Rundown of the Ships and Pledge Packages (Updated 6/14)
Oct 19, 2013 22:34:49 GMT -8
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Post by PoorRichard (AKA - The Guido) on Oct 19, 2013 22:34:49 GMT -8
These are just some things to keep in mind when purchasing that first ship, second, third, fourth.... dare I continue? Granted this only covers actual, buyable packages. Other ships will be added when they become available or more information becomes available. For now, it's only purchaseable ships that are listed here.
Also, as a note, if you wish to get into Arena Commander or any other Alpha modules that may come, an "Arena Commander Pass" will need to be purchased in addition to the game package(it's only $5). Game packages only come with beta access and final game access right now.
Things to keep in mind: Anticipated play style. Do you intend to be a fighter (bounty hunter/mercenary), trader, or explorer?
Aurora MR($40)($30 package will get you in at final release with no beta access)
Aurora LN($45)
If you're not willing or just can't throw a ton of money at the screen, then the Aurora will serve you well. Within the Aurora line there are many variants that will fill just about any role. The current variants available to pledge for are the Aurora MR and LN. The MR is basically just an options package that is an upgrade from the standard loadout of the base model Aurora ES. She comes standard with 2 Class 1 (fixed) hard points and a class 3 (missile) hard point. Also, it comes with the smaller 5 ton cargo box. The LN, or Legionnaire, is the fighter of the Aurora line with 2 additional Class 1 hard points. So far as we know, we can upgrade that cargo box to a larger 10 ton version. So, for entry level bounty hunting, mercenary work, or cargo hauling, either version should do fine. If trade is what you crave, she'll do it as well. As for exploration, it can be outfitted, but to what extent we don't know yet. She's a jack of all trades that will get you started on your career!
Aurora (all variants except LN)
pros: upgradeability, modular (cargo box can be exchanged from 5 tons to 10 tons), cockpit visibility, price
cons: low firepower, small main thruster, few hard points for weapons, maneuverability
Aurora LN
Pros: same as above, 2 extra class 1 hardpoints, unique hull, bigger power plant and main thruster
cons: same as above (minus the hard point and thruster issue)
Origin 300i ($65)
Origin 315p ($75)
Origin 325a ($80)
Origin 350r - cannot be purchased, was a limited release
With some more cash we can get into the variants of Origin 300i. She lacks the cargo space of the upgraded box for the Aurora, but is still better off with an 8 ton capacity on all 3 variants available. She's the BMW of space where the Aurora is the Honda Civic or the Ford Focus. She boasts a single class 2 (limited movement) hard point on the nose with a class 1 hard point on each wingtip and 2 class 3 hard points, each side underneath the upper wings. The 315p and 325a have the same hard points and are just equipment upgrade packages. The 315p is the explorer variant and comes equipped with a tractor beam, 2 las cannons, and an upgraded engine that boasts longer range and endurance along with a bigger main thruster. The 325a comes fully equipped for combat duty, bristling with full missile racks, 2 las cannons on the wingtips, and an upgraded shield for absorbing that punishment you're going to take in combat. Not to mention, she's a sexy ship! Also, the 350r is the racing variant and it's wing geometry is slightly different making it a unique hull. Cannot accept same main thrusters that the 300i, 315p, and 325a and those variants cannot accept the main thrusters of the 350r. She's built for straight line speed and is the fastest among the 300 series and a favorite among racers.
As for the pros and cons of this series I'm going to examine them as one. Just remember that all but the 350r can be configured like the others. They are equipment packages as outlined above. It's more of a choice of what color scheme you like or what equipment you would like to start with.
Pros: armament, combat capability, upgradability, maneuverability, cockpit visibility
Cons: not a dedicated fighter, low cargo capacity, weaker shields than something like the hornet.
Aegis Dynamics Avenger ($75)
The Aegis Dynamics Avenger is a former police cruiser used by the Advocacy for patrol duties. Aegis Dynamics released this to the public to keep up sales, she's sexy, well armed and well armored. Think of her as the A-10 of Star Citizen with the bad ass gun on the nose and 2 Joker Suckerpunch Disruptor cannons in the wings. She also boasts a 10 ton cargo capacity. She's got one hell of a main thruster on her to boot as well. From what little we really know about this ship she's been described as being a bit sluggish on the maneuverability side, but once she does get a shot off, you better be worried. In the right hands this ship should be hell for anybody.
