6 Things We Know So Far About Space Engineers 2

Summary

New Vrage3 engine with modern features like multicore CPU support and DX12.
Space Engineers 2 will introduce full water physics for players to shape landscapes.
Improved multiplayer experience with client-server model and better netcode.

As a seasoned space engineer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the upcoming Space Engineers 2 has left me absolutely thrilled! The improvements they’ve made are not just cosmetic, but fundamentally change the way we approach building and designing in this game.

Space Engineers, originally released 11 years ago, continues to maintain a dedicated fanbase. The game’s creators, Keen Software House, adopt a strategy of offering significant new game elements for free, along with an optional cosmetic downloadable content pack (DLC). This approach ensures that those who purchased the initial version of the game can enjoy all the updated features introduced over the years in this space-themed survival game.

While the initial game seems rather outdated compared to current technological standards, lacking features like raytracing and multicore CPU utilization, that’s where Space Engineers 2 steps in. In the past few weeks, Keen has unveiled several teaser videos, culminating in the official announcement of Space Engineers 2 on December 10th through a final teaser video. The upcoming space game will boast an updated version of the Vrage engine, Vrage3, but as of now, no specific release date has been mentioned. It appears that fans might have to be patient before they can get their hands on Space Engineers 2, but at least we know it’s under development now.

New Vrage3 Engine

Replacing The Vrage2 Engine

6 Things We Know So Far About Space Engineers 2

The updated version of the Vrage engine, known as Vrage3, is what’s powering games like Miner Wars 2081, Space Engineers, and Medieval Engineers. This engine is designed to handle vast, pixel-based, destroyable landscapes.

The new Vrage3 engine appears to be a significantly updated version, taking advantage of recent hardware advancements. According to Keen’s development site, Vrage3 promises multicore CPU support, adopts a pipeline driven by graphics processing units (GPUs), and includes DirectX 12 compatibility. Moreover, it will be compatible with multiple platforms, marking a significant leap over the outdated Vrage2 engine.

Water Physics

Shape The Waterscape Of A World

Space Engineers lacks any form of fluid dynamics, including water. While it features ice lakes constructed from static voxels, they do not behave like real water. Modifications aim to introduce water physics into the game, but these additions may result in a less smooth experience and significant performance drops on older systems.

In simpler terms, Space Engineers 2 will offer realistic water behavior. This implies that since the game world is entirely destructible, players can alter the terrain and influence the water level. Visualize carving out a waterfall by drilling into the side of a lake or cutting down its edge, or redirecting a stream to flood a valley instead.

Improved Multiplayer

No More Steam Networking!

In plain terms, it seems that the current multiplayer aspect of Space Engineers is quite problematic as it relies on Steam’s networking services. However, Space Engineers 2 appears to be planning for improved multiplayer functionality and a more robust network code.

According to the Keen development site, multiplayer functionality will utilize a client-server setup. In simpler terms, this means that games played locally can serve as the main server, functioning much like a dedicated server does. Since the new engine is cross-platform, it would be great if Keen provides a Linux version of the dedicated server for better compatibility. At present, Linux users have to operate a Space Engineers server within a container using WINE. We’ll see how things develop in the future.

Improved Rendering Engine

Much Better Graphics

Despite being over a decade old, Space Engineers maintains a visually appealing appearance. Yet, it lacks some of the graphic elements commonly found in today’s contemporary games. The upgraded Vrage engine slated for Space Engineers 2 is expected to rectify these visual aspects.

As a devoted Space Engineers enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement about the upcoming Vrage3 update! This revamp is set to rectify the persistent lighting bleedthrough issue and introduce real-time dynamic global illumination, which is a game-changer. To make it even more visually appealing, raytracing is being incorporated – no big surprise there, given its popularity in modern gaming.

New Game Assets

Not Simply Revamped Models

In the trailers for Space Engineers 2 that Keen has shared, it is clear that every asset in the game has been newly designed for Space Engineers 2. Instead of modifying assets from the original Space Engineers, they appear to be brand new and distinct.

I must admit, the introduction of the novel grid system in Space Engineers 2 feels like a testament to Keen’s dedication towards crafting a unique gaming experience. Unlike many others who might have opted for a mere overhaul, it seems that they chose to introduce something fresh and exciting.

25cm Unified Grid System

No More Split Size Grid!

In the game “Space Engineers”, players can construct two distinct types of layouts: small and large, similar to regular-sized and jumbo Lego blocks. Building a base, vessel, or station in “Space Engineers” is reminiscent of playing with Legos, where you connect various pieces to create your desired design.

In the upcoming game Space Engineers 2, the current system is set for a complete transformation. Traditional large and small grids will no longer exist. Instead, the innovative Vrage3 engine introduces a flexible grid system that operates on a 25cm grid. This allows blocks to be adjusted in size, either shrunk or enlarged, within this grid. However, essential blocks like assemblers and refineries won’t be scalable. The consequence of this change is that players will have the ability to design intricate structures with greater detail, as demonstrated in the teaser videos.

2024-12-13 13:04