Looks like Frontier Development has been busy, with a planned free update for Elite Dangerous scheduled to hit PC, Xbox and PS4 on April 23rd. The update promised new features and quality of gaming updates that will impact all experience levels of players per the announcement:
Based on the details posted on the official forum as well as after the jump, the promise is looking to be upheld with some cool stuff. First up is a "Beginner's Zone" for new pilots who haven't earned a Combat, Trade or Exploration rank to get the feel for the game with simpler missions capable of completing in Sidewinders and cheap buybacks.
In addition, some new modules have been introduced, including an Advanced Docking Computer and Supercruise Assist. The upgraded docking computer will both dock AND undock your ship without worrying about the mail slot. It will also come equipped on all smaller ship (but I am betting you cannot cannibalize it to move to your Anaconda). The Supercruise assist will allow you to target your destination and it will bring you up to speed,
To make things compatible with these new modules, every ship will get module slot upgrades with smaller ships getting two additional and larger ships one addition Optional Internal Slots.
lastly, there are some updates to Navigation tab, Pilots Handbook, Interstellar initiatives and Trading Screen improvements on the way plus some additional goodies you can read about, along with the details, after the jump.
Greetings Commanders,
We’re very pleased to announce that the next update for Elite Dangerous, the April Update, will release on... Tuesday 23 April 2019!
As mentioned in the beginning of March, this year's initial updates will focus on introducing quality of life improvements and improving the welcoming experience for beginners. This update brings with it two new modules to help get you out there, engaging in and exploring all that there is to discover - as well as ensure that you're able to access in-game information and training from the seat of your cockpit!
Read below for all of the details:
Beginner's Zone
A new collection of systems has been added for newly-created Commanders, and can only be accessed by pilots until they earn their first Combat, Trade or Exploration rank. In addition, the authorities here will provide simpler missions that even the smallest of Sidewinders can complete.
Across the galaxy, new Commanders will also have a reduced rebuy until they gain their first Combat, Trade or Exploration rank, a step in the path towards greatness!
New Modules
Free module slots for everyone!
With the introduction of these new modules, small ships will be outfitted with two additional size one Optional Internal slots, while medium and large ships will also receive one additional Optional Internal slot. This will automatically and retroactively apply to all relevant ships.
Navigation Tab
In Beyond - Chapter Four, the cockpit was completely revamped, and with the April Update, come even more improvements! The latest area to feel the love is the Navigation Panel where, in places, we have added icons for a tighter, more visually appealing layout.
A new column has been added to this panel, denoting activities in an area, mission targets, plotted routes, Wanted status and if the threat level of some areas is too high. The Navigation popup expands on this information, providing more details about the location, such as faction details, star class, information of resources and more!
Two of these may sound new to you - so allow us to explain!
Pilot's Handbook
Like the Codex, the Pilot's Handbook is a treasure trove of information, providing details on the many activities available to you in Elite Dangerous. Whether you're a veteran, or you've only just graduated from flight school, these articles will help you discover what opportunities are out there - and what is required to get involved in them. With links from the cockpit straight to the Pilot's Handbook, sourcing information is easier than ever before!
Trading Screen Improvements
When you're an interstellar trader, every minute is a potential sale... so to help you avoid being badgered by a strange man trying to sell you the 'deal of a lifetime' (500 tonnes of bio-waste is not always a good deal, by the way!), a number of improvements have been made to the user interface of the Commodities Market.
You will find two panels in the Commodities Market, Buy and Sell. Each new panel will provide you with important information:
All these improvements have been introduced to make the Commodities Market easier to understand at a glance, ensuring every Commander can become a wolf of the interstellar Wall Street.
Interstellar Initiatives
Our name for the previously announced 'Community Events'. These are series of in-game events that play out over the course of around a month. Each one features several phases that will alter as the narrative progresses, and may end with lasting effects on the galaxy. We'll be delving deeper into these in just a couple of weeks.
...and there's more!
So there you have it, a brief take on some of the features coming in the next update.
Join us on Thursday 18 April (at 19:00 UTC) for a content reveal livestream, where Executive Producer Adam Woods will be showcasing how all of this looks in-game!
Until then, please feel free to share your thoughts and feedback with us below.
See you in the black, Commander!