Star Citizen: Everything You Need to Know

Star Citizen Jack
Last Updated Time: 2025-04-11 15:37

First Playable Version
VR Capabilities
Story Elements
Open World Exploration
Financial Overview
Massively Multiplayer Online Game
Subscription Model
Free Play Opportunities
High-Level Backer Benefits
Availability on Steam
Free Fly Events

First Playable Version

The first "playable" version of Star Citizen, which served as a ship model viewer, was released on August 29, 2013. The initial gameplay experience, featuring a dogfighting mode, was launched later on June 4, 2014.

VR Capabilities

Currently, Star Citizen does not have official, fully-integrated VR support. However, dedicated players have successfully utilized third-party software and tools such as Virtual Desktop, OpenTrack, and SteamVR to experience the game in virtual reality.

Story Elements

Star Citizen features a rich narrative with a single-player campaign titled Squadron 42, alongside a persistent universe where the story develops through various events and missions. This dual approach to storytelling enhances player engagement within the game.

Open World Exploration

As an open-world space simulation game, Star Citizen allows players to explore a vast universe filled with diverse careers, vehicles, and activities. This freedom of exploration is a significant draw for many players.

Financial Overview

Originally slated for release in 2014, Star Citizen has since raised over $750 million through crowdfunding. This substantial funding reflects the game's ambitious development goals and the willingness of fans to support the project financially. Developing a AAA game requires significant resources, and Star Citizen exemplifies this with its ongoing development.

Massively Multiplayer Online Game

Star Citizen is designed to be a massively multiplayer online game (MMO), where players can interact within a persistent, shared universe. This aspect adds depth and community to the gaming experience, allowing for player-driven stories and interactions.

Subscription Model

While there are optional subscriptions available for players to contribute to the Star Citizen project, these are not required to play the game. A one-time purchase of the game, priced at $45, is all that is necessary to access the content. This model ensures that players can enjoy the game without ongoing financial commitments.

Free Play Opportunities

To access Star Citizen, players must purchase a package that includes the digital download. However, the game occasionally offers Free Fly Events, allowing players to explore the universe for a limited time without purchasing a game package. This provides a great opportunity for newcomers to experience the game.

High-Level Backer Benefits

Players who spend $1,000 or more on Star Citizen receive Concierge status, also known as the Chairman's Club. This status provides access to a personal concierge from the RSI staff, who can assist with questions and requests, thus enhancing the overall support for high-level backers.

Availability on Steam

Star Citizen is not available on Steam. The game is exclusively distributed through the RSI Launcher, and purchases must be made directly from the official website. Although there have been discussions about bringing Star Citizen to Steam, no concrete plans exist at this time.

Free Fly Events

While not free-to-play in the traditional sense, Star Citizen hosts Free Fly Events, which allow players to log in and explore the game without needing to purchase a game package during specified periods. This initiative helps attract new players and showcase the game's features.