SaltEMike Reacts to Star Citizen: The IAE Show Episode 1

In his reaction video, SaltEMike discusses the first episode of the Intergalactic Aerospace Expo (IAE) show, highlighting the new Crusader Industries starter ship, the Intrepid, which offers cargo delivery capabilities and lightweight combat features. He also addresses the developers’ plans to enhance space combat dynamics by shifting focus from quick ship destruction to disabling ships, while expressing cautious optimism about the game’s development amidst concerns from long-time players.

In the video, SaltEMike reacts to the first episode of the Intergalactic Aerospace Expo (IAE) show, focusing particularly on the new starter ship from Crusader Industries called the Intrepid. The Intrepid is designed for cargo delivery and lightweight combat, featuring unique characteristics that differentiate it from other starter ships. It has a cargo capacity of eight SCU, accessible through two freight elevators that also serve as emergency exits. Despite its modest armament, the ship is equipped with a size four weapon hardpoint, giving it a competitive edge when piloted effectively. The design pays homage to larger Crusader starfighter ships, making it a noteworthy addition for new players entering the game.

The show also touches on the existence of the “Legionnaires,” a special mission force within the game, and promotes a range of collectible figures tied to this theme. The hosts introduce various characters and their associated ships, encouraging viewers to engage with the merchandise. The IAE show serves as a guide to the future of spacecraft and vehicles in the Star Citizen universe, highlighting the latest developments and features for players to explore.

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the concept of “time to kill” (TTK) and “time to disable” (TTD) in space combat. The developers express a desire to shift the focus from ships exploding quickly to a system where players can disable ships instead. This change aims to enhance the gameplay experience by making ship loss more meaningful and allowing for opportunities to repair and reclaim disabled ships. The developers emphasize the importance of player investment in their ships, suggesting that players should have a vested interest in keeping their vessels operational.

The conversation further delves into the mechanics of physicalized damage and how it will affect gameplay. The developers explain that the new damage system will allow for more complex interactions during combat, where players can make tactical decisions about whether to flee or repair their ships. They also discuss the potential for larger ships to have longer lifespans, enabling players to engage in more strategic gameplay involving repairs and resource management. The developers aim to create a balanced experience for both PvE and PvP encounters, ensuring that challenges are appropriately scaled.

In conclusion, while the video provides some insights into upcoming features and changes within Star Citizen, it also reflects the concerns of long-time players regarding the game’s development trajectory. SaltEMike expresses skepticism about the developers’ ability to deliver on their promises, given the game’s history of delays and unmet expectations. However, he acknowledges that there appears to be a shift in internal communication and focus, suggesting that players should hold the developers accountable for their future promises and developments. Overall, the show serves as a mix of excitement for new features and cautious optimism about the game’s progression.