Star Citizen’s dogfighting module, Arena Commander, has launched today for qualified backers of the space combat game.
This build is version 0.8, and it adds backer access to the Vanduul Swarm and Freeflight modes and includes the ability to fly the Aurora, 300i and Hornet spacecraft. You can download it here, or update an existing Hangar through the automatic launcher. Be warned that the developers have noted an issue in which the game locks between the Hangar and Arena Commander. They’re currently working on a fix.
“Remember: V0.8 is just the beginning,” writes creator Chris Roberts on the Star Citizen website. ”It’s the start of a hard push for the development team as we head towards V0.9 and finally V1.0, at which point Arena Commander will be ‘feature complete’ with the modes, maps and options promised at PAX. By the time V1.0 drops, we aim for the entire community to have access to the multiplayer game modes!”
Here are developer Cloud Imperium Games’ current plans for Version 0.9:
- Improved client and multiplayer server stability
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General performance optimizations and fixes for hardware specific issues discovered during community testing
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Audio improvements with additional SFX, music, mix, and improvements to the dynamic music system
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Improvements to the HUD to better differentiate the manufacturers, improve ITTS, and add mouse control functionality
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Additional character animations to add immersion to the cockpit and resolve outstanding animation issues
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Further flight model upgrades to better handle unique thruster power combinations and refine the control of each ship
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Additional ship, weapon, item, and thruster tuning to improve the balance of Arena Commander based on community testing
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New multiplayer game mode for public testing along with AI improvements and updates to Vanduul Swarm.
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Hangar bug fixing along with enhanced visuals and animations.
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Cockpit polish with improved damage effects and more dynamic lighting that responds to gameplay events and ship status.
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Some additional weapons and items for use with Arena Commander.
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Update player breathing sound effects and responses to incoming impulses and g-forces
