Star Atlas

Star Atlas is a sci-fi MMORPG developed by ATMTA using Unreal Engine 5. Specializing in triple-A titles and blockchain-driven virtual gaming, ATMTA has a decade of experience in blockchain technology, featuring talents such as economic experts to help develop this massive title. Set in the year 2620, Star Atlas's universe is dominated by three major factions: the Human MUD Territory, the Alien ONI Region, and the Robotic Ustur Sector. These factions are locked in a constant struggle for resources, territorial ownership, and political domination, each vying for supremacy in the galaxy. The balance of power fluctuates as alliances are forged and broken, battles are fought, and the quest for control drives the relentless expansion into the unknown reaches of space.

The game is currently available in pre-alpha demo on the Epic Games Store. The hardware requirements to run Star Atlas are above average, meaning budget and older machines may struggle to run this title in its current state.

Gameplay

In Star Atlas, players begin with some basic weapons for combat, a jetpack for flying, and a ship in the hangar. Over time, players can purchase additional ships and fleets with money for attacking, planetary landings, and defense, while also upgrading their existing ships. Managing fuel and fleet maintenance is essential for continuous exploration. An example of this is the Starbased game, which is part of their web-based economy.

Choosing a faction is crucial, as it influences roles and interactions within the game. Core planned gameplay includes grand strategy for economic dominance, exploration for mining