"I dig into the gameplay implications of the Stanton-Pyro Station and other aspects of going from 3.20.1 to 3.21 as well as going straight to Open PTU
0:00 Introduction
0:53 The Stanton-Pyro Station
1:27 Gameplay Implications
2:30 The Repl"
In a surprising update from Star Citizen, the expected 3.20.1 patch was delayed and instead, a 3.21 patch was announced. This new patch would skip the planned Evocati and early access PTU phases and immediately be released to open PTU. The reason given was to create a preview environment for the replication layer, but data mining revealed a placeholder station for the Stanton to Pyro jump tunnel, suggesting more than just the replication layer would be showcased. This station is expected to be a bustling hub for refueling and logistics for expeditions to Pyro and may serve as a spawn point for experienced players.
The replication layer, part of the backend infrastructure, interfaces with the entitygraph database, which contains information about everything in the Star Citizen universe. It acts as an informational source, informing players about the game world, while the simulation servers handle actions and gameplay mechanics. The replication layer keeps players updated about objects within their zone of perception, while disconnecting from objects that are no longer within range. This information is simulcast to the simulation servers for adjudication.
The replication layer also plays a role in server meshing, allowing for multiple servers with different zones of perception. Each server can handle a specific area, such as Stanton, Hurston, Crusader, etc. The overlap between zones of perception allows for seamless transitions between servers without loading screens. As players enter the overlap, their information is simulcast to both the server they are leaving and the server they are entering, with the destination server becoming authoritative in the middle of the overlap. This ensures a smooth transition without interruptions.
The creation of a preview environment solely for the replication layer seemed suspicious, as the replication layer itself is invisible to players. However, the presence of the Stanton to Pyro jump tunnel station suggests that more than just the replication layer would be showcased.
Additionally, there is an ongoing giveaway for Star Citizen players, with the winner having the choice between the Galaxy complete, a mining machine, or the new Big Box biking Bazaar, along with $100 in Steam store credit. Participants can enter by being a member or subscribing and commenting with the secret word mentioned in the video.