The video provides an update on the progress of the persistent universe in Star Citizen, detailing advancements in AI, animation, character customization, ship development, core gameplay features like Maelstrom, radar and scanner systems, and the economy. Teams are also working on graphics, visual effects, Planet Tech, in-game branding, narrative expansion, online technology, and networking improvements to enhance player experiences in the game.
In the video, Ryan, also known as Mac, provides a detailed overview of the monthly progress report for the persistent universe in Star Citizen. The AI features team has been focusing on improving behaviors of grouped NPCs to enhance combat experiences, such as implementing a system to determine which NPCs are aware of the player’s presence. Additionally, a new team is working on AI game intelligence development tools to enhance NPC interactions and combat scenarios.
The animation team has been fixing technical issues with animations and creating new animations for various creatures, hinting at the introduction of new creatures in upcoming updates. The character art team has been progressing with specialist armors and character customization options, suggesting a wider variety of customization choices for players. The ship art team is nearing completion of the RSI Polaris and Zeus Mark 2, with work underway on seven unannounced vehicles at different stages of development.
The core gameplay pillar, Maelstrom, is seeing major progress with the development of a physical damage system that will allow for detailed destruction sequences and enhanced combat experiences. The radar and scanner systems are being improved to allow for more detailed information gathering and tracking, including the implementation of a Delta signature mechanic to detect specific actions by vehicles. The economy team is rebalancing prices for various items and implementing an effort versus reward algorithm to ensure mission rewards are balanced.
The graphics, visual effects, and Planet Tech teams are working on improving performance and stability, with a focus on global illumination, gas cloud color processing, and jump point visuals. The in-game branding team is making progress on new signage and interactables for Pyro, while the narrative team is expanding the presence of social AI and creating law and mission text for future large-scale events. The online technology team is overhauling social services backend and integrating new features like player trade functionality. The networking team is working on server meshing and performance optimizations.