Star Citizen: A Universe of Possibilities (and Potential Frustrations)
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." – Lao Tzu
Imagine a universe, a vast, shimmering tapestry of stars and planets, filled with mysteries, challenges, and adventures waiting for you. That's the promise of Star Citizen. But is this online game worth the time and money? This comprehensive review will explore its depth and delve into its shortcomings.
Immersive Gameplay and Deep Exploration
Spaceships: A Gallery of Majestic Vehicles
- High-detail models (seriously impressive!)
- Amazing sound design for your flight and navigation
- Smooth handling with joystick, controller (you'll love it!)
"To the moon, one step at a time." (maybe even farther?)
Space travel has never felt so realistic; I felt like I was inside a game. Star Citizen puts you inside the pilot's seat and shows the way, and the view is breathtaking. Many amazing spacecraft designs are like a breathtaking art collection. Each ship has different qualities – stealth fighter jets, or cargo carriers – this makes them versatile (amazing variety of tools!).
Exploring Star Systems: Discovering New Worlds
The sheer scope of exploration, it's breathtaking. Hundreds of Star Systems (like they're a vast playground in the game). You are not only floating in space but are able to walk in different planets (or what is imagined to be).
Planetary Interactions and Resources
Source: theimpound.com
- Landing on planets, with mountains to walk over!
- Collecting resources (maybe more than necessary but fun nonetheless)
The terrain looks impressive from space (mountains, craters etc). This gameplay is satisfying when exploring, but could get a bit redundant after the initial experience (but very useful!). Resources in these places are also vital.
Source: ebayimg.com
Challenges and Issues with Star Citizen
The Journey of Progress (Time investment, not as clear as many want)
While the vast open universe is very appealing, players might not find a concrete roadmap (many feel there is a great confusion between time frames), some players complain they lack clear goals and rewards; the journey can seem overwhelming for those not yet familiar (they seem a little lost; very hard to describe the entire game's flow). There's an element of confusion about progression in the long run, I personally think it is confusing to newcomers, without specific guidelines. Even I was struggling with this one at first (honestly a struggle!),
Source: ytimg.com
Economic Dynamics and Potential Problems
The game's economy isn't stable at first; lots of work happening, (in development). It has great potential, (just my view), it is evolving but with potential issues: fluctuating pricing and trade imbalances may impact its appeal. It seems very complex! Some players see this complexity, and then think this is not that user friendly to all the users that may just have fun at different times.
Limited Content & Current Release Stage (Alpha Test still underway)
Source: scfocus.org
At its current stage, the level of playable content and activities in Star Citizen seems less full compared to a mainstream AAA title. Some players are concerned that they are seeing lots of future features/work ahead (lots of 'in development'), so don't want to commit time or money until everything is ready and well put together! (This would need further checking.)
Reviews and Personal Opinions of Players
Positives
- "Immersive universe, incredible graphics." (Amazing!)
- "Fascinating story development across the entire area and galaxy"
Negatives
- "Disappointing for how much was being promised versus delivered on." (many feels this).
- "Some aspects may feel lacking, (at the current alpha state)."
- "Progress could be clearer and more defined." (for first-time players)
Questions for Star Citizen's Development Team
-
What measures will address balance issues in the market? (especially fluctuating prices in space, I'm wondering.)
-
Are plans for future activities more structured (in the short term) so new players feel comfortable?
-
What will you provide new players with regarding a road map to understanding Star Citizen's journey/progression system to play?
-
Can you provide new players, or newer players with more clear information/explanation for the game play itself and journey (with the new level updates, if you could explain them, for people joining after).
Final Thoughts on Star Citizen
Overall, Star Citizen stands out. There is nothing quite like this game currently, even for me. However, it might not satisfy everyone at its current release stage, with so many plans to develop in the coming updates. The journey has been enjoyable. It's likely that in years, there may be something more advanced than what there is at the current level.
In the end, it is crucial for every player to decide if this lengthy journey is a commitment they want to undertake (especially long hours in gaming), because there will always be development challenges that will continue to happen in future for any games that come along. Consider doing research, listening to people's opinions (and also read reviews!). Make a decision that feels good for you in the end.
(I highly recommend reading additional reviews from different players to understand more.) This review offers some points for players and will assist those considering playing! I personally think this is one to invest time, but it is a bit confusing and demanding when you are just starting!
