Elite Dangerous: Horizons’ third major expansion, The Guardians, is live today on PC and Xbox One. It introduces ship-launched fighters, passenger gameplay and a warchest of additional new features
The Guardians changes the dynamics of combat, trading and exploration in Elite Dangerous, and unlocks new opportunities for every Commander to enrich their experience in the massively multiplayer galaxy, however they choose to play.
With the new update, players can install a fighter launch bay in their larger ships and choose from three different fighter craft to gain an edge over their attackers. Commanders can hire NPC (non-player character) crewmates to pilot their ship while flying into combat from the cockpit of their heavily-armed fighter. With a second ship in every fight, now Commanders can take what comes and hit back with double.
Passenger gameplay sees the introduction of individuals and groups of NPCs seeking passage aboard Commanders’ ships, unlocking an all-new career path for the Elite Dangerous galaxy. Commanders can pilot the new Beluga passenger vessel or retrofit their existing craft to transport politicians, VIPs and prisoners across the galaxy for legal and illegal ends. Spectacular destinations await galactic tourists and dangerous challenges await undercover operatives on smuggler’s runs.
Every player will discover a galaxy filled with new wonders and new adventures in The Guardians, featuring neutron stars, capital ship dockyards, civilian installations and upgraded starport interiors. On planet surfaces Commanders will discover volcanic geology, ancient mysteries and unknown threats, all making the galaxy more immersive than ever before.
The new, more immersive galaxy is also easier to navigate. Explore using enhanced Galaxy Map filters, store modules and re-use them between ships in your fleet, transfer your vessels between distant starports, and visit the shady Interstellar Factors who will let you pay off your fines or collect combat bounties no matter where you find yourself in the galaxy.
For a full changelog, visit the Elite Dangerous forums here.
The Guardians is available today for all Elite Dangerous: Horizons season pass holders at no additional cost. PC gamers can buy the Elite Dangerous: Horizons season pass today for £19.99 ($29.99, €24.99) on Steam orFrontierStore.net, or buy Elite Dangerous and the Elite Dangerous: Horizons season pass together for £39.99 ($59.99, €49.99) on Steam or FrontierStore.net. Xbox One gamers can buy the game and Season Pass on Xbox.com
