Do Ships in Star Citizen Cost Real Money? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, ships in Star Citizen can be purchased with real money. Cloud Imperium Games (CIG), the developer, offers ships for sale on their website as a way to fund the game’s ongoing development. While it’s entirely possible to acquire ships in-game using in-game currency (UEC), many players choose to buy ships with real money to accelerate their progress or access ships they find particularly appealing.
Understanding the Star Citizen Economy
Star Citizen operates on a dual-currency system. You have UEC (United Earth Credits), earned through in-game activities like trading, bounty hunting, and mining. Then you have ships and other items available for purchase with real-world currency, often referred to as pledges. This system is designed to support the long-term development of the game.
Pledge Ships vs. In-Game Ships
It’s important to distinguish between pledging for a ship and earning one in-game.
- Pledge Ships: Purchasing a ship with real money is considered a “pledge” to the game’s development. You are essentially contributing funds in exchange for a virtual item that will be available to you in the persistent universe. These pledges often come with insurance, which protects your investment should the ship be destroyed.
- In-Game Ships: Ships can also be purchased with UEC earned through gameplay. These ships also offer the benefit of being obtainable without spending real-world money, but they come with the risk of permanent loss if not properly insured or if insurance lapses.
The Rationale Behind Selling Ships
The sale of ships with real money is the primary funding model for Star Citizen. CIG argues that this approach allows them to maintain their independence and avoid relying on traditional publishers. The funds generated from ship sales are reinvested into the game’s development, expanding its scope and features.
Concerns and Controversies
The practice of selling ships for real money has not been without its controversies. Critics argue that it creates a pay-to-win environment, where players with deeper pockets can gain an unfair advantage. However, CIG maintains that all ships will eventually be obtainable in-game, and that skill and strategy are more important than owning the most expensive ship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I only get ships by spending real money?
No, absolutely not. All ships available for pledge can also be obtained in-game with UEC (United Earth Credits) earned through various activities.
2. What happens to my pledge ship if it gets destroyed?
Most pledge ships come with insurance. If your ship is destroyed and you have active insurance, you can claim a replacement at a designated insurance claim terminal.
3. What types of insurance are there?
There are typically three types of insurance: Lifetime Insurance (LTI), Standard Insurance, and Hull Insurance. LTI is only available on certain ships pledged during special events. Standard and Hull Insurance need to be renewed with UEC in-game.
4. Is Star Citizen a “pay-to-win” game?
While purchasing ships can give you a head start, Star Citizen is not strictly “pay-to-win.” Skill, teamwork, and strategic decision-making are crucial for success. All ships are attainable in-game, and owning an expensive ship doesn’t guarantee victory.
5. Can I melt my pledged ships and get my money back?
You can’t directly get a refund. You can “melt” your pledged ships for store credit, which can then be used to purchase other items or ships in the pledge store.
6. How much do ships cost?
Ship prices vary widely, ranging from a few dollars for starter ships to hundreds or even thousands of dollars for large capital ships.
7. What is a “starter ship” and do I need one?
A starter ship is an inexpensive ship designed to provide players with a basic means of transportation and earning UEC in the game. You need a game package that includes a starter ship to access the persistent universe.
8. What is a “game package?”
A game package includes access to the Star Citizen persistent universe and typically comes with a starter ship and some starting UEC. It’s the essential item you need to begin playing the game.
9. Can I sell ships I earn in-game for real money?
No. Selling ships or other in-game assets for real money is against the game’s terms of service and can result in account suspension or termination.
10. Are ships available for purchase year-round?
While some ships are always available for purchase, others are only offered during limited-time events, such as the Intergalactic Aerospace Expo (IAE) or the Anniversary Sale.
11. What are CCUs (Cross-Chassis Upgrades)?
CCUs (Cross-Chassis Upgrades) allow you to upgrade an existing ship to a more expensive ship by paying the difference in price. This is a common way for players to gradually acquire more powerful ships.
12. What happens to my ships during a server wipe?
During a server wipe, the game database is reset, and all player-owned ships and in-game assets are typically removed. However, pledged ships are returned to your account, ready to be reclaimed. This doesn’t affect pledged ships.
13. Is there any way to “try before you buy?”
Yes, during special events, CIG often offers free fly periods, allowing players to test out various ships for a limited time. Additionally, you can rent ships with UEC in-game before committing to a purchase.
14. What are Warbond pledges?
Warbond pledges are special ship sales that offer a discount if you purchase the ship using new cash, rather than store credit. They are designed to bring new money into the game’s development.
15. How do I buy a ship?
Ships can be purchased from the RSI (Roberts Space Industries) website under the “Pledge Store” section. You’ll need to create an account and log in to browse the available ships and purchase options. Make sure you have a game package first!
Conclusion
The decision of whether or not to purchase ships with real money in Star Citizen is a personal one. While it can accelerate your progress and provide access to a wider variety of ships, it’s not necessary to enjoy the game. Ultimately, Star Citizen offers a diverse and engaging experience, whether you choose to pledge for ships or earn them through gameplay. Understanding the intricacies of the game’s economy and the options available to you is crucial for making informed decisions about how you want to participate in the Star Citizen universe.