The Drake Clipper in Star Citizen 4.4 is a versatile generalist ship offering combat capabilities, medical facilities, crafting options, and ample living space across three levels, making it ideal for players seeking a mobile base or multi-purpose vessel. Despite its unconventional design and moderate combat performance, it excels in practicality and functionality, earning a high rating of 96 out of 100 for its balanced and thoughtful features.
In this detailed review of the Drake Clipper in Star Citizen 4.4, Even Lee introduces the ship as one of the first generalist ships in the game, designed to perform a variety of roles. Priced at $135 on the pledge store, the Clipper is a versatile vessel equipped with combat capabilities, a tier three medical bed, a crafting table, and all the essentials for sustaining life, including a kitchen and sleeping quarters. Despite its somewhat unconventional and “ugly” design, the ship offers a unique charm and practicality, making it suitable for players looking to establish a mobile base or homestead in the game.
The ship’s combat features include two size 3 Mantis GT220 guns and two size 3 Omnisky weapons, along with a substantial missile payload consisting of size three, two, and one missiles. While it is not ideally suited for PvP combat, it can handle PvE encounters effectively. The Clipper has a respectable burst damage per second of 217 and comes with two size one civilian-grade shield generators providing a 2,800 bubble shield, although upgrading the shields is recommended. With 26,350 HP and moderate speeds, the ship is balanced for general use rather than specialized combat or speed runs.
The interior of the Drake Clipper is spacious and thoughtfully designed across three levels. The first floor features a cargo grid with 12 SCU capacity, capable of storing various items including a Dragonfly bike, although larger vehicles like the ATLS cannot fit. The second floor houses the engine, component access panels, medical equipment including the tier three medical bed and digital assistant, and a crafting table. The third floor serves as the living quarters, complete with a bed, kitchen area, personal storage, and a bathroom with a functioning toilet and shower, adding to the ship’s self-sufficiency.
The ship also boasts practical features such as two entry points, an elevator connecting all three floors, and multiple storage racks for weapons and tools. The cockpit offers good visibility and seating for up to three people, including two jump seats for passengers. Even highlights the ship’s darker interior lighting, which contributes to its distinctive Drake aesthetic. The cockpit is equipped with multiple MFDs (multi-function displays) and various controls, providing a comfortable and functional piloting experience.
Overall, Even Lee rates the Drake Clipper highly, giving it a 96 out of 100 for its versatility, design, and functionality as a generalist ship. While it may not excel in any single role, its ability to handle combat, crafting, medical needs, and cargo makes it a valuable asset for players seeking a multi-purpose vessel. The review closes with a call for viewer feedback and a recommendation for Longship Industries for PC builds, emphasizing the community and support around Star Citizen gameplay.