So much EVE Fanfest news. We're covering it all from Reykjavik.
The Greatest Revelations and News from EVE Fanfest
Written by Alex Sinclair Lack at 05/06/2022, 10:48 AM
EVE Fanfest is back for its 14th iteration, its first in-person showing since 2018. We're right here on the ground bringing you the biggest news of the convention. And boy has it been worth the wait.
The EVE Online Microsoft Partnership
Long has EVE Online been scorned as "spreadsheets in space", it's a cliché that fans have reclaimed and celebrated. And with the EVE Online x Microsoft partnership, it seems the creators are too. During creative director Bergur Finnbogason's excellent keynote, the partnership was announced to rapturous applause. Why? Because fans will now be able to access and alter Excel sheets directly from the client.
Via the partnership, EVE Online players can choose to add JavaScript API in Excel that exports data from EVE. It will help players to calculate everything from battle strategy to profit margins – making the day-to-day operations of EVE infinitely easier. More details will be released later this year.
Audio Visual Upgrades
Following the EVE x Microsoft partnership, some of the loudest audience response (oohhs, ahhhs, and cheers galore) came from the previews of the upcoming visual overhaul.
First, there are the stunning high-resolution nebulae that make distant space feel like less of a 2D backdrop.
Next, there are the massively increased Levels of Detail (LOD). EVE is currently operating at 3 LOD which pops between levels. How many will they have now? As many as needed.
Finally, there are Lit Particles. That essentially translates to greater particle VFX which shows the effects of multiple light sources simultaneously (and beautifully)
UX and UI
Gone will be the days of EVE featuring buttons of a hundred different designs. User experience and user interfaces will be reimagined for the modern world. One particularly impressive display of these will be the "Undock" button which mechanically unravels after being clicked.
A New Currency, A New Look
A new currency is en route to New Eden – InterBus Credits. $IBc cannot be traded nor purchased, only earned. Available for Omega subscriptions, InterBus Credits will allow players to customize structures via the long-anticipated Structure SKINS. Imagine Faction insignia, leader holograms, and plenty more…
Goodbye Quadrants, Hello Arcs
EVE's quarterly Quadrants are no more. While proud that they gave them the space to make essential changes, CCP are ready for a more flexible approach: "EVE is getting ready to enter its third decade and the future has never been brighter," Bergur Finnbogason continues "With arcs, we're setting EVE up for the next chapter with a steady stream of narrative-driven content that emphasizes player actions and decisions. Veterans of the Triglavian Invasion may recall the fall of Pochven that altered trade routes and supply chains across New Eden - the narratives coming with arcs can have similar effects. The upcoming stories and events aren't restricted to veterans, though - with more activities coming soon to the new player experience, all Capsuleers can enjoy EVE's arcs, regardless of their skill level."
Arcs are designed to help players build stronger ties with their Empires with new dynamic storylines and events. It is part of CCP's ultimate plan to give players more power to shape New Eden. Also, as part of these EVE Online arc updates, players will see improvements to infrastructure, Factional Warfare, and much more. More details to follow in coming months.
Expanded Faction Lore
Narrative coming to the forefront is a big component of the EVE's vision for the future. CCP have offered their most in-depth look yet at one of these factions, the one they based this Fanfest around – the Caldari. Check out their home-world in this awesome trailer.
The AIR Career Program
As part of CCP's continued efforts to keep the new players flowing in (they're succeeding), we welcome the launch of the AIR Career program. New capsuleers can enrol in one of four distinctive career paths: Industrialist, Explorer, Enforcer, or Soldier of Fortune. There are hundreds of unofficial professions already, which can be overwhelming to new players – the AIR Career Program aims to change that.
Stay tuned to MMOGames and our Twitter because we'll be continuing to blast out EVE Fanfest 2022 news through the weekend. #evefanfest #tweetfleet.
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