In a recent Star Citizen Live episode, the vehicle concept team discussed various ships currently in development, including the Pioneer, an RSI heavy strike fighter, a small salvage ship, and a Kruger fighter. The team emphasized the iterative design process, where multiple concepts are explored before settling on a final design. They also mentioned the upcoming Stella Fortuna event, which will feature new ships and items alongside the usual festivities, marking a shift from the typical green-themed content associated with St. Patrick’s Day.
The Pioneer has undergone significant evolution since its initial concept. Originally envisioned as an outpost builder, it has transformed into a large mobile base capable of crafting and gathering materials. The team is working on a vertical slice of the Pioneer for Consolidated Outlands, which will help establish a cohesive style guide for the ship. They showcased various areas of the ship, such as the refinery, emphasizing the need for clear distinctions between functional areas to help players navigate the massive structure.
The episode also introduced a new RSI heavy strike fighter, which is based on the Mantis platform. Although details were limited due to its early development stage, the designers expressed excitement about its potential as a more combat-focused alternative to the Mantis, featuring enhanced armor and weaponry. The ship is expected to operate effectively in close-range engagements, possibly requiring support from larger vessels.
Additionally, the team presented a small starter salvage ship, which is intended for players who prefer industrial roles over combat. Three design concepts were shared, each inspired by different ships within the RSI lineup. The designers aimed to create a ship that allows players to engage in salvage operations without the need for combat, highlighting the importance of providing diverse gameplay options for new players.
Lastly, the video featured a new Kruger single-seat light fighter, drawing inspiration from both retro cars and classic aircraft. The design process is still in its infancy, with several concepts being explored for its final form. The team reiterated that while the development of these ships is ongoing, it may take a significant amount of time before they become available in-game. The episode concluded with a teaser for the next Inside Star Citizen episode, hinting at a personal update from host Jared, and encouraged viewer engagement through comments and a monthly ship giveaway.
