The video discusses the expected introduction of player and ship refining in Star Citizen, which will likely debut alongside crafting and base building within the next 12 to 18 months, emphasizing that refining will be integrated with crafting mechanics. The presenter highlights the significance of refining in gameplay, as it will allow players to process a variety of raw materials into valuable resources, fostering a dynamic economy and enhancing player interactions.
In the video, the presenter discusses the anticipated introduction of player and ship refining in Star Citizen, which is expected to launch alongside crafting and base building features within the next 12 to 18 months. The speaker emphasizes that the refining system is likely to be integrated as a subset of the broader crafting mechanics, suggesting that the two systems will work in tandem. The presenter references a CitizenCon presentation where refining was described in a way that aligns closely with crafting, indicating that players will be able to refine various raw materials, not just ores, into processed resources needed for crafting upgraded blueprints.
The video details the current state of refining, which is primarily limited to mining resources, and how crafting will expand this by allowing players to refine a wider variety of raw materials. The presenter highlights the importance of refining in the overall gameplay loop, as it will enable players to create valuable items from gathered resources. He also discusses specific ships designed for refining, such as the Expanse and the Galaxy, explaining their roles in facilitating the mining and refining process without the need for players to return to a refinery station.
As the conversation progresses, the speaker delves into the mechanics of refining, explaining that the quality of the raw materials will significantly impact the quality of the refined products. He outlines how players will need to use blueprints and various materials to refine items, with the potential to enhance the quality of the final product through careful selection and processing. The presenter uses examples, such as the refinement of iron and coal to produce high-quality steel, to illustrate how different materials will influence the refining outcomes.
The video also touches on the broader implications of crafting and refining on player interactions within the game. The presenter expresses excitement about the potential for players to trade refined materials and crafted goods, leading to a dynamic economy driven by player choices. This new system could allow players to gather and refine resources for crafting or to focus solely on trading, creating diverse gameplay experiences and community-driven market dynamics.
In conclusion, the speaker conveys enthusiasm for the upcoming features of player refining and crafting in Star Citizen, believing they will provide engaging gameplay opportunities. He speculates on the similarities between the crafting and refining interfaces and emphasizes the potential for players to innovate in their approaches to resource gathering and processing. With the promise of deeper mechanics and player agency, the presenter is optimistic about how these systems will enhance the overall Star Citizen experience.