How Does Star Citizen Payment Work? A Comprehensive Guide
Star Citizen employs a multifaceted payment system that caters to various levels of engagement, from initial access to ongoing support of the game’s development. Players primarily spend money on Game Packages, which are required to access the game, and on individual ships. These ships can be purchased with real money as “Pledges,” and are permanently linked to your account. There are also subscriptions, which grant benefits for a recurring fee, and the ability to purchase in-game currency (UEC) with real money, with daily limits. Understanding the nuances of each option is crucial for navigating the financial aspects of the Star Citizen universe.
Understanding Game Packages
The cornerstone of accessing Star Citizen is purchasing a Game Package. These packages bundle together the digital download of the game, a starter ship, and often, some in-game currency and insurance for your ship. Without a Game Package, you can’t actually play the game. Think of it as the entry ticket to the vast, persistent universe of Star Citizen. The price of these packages varies depending on the included ship and any additional extras.
Starter Ships: Your First Step into the ‘Verse
The Game Package always comes with a ship. The ships included in starter packs are generally designed to be versatile and suitable for a range of basic activities. They allow new players to explore different aspects of gameplay, like cargo running, bounty hunting, or simple exploration. Popular starter ships include the Aegis Avenger Titan, renowned for its balanced capabilities, and the Mustang Alpha, a cheaper, but still capable, starter option.
The Importance of Insurance
Insurance is a critical aspect of Star Citizen’s economy. When your ship is destroyed, insurance covers the cost of replacing it. Game Packages typically come with a period of insurance, ranging from three months to several years. Some limited-edition ships offered during crowdfunding events even come with Lifetime Insurance (LTI). LTI is the most valuable kind of insurance because it guarantees your ship will be replaced indefinitely at no additional in-game cost. After the insurance period expires, you’ll need to pay in-game currency (aUEC) to maintain your ship’s insurance policy, otherwise you risk permanently losing your ship if it’s destroyed.
Pledging for Ships: Supporting Development
Beyond the initial Game Package, players can purchase individual ships through the “Pledge” system. These ships are acquired with real money and are permanently attached to your account. Pledging is essentially a way to support the ongoing development of Star Citizen and Squadron 42.
Variety and Specialization
The range of ships available for pledge is extensive, encompassing everything from small fighters and cargo haulers to massive capital ships. Each ship is designed for specific roles within the Star Citizen universe. Some ships are ideal for combat, while others are specialized for mining, exploration, or transporting goods. The diversity of ships allows players to customize their gameplay experience and pursue their preferred careers within the game.
Limited Availability and Concept Sales
Many ships are released as “Concept Sales” before they are fully implemented in the game. These sales offer players the opportunity to purchase ships at a discounted price and support the development process. Concept ships are typically released with concept art and design specifications, allowing players to get a glimpse of what to expect.
Subscriptions: Ongoing Support and Exclusive Benefits
In addition to purchasing Game Packages and pledging for ships, players can subscribe to Star Citizen. Subscriptions provide ongoing financial support to the game’s development and offer a range of benefits to subscribers.
Subscription Plans and Passes
Star Citizen offers various subscription plans, including monthly and annual options. Subscribers receive exclusive benefits such as discounted merchandise, access to subscriber-only forums, and exclusive in-game items. There are also subscription passes that offer similar benefits for a limited time, providing a flexible alternative to recurring subscription plans. If you choose an annual Centurion or Imperator plan or pass, you will receive the 12-month Subscription for the price of 11.
Subscriber Perks: More Than Just Cosmetics
The benefits of subscribing extend beyond cosmetic items. Subscribers often receive exclusive access to limited ship pledges, allowing them to acquire rare and powerful ships. They also gain access to a dedicated community forum and have opportunities to interact directly with the Star Citizen development team.
Purchasing UEC: Boosting Your In-Game Wallet
Star Citizen allows players to purchase in-game currency called aUEC (Alpha United Earth Credits) with real money. This can provide a boost to your in-game finances, allowing you to purchase ships, equipment, and other items more quickly.
Daily Limits and Considerations
There are daily limits on the amount of UEC that can be purchased. If you reach the limit, you will need to wait until the following day to resume purchasing. While buying aUEC can be a convenient way to acquire in-game assets, it’s essential to consider the impact on gameplay and avoid disrupting the game’s economy. It is also important to remember that aUEC balances are wiped periodically during the game’s alpha development phase. Any aUEC acquired will eventually be reset.
The Concierge Program: For High-Level Backers
For players who have spent a significant amount of money on Star Citizen (over $1,000 USD), the Concierge program offers a personalized support experience.
Dedicated Support and Exclusive Access
Concierge members are assigned a personal concierge within the RSI staff to answer questions, address requests, and provide assistance. This dedicated support is invaluable for players who require specialized assistance or have complex inquiries. Concierge members also receive exclusive access to certain events and opportunities.
