The newest content update for long-running space sim MMO EVE Online looks to be offering a conclusion to its current story arc in a way that only CCP could do.
Over the last year, the “Invasion” expansion has laid out an overarching story of mysterious aliens known as Triglavians coming into contact with the sometimes murderous fleets of capsules of the New Eden Cluster. The Triglavians have been pushed too far, and they’re fighting back.
Creative Director Bergur Finnbogason had this to say in a press release:
At the core of EVE Online is a universe where actions have consequences, and this year the consequences of the Invasion storyline will have deep and lasting effects on players. Players will have to make their choice carefully – will they side with the new invaders, or will they resist? Chapter 3 delivers a universe-changing event with a series of activities and player-driven decisions that will span the summer and change the landscape of EVE forever!
The choices are not going to be limited strictly to the bloodsoaked NullSec areas controlled by the significant player-run corporations. Triglavian forces will be engaging EDENCOM in the safer high-security areas run by NPC empires. Players will have to choose whether they’re going to help repel the invasion or lend their aid to the invaders. Either choice will lead to faction reputation gains for the selected side, and undoubtedly penalties for the opposing team.
Additionally, a secondary update called “Forsaken Fortress” will add new mechanics to player-built structures, including an option to formally abandon structures instead of having them either being fully functional or merely turned off. Further details on the update are expected, and the update itself is slated for release on May 26.
It takes a particular breed of MMO players to get into the deep mechanics of EVE Online, and this specific capstone update might change things up even for long time veterans. EVE Online can be downloaded for free.