Star Citizen is famous for its detailed ships and immersive universe. This article will explore the five most expensive vessels, highlighting their unique features and what makes them stand out.
In development for over a decade since its announcement in October 2012, Star Citizen has yet to reach its full v1.0 release. With Alpha 4.0 on the horizon, we took the opportunity to examine the most expensive ships in Star Citizen right now.
The Developers’ Vision of Star Citizen
Star Citizen’s concept was to be a duo of games, one being the single-player story mode, also referred to as Squadron 42, with the other being multiplayer. Currently, we only have access to the multiplayer MMO version of the game. However, it was announced that Squadron 42 has also become feature-complete. Once fully released, both games are supposed to influence each other, depending on how you play!
Star Citizen Ships
A feature that sets Star Citizen apart is its ability to purchase ships using real money, allowing players to enhance their in-game experience significantly.
These ships range from affordable starter vessels to high-end behemoths, often costing hundreds or thousands of real-world dollars. In this article, we will explore the most expensive ships available in 2024, their features, prices, and the factors that make them highly sought after in the Star Citizen universe.
Top 5 Most Expensive Ships in 2024
Star Citizen continues to charm its community with various high-end ships, each providing distinct advantages and commanding substantial prices. Let’s count up the game’s top five most expensive ships.
1. Polaris (Corvette-Class) — $1200
Designed for rapid strikes and hit-and-run tactics, the Polaris possesses advanced weaponry, stealth systems, and high-speed maneuverability, making it ideal for ambushes and patrol missions. Its price, around $1200, is justified by its tactical versatility and combat effectiveness.
This vessel is often used for quick assaults, defense operations, and as a fast response unit in various combat scenarios. Its agility and firepower have also earned it a reliable reputation among the Star Citizen community.
2. Idris-M (Frigate-Class) — $1500
The Idris-M is a versatile and powerful ship manufactured for various combat scenarios. Its design includes state-of-the-art weaponry, such as a robust shield and advanced sensor systems, making it a daunting presence in space warfare.
Priced at around $1500, the Idris-M’s worth lies in its balance of offense and defense and its capability to support many tactical operations. Players often utilize this vessel for escort missions and tactical strikes, as well as a command hub in more extensive fleet engagements. This significantly amplifies their strategic capabilities.
3. Kraken Privateer (Light-Carrier-Class) — $2000
The Kraken Privateer is a trading hub and a mobile repair station, distinguished by its multifunctional design. It features elaborate cargo holds, repair facilities, and living quarters, making it optimal for players focused on trade and logistics and as a retreat in war scenarios.
Its price, typically surpassing $2000, is driven by its versatility and luxurious amenities; the Kraken privateer is famous among players who want to take advantage of its economic activities. Its unique blend of functionality and comfort has earned it a dedicated following within the community.
4. Bengal (Capital-Carrier-Class) — $2500
The Bengal is one of the most commanding ships in Star Citizen, designed to carry and deploy smaller fighters and vessels. Its vast hangar bays, daunting weaponry, and shields make it a cornerstone in any fleet.
It’s priced at around $2500 and claims to justify the price tag by its massive size, advanced technology, and critical role in large-scale fleet operations. It significantly impacts gameplay by providing logistical support and strategic advantages in battles, making it a prized asset for fleet commanders.
5. Javelin (Destroyer-Class) — $3000
The Javelin is a behemoth of a warship, famous for its imposing size and firepower. It features an array of heavy turrets, missile batteries, and a remarkable shield system, making it a centerpiece in any fleet.
Retailing at over $3000, the Javelin’s high cost is justified by several factors. It has advanced weaponry, extensive crew quarters that engage in large-scale battles, and enables better fleet management. It is the ultimate symbol of power and status within the game.
Factors Influencing the Prices of Star Citizen Ships
Several factors heavily influence the prices of Star Citizen ships, reflected in both game utility and real-world market dynamics. Rarity plays a significant role, with exclusive ships or those with unique features demanding higher prices. A vessel’s functionality and versatility also contribute to its cost. Ships equipped with advanced weaponry, defensive systems, and specialized capabilities such as cargo transport or medical facilities are typically more expensive.
Moreover, a ship’s size and complexity affect its price, including its design detail and the extent of customization options. Economic conditions can affect players’ buying power, influencing the in-game market. Furthermore, ships with high player demand can also experience elevated price tags. These factors combined create a dynamic and often fluctuating marketplace where the value of ships is a blend of practicality, exclusivity, and player prestige.
The Controversy and Criticism Relating
The high prices of ships in Star Citizen have fueled a lot of controversy and criticism within the gaming community. Detractors argue that the game’s model, which ensures that the players can access these powerful ships with real money, generates a pay-to-win environment. This is potentially disadvantageous to those unwilling or unable to invest substantial sums.
The financial barriers could discourage new players, creating a divide between wealthy players and the rest of the community. Critics also point out the ethical implications of selling virtual items for hundreds or thousands of dollars, questioning Star Citizen’s impact on the gaming industry’s standards.
Despite these criticisms, advocates affirm that the funding model is vital for the game’s ambitious development goals. They argue that it enables the continuous expansion and enhancement of the Star Citizen universe.
What’s Coming Next?
The Star Citizen community has been anticipating the release of several upgraded ships shortly. The Anvil Legionnaire is crafted for boarding operations and features advanced hacking capabilities to override docking permissions. It is ideal for unlawful and illicit gameplay, such as bounty hunting and piracy.
The next ship, Apollo Triage, caters to a mobile clinic equipped with top-tier medical facilities and a robust radar package. This makes it essential for gamers focused on medical assistance and healing within the “field.”
Lastly, we have the RSI Zeus MK2 ES, which comes in three variants focusing on different aspects: Expedition, Interdiction, and Medium Fright. These accommodate diverse player needs, from deep space exploration to trade and combat.
Final thoughts about Star Citizen Ships in 2024
The landscape of Star Citizen’s most expensive ships underscores a unique blend of luxury, power, and strategic depth. From the Javelin to the versatile Idris-M, each ship offers advanced capabilities. These represent a significant investment in time and money. The Kraken Privateer, the Bengal Carrier, and the Polaris Corvette further emphasize the diversity in design and function. This accommodates a diversified range of play styles.
You can follow Star Citizen’s development process via the RSI Progress Tracker. If you want to check out some other cool titles, have a look at our ranking of the best free Steam games.
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