Star Citizen Reaches $1 Billion in Crowdfunding as Development Continues
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Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) has surpassed $1 billion in lifetime crowdfunding for its ambitious sci-fi simulation Star Citizen. The project, which has been in development since 2012, is currently in early access and continues to add content, including a new high-priced capital ship. The developer states all funds are reinvested into development, with the single-player Squadron 42 in its 'closing stages.'
Facts First
- Star Citizen has reached $1 billion in lifetime crowdfunding from 6.5 million players since 2012.
- The game is in early access with development funded directly by backer pledges.
- A new $5000 Anvil Odin capital ship concept has launched as a limited pledge, fulfilling the final original vehicle stretch goal.
- The single-player Squadron 42 is in its 'closing stages' of development and features a star-studded cast.
- CIG employs over 1,000 people and reinvests all funds into Star Citizen and Squadron 42.
What Happened
Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) announced that its multiplayer sci-fi simulation Star Citizen has reached $1 billion in lifetime crowdfunding. Since its announcement in 2012, 6.5 million players have contributed to the project, which is currently in early access. CIG stated that as a crowd-funded project, the scope of Star Citizen is based on backer support and that pledged money goes directly to game development. The developer recently introduced the Anvil Odin, a new $5000 capital ship, as a 'limited vehicle concept pledge' with no firm release date. CIG explained that the introduction of the Odin closes out the final remaining vehicle stretch goals established at the beginning of the project more than a decade ago.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a space simulation enthusiast, you may have access to a continuously evolving game universe funded directly by its player base. The project's longevity could be significant, with its founder comparing its potential to games like World of Warcraft. For potential new players, Star Citizen is running a free trial until May 27. The development model means the game's features and scope may continue to expand based on community support, offering a different experience from traditionally published titles.
What's Next
Development on both Star Citizen and the single-player Squadron 42 will continue. CIG stated the team is in the 'closing stages' of developing Squadron 42, which features a cast including Mark Hamill and Gary Oldman. The developer has also committed to ensuring future gameplay kit introductions, like flight blades, will be obtainable in-game on day one, with flight blades becoming available for in-game currency in a patch this June. The community-organized 'Bar Citizens' meetups, over 300 per year globally, are likely to continue as the player base grows.