This Feature Took 5 Years! Star Citizen 3.22 First Look

The upcoming Star Citizen 3.22 patch introduces improvements to the salvage system, more realistic hair technology, new outposts, weapon updates, and potential new ships, with highlights including functional but not yet perfect salvage mechanics and new settlements adding depth to trade and combat. The patch also teases progress on Squadron 42 with Idris ship interiors, enhances Arena Commander for multi-crew sessions, and implements new cargo features to manage in-game dynamics, aiming for overall enhancement of gameplay ahead of a significant live deployment.

The upcoming 3.22 patch for Star Citizen is currently in the Player Test Universe (PTU), and it’s offering some notable improvements and new features. The patch includes major enhancements to the salvage system, the introduction of more realistic hair technology, new outposts with trade terminals that add to the game’s immersion, and updates to weapon handling. The creator also mentions possibly new spacecraft and vehicles as well as significant updates to Arena Commander, which will allow players to test fleet battles.

One of the key attractions in this patch is the improved salvage mechanics, enabling players to salvage wrecked ships for profit. Although this system is now functional, it is not without its quirks; salvaging ships with shields still up can result in a crime stat, and the visual effects of the salvaging process may not be completely realistic or satisfying. The Reclaimer’s claw mechanics receive particular criticism for their lack of engaging gameplay, but there is hope that these are placeholder elements that will be developed further.

Another significant update is the addition of new planetary settlements on Huren and Microtech, featuring small farming villages and gang outposts that bring life to the game’s world. These settlements have trade terminals and involve missions, which should add depth to the trading and combat aspects of the game. However, the creator notes some performance issues when approaching these settlements which Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) is expected to address before the patch’s full release.

The creator mentions an exciting development regarding the Idris, one of the larger ships in the game, which now apparently includes interior files in the patch. This hints that Squadron 42, the single-player component of Star Citizen, may be nearing completion as CIG mentioned the Idris would release alongside Squadron 42. Additionally, improvements to Arena Commander are discussed, emphasizing its new multi-crew capabilities which could pave the way for new game modes, although the creator thinks it still needs a server browser or a way to easily see active modes.

Lastly, the patch will introduce usable cargo containers of various sizes, changes to the cargo grid access, and measures against unauthorized cargo theft. These updates are intended to manage some of the player-driven chaos in-game. Overall, patch 3.22 seems to be a significant step towards a live deployment, with the hope for a full test of the Stanton to Pyro jump point before year’s end. The creator urges viewers to stay tuned for more Star Citizen updates and content which is being released at a swift pace.