EGOSOFT · News · Current (2024)

How Do I Take Part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 7.10 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum - no registration required - to find the relevant information.

Please share your feedback / bug report in our Public Beta Feedback forum. Before doing so, please make sure you read the Public Beta Rules and Information, which you can find in a sticky thread at the top of that forum.

FAQ on X4: Timelines and the Future of X4
In case you missed it: shortly after the release of the latest expansion, X4: Timelines, we published an extensive FAQ addressing some of your most pressing queries about Timelines. In the FAQ, we list all the rewards you can unlock in Timelines for your X4 sandbox, and explain how the development of X4: Timelines has positively impacted, and will continue to impact, the future of X4. We also provide a brief outlook on our priorities for the next major updates (likely to be numbered 7.50 and 8.00). Feel free to check out the FAQ in our Steam News.

Sapporo and Dart Ship Showcase
The 7.10 Public Beta is making some changes to two of our exciting new ships, so we're showcasing them a bit more closely in this news. Both of these ships can be used in your X4 sandbox by playing our latest expansion, X4: Timelines (see FAQ for unlock conditions). Please check the changelog at the end of the news to see the changes made to these ships in 7.10 Public Beta 1.

Sapporo
(originally a sturdy Terran deep-space explorer, later refitted to fill in as a nimble light destroyer and saviour of humanity)

"The Sapporo class was created as a non-combatant exploration vessel to be used to scout out new locations for the Terran to colonise. As the Terraformer conflict ramped up, the Sapporo was quickly redesigned to perform as a mobile command and control centre, able to oversee larger battles and provide a powerful pivot point for any battle. It still maintains several features of its originally planned role, such as its high speed and manoeuvrability."

Dart
(an unreasonably fast racer for the reckless, which pilots with a stronger sense of self-preservation may prefer to keep as a trophy)

"The Dart was initially released as a mail-in kit project, to which an aspiring racer could subscribe and have parts shipped to them periodically. Due to its popularity, the Dart was quickly offered as a ready-to-fly ship, and the project took no new kit customers. It is easy to identify a kit-built Dart from a production one, as the tooling for the rear titanium fins was recreated due to complaints about the fins' shape not fitting that of the rest of the ship. Despite being discontinued, the kits remain remarkably popular, and incomplete kits regularly sell for beyond the price of a production ship."

Modding Support: New Documentation in the X Wiki
We would like to inform X4 modders that we have changed the structure of the "Modding Support" section of our X Wiki. Additionally, four new guides have been added to the wiki:

• Attachment
  
• Docking Bays
  
• Elevator Setup
  

Community modders have also added new guides to their parts of the Wiki, so be sure to check it out; it will certainly make a modder's heart beat faster!

Introducing X4: Timelines
IMMERSIVE SCENARIOS AND UNIQUE UNLOCKS
Embedded in a new X4: Timelines storyline, you'll find a wide range of scenarios in which you will experience the many different aspects of X4 gameplay. Playing these scenarios will also unlock new missions within the X4: Timelines storyline, and bonuses for your wider X4 sandbox universe - among them reimagined, classic ships from X universe history.

MYSTERIOUS NEW STORYLINE
You'll take on the role of Harper Donel, a trader in the border territories, who is not averse to risky deals. A fateful encounter not only changes your short-term plans, but shakes the foundations of your understanding of the universe, and everyone in it. Prepare to be immersed in a tale of intrigue and revelation.

X4: Timelines is more than just an expansion; it's a revolution in the X4 universe. Whether you're a seasoned space explorer or a newcomer to the galaxy, this thrilling new chapter promises to captivate you with its blend of mystery, adventure, and strategic gameplay.

Update 7.00 - Elevating Your Space Experience
(Please check out the complete changelog in our forum.)

With the latest update to X4: Foundations, players are invited to experience the most comprehensive evolution of the game yet, with enhancements spanning content, gameplay mechanics, usability, accessibility, and technical performance. This new chapter introduces a series of transformative updates and features designed to deepen the immersive experience of exploring the vast reaches of space, engaging in dynamic encounters, and navigating the intricate economies and political landscapes of the X4 universe.

A Wide Range of New Content
The universe of X4: Foundations grows more intricate and vibrant with the introduction of reimagined Teladi and Argon Capital Ships. These iconic vessels have been meticulously overhauled, featuring designs that add a new layer of depth and intrigue to space encounters. As commanders take the helm of these majestic ships, they'll find each battle and exploration endeavour imbued with a renewed sense of awe and strategy.

The expansion of the universe also introduces players to new sectors and landmarks, beckoning them to venture into previously uncharted regions. These fresh discoveries promise to expand horizons and opportunities, offering new adventures and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Complementing this expansion is the introduction of race-specific managers' offices, providing a unique cultural insight into the various factions populating the universe, and allowing players to further personalise their spacefaring experience. See the cosmos like never before with the new Observation Deck module, offering breathtaking views of the universe from the comfort of your space station.

