At CitizenCon, Chris Roberts discussed the potential introduction of a character skills system in Star Citizen, featuring a dual-layered approach that includes physical attributes like strength, agility, endurance, and fitness, as well as techniques that players can learn and refine over time. While this system aims to enhance player engagement and character development, there are concerns about its impact on gameplay balance and the traditional skill-based approach favored by some players.
At CitizenCon, there is significant speculation surrounding the introduction of a character skills system in Star Citizen. Chris Roberts outlines a dual-layered approach to skills, dividing them into physical attributes and techniques. The physical attributes include strength, agility, endurance, and fitness, which can be improved based on how players engage with the game. For instance, consistently carrying heavy boxes could enhance a character’s strength, leading to better inventory management and stamina, while agility could affect weapon handling and movement speed.
The endurance attribute focuses on a character’s resilience to environmental factors and their ability to withstand physical challenges, drawing parallels to real-life training for elite forces. Players might find that their endurance allows them to survive in harsher climates and perform better under stress, such as during high G-force situations in flight. Fitness, on the other hand, would enhance capabilities like swimming, sprinting, and breath-holding, contributing to a more immersive gameplay experience.
In addition to physical attributes, the skills system will also incorporate techniques that players can learn and refine over time. This could include various combat maneuvers, such as takedowns, where initial attempts might be clumsy, but with practice, players can unlock smoother and more efficient animations. This progression mirrors the idea of investing time into mastering a skill, akin to the “10,000 hours” rule, which emphasizes the importance of practice in achieving proficiency.
The developers aim to create a living world where players can choose how to invest in their character’s abilities, allowing for diverse playstyles and character builds. For example, a player focused on bounty hunting may prioritize physical attributes to enhance their effectiveness in pursuits, while a cargo hauler may not need to invest heavily in strength. This flexibility in character development is intended to deepen player engagement and investment in their avatars.
However, the introduction of this skills system is expected to be divisive among the community. While it offers a more realistic approach to character development, there are concerns about how it might affect gameplay balance and the reliance on player skill. The developers will need to carefully communicate the nuances of this system to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that it enhances the overall experience without alienating players who prefer traditional skill-based gameplay.