Eight years have passed since In The Black first secured funding through Kickstarter, and a decade has elapsed since its inception under the name Starfighter Inc. Developer Impeller Studios has since rebranded the project, focusing on creating a highly realistic interstellar combat simulation. With the emergence of this new contender, established titles like Star Citizen, No Man’s Sky, and Elite Dangerous may want to prepare for some serious competition. Having recently test-flown the demo during Steam Next Fest, I find myself both challenged and excited to refine my skills.
Crafting a Realistic Experience
In May 2022, Impeller Studios transitioned from its original name to In The Black, yet its mission has remained steadfast: to provide an authentic experience that accurately reflects the life of a 23rd-century intergalactic combat pilot. The developers initially pitched the game as a blend of “the lethality and permadeath of Counterstrike with the technical depth and customization of World of Warships.” This commitment to realism is evident in the design of spacecraft that could feasibly be constructed using established scientific principles and engineering practices.
The demo of In The Black allows players to familiarize themselves with the game through a series of flight and combat tutorials. A key aspect to master is the concept of momentum; as a true simulation, your ship will persist in its trajectory until you actively alter its course. Merely turning the ship will not suffice; without proper adjustments, you may find yourself gliding sideways rather than advancing forward.
My fondness for Outer Wilds stemmed in part from its engaging ship controls, and In The Black elevates that experience. In my initial attempts to engage in combat, I often overshot my targets due to a lack of understanding of momentum management. As I gradually acclimate to the mechanics, I realize that focusing too intently on targeting can lead to a disorienting loss of maneuverability.
With a team of veteran developers who have previously contributed to renowned titles such as X-Wing, TIE Fighter, and Crysis, Impeller Studios is well-equipped to deliver on its ambitious vision. The demo has seen continuous updates throughout Steam Next Fest, including the introduction of a new ‘drone sweep’ mission that supports cooperative play and offers varying difficulty levels. Additionally, a user interface tour provides newcomers with a clearer understanding of the game’s mechanics.
Recent enhancements to the free flight mode now include safety measures to prevent players from aimlessly drifting through space. Improvements have also been made to projectile accuracy, with clearer feedback indicating successful hits. Impeller Studios has expressed its intention to keep the demo available indefinitely, promising ongoing updates to address community feedback and resolve any issues as development progresses.
The public In The Black demo is currently available for free download on Steam, with plans for the full game to enter early access by the end of 2025. For those ready to embark on a journey among the stars, the opportunity awaits. Whether your goal is to immerse yourself in this captivating interstellar simulation or to sharpen your communication skills for competitive multiplayer games, we recommend exploring the best gaming headsets tailored to fit your budget.
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