New and Redesigned Xenon Ships
The 7.00 update will introduce several new ships to the universe, and we want to highlight a very special addition. We're thrilled to reveal the awe-inspiring, redesigned Xenon models PE and SE, which will gradually replace their previous models (P and S) in the open universe, just as the redesigned capital ships did back in 5.00.

Equally exciting is the debut of several Terraformer ships. These ships delve into the legacy of X: Beyond the Frontier (1999) to celebrate this year's 25th anniversary of the X series. These new models, reminiscent of their predecessors, can be encountered in the open universe. Get ready to explore these unique designs!

Flyable Xenon Ships for the First Time in X4
Hold on to your pilot seats, because there's more! With the 7.00 update, we are enabling you to actually fly selected Xenon ships. Both the redesigned Xenon models (PE, SE) and the new Terraformer models introduced in 7.00 can be boarded and flown, just like any other ship in your X4 fleet. Get on board to discover how they've been adapted for you to take control, offering a whole new perspective on the X universe.

Gameplay Innovations
In addition to all this new content, the 7.00 update also includes significant gameplay enhancements, such as the introduction of the "Existential Crisis" endgame challenge for veterans. This daunting confrontation pits players against a faction that spares no effort in its aggression, offering a thrilling new dimension of strategy and resilience.

A fundamentally improved and more intuitive external camera system also debuts, enhancing the way players view, and more importantly, interact with the universe, almost making it feel like a new game. Alongside this, AI improvements across the board make for a more dynamic and realistic universe. Ships now utilise Travel Mode more effectively, enter and exit it with greater consistency, and exhibit improved navigation through jump gates and in combat situations. These enhancements are complemented by reworked and expanded tutorials, ensuring both new and veteran players can fully engage with, and understand, the depth of the game's mechanics.

Usability and Accessibility Focus
With an emphasis on making the game more accessible and enjoyable for all, this update introduces enhanced button remapping and ready-made control profiles to match your steering needs in space. It also provides an FOV slider and new options for colour-blind players with customisable UI colours. Additionally, the update brings audio and text feedback for various actions to further assist players in understanding the game dynamics and making informed decisions. Furthermore, a reduced speed mode has been introduced for those who find the pace of the action a bit too hectic, allowing for a more controlled and leisurely gameplay experience. These features are designed to offer players the flexibility to tailor their gameplay experience to their preferences and needs.

The introduction of Visual Enhancement Goggles that let you zoom in on the action, along with a customisable radial menu for quick access to in-game actions, and reworked shaders in scan mode, further enriches player interaction and immersion. These improvements ensure players have the tools they need to navigate the complexities of space warfare and exploration with confidence.

Technical Advancements
At the core of the update are the significant technical enhancements made to the XTECH 5 Engine, delivering smoother and more stable gameplay. Players will notice the difference these improvements make, among them the temporal anti-aliasing that brings crisp visuals and the enhanced shadows that add depth and realism to the universe.

Updated Bundles
With the release of X4: Timelines, the X4: Community of Planets bundles on Steam have been updated to include the new expansion. Existing players can take advantage of the "complete your bundle" feature on Steam to receive a discount when purchasing X4: Timelines.

>> X4: Community of Planets Edition
>> X4: Community of Planets Collector's Edition

A Special Thank You to Our Community
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated players for their unwavering support over the years, and especially during the beta tests that have helped us enormously in the run-up to this day. Without you, none of this would be possible. We hope that you enjoy what we've been working very hard on over the past year, and can't wait to read your feedback. X4 is stronger than ever, and we couldn't be more excited to have reached this milestone. Your passion and commitment inspire us every day, and we are immensely grateful to have such a fantastic community.

Known for his long-standing contributions to the series, Zakharov's compositions beautifully capture the essence of your interstellar adventures.

▪️ X4: Timelines Soundtrack Preview

▪️ Spotify
▪️ Apple Music: coming soon
▪️ YouTube Music
▪️ Amazon Music
▪️ Deezer
... also available on a lot of other music streaming services worldwide.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated players for their unwavering support over the years, and especially during the beta tests that have helped us enormously in the run-up to this day. Without you, none of this would be possible. We hope that you enjoy what we've been working very hard on over the past year.

In case you've missed it, please check out our "road to release event" news with the dates for live streams, a Reddit AMA, the soundtrack preview and more.

Please visit our forum for the full 7.00 changelog overview.

