The video “Star Citizen - The Inventory Timesink” critiques the changes to the inventory system introduced in version 3.24, highlighting the shift from a user-friendly MobiGlass interface to a more complex local inventory system that complicates item management. The host argues that while intended to enhance immersion, the new inventory kiosks have made gameplay more tedious and suggests a potential overhaul to simplify the system.
In the video titled “Star Citizen - The Inventory Timesink,” the host discusses the evolution of the inventory system in Star Citizen, particularly focusing on the changes introduced in version 3.24. The video highlights the transition from the MobiGlass interface, which allowed for seamless equipment changes, to the introduction of local inventory systems that necessitate more strategic gameplay. This shift aimed to enhance immersion by requiring players to preposition items, but it also led to complications and a less user-friendly interface.
The video outlines the drawbacks of the new local inventory system, which replaced the streamlined text-based interface with a more cumbersome 3D representation of items. While the new system allows for drag-and-drop functionality, it has been criticized for missing essential features like a search function and a proper stacking mechanism. The host notes that while the inventory system has improved since its launch, it still suffers from issues such as item previews not displaying correctly and the overall complexity of managing inventory.
With the introduction of the inventory kiosks in version 3.24, the host explains how these kiosks aim to address the problem of items appearing out of thin air by requiring players to interact with a physical object to retrieve items. However, this new system has been met with skepticism, as it adds an extra layer of complexity to inventory management. The process of transferring items from storage to a drawer and then equipping them is seen as tedious and time-consuming, ultimately detracting from the gameplay experience.
The video suggests that while the concept of limiting access to player storage can promote tactical gameplay, the implementation of inventory kiosks has caused more inconvenience than benefit. The host argues for a potential overhaul of this system, proposing the removal of kiosks altogether or at least reducing their presence in the game. Instead, they suggest retaining the ever-present inventory UI but limiting it to specific locations like player Habs and hangars, which would maintain immersion while simplifying inventory management.
In conclusion, the host emphasizes the importance of a well-functioning inventory system, as it is a primary aspect of player interaction in Star Citizen. They advocate for quality-of-life improvements based on player feedback, suggesting that the user interface should be intuitive and unobtrusive, akin to the newly released EVA system. The video ends by inviting viewers to share their thoughts on the inventory kiosks and encourages participation in an upcoming live show.