The latest update for the Lakon Type-11 Prospector has finally been released after some delays and rebalancing. A key highlight is the introduction of the Mark 2 mining repeater, a new laser mining tool that extracts more fragments from asteroids and has a chance to yield higher density chunks. Additionally, a size 5 MK2 multi-tool controller has been added, offering increased limpet capacity and improved collector speeds, though it remains to be tested whether it fixes the issue of mining repeaters destroying limpets. The update also includes in-world advertising for the Type-11 Prospector at stations, and official pricing details for early access versions available through the Arc store, with the Galactic, Stellar, and standard versions priced at 60,000, 33,000, and 16,520 arcs respectively.
Significant improvements have been made to the system colonization mechanics. Players can now demolish or cancel construction efforts and fully constructed facilities, with demolitions taking effect during the weekly maintenance tick. The system architect has the ability to cancel demolitions before the next maintenance. There are specific rules regarding dependencies between facilities, meaning some must be demolished in a particular order to maintain system integrity. Additionally, missions accepted at demolished facilities will be deleted, and any commodities invested in canceled construction efforts are lost without refund. Custom renaming rights and arcs spent on stations are also non-refundable if the station is demolished.
Commander renaming has been streamlined, allowing players to rename their commanders via the web or in-game interface for 500 arcs, with a seven-day cooldown between renames. The update also boosts gameplay by expanding the organic sampler scanning range from 75 meters to 750 meters, enhancing exploration capabilities. New objectives have been added to improve the onboarding experience for new players, guiding them through tutorials and essential early-game tasks. Some new systems in the starter zone have been made power play immune to protect new players from early conflicts.
Several bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements are included in this patch. These fixes address missing entranceway geometry for the Python and Python Mark 2 ships, misaligned hit checks at planetary construction sites, disappearing ships during transfers, and issues with squadron leader permissions. Additional docking restrictions have been applied to squadron fleet carriers, and problems with squadron chat losing focus while typing have been resolved. Other fixes include updating old squadron iconography, improving on-foot field of view and shadows, and enabling restocking of limpets on squadron carriers.
Overall, this update packs a variety of new features, fixes, and improvements that enhance mining gameplay, system colonization management, and player experience. The introduction of new mining tools and improved onboarding processes shows a commitment to both veteran and new players. With the fixes addressing long-standing bugs and quality-of-life issues, the Lakon Type-11 update represents a significant step forward in gameplay refinement and content expansion. Players are encouraged to dive in, explore the new features, and share their thoughts on the update.
