“Well, we knew it was going to happen eventually and now we know that eventually will be 3.15…a full database wipe. That will set everybody back a ways but with planning recovering will be easier. I talk a bit about what planning for rebounding from the Wipe should include.”
Daniel Raymond, the voice behind Raise Guide, had a script idea to create a high-level video about how to prepare for a wipe in Star Citizen. He anticipated that there would be a wipe eventually between alpha and beta releases to implement iCash and a quantity economy. With the announcement by CIG that a wipe would be happening with the release of 3.15 next month, Raymond’s script idea became more relevant.
To plan for the wipe, the first step is to understand what items and currency will be retained after the wipe. Users can log into the RSI website and check their hangar to see the list of items that will be available post-wipe. Anything not on that list will be lost. CIG mentioned that Xeno Threat participants might receive a small bonus, but the specifics are unknown.
The biggest setbacks after the wipe will be the loss of most alpha UEC (in-game currency) and any ships/items purchased with in-game currency. It is important to have a plan for financial recovery. Instead of immediately melting or CCU-ing ships, it is wise to carefully consider the best route for recovery, one that is both profitable and enjoyable. It is necessary to make a realistic assessment of what is needed and possibly CCU some ships to the one required for that path.
Having an alternate plan is the third step. It’s crucial to consider that popular missions might be highly sought after, making it difficult to find and complete them. Having a backup plan ensures one doesn’t get stuck. The fourth step is to be on the lookout for new opportunities that the new release (3.15) might bring. For example, the introduction of medical gameplay may create a new way to earn profits as a medic, but it’s best to wait and observe before making any drastic changes.
Lastly, thinking outside the box can be beneficial. With the UEC wipe, there will also be a merit wipe. One suggestion is to partake in criminal missions to earn merits, which can be sold later. It’s important not to be afraid of taking the less traveled path, as there will be less competition. Additionally, practicing the recovery plan can be done in the open PTU (Public Test Universe), as there may be wipes during PTU testing. These wipes can be used to refine the recovery plan.
In conclusion, preparing for the wipe in Star Citizen involves understanding what will be retained, having a solid plan for financial recovery, considering alternate plans, being open to new opportunities, thinking creatively, and practicing the recovery plan in the open PTU.