The video explores the updated ground missile mechanics in Star Citizen Alpha 4.6 PTU, highlighting a 40% damage increase for ground missiles and testing the Anvil Ballista missile turret’s effectiveness, which excels against larger ships but struggles against agile fighters. It also discusses gameplay limitations such as missile replenishment and targeting mechanics, emphasizing strategic positioning and cautious use in ground combat scenarios.
In this Star Citizen Alpha 4.6 PTU testing video, the focus is on exploring the recent changes to ground missiles and testing the Anvil Ballista missile turret. The presenter begins by examining the available ground missiles, which range from size zero to size twelve, including torpedoes. However, many missile types listed on paper are not yet available in-game, and importantly, ground missiles cannot be swapped with ship missiles, with the exception of the MDC’s pepper box missile turret. This distinction highlights the current limitations and discrepancies between the missile systems for ground vehicles and ships.
The video then delves into the specific stats changes for ground missiles, revealing a significant 40% damage increase compared to their ship missile counterparts. Additionally, the minimum lock range for ground missiles has been standardized to 50 meters. Despite these boosts, other missile attributes such as speed, explosion radius, and health remain unchanged. This damage enhancement is reflected across various ground vehicles like the MO Ballista and Cyclone variants, indicating a general buff to ground vehicle missile effectiveness.
Testing the Anvil Ballista’s missiles against different targets shows mixed results. Against agile fighters like the Gladius, the missiles are relatively easy to evade or counter with flares, requiring multiple flares to successfully divert them. The presenter notes that missile tracking is poor, and missiles often lose lock if the target maneuvers well. However, against larger ships such as the Drake Corsair and Anvil Paladin, the missiles prove highly effective, capable of destroying or severely damaging these vessels with single hits, especially the size seven Helium torpedoes.
The presenter also highlights some gameplay mechanics and limitations, such as the inability to replenish missiles on the Ballista using tractor beams, and the fact that missile turrets cannot be pinged for targeting information. Additionally, ground missile turrets can be engaged and damaged by ship-based defenses like the PDC, adding a tactical layer to their use. Detection ranges for the Ballista are relatively short, making stealth and positioning important factors in ground combat scenarios.
In conclusion, while the Ballista and ground missile changes provide a powerful tool for defending ground locations and engaging larger ships, their effectiveness against nimble fighters is limited. The increased damage makes them valuable for PvE and PvP ground engagements, but players must carefully manage their missile usage and positioning. The video closes with a reminder to be cautious of enemy Ballista operators and an encouragement to experiment with these new mechanics in upcoming gameplay.