Pros: main armament, 10 ton cargo capacity for a "fighter", cockpit visibility, large main thruster
Cons: maneuverability when compared to others of its "class"
Anvil F7C Hornet ($125) F7C+($140)
Anvil F7C-S Ghost ($140)
Anvil F7C-R Tracker ($155)
Anvil F7C Super Hornet - cannot be purchased, was a limited release
The difference in packages relates to the goods you recieve. The "F7C" package gives only downloadable items, whereas the "F7C+" package gives you items you will recieve in the mail (glossy foldout map, ship shaped usb drive and other goodies).
If you've got the cash and plan on being strictly combat oriented, then it would be safe to assume that the Anvil F7C Hornet is the beast for you. She's the civilian variant of the venerable F7A that has served the United Earth Empire's Navy for ages and has racked up more kills than any other ship in the Empire's history. With this variant you can own your own piece of history and keep the "skies" safe with the most advanced fighter out there! She doesn't boast the full armament of the F7A, trading the turret for a cargo pod and removing the canard turret (available for later purchase). Either way, she's a beast. Cargo pod can be replaced with the weapons turret later as well. The Ghost variant is a recon variant that trades firepower for stealth capabilities. It features a redone skin using radar signature reducing materials to diffuse radar scans and includes other hardware to reduce its pwerreducing upgrades to the power plant and weapons systems. This is for the pilot that doesn't want to be seen. The Tracker, on the other hand, is essentially the standard hornet that replaces the cargo pod for an enhanced sensor pod that can be used for precision scans when exploring or for command and control purposes. The Super Hornet is a 2 seat version that would probably find itself in a better in a training position or command and control purposes with the rear seat acting as a battlefield awareness officer.
Pros and cons basically stay the same for all three. Only thing is, the Tracker and standard Hornet cannot be upgraded to a Ghost equivalent because of the unique materials used for the Ghost's hull. Upgrading a Ghost to Hornet or Tracker specs would probably make it a less effective scout by increasing its power signature. Can't add a second seat to make other variants fall in line with Super Hornet.
Pros: dedicated fighter, maneuverability, weapons hardpoints, upgradeability (presumably can outfit her with the military hardware)
Cons: short range, cargo capacity (4 tons with turret cargo hold), cockpit visibility due to how low the pilot sits in the cockpit and canopy frame
MISC Freelancer - Freelancer ($125) or Freelancer+ ($140)
MISC Freelancer DUR ($140)
MISC Freelancer MAX ($155)
MISC Freelancer MIS ($180)
The difference in the packages relates to the goods you receive. The "Freelancer" package gives only downloadable items, whereas the "Freelancer+" package gives you items you will recieve in the mail (glossy foldout map, ship shaped usb drive and other goodies).
MISC is known for building efficient, middle-of-the-road ships for transportation of goods. The Freelancer has great range that is ideal for long range exploration or long range trade. She boasts a 20 ton cargo capacity, 4 Class 2 hardpoints, a Class 5 manned turret at the top rear, and 2 Class 3 hardpoints on each wing. For a cargo ship, she is well armed and said to be very maneuverable for her size. Also, many of her internal systems can be owed to a lend-lease deal with Xi'an, so don't be worried when you see alien components. With the addition of the variants, lets go through those real quick. The DUR is outfitted with an improved scanner, advanced jump drive, and extra fuel capacity for deep space exploration. It sacrifices 25% of its cargo capacity to fit all those improvements. The MAX, on the other hand, is more of a dedicated hauler in that it keeps the weapons mounts on the hull and the turret, but loses the missile racks in exchange for increased cargo capacity over the base model and also has 2 more main thrusters to push it along. The MIS varaiant... Affectionately dubbed the "Missilelancer" by TSilver, this ship boasts a missile capacity of up to (after upgrades) 50 size 2 missiles carried on internal racks with the 2 launchers extending from the top aft section of the hull. It does sacrifice cargo capacity, but this isn't a ship you use for cargo hauling anyways. This ship will most likly be most effective with a 2-3 man crew.
(Note: Ship specs say x8 TR2 maneuvering thrusters, but the model shows 10)
Freelancer
Pros: Can be solo operated and be effective, long range, powerful main thrusters, well armed, maneuverable for its size, cargo capacity, alien technology!
