The lead level designer discussed the process of designing locations in Star Citizen, emphasizing the importance of balancing narrative, visuals, and gameplay. The team has expanded the library of modules for outpost locations, introducing thematic overlays and creating a variety of experiences, while also introducing new derelict settlements and Pyro rest stop stations with unique themes, archetypes, and gameplay.
During the presentation, the lead level designer discussed the process of designing locations in Star Citizen. The workflow starts with pre-production and ideation, followed by the blocking stage where gameplay elements are tested. The goal is to balance narrative, visuals, and gameplay to create immersive environments. The designer emphasized the importance of communicating context and goals through visual cues like shapes and landmarks. The team aims to provide players with freedom of choice by offering multiple pathways and play styles in social, combat, and infiltration settings.
Next, the assistant art director discussed how they have expanded the library of modules to create more variety in outpost locations. They have added different modules with various purposes and created thematic overlays for each module. This expansion allows for larger and more unique outposts that serve different functions. The focus is on creating a rich and personal experience for players with localized missions and a sense of home in the independent theme, while the outlaw theme provides a more dangerous and combat-oriented gameplay experience. The team plans to add more modules and expand these outposts to other systems as well.
Following that, the lead environment artist introduced the new derelict settlements in the game, which offer new themes, archetypes, and gameplay. These settlements are categorized into social and combat styles, with social settlements providing shops, missions, and social interactions, while combat settlements offer more combat-focused gameplay. He showcased the new derelict settlement called Checkmate Station and mentioned that there are more than four settlements in total. The team aims to provide a lot of new locations with missions and gameplay opportunities for players to explore.
Finally, the lead environment artist discussed the Pyro rest stop stations, which feature new themes, archetypes, and gameplay. These stations are part of the Pyro system, with six planets and 26 stations planned. Reputation plays a significant role in accessing different areas and content within the stations. The rest stops have social hubs like markets, where players can engage in various activities depending on their reputation. Additionally, there are abandoned areas within the stations that offer exploration, loot runs, and different types of missions. The emphasis is on environment interactivity and offering a unique experience to players.
Overall, the presentations highlighted the team’s efforts to create diverse and immersive locations in Star Citizen, with a focus on narrative, visuals, gameplay, and player choices. The expanded module library, new derelict settlements, and Pyro rest stops provide a wide range of gameplay opportunities and a rich playground for players to explore.
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