As explained in the Chairman’s letter, Star Citizen patch 3.18 should remain in the testing phase for a long time to implement persistence. Consequently, to avoid too long a period without novelty, the developers are planning a 3.17.2 patch which focuses on content. This episode of Inside Star Citizen explains the changes for Outlaw Missions and Combat-type Service Beacons.
Outlaw Missions
Currently in the game, missions for outlaws are not very appealing and are often variants of legal missions.
With patch 3.17.2, the goal is to integrate outlaw missions into the reputation system and differentiate them from legal missions.
Thus, it will first be necessary to prove itself with rather classic delivery missions. And as the reputation grows and with it the confidence of the principals in the character, the nature of the deliveries and the rewards will change. The developers think of integrating different types of objects to carry and want it to be fun.
As these missions are illegal, they will be better paid but more risky. Thus, the outlaws will go to places less well frequented, and can therefore meet other unscrupulous players. They will also have to deal with more quantum interception by law enforcement.
These new missions should help make the dark side of Star Citizen more fun.
Beacons Service
Service Beacons are an essential element of Star Citizen, as they serve as the foundation for creating missions between players and with non-player characters present in the universe.
In patch 3.17.2, the developers are making an effort on combat assistance beacons.
Their intention is to offer a wider range of difficulty, while giving players better information on what to expect.
Thus, 10 difficulty levels will be set up for combat assistance beacons. In the easiest, it will simply help a ship in good condition to get rid of an Aurora or equivalent. In the most difficult missions, it will be necessary to protect a damaged ship against a small fleet or even an Idris. Don’t hesitate to call for reinforcements.