Friday, June 14, 2024
14:00 CEST (5am PDT / 8am EDT / 1pm BST)

• X4: Timelines Soundtrack Preview premieres on YouTube
  
• X4: Timelines Soundtrack is released on Steam

16:00 CEST (7am PDT / 10am EDT / 3pm BST)

• Captain Collins X4 Stream featuring Egosoft founder and Managing Director Bernd Lehahn

Monday, June 17, 2024
16:00 CEST (7am PDT / 10am EDT / 3pm BST)

• Content creators can start posting pre-recorded X4: Timelines content on their channels
  

19:00 CEST (10am PDT / 1pm EDT / 6pm BST)

• Reddit AMA with Bernd Lehahn
  

Thursday, June 20, 2024
16:00 CEST (7am PDT / 10am EDT / 3pm BST)

• Streamers can start live streaming with a preview version of X4: Timelines
  
• X4: Timelines reviews may be posted
  

19:00 CEST (10am PDT / 1pm EDT / 6pm BST)

• X4: Timelines Story Trailer premiere at a special, yet-to-be-unveiled event
  
• X4: Timelines is released (+ free major X4: Foundations 7.00 update)
  

Stay tuned and get ready for the countdown to release! Thank you for your continued support on our way to this massive X4 milestone.

You can also put a note in your calendar for June 14, 2024, at 4:00 PM CEST, when Egosoft founder and CEO Bernd Lehahn will join Captain Collins in a livestream to talk more about X4 7.00 and X4: Timelines. In addition, we are in the planning stages for a small Reddit AMA with Bernd - we will let you know the exact date as soon as we have it.

Thank you for your support on our journey to 7.00!

How Do I Take Part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 7.00 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum - no registration required - to find the relevant information.

Please share your feedback / bug report in our Public Beta Feedback forum. Before doing so, please make sure you read the Public Beta Rules and Information, which you can find in a sticky thread at the top of that forum.

Please visit our forum for the full 7.00 changelog overview.

X4: Foundations 7.00 is a monumental upgrade, introducing a host of new features and enhancements that will elevate the X4 experience. Players can look forward to reimagined Teladi and Argon capital ships, new sectors and landmarks, a revamped external camera system, and the "Existential Crisis" endgame challenge. Continuous engine improvements, extended button remapping options, and a new controller profile will further refine gameplay. As with previous updates to X4, the switch to 7.00 is free of charge for existing owners of X4: Foundations. Find out more about the changes and new elements in our 7.00 Public Beta news and our 7.00 Trailer.

X4: Timelines, the new expansion, brings a revolutionary approach to the X4 universe. It features a thrilling storyline centred around Harper Donel, a trader whose encounter in the border territories will shake the foundations of the universe. Embedded in the new X4: Timelines storyline, you'll find a wide range of scenarios in which you will experience the many different aspects of X4 gameplay. Playing these scenarios will also unlock new missions within the X4: Timelines storyline, and bonuses for your wider X4 sandbox universe - among them reimagined, classic ships from X Universe history.

Mark your calendars for June 20, 2024, and prepare to embark on this exciting new journey through space and time. Wishlist X4: Timelines today, to be notified once it's available.

Please visit our forum for the full 7.00 changelog overview.

[Feedback] Boarding Times
In 7.00 Beta 7 the boarding times for the infiltration phase were adjusted to solve a reported issue where Experienced marines would take much longer then rookies. As such we would like to ask you for feedback on the new times (see forum thread).

Don't forget to add X4: Timelines, our upcoming new expansion for X4, to your Steam Wishlist. This way you will be notified as soon as it has been released. We will announce the release dates for the major 7.00 update to X4: Foundations as well as X4: Timelines soon™.

Changes to the new "Existential Crisis" endgame activity
Thank you for your feedback so far on this new 7.00 late-game feature, based on which we've made several changes to it. The feature was always intended to be optional, but now the "Existential Crisis" will be very much opt-in rather than opt-out. To make this happen, we're introducing a new research step that will be required in order for the Crisis to occur, meaning that by simply not researching that item you can very easily avoid it. A warning message in the game will make sure that you are aware of the potential implications of this research.

We've also updated our existing FAQ entry on the "Existential Crisis" with information corresponding to the changes that have been made:

❓ How do I start the new "Existential Crisis" endgame content?
The crisis will be become available upon reaching around half a billion in assets, most of which should be military. This is based on construction cost, i.e. not the monetary value you see in the Empire Menu. As you approach having a big enough empire, Boso Ta will contact you about a new research opportunity making use of your vast fleet. All you then need to do is complete this research and continue preparing your empire for whatever comes next. Boso Ta will later inform you of, and guide you through, the crisis.

We're looking forward to your feedback on these changes in our forum thread on the topic.

How Do I Take Part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 7.00 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum - no registration required - to find the relevant information.

Please share your feedback / bug report in our Public Beta Feedback forum. Before doing so, please make sure you read the Public Beta Rules and Information, which you can find in a sticky thread at the top of that forum.

Visit our forum for the full 7.00 changelog overview.