Cons: Cockpit visibility (it's like driving a semi and applies to all variants)
Freelancer DUR
Pros: Same as above, improved sensor package, extra fuel capacity, same weapon loadout as standard Freelancer
Cons: extra weight will probably hurt its maneuverability, smaller cargo capacity
Freelancer MAX
Pros: large cargo capacity, gains 2 more "guns" on the aft turret, might be faster than the others
Cons: loses the missiles, maneuverability
Freelancer MIS
Pros: missiles, missiles, missiles. Good combat support ship, could function as command and control
Cons: smaller cargo capacity than base model due to missile storage
Drake Interplanetary Cutlass ($115)
Avast! Live outside the law with this fearsome fighter, the Drake Interplanetary Cutlass. Become the scourge of the space lanes as you make your living picking off transports and shipping contraband. At least, that's what the website says now. Used to, it said that Drake Interplanetary had designed this ship as a search and rescue vessel, but these ships were being seen in the hands of pirates all too often. This ship is an interesting one. First off, it's about the same size as a Freelancer with a slightly smaller cargo hold. Secondly, its airlock is equipped with laser cutters to cut through the hull of a ship or through a ship's airlock to gain access. Thirdly, it comes with a built in tractor beam. Add to all that, 16 maneuvering thrusters compared to 10 on the Freelancer and a very nice weapons loadout. Here, we have a very capable heavy fighter that really is a jack of all trades, or jacker of all trades (see what I did there?). Will be exceptionally effective with a 2 or 3 man crew.
Pros: Maneuverability, weapons, airlock breaching, overall a good combat oriented multi-crewed ship
Cons: Supposedly not very well armored
Roberts Space Industries Constellation ($275)
The Constellation is the largest ship available for purchase. To be 100% effective, at least 3 people will need to man this ship. 1 to fly and operate the weapons and 2 for the turrets. It also features a small, short range "snub fighter" in a bay underneath the cargo bay (the P-52 Merlin). So a 4th man to operate the Merlin wouldn't be a bad idea. For a ship of this size and with the fire power it boasts, it will be a ship to deal with if attacked by or attacking one. Armament wise, it sports 12 "guns" (4 being split between the 2 turrets) and 16 missiles. It also comes with a beautiful bathroom with a full shower, toilet, and sink. Think of this one as a long range patrol ship, heavy combat support ship, or a well armed cargo hauler with all the amenities.
For now, I'll leave out the pros and cons as they are really not known. Safe to say that it's well armed, fast, and sexy, but until more information is released, it's hard to judge. And, since we really don't know fully how the multi crew ships are going to work, more on this ship later. Also, there's not really anything to compare it to as the Freelancer is basically a full class down from this beast.
As more of these ships become available in Arena Commander or more information is put out, I will update and add as needed.
Also, as a note, if you wish to get into Arena Commander or any other Alpha modules that may come, an "Arena Commander Pass" will need to be purchased in addition to the game package(it's only $5). Game packages only come with beta access and final game access right now.
Things to keep in mind: Anticipated play style. Do you intend to be a fighter (bounty hunter/mercenary), trader, or explorer?
Aurora MR($40)($30 package will get you in at final release with no beta access)
Aurora LN($45)
If you're not willing or just can't throw a ton of money at the screen, then the Aurora will serve you well. Within the Aurora line there are many variants that will fill just about any role. The current variants available to pledge for are the Aurora MR and LN. The MR is basically just an options package that is an upgrade from the standard loadout of the base model Aurora ES. She comes standard with 2 Class 1 (fixed) hard points and a class 3 (missile) hard point. Also, it comes with the smaller 5 ton cargo box. The LN, or Legionnaire, is the fighter of the Aurora line with 2 additional Class 1 hard points. So far as we know, we can upgrade that cargo box to a larger 10 ton version. So, for entry level bounty hunting, mercenary work, or cargo hauling, either version should do fine. If trade is what you crave, she'll do it as well. As for exploration, it can be outfitted, but to what extent we don't know yet. She's a jack of all trades that will get you started on your career!
