Does Star Citizen Use Real Money?
Direct Answer: Yes, Star Citizen uses both real money and in-game currency.
Star Citizen is a massively multiplayer online game (MMO) that has gained significant popularity among gamers worldwide. Players can engage in various activities, including exploration, trade, combat, and missions, to earn in-game currency, United Earth Credits (UEC). This currency can be used to purchase various items, upgrade ships, and acquire rare resources. However, apart from in-game currency, the game also supports transactions in real money.
Payment Options
Star Citizen provides several payment options for its players. Players can either purchase game-related items directly with real money or redeem in-game items with currency earned in-game. Below are some of the main payment options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Game Accounts | Register with RSI, the game’s developer, to purchase game-related items, such as ships or equipment. |
| Direct Purchases | Buy ships, equipment, or subscriptions directly with real money, bypassing the in-game currency. |
| Pledge Store | Donate directly to the game’s development project, earning rewards and bragging rights. |
In-Game Currency, UEC
UEC is the in-game currency used in Star Citizen to purchase items, upgrade equipment, and participate in market transactions. UEC is rewarded to players through various gameplay activities, such as mission completion, exploration, combat, and trading. Although UEC can be bought with real money, trading UEC for real-life currency is prohibited.
| UEC Sources | Methods |
|---|---|
| In-game activities | Mission rewards, exploration, combat, trading |
| Trade | Trading with fellow players, trading stations |
Pledge Store Overview
The Pledge Store offers a range of rewards to backers, including exclusive game content, access to advanced features, and the promise of game development milestones achieved. By donating to the game’s development, backer pledges contribute to Star Citizen’s continued growth. In return, they can reap the benefits of being involved in the game’s progression.
| Pledge Types | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Free | Basic access to gameplay, game updates, and community support |
| Digital | Digital game content, exclusive access to new missions, and ship upgrades |
| Chairman’s Club | Exclusive content, ship improvements, and special privileges within the game |
Purchasing Items with UEC
UEC is used to purchase items directly from the game’s ecosystem. The items can vary from ship components to cosmetics, such as decals. Players can use UEC to purchase items from suppliers, such as Roberts Shipyard or the Anoat Station, or on the Galactic Market.
Real Money Purchases and UEC Redemption
If players wish to use their real money to acquire an item, they can browse the RSI store (Roberts Space Industries, the game’s developer), where they can find deals on various game-related assets. Once an item has been purchased, players receive either UEC or in-game items. Some items might be redeemed with real currency, while others may offer UEC redemption options.