CCP Games has unleashed 2014’s ”largest update” to EVE Online, as the release of Rhea adds new significant features, new ships and ”innovative areas of space” to the mighty MMO.
There are 100 new wormhole systems, new exploration sites to be discovered, visual updates, a ”more recognizable” UI, skillpoint loss on death removed, new weaponry and two unique ships.
”Rhea expresses our passion for the New Eden universe and the dark science fiction storyline we are co-creating with EVE players. We want the backdrop for the stories our players create to be stunning—a sandbox filled with fantastic locations and gorgeous spaceships that inspire great deeds,” said Andie Nordgren, Executive Producer for EVE Online.
”Our player community is ingenious, passionate and hilarious. It’s been amazing to see them embrace the influx of new and returning pilots following the release of the new ‘This is EVE’ trailer.”
For a more detailed breakdown of the Rhea update visit the feature page, or check out the patch notes.
Rhea feature highlights:
● 100 new wormhole systems have been discovered in the wake of mysterious events in New Eden
● A newly revealed wormhole system, Thera, is a location unlike any other in the universe and is home to four fully-equipped stations with a staggering amount of entry points. At over 340 astronomical units (AU) end to end, it is unparalleled in size and scope
● New exploration sites sit amidst the shattered remnants of heavenly bodies, all pieces of a curious puzzle that may include the emergence of ominous Sleeper scouts from their wormhole havens into known space.
● With some of the most stunning visual updates since the Trinity expansion, EVE has added physically based rendering to support the tremendous beauty and artistry of each of its hundreds of spaceships. In addition, the iconic EVE star map has undergone renovations and a functionality overhaul and a new beta version is open for testing
● EVE’s User Interface (UI) is modernized with more recognizable icons and an epic science fiction feel. A new opt-in keyboard ship control “WASD” feature means pilots can feel the full power of navigating their deadly ships
● In the name of more explosions, the clone upgrade system and skillpoint loss upon death have been eliminated. Veteran players are expected to put more on the line in battle and new players feel less of a sting upon their first defeats
● Lethal new polarized weapons deliver superior damage and tracking in exchange for all damage resistance, allowing for the perfect “glass cannon” setup
● Two new unique ships provide gameplay opportunities in EVE’s massive sandbox. The Amarr Confessor tactical destroyer is able to switch seamlessly between defensive, speed and sniper modes during a fight. The ORE Bowhead freighter is a logistics behemoth able to carry fully fitted battleships throughout the galaxy. The ongoing ship redesign effort brings glorious new visuals to the Blackbird, Rook, Falcon, Incursus, Onyx and Eagle
CCP Games’ next as-of-yet unnamed release for EVE Online is due out January 13th, 2015. The developer will be holding a Twitch stream tomorrow - Thursday, December 11th @ 20:00 UTC - to discuss Rhea’s new content and features as well as their future plans.
