This special edition, released in 2009 for PC and Mac, is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that blends simulation and strategy elements. Set in the distant star cluster of New Eden, players navigate a persistent universe, pursuing diverse careers from trading and mining to piracy and warfare. The game emphasizes player-driven narrative, where individual actions impact the game world.

Core Gameplay

At its core, gameplay involves piloting spaceships, managing resources, and interacting with other players. A complex, player-driven economic system is central, with supply and demand dictating prices and creating entrepreneurial opportunities. Combat ranges from small skirmishes to large fleet battles.

Special Edition Content

This edition includes content from the base game and the ten free updates released up to the Apocrypha expansion in early 2009. New players receive a digital Career Guide with advice on career paths and economic strategies. It also grants an initial 60 days of game time, with an additional 30 days available through a referral program. New accounts receive an exclusive ship to aid in early exploration. The Special Edition provides immediate access to the factional warfare system, allowing players to align with different factions and engage in territorial conflicts.

What are the key features?

Key features include a vast, persistent universe, a player-driven economy, and diverse career paths. The game emphasizes player interaction and emergent gameplay, where individual actions can have significant consequences.

Game Mechanics

Players control spaceships, engaging in activities such as mining, trading, and combat. Resource management is crucial, as is navigating the complex economic system. Interaction with other players is central, with opportunities for cooperation and conflict.

Economic System

The economic system is entirely player-driven, with supply and demand determining prices. Players can engage in entrepreneurial endeavors, taking advantage of market opportunities.

Combat

Combat ranges from small-scale skirmishes to large fleet battles. Players can engage in piracy, warfare, and other forms of conflict.

Progression

Players progress by developing their skills, acquiring resources, and building relationships with other players. There are many career paths to choose from, each with its own challenges and rewards.