The video discusses the cancellation of the in-person Citizen Con event for 2025, replaced by a digital format called Citizen Con Direct, which will be streamed live on October 11th and feature updates on Squadron 42 and Star Citizen. The host, IRA, highlights the benefits of this change, including cost savings for fans and the opportunity for community engagement through organized watch parties, while suggesting that financial considerations may have influenced CIG’s decision.
In the video, the host, IRA, discusses the cancellation of the traditional in-person Citizen Con event for 2025 (or 2955 in-game) and the shift towards a digital format called Citizen Con Direct. This event is set to air on October 11th and will be streamed live on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Although the event will be shorter than usual, Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) has promised numerous reveals and updates related to both Squadron 42 and Star Citizen. The digital format allows fans to watch for free without the need for travel or ticket expenses, and replays will be available on YouTube for those who miss the live stream.
The video emphasizes community involvement despite the absence of an in-person gathering. CIG encourages fans to organize “bar citizen” watch parties around the world, allowing players to come together to enjoy the event and interact with developers who will participate remotely. Although specific details about how these watch parties will function are still pending, the initiative aims to maintain a sense of community and engagement among fans.
IRA speculates on the reasons behind CIG’s decision to opt for a digital event this year, suggesting that financial considerations might be a significant factor. With a reported revenue dip in 2023, CIG may be looking to optimize its budget while continuing to develop key projects like Squadron 42. While the full financial report for 2023 has yet to be released, it appears that CIG is being cautious in managing its expenses as it navigates the challenges of running a large development team.
The host reflects on the positive aspects of previous digital Citizen Cons held in 2021 and 2022, highlighting that these events provided valuable insights and updates about the game. For instance, the 2021 event showcased the Pyro system and its environmental challenges, while the 2022 event focused on the game’s evolving resource management mechanics. These digital showcases were well-received and contributed meaningful content to the community, suggesting that the upcoming Citizen Con Direct will similarly deliver exciting news and reveals.
Ultimately, IRA presents the shift to a digital format as an opportunity rather than a setback. The streamlined nature of Citizen Con Direct could enable CIG to communicate updates and future goals more effectively without the logistical challenges of organizing a large live event. The community’s ability to hold watch parties will help maintain the social aspect of the event, ensuring that fans can still connect and engage with each other. Viewers are encouraged to mark their calendars for October 11th, as the excitement surrounding the event is expected to remain high despite the format change.