Feature Watch: Player-Made Missions and Quantum Economy in Star Citizen

Overview

Focus: Player-made missions and the evolving quantum economy in Star Citizen
Purpose: Provide deeper insight into Star Citizen's development and economic systems
Format: Casual discussion, distinct from more formal talks

Concept: Missions created by players to engage others in the game
Historical Context: Previous concerns due to issues with transport beacons in version 3.23
Current State: Beacon system is not in a functional state, but planned for future improvement
Importance:
- Keeps players engaged and the game world dynamic
- Supports solo players by allowing them to participate without joining large groups
- Encourages interaction and mission creation

Definition: Underlying economic system in Star Citizen
Key Features:
- Locations (refineries, factories) receive and process goods, generating new missions
- Resource management: goods transformed at one location create demand at another
Economic Chain: Producers, transformers, and consumers identified for all resources
Dynamic Factors:
- Price changes
- Resource availability
- Economic simulation driven by AI and players
Impact: Affects missions, trade routes, and gameplay dynamics

Origin: Preview by Tony Z in 2019
Concepts Showcased:
- Resource extraction and transformation (e.g., aluminum ore to refined aluminum)
- Factory production requiring specific resources
Simulation Goals:
- Reflect real demand for resources and goods
- Maintain balanced economy with AI and player interaction

Population Dynamics:
- Ratio of AI to players planned at 10:1
- AI fills roles to maintain active universe when players are less active
Mission Generation: AI and players both contribute to mission creation and economic flow

Types of Missions:
- Commodity orders
- Survey and exploration tasks
- Delivery and transport requests
- Crew recruitment (engineers, gunners, etc.)
System Dependencies:
- Reputation system development crucial for trust and mission reliability
- Possible interfaces: job boards, MobiGlas

Updates:
- Economy team balancing prices and mission payouts
- Continued focus in monthly reports and development talks
Long-Term Vision:
- More dynamic and player-influenced economy
- Server meshing development critical for expansion

Engagement: Player-made missions and dynamic economy keep Star Citizen engaging
Future Content: Continuous updates and feedback invited for feature watch series
Community: Encouragement to join Discord for discussions and live deep dives on topics