The video provides an in-depth evaluation of the RSI Hermes, highlighting its superior maneuverability, stealth capabilities with specialized loadouts, and versatile combat performance across various weapon configurations. It concludes that the Hermes is an excellent choice for players seeking a balance between cargo hauling and PvE combat, though it is less effective in high-level PvP due to its lower speed and agility.
In this final part of the RSI Hermes ship testing and guide, the video focuses on evaluating the ship’s flight performance, stealth capabilities, and combat effectiveness. A detailed comparison is made between the Hermes and the Constellation Taurus, highlighting that while both ships share the same SCM speed of 180 m/s and similar boost speeds, the Hermes excels in maximum navigation speed and maneuverability, especially in yaw and roll axes. This makes the Hermes more agile in certain flight conditions. The stealth capabilities are also analyzed through cross-section measurements, showing that the Hermes is generally less detectable than the Taurus, particularly from the front aspect.
The presenter then creates a stealth loadout for the Hermes using size two stealth-grade components such as coolers, power plants, quantum drives, and shield generators. Through practical tests, it is demonstrated that the ship’s radar detection range can be minimized if the Hermes faces enemies nose-to-nose, maintaining a low cross-section and reducing electromagnetic and infrared signatures. However, turning the ship at an angle significantly increases detectability. The stealth advantage is particularly effective against NPC ships, allowing the player to engage and destroy targets before being detected, although this advantage diminishes in more dynamic combat scenarios.
Combat performance is tested with various loadouts, starting with a stealth setup and moving onto a military-oriented configuration. The Hermes shows a strong overkill buffer, allowing it to withstand significant damage even without shields or hull integrity, particularly when facing larger ships like the Hammerhead. The military loadout includes a mix of laser repeaters and distortion weapons aimed at disabling enemy ships for looting. The ship’s large cargo hold proves advantageous for collecting components and weapons from defeated foes, with new stacking mechanics for components enhancing storage efficiency.
Further combat tests explore standard laser repeater setups, ballistic gun configurations using bliss gallon guns, and heavy cannon loadouts with Deadboat 4 guns. Each weapon type offers different strengths: laser repeaters are effective for PvE missions but limited in PvP due to low maneuverability, bliss gallon guns provide high firing speed and fun gameplay but suffer from overheating, and Deadboat cannons excel at dealing high alpha damage to larger targets. The Hermes’ combat versatility is evident, although its relatively low SCM speed makes it vulnerable in PvP scenarios, especially when interdicted.
Overall, the RSI Hermes scores a solid four out of five in this Alpha 4.6 patch, praised for its cargo capacity, decent PvE combat capabilities, and respectable stealth features when properly managed. The ship is recommended for players who want a balance between cargo hauling and combat, with the caveat that it is less suited for high-level PvP dogfighting. The video concludes by inviting viewers to suggest further tests or questions, emphasizing that while comprehensive, the guide may not cover every aspect of the ship’s potential.