Modeling deep-space flight in Star Citizen involves thinking a lot about vectors, acceleration, and maneuvering thrusters. That’s always been the case. The game is updating its flight model significantly in the next stage of development, detailed in a lengthy development dispatch unveiling the new mechanics. While the core principles remain unchanged, the addition of three new modes of travel will have a large impact on how you send your ship careening across the universe.
The three main flight modes are Precision, Cruise, and Space Combat Maneuvers, with the last of the bunch having at once the biggest and smallest impact. Players familiar with the Arena Commander module will find that the controls feel similar, but maximum velocity is a dynamic function of your vehicle’s force and mass measured against the ship’s ability to accelerate to a stop along that vector. Read the full details in the official update and get ready to start drawing vector diagrams in your mind.
