The RSI Hermes is a cargo ship offering impressive storage and unique features like a rail-mounted remote tractor beam, but it faces issues with paint compatibility, a narrow ramp, and sluggish flight performance, making it less convenient than competitors like the Drake Raft. While promising as a versatile cargo hauler and mobile crafting station, it currently requires refinement, and the reviewer suggests it’s better as an upgrade rather than a full-price purchase.
The RSI Hermes is a new cargo ship released by CIG, built on the Apollo chassis, boasting an impressive 288 SCU of internal cargo space, which surpasses similar-sized ships like the Drake Raft. It features a unique remote control tractor beam mounted on a rail inside the cargo hold, suit lockers, weapon racks, and a functional airlock doubling as an engineering area. The bridge and living quarters mirror the Apollo’s layout, designed for solo or dual operation, and comes equipped with four size four weapons and missiles, offering decent firepower for a cargo ship.
However, the community has raised concerns about the Hermes, primarily regarding paint compatibility with the Apollo and the narrow ramp. The paint issue appears to stem from technical limitations due to slight hull differences. The ramp, while adequate for cargo loading, is too narrow for most ground vehicles, which limits its versatility. Additionally, the hallway between the ramp and the cargo grid is problematic for moving cargo efficiently, and the remote tractor beam, though innovative, suffers from bugs like breaking when moved too quickly along its rail and limited positioning options.
In terms of flight performance, the Hermes feels sluggish despite its minimal interior, and its fuel tank seems small, requiring more frequent refueling compared to ships like the MSR or Raft. While it flies similarly to the Apollo, the Hermes may benefit from a better quantum drive to improve range and efficiency. Overall, the reviewer feels that the Hermes is not worth purchasing at full price but sees value in it as an upgrade, especially for those needing more cargo space but not vehicle transport.
Compared to the Drake Raft, the Hermes offers nearly 100 SCU more cargo space but loses out in convenience and speed. The Raft is easier to load and unload, making it the preferred cargo-only ship. However, the Hermes has advantages, including the ability to carry mining vehicles like the ATLS and possibly a Rock, making it more versatile. Its living quarters are more comfortable, and it has better firepower and shielding, which could be beneficial in hostile situations, especially with a co-pilot manning the remote turret.
The reviewer concludes that while the Hermes shows promise, especially as a mobile crafting station and cargo hauler, it still has practical issues that need addressing, likely in future balance passes. The rail-mounted tractor beam design is a highlight but needs refinement. For viewers interested, there is a giveaway for a Hermes ship via a link in the video description. The reviewer invites opinions on whether the ramp and paint issues are dealbreakers and encourages engagement through likes, comments, and subscriptions.