Panel 9a at Citcon 2023 delved into the details of base building in the game, highlighting Distribution Centers owned by different factions and offering faction-specific gameplay experiences. The panel also discussed the significance of cargo hauling, introducing a guild system for players to earn reputation and offering various types of cargo with special considerations and rewards.
Panel 9a at Citcon 2023 focused on the destination adventure and base building in the game. The panel was split into two parts, with the first part hosted by Todd Papy. They discussed the important features leading up to base building. They introduced the concept of Distribution Centers, which are large and offer gameplay opportunities with many landing pads and a road network. Each Distribution Center is owned by a faction, such as the UE or graycat, and their focus determines the gameplay experience. Military-focused UE centers deal with illegal activities quickly, while graycat centers focus on mining and industry with lighter security. They showcased a demo of the different centers.
The Corporate Hub is a full-service area with an administrative area accessible by elevators. Smaller ships can also land on the platform for shorter stays. The lobby serves as a reception desk and missions start and stop there, boosting basic reputation. As players gain more reputation, they gain access to expandable offices with more mission givers. The space below the offices supports raid gameplay for teams, where players breach the interior structure and clear objectives. They demonstrated an assault force landing breach and clearing the objective, which was a cache of supplies. This gameplay offers high-risk rewards.
Nick’s segment focused on cargo and freight. Cargo hauling will be a significant part of the game, and the developers are adding a guild that players can work for to build their reputation. The better their rating with the guild, the more complex and lucrative their hauling jobs will be. They discussed the Xeno threat cargo component as a baseline but mentioned expanding on it with new containers that require new gameplay mechanics and creativity. There will be different types of cargo that require special consideration such as security, temperature, radioactivity, instability, and volatility. Hauling cargo will also offer special perks and rewards like in-game merchandise and skins. Demoed features included cargo elevators and updated tractor gameplay, showcasing the ability to load vehicles like Tonks and Buggies.
In conclusion, Panel 9a at Citcon 2023 highlighted the gameplay opportunities and features related to base building. The Distribution Centers are massive with many landing pads and offer faction-specific gameplay experiences. The Corporate Hub serves as a full-service area with mission start and stop points, expanding offices, and raid gameplay possibilities below. Cargo and freight hauling were also discussed, emphasizing its importance in the game. The developers are adding a guild system to build reputation and new containers with unique requirements for hauling. Players can expect special rewards and perks for successful cargo missions.