How Much Did Star Citizen Cost So Far?
Star Citizen, a highly anticipated space simulation video game, has been under development since 2012. With a massive fan base and a long-term commitment from Cloud Imperium Games, the game’s creators, the project has raised hundreds of millions of dollars. In this article, we will delve into the question of how much Star Citizen has cost so far.
Funding Update
As of September 2022, Star Citizen has received over $500 million in funding from backers. This number is up from $400 million in November 2021 and $300 million in June 2020. The game’s funding is entirely sourced from crowdfunding and sales of in-game ships and packages.
Packages and Funding
Star Citizen offers a range of packages, each with its own unique benefits and prices. The cheapest package costs $45, which grants access to the game’s alpha version and basic gameplay features. More advanced packages, such as the Collector’s Edition, can cost up to $10,000.
Third-Party Funding
While the majority of Star Citizen’s funding comes from player purchases, the game has also received significant investments from third-party companies. For example, in 2019, CIG announced a $100 million investment from Tencent, a Chinese technology conglomerate.
Employee Count and Expenses
Star Citizen’s development team, Cloud Imperium Games, has 695 staff as of 2020, with 512 of them being developers. The game’s development costs include salaries, benefits, equipment, and software. As of 2023, CIG has 1100 staff working on the project.
Other Expenses
In addition to employee salaries and benefits, Star Citizen’s development expenses include:
• Marketing and Advertising: CIG has invested significant resources in promoting the game, including advertising, public relations, and events.
• Hardware and Equipment: The development team requires high-performance hardware and specialized equipment to create the game’s complex graphics and gameplay mechanics.
• Software and Tools: The development of Star Citizen requires specialized software and tools, such as game engines, programming languages, and level editors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Star Citizen has received an impressive $500 million in funding from backers and third-party investments. The game’s development team, Cloud Imperium Games, has invested heavily in employee salaries, benefits, equipment, software, and marketing. With a growing community and ongoing development, Star Citizen’s costs will likely continue to rise. However, with its unique gameplay mechanics, engaging community, and innovative development approach, the game’s creators are confident that the investment will pay off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much did Star Citizen cost to develop?
A: The exact cost of Star Citizen’s development is unknown, but with over $500 million in funding, the total cost is likely in the hundreds of millions.
Q: How many employees are working on Star Citizen?
A: As of 2023, Cloud Imperium Games has 1100 staff working on Star Citizen, including 512 developers.
Q: Can I play Star Citizen without purchasing a package?
A: Yes, the cheapest package costs $45 and grants access to the game’s alpha version and basic gameplay features.
Table: Star Citizen Funding Timeline
| Funding Date | Funding Amount |
|---|---|
| June 2020 | $300 million |
| November 2021 | $400 million |
| September 2022 | $500 million |
Note: The funding amounts are subject to change and may not reflect the most up-to-date numbers.
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