Star Citizen Update Doubles Server Size, Game Still Isn't Out Yet
Star Citizen update version 3.17.2 launched today. This update introduces a number of changes to the ambitious and long-gestating space sim.
Star Citizen previously could only carry 50 players to one server. The new update doubles this number to 100. It brings the space trading and combat sim closer to its original vision - a vast, populated galaxy where you could barter and fight with myriad other players - as well as adding greater opportunities for large-scale battles and races. Cloud Imperium, the developer of Star Citizen, eventually plans to link Star Citizen's servers together to create a fully interconnected star systems. This is definitely a step closer to that goal.
Siege of Orison, an exciting new event, is also included in the update. Players must eliminate a number of lieutenants belonging to the Nine Tails faction, before finally confronting their leader. There is a new twist to the delivery and courier missions. Illegal deliveries offer greater rewards, but come with a higher risk of being confronted either by security forces or ambushed from rival crooks. As a countermeasure, the new Anvil Centurion is a ground-based anti-aircraft vehicle, and there are also some new, derelict outposts to explore if you fancy grabbing loot the safer way.
NPCs also have better intelligence thanks to the new planetary navigation system. This allows them to find their way more effectively and smartly through rough terrain. Cloud Imperium claims that this will "serve as the foundation for future Star Citizen content".
Even after ten years, Star Citizen has potential, but with the rapid updates to No Man's Sky and Bethesda's own space RPG Starfield on the way, it's facing some extreme competition in the space-sim genre. Find out more about Star Citizen and other space games in our guide to the top space games.