The latest Star Citizen roadmap update reveals that several features initially slated for Alpha 4.0, such as new acidic cave types and improved Multi-Function Displays (MFDs), will now be included in the upcoming 3.24 release. Despite these advancements, concerns remain about the slow progress towards the Alpha 4.0 launch, with uncertainty surrounding its timeline and the introduction of new content like the Quasi-Craer creatures.
In a recent update regarding Star Citizen’s roadmap, it was revealed that several features originally planned for Alpha 4.0 are being moved up to the upcoming 3.24 release. Among these features are new cave types, specifically acidic caves that will be found on Ariel and potentially in polluted areas on Hurston. These caves will include unique geological formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, the rocky caves are set to replace older cave designs that have become outdated, aiming to enhance the exploration experience for players who have found the current caves frustrating.
The update also highlighted improvements to Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) for various ship manufacturers. This change is particularly significant as many current MFDs are considered broken or inefficient, especially on larger ships like the Carrack and 890 Jump. The overhaul of these displays is expected to streamline power management and other functionalities, making it easier for players to engage in combat and other activities without the cumbersome interface that exists currently.
Despite these positive updates, there are concerns regarding the timeline for the release of Alpha 4.0. Although Cloud Imperium Games has expressed a desire to launch 4.0 before the end of the year, progress seems slow, with only one server machine test conducted at the time of the video. This delay raises questions about whether more features that do not rely on server meshing might be introduced sooner than initially planned.
One such feature mentioned is the Quasi-Craer, a new space creature that will be introduced alongside missions and activities like hunting and gathering. These creatures will not only be found on Ariel but will also roam other planets within the Stanton system, such as Hurston and Microtech. There are five different variants of the Quasi-Craer that are based on specific biomes, although it remains uncertain if all variants will be included in the 3.24 update.
In conclusion, while the roadmap update brings exciting new features for players to look forward to, it also highlights the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Alpha 4.0 release. The introduction of new caves and improved MFDs is a step in the right direction, but the community remains eager for clarity on the timeline for the much-anticipated 4.0 update. Overall, players are encouraged to stay engaged with the ongoing developments and share their thoughts as the game continues to evolve.