Powerplay 2.0 Features
Elite Dangerous: Ascendancy has introduced a significant overhaul of the Powerplay system with its new Powerplay 2.0 upgrade, bringing a host of new features and opportunities for players to engage more deeply with their chosen galactic powers. One of the most impactful changes is the reset of all Commanders' pledges, allowing players to recommit to a power without penalties, fostering a fresh start for both veterans and newcomers alike. Players will now find their loyalty rewarded with a unique set of perks tailored to each power, affecting various aspects like bounty payouts and faction reputation. This loyalty system extends to unlocking access to all Powerplay modules, though the order of availability will vary between powers, adding a strategic layer to allegiance decisions.
To enhance the gameplay experience, a new competitive element has been introduced, allowing players to vie for the top spot by earning merits each week, with visible acknowledgment for top performers. The inclusion of weekly assignments tailored to a player's rank and location enhances the depth of engagement in power dynamics. The galaxy map has also received significant updates with new modes and filters to streamline access to vital information, making it easier for Commanders to plan their strategies.
Two new figures have entered the Powerplay arena: Nakato Kaine for the Alliance and Jerome Archer replacing Zachary Hudson for the Federation, adding fresh narratives and politics to the mix. The inclusion of new activities like hacking and repairing holoscreens on stations introduces diverse tactical opportunities, with each action impacting power dynamics and control.
Powers now have a more visible presence in various locations, showing their influence in station aesthetics and ambient traffic. Players will encounter Powerplay Contacts serving as centralized hubs for gathering resources and instructions. To fortify territories, new Powerplay security vessels ensure the defense of systems, supported by loyalist vessels seen throughout controlled areas. A streamlined experience has also been crafted by removing certain outdated features, like merit degradation and the voting system for expansions, ensuring Powerplay 2.0 remains intuitive and rewarding.
All these enhancements work to deepen the strategic elements of Powerplay, allowing for more personalized and impactful gameplay as players navigate alliances, compete with peers, and contribute to the shifting balance of power in the galaxy.
Exploring with the Mandalay
With the arrival of Elite Dangerous Ascendancy, commanders now have a new vessel to explore the galaxy, the Mandalay. Developed by Zorgon Peterson, this ship represents the pinnacle of exploration technology, combining elegance with robust functionality. Its design meets the high expectations of adventurers seeking to venture beyond the familiar territories.
The Mandalay stands out with its remarkable fuel efficiency, made possible by its state-of-the-art SCO drive and space for a large fuel scoop. This feature makes long-haul journeys across distant systems more feasible, enabling pilots to reach the farthest Earth-like worlds with ease. Whether you are charting unexplored star systems or aiming to settle planets, this exploration ship is built to handle all challenges.
In addition to its functional advantages, the Mandalay also enhances the exploratory experience with its visual features. Pilots can enjoy an expansive view from the front canopy and benefit from an additional viewport situated at the bottom of the cockpit, ideal for appreciating the stunning cosmic vistas or precision landings. Its six hardpoints and excellent maneuverability ensure safety, even when encountering potential threats.
Designed not only for function but also for support, the Mandalay can be acquired with ARX or will be attainable through in-game credits for Odyssey owners later. It holds promise for those who wish to navigate the galaxy without compromise, offering an unparalleled balance of practical utility and aesthetic appeal. As players helm this new ship, they are invited to partake in fresh adventures across the stellar expanses, making every exploration mission an opportunity for discovery.
Cosmetic Upgrades and Accessibility
In the Elite Dangerous Ascendancy update, significant attention has been given to enhancing the cosmetic appeal and accessibility of the game for players. One of the standout features includes the introduction of new Powerplay Banner ship kit pieces. These allow commanders to represent their chosen Power with a variety of customizable cosmetic elements that are available for every ship, adding a fresh layer of personalization and identity in the galactic landscape. Beyond cosmetics, accessibility improvements have also been made to ensure a more inclusive gaming experience. This includes enhancements to user interface elements and controls, making it easier for all commanders, regardless of their setup, to navigate and enjoy the game. Moreover, adjustments have been made to various in-game features to streamline player interactions, reducing any unnecessary complexity and allowing for a more seamless experience. These changes are a testament to the developers' commitment to making Elite Dangerous not only visually dynamic but also approachable for a broader range of players. Whether commanders are seasoned veterans or new recruits to the galaxy, the latest updates provide enticing ways to express individuality while ensuring the game remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
The latest update for Elite Dangerous: Ascendancy brings a wave of crucial bug fixes and performance enhancements, ensuring a more stable and immersive experience for players. Among these fixes, adjustments have been made to improve background and skybox lighting, allowing for increased visible detailing. Weapon scope modifications, which previously encountered functionality issues, have been effectively addressed. Audio problems specific to certain ships' supercruise assist have also been resolved, providing a more consistent aural experience for pilots.
In terms of gameplay, several frequent crashes have been identified and rectified, notably those linked to fighter bays and text mesh creation. Instances where players experienced character displacement during animation sequences have been corrected, enhancing the overall smoothness of interactions. Additionally, the invisibility glitch affecting multicrew members after hyperspace jumps has been fixed, ensuring teammates remain visible throughout space travel.
The handling of missions has seen improvements too, with mission givers in social spaces now reliably offering material rewards, expanding the resources available to players depending on mission specifications such as type and difficulty. Passenger missions have been adjusted to fix selection issues, allowing the use of higher-class seats without restrictions that previously hampered mission choice.
Ship cosmetics and functionality, particularly involving the Type-8's small hardpoint doors and Type-6 Mining Jumpstart Pre-Built's loadout, have been tweaked for better usability and aesthetics. Furthermore, the team has attended to specific issues like SRVs getting stuck under ships, ensuring smoother operations during planetary landings. These targeted improvements reinforce the developers' commitment to refining the gameplay experience, making the vast galaxy of Elite Dangerous more engaging and efficient for all Commanders.
Useful Links
Exploration and Gameplay Changes in Elite Dangerous: Ascendancy
Frontier Forums: Ascendancy Update Features and Bug Fixes
Original Link: https://steamcommunity.com/app/359320/allnews/