options, aftermarket laser heads, and cave systems. The addition of mining consumables in the upcoming alpha 3.9 adds improved functionality and more comprehensive control over the ship mining experience. Players can now equip sub-items known as mining consumables, which can be bought at various stores. These consumables enhance the mining process by changing the parameters of the operation.
The development team for mining started with just two people and expanded to include 17 individuals from different departments within the company. They set out to create the first full gameplay loop in Star Citizen, and while the core gameplay is in a good state, there are still a few bugs that need to be addressed. The introduction of mining consumables allows players to actively participate in the mining process and adjust the gameplay based on the rocks they encounter.
The episode also showcases the development of the new alien ship, the Varam Prowler from Espera. The ship is the first of its kind from a new alien species and offers the team an opportunity to flesh out the culture and style of the race. The ship’s interior features multiple levels, including a drop room that can accommodate up to 12 people. The ship’s cockpit does not have a visible canopy, as the aliens prioritize safety and armor. Instead, screens project the outside view, allowing the pilot to see while remaining protected. The ship’s interior is designed to resemble a metal forest with red lighting accents.
In conclusion, the episode highlights the progress made in developing mining gameplay and introduces the Varam Prowler ship. The addition of mining consumables enhances the control and functionality of mining, while the Varam Prowler showcases unique design elements and interior features. The development team continues to listen to player feedback and refine the gameplay experience.