Aurora (all variants except LN)
pros: upgradeability, modular (cargo box can be exchanged from 5 tons to 10 tons), cockpit visibility, price
cons: low firepower, small main thruster, few hard points for weapons, maneuverability
Aurora LN
Pros: same as above, 2 extra class 1 hardpoints, unique hull, bigger power plant and main thruster
cons: same as above (minus the hard point and thruster issue)
Origin 300i ($65)
Origin 315p ($75)
Origin 325a ($80)
Origin 350r - cannot be purchased, was a limited release
With some more cash we can get into the variants of Origin 300i. She lacks the cargo space of the upgraded box for the Aurora, but is still better off with an 8 ton capacity on all 3 variants available. She's the BMW of space where the Aurora is the Honda Civic or the Ford Focus. She boasts a single class 2 (limited movement) hard point on the nose with a class 1 hard point on each wingtip and 2 class 3 hard points, each side underneath the upper wings. The 315p and 325a have the same hard points and are just equipment upgrade packages. The 315p is the explorer variant and comes equipped with a tractor beam, 2 las cannons, and an upgraded engine that boasts longer range and endurance along with a bigger main thruster. The 325a comes fully equipped for combat duty, bristling with full missile racks, 2 las cannons on the wingtips, and an upgraded shield for absorbing that punishment you're going to take in combat. Not to mention, she's a sexy ship! Also, the 350r is the racing variant and it's wing geometry is slightly different making it a unique hull. Cannot accept same main thrusters that the 300i, 315p, and 325a and those variants cannot accept the main thrusters of the 350r. She's built for straight line speed and is the fastest among the 300 series and a favorite among racers.
As for the pros and cons of this series I'm going to examine them as one. Just remember that all but the 350r can be configured like the others. They are equipment packages as outlined above. It's more of a choice of what color scheme you like or what equipment you would like to start with.
Pros: armament, combat capability, upgradability, maneuverability, cockpit visibility
Cons: not a dedicated fighter, low cargo capacity, weaker shields than something like the hornet.
Aegis Dynamics Avenger ($75)
The Aegis Dynamics Avenger is a former police cruiser used by the Advocacy for patrol duties. Aegis Dynamics released this to the public to keep up sales, she's sexy, well armed and well armored. Think of her as the A-10 of Star Citizen with the bad ass gun on the nose and 2 Joker Suckerpunch Disruptor cannons in the wings. She also boasts a 10 ton cargo capacity. She's got one hell of a main thruster on her to boot as well. From what little we really know about this ship she's been described as being a bit sluggish on the maneuverability side, but once she does get a shot off, you better be worried. In the right hands this ship should be hell for anybody.
Pros: main armament, 10 ton cargo capacity for a "fighter", cockpit visibility, large main thruster
Cons: maneuverability when compared to others of its "class"
Anvil F7C Hornet ($125) F7C+($140)
Anvil F7C-S Ghost ($140)
Anvil F7C-R Tracker ($155)
Anvil F7C Super Hornet - cannot be purchased, was a limited release
The difference in packages relates to the goods you recieve. The "F7C" package gives only downloadable items, whereas the "F7C+" package gives you items you will recieve in the mail (glossy foldout map, ship shaped usb drive and other goodies).
If you've got the cash and plan on being strictly combat oriented, then it would be safe to assume that the Anvil F7C Hornet is the beast for you. She's the civilian variant of the venerable F7A that has served the United Earth Empire's Navy for ages and has racked up more kills than any other ship in the Empire's history. With this variant you can own your own piece of history and keep the "skies" safe with the most advanced fighter out there! She doesn't boast the full armament of the F7A, trading the turret for a cargo pod and removing the canard turret (available for later purchase). Either way, she's a beast. Cargo pod can be replaced with the weapons turret later as well. The Ghost variant is a recon variant that trades firepower for stealth capabilities. It features a redone skin using radar signature reducing materials to diffuse radar scans and includes other hardware to reduce its pwerreducing upgrades to the power plant and weapons systems. This is for the pilot that doesn't want to be seen. The Tracker, on the other hand, is essentially the standard hornet that replaces the cargo pod for an enhanced sensor pod that can be used for precision scans when exploring or for command and control purposes. The Super Hornet is a 2 seat version that would probably find itself in a better in a training position or command and control purposes with the rear seat acting as a battlefield awareness officer.
Pros and cons basically stay the same for all three. Only thing is, the Tracker and standard Hornet cannot be upgraded to a Ghost equivalent because of the unique materials used for the Ghost's hull. Upgrading a Ghost to Hornet or Tracker specs would probably make it a less effective scout by increasing its power signature. Can't add a second seat to make other variants fall in line with Super Hornet.
Pros: dedicated fighter, maneuverability, weapons hardpoints, upgradeability (presumably can outfit her with the military hardware)
Cons: short range, cargo capacity (4 tons with turret cargo hold), cockpit visibility due to how low the pilot sits in the cockpit and canopy frame
MISC Freelancer - Freelancer ($125) or Freelancer+ ($140)
MISC Freelancer DUR ($140)
MISC Freelancer MAX ($155)
MISC Freelancer MIS ($180)
The difference in the packages relates to the goods you receive. The "Freelancer" package gives only downloadable items, whereas the "Freelancer+" package gives you items you will recieve in the mail (glossy foldout map, ship shaped usb drive and other goodies).
MISC is known for building efficient, middle-of-the-road ships for transportation of goods. The Freelancer has great range that is ideal for long range exploration or long range trade. She boasts a 20 ton cargo capacity, 4 Class 2 hardpoints, a Class 5 manned turret at the top rear, and 2 Class 3 hardpoints on each wing. For a cargo ship, she is well armed and said to be very maneuverable for her size. Also, many of her internal systems can be owed to a lend-lease deal with Xi'an, so don't be worried when you see alien components. With the addition of the variants, lets go through those real quick. The DUR is outfitted with an improved scanner, advanced jump drive, and extra fuel capacity for deep space exploration. It sacrifices 25% of its cargo capacity to fit all those improvements. The MAX, on the other hand, is more of a dedicated hauler in that it keeps the weapons mounts on the hull and the turret, but loses the missile racks in exchange for increased cargo capacity over the base model and also has 2 more main thrusters to push it along. The MIS varaiant... Affectionately dubbed the "Missilelancer" by TSilver, this ship boasts a missile capacity of up to (after upgrades) 50 size 2 missiles carried on internal racks with the 2 launchers extending from the top aft section of the hull. It does sacrifice cargo capacity, but this isn't a ship you use for cargo hauling anyways. This ship will most likly be most effective with a 2-3 man crew.
(Note: Ship specs say x8 TR2 maneuvering thrusters, but the model shows 10)
Freelancer
Pros: Can be solo operated and be effective, long range, powerful main thrusters, well armed, maneuverable for its size, cargo capacity, alien technology!
Cons: Cockpit visibility (it's like driving a semi and applies to all variants)
Freelancer DUR
Pros: Same as above, improved sensor package, extra fuel capacity, same weapon loadout as standard Freelancer
Cons: extra weight will probably hurt its maneuverability, smaller cargo capacity
Freelancer MAX
Pros: large cargo capacity, gains 2 more "guns" on the aft turret, might be faster than the others
Cons: loses the missiles, maneuverability
Freelancer MIS
Pros: missiles, missiles, missiles. Good combat support ship, could function as command and control
Cons: smaller cargo capacity than base model due to missile storage
Drake Interplanetary Cutlass ($115)
Avast! Live outside the law with this fearsome fighter, the Drake Interplanetary Cutlass. Become the scourge of the space lanes as you make your living picking off transports and shipping contraband. At least, that's what the website says now. Used to, it said that Drake Interplanetary had designed this ship as a search and rescue vessel, but these ships were being seen in the hands of pirates all too often. This ship is an interesting one. First off, it's about the same size as a Freelancer with a slightly smaller cargo hold. Secondly, its airlock is equipped with laser cutters to cut through the hull of a ship or through a ship's airlock to gain access. Thirdly, it comes with a built in tractor beam. Add to all that, 16 maneuvering thrusters compared to 10 on the Freelancer and a very nice weapons loadout. Here, we have a very capable heavy fighter that really is a jack of all trades, or jacker of all trades (see what I did there?). Will be exceptionally effective with a 2 or 3 man crew.
Pros: Maneuverability, weapons, airlock breaching, overall a good combat oriented multi-crewed ship
Cons: Supposedly not very well armored
Roberts Space Industries Constellation ($275)
The Constellation is the largest ship available for purchase. To be 100% effective, at least 3 people will need to man this ship. 1 to fly and operate the weapons and 2 for the turrets. It also features a small, short range "snub fighter" in a bay underneath the cargo bay (the P-52 Merlin). So a 4th man to operate the Merlin wouldn't be a bad idea. For a ship of this size and with the fire power it boasts, it will be a ship to deal with if attacked by or attacking one. Armament wise, it sports 12 "guns" (4 being split between the 2 turrets) and 16 missiles. It also comes with a beautiful bathroom with a full shower, toilet, and sink. Think of this one as a long range patrol ship, heavy combat support ship, or a well armed cargo hauler with all the amenities.
For now, I'll leave out the pros and cons as they are really not known. Safe to say that it's well armed, fast, and sexy, but until more information is released, it's hard to judge. And, since we really don't know fully how the multi crew ships are going to work, more on this ship later. Also, there's not really anything to compare it to as the Freelancer is basically a full class down from this beast.
As more of these ships become available in Arena Commander or more information is put out, I will update and add as needed.
