Star Citizen has a problem. No, not the fact that it’s been in development for well over a decade, or that it still has no hard release date on the horizon despite raising almost $1 billion in development funds. The problem is that the markets in Cloud Imperium Games’ space sim alpha are riddled with questionably obtained goods.
Unscrupulous players are using various exploits to duplicate valuable items en-masse, enabling them to make money and buy expensive ships quickly while flooding the market with duped goods. Not only is this viewed as unsportsmanlike by many players, but it’s also throwing the game’s economy out of whack.
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CIG also said that the patch would include “additional safeguards aimed at reducing exploits and duplication issues”, though it didn’t specify what those safeguards are, and the patch notes don’t seem to mention any features specifically targeting exploits either. Players, meanwhile, are still reporting that duping is occurring, though CIG didn’t say the patch would stop the exploits entirely, stating that there are “more improvements to come.”
As for what else Alpha 4.8 brings. It chiefly introduces a new, endgame “Tactical Strike Group” mission designed for “large, organised player squads”, which involves assaulting a fortified asteroid both from space and on foot. It also introduces flight suits that have an effect on your tolerance for G-Forces, improves the game’s refuelling missions, adds a couple of new infantry weapons, and much more.
It’s a substantial update, though the game’s 1.0 still seems a long way off completion, potentially as far off as 2028. Its single-player component, Squadron 42, is still scheduled to launch this year, though CIG also cast doubt on this prospect in September last year.
