As someone who has a day job working as a Data Analyst, I know my way around an Excel Spreadsheets and a range of other business intelligence and data management solutions. However when it comes to my passion of gaming, it is not like those skills would translate into giving me an edge against the competition… Right? Right! Oh wait, you are telling me this is all about to change? Data analysts rejoice!
As part of EVE Fanfest 2022, developer CCP Games has confirmed that their premier online game EVE Online will be receiving Microsoft Excel integration later in the year. Through the Microsoft partnership, EVE players can add a JavaScript API in Excel to seamlessly export data from EVE Online. Excel feature compatibility will help players access and calculate everything from profit margins to battle strategy, making day-to-day EVE operations easier to execute. According to CCP Games, this integration is “another step toward CCP’s goal of making the MMO more accessible for both casual and seasoned players”. More information will be shared in the coming months.
A range of other announcements were made during EVE Fanfest 2022, especially during the keynote address. Previewed offerings include the introduction of arcs will evolve the Quadrants initiative into a multi-year journey, starting by bringing EVE ’s four NPC Empires to the forefront with the addition of consequential story events. An expansion finale to the very first arc will be released in Q4 2022. A range of other enhancements to the new player experience were also shared, and expansion to the Spanish-speaking market later this year with a Spanish-language client in development.
Arcs will enable Capsuleers to build stronger ties with their home Empires through dynamic storylines and events, giving players more power to shape New Eden’s living universe. Players can expect improvements to Factional Warfare, infrastructure, and more as arc updates are released, adding further value to player roles and interactions in New Eden.
As part of efforts to enhance EVE Online’s new player experience, Capsuleers taking their first steps in New Eden can soon enroll in the AIR Career Program. The AIR Career Program is an initiative that helps players choose one of EVE’s four distinctive career paths: Explorer, Industrialist, Enforcer, or Soldier of Fortune and presents tailored recommendations.
Other updates currently in active development include:
- Audio and visual overhauls, including high-resolution nebulae, increased Levels of Detail (LOD) on all in-game models, and improved particle VFX.
- Significant improvements to the user interface and explorations into a 3D HUD.
- Addition of Structure SKINs, allowing players to customize their buildings in New Eden.
- More yet to be confirmed
EVE is getting ready to enter its third decade and the future has never been brighter. With arcs, we’re setting EVE up for the next chapter with a steady stream of narrative-driven content that emphasizes player actions and decisions. Veterans of the Triglavian Invasion may recall the fall of Pochven that altered trade routes and supply chains across New Eden – the narratives coming with arcs can have similar effects. The upcoming stories and events aren’t restricted to veterans, though – with more activities coming soon to the new player experience, all Capsuleers can enjoy EVE ’s arcs, regardless of their skill level.
Bergur Finnbogason – Creative Director of EVE Online
