Cloud Imperium Games has shipped a fresh content update to its in-development sci-fi RPG Star Citizen. Arriving only a couple of months after Alpha 4.2 and its radiation hazards, Alpha 4.3 is now here touting a brand-new selection of mysterious facilities for players to explore as part of the Regen Crisis storyline. The aptly named Alpha 4.3 "Dark Territory" update"s trailer can be seen above.
The biggest feature of this update is the Onyx Facilities. These are a network of abandoned research stations situated all across the game"s Stanton star system. Around 100 of these Associated Sciences and Development (ASD) installations have been added to the game now, which land as a part of the new investigation questline.
"It’s the same old story: scientists running amok, thinking the rules don’t apply to them," says Cloud Imperium Games, describing the lore behind the additions. "Since turning its "expertise" to the regen crisis, ASD has been accused of horrors beyond imagining. Illegal experiments, animal torture, you name it. But pointing fingers isn’t enough - get down there and find some proof."
To begin the new mission chain, players can find Arken Mallor from Hockrow Agency, which tasks them with recovering research data. The missions that follow have players exploring the two open wings of the Onyx Facilities, which involve uncovering audio logs and solving puzzle elements. The studio says that the third wing will be made available in the upcoming Alpha 4.3.1 update.
At the same time, tuning changes have arrived for Light Fighter class ships, which include Aegis Gladius, Anvil Arrow, Anvil Hawk, Banu Defender, Esperia Talon, Vanduul Blade, Aopoa Khartu-Al, and C.O. Mustang.
Everything from their speeds and health pools to the linear and angular accelerations have all been adjusted in this update, alongside some ship-specific tweaks.
Other features of this update include the VOLT Laser Sniper "Zenith" sniper rifle that offers charged shots and a heat-sensing scope, a dynamic snow system that adjusts snowfall based on weather conditions, ladder improvements, and even three new hairstyles.
The Star Citizen Alpha 4.3: Dark Territory update is now available for all backers in the Live channel. Find the complete changelog here.