Star Citizen Alpha 3.24.2 is now available in the Public Test Universe for nearly all players, featuring enhancements to MFDs and HUDs, bug fixes, and performance improvements ahead of the upcoming CitizenCon event. Players can expect further updates, including a potential 3.24.3 patch and discussions on new gameplay mechanics, as the development team continues to refine the game and address existing issues.
In the latest update for Star Citizen, Alpha 3.24.2 is now available in the Public Test Universe (PTU) for nearly all players with a Star Citizen game package. This patch is expected to go live around CitizenCon, which is scheduled for the following week. Players can expect additional features like a free fly event during CitizenCon. The update includes enhancements to multifunction displays (MFDs) and heads-up displays (HUDs), as well as an audio polish for enunciators. However, players should be aware that fuel prices have been an issue due to a bug that inflated costs, which is slated for correction in the next build.
The patch has introduced numerous bug fixes and performance improvements, including better NPC spawning in underground facilities and various ship-specific tweaks. Players should no longer experience issues like falling out of ships during Quantum travel or problems with elevators at low orbit stations. However, the patch is not without its problems; players have reported issues with the availability of certain ammunition, UI glitches, and ship spawning inconsistencies. Despite these known issues, the overall stability of the patch has improved.
Looking ahead, there are expectations for a 3.24.3 patch to coincide with the Galactic AOS Space Expo, along with hopes for a 4.0 patch by the end of the year. The 3.24.2 patch is based on the 4.0 codebase, which means players can anticipate a tech preview build that may include server meshing tests. This technology aims to allow thousands of players to connect on a single shard, enhancing the game’s multiplayer experience. The upcoming CitizenCon event is generating excitement, and tickets are still available for those in the Manchester area.
In terms of development discussions, there have been ongoing improvements to animal animations, with developers acknowledging existing issues and working towards smoother animations for creatures in the game. Additionally, discussions are underway about potential gameplay mechanics that would allow players to heal NPCs, which could mitigate accidental criminal ratings during missions. The developers are also focused on refining their workflow management tools and methodologies as they continue to enhance the game.
Finally, players should note the recent announcement regarding buyback tokens, which allow players to repurchase melted ships with store credit. These tokens are allocated quarterly, with the next issuance set for January 2025. Overall, the Star Citizen community is eagerly anticipating the upcoming CitizenCon and the potential for new features and improvements in the game, while developers continue to address current issues and work on future updates.