Free Fly Events: Try Before You Buy
Star Citizen occasionally holds Free Fly events, allowing anyone to download and play the game for a limited time, free of charge.
A Taste of the ‘Verse
Free Fly events provide an excellent opportunity to experience the vastness and complexity of Star Citizen without committing to a purchase. Players can explore different ships, complete missions, and interact with other players. These events are often paired with referral bonuses, such as in-game armor or ships, for new players who create an account using a referral code and purchase a Game Package.
Financing the Dream: Crowdfunding and Development
Star Citizen’s development is primarily funded through crowdfunding. The money raised from Game Package sales, ship pledges, and subscriptions directly supports the ongoing development of the game and Squadron 42.
A Community-Driven Project
The transparency and community involvement in Star Citizen’s development process are key to its success. Players have a voice in shaping the game’s direction through feedback and suggestions. The developers actively engage with the community, providing regular updates and responding to concerns. The dedication of both the development team and the player base has driven Star Citizen to become the most expensive video game ever made.
Is Star Citizen Beginner Friendly?
Star Citizen is not very beginner-friendly. Initially, there’s a lot to take in. Stanton is vast, and it’s easy to get lost simply traversing the spaceport. But don’t worry, there’s no right or wrong way to play Star Citizen. The entire point is immersing yourself in the game world.
The innovative approaches to game development and community engagement employed by Star Citizen offer valuable insights for the broader gaming industry. To explore more on how gaming impacts learning and development, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide more clarity on Star Citizen’s payment system:
1. Can I play Star Citizen without buying a ship?
No, you need a Game Package to play Star Citizen. These packages always contain a digital download of Star Citizen, a ship, and other assets and items.
2. How do I get Lifetime Insurance (LTI)?
LTI is typically only available on ships purchased during limited-time sales or through specific promotions. Keep an eye on Star Citizen’s official website for announcements.
3. What happens if I lose my ship and don’t have insurance?
If your ship is destroyed and you don’t have insurance, you will have to purchase a new one using aUEC earned in-game or with real-world money.
4. Can I earn enough aUEC to buy ships without spending real money?
Yes, it is possible to earn enough aUEC to buy ships in-game. However, it can take a significant amount of time and effort, depending on the ship’s cost. Cargo hauling can provide great revenue, but requires some serious preparation to make the most out of the gameplay loop.
5. Are all ships available for purchase with real money?
Most ships are available for purchase with real money at some point, but some ships may only be available during limited-time events or as part of specific promotions.
6. What is the reason for 30k in Star Citizen?
Code 30000 is our general timeout message. This appears when the player loses connection to the game server (server crash) or times out connecting but remains connected to the hub server.
7. What happens to my pledged ships if the game never fully releases?
This is a common concern among backers. Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) has stated that they are committed to delivering Star Citizen and Squadron 42. While there are no guarantees, the company’s financial resources and development progress indicate a strong likelihood of the game’s eventual release. The terms of service outline the potential outcomes in such scenarios.
8. Can I sell my pledged ships to other players?
No, selling pledged ships to other players for real money is prohibited. RSI discourages such behavior and may take action against accounts found to be engaging in it.
9. Is Star Citizen pay-to-win?
Star Citizen is not strictly pay-to-win, but players who spend more money can acquire powerful ships and gain an advantage in certain areas of gameplay. However, skill, teamwork, and knowledge of the game are also essential for success.
10. What are referral codes and how do they work?
Referral codes are unique codes that players can share with new players who are creating an account. When a new player uses a referral code, both the referrer and the new player receive benefits, such as bonus aUEC or in-game items.
11. What is store credit and how can I use it?
Store credit can be earned by exchanging existing ships or items in your hangar. This store credit can then be used to buy new ships or items.
12. Is Star Citizen most expensive game?
I was looking at the costs to make for both movies and games and it appears that Star Citizen is the most expensive entertainment ever made. For video games it was “CyberPunk” at $330 million (now Star Citizen at $500 million plus).
13. How did Star Citizen get so much money?
Star Citizen originally began its funding period in late October 2012, and over the years, has amassed more and more money from crowdfunding. In 2018, Game Developer reported that it raised $200 million, which underlines how far it’s come, and how long it’s been.
14. Why are Star Citizen ships so expensive?
Why are Star Citizen ships so expensive? It’s to prevent the game from being dead on arrival. These ships are supposed to be part of progression in the game.
15. Should I subscribe to Star Citizen?
As a Subscriber you’re eligible for discounted Star Citizen and Squadron 42 merchandise and exclusive limited ship pledges through the RSI store. If you purchase an annual Centurion or Imperator plan or pass, you’ll receive the 12-month Subscription for the price of 11.
Understanding how the Star Citizen payment system works can enhance your engagement with the game and contribute to your overall experience. The vast universe and intricate economic model provide many opportunities for players who learn how to navigate the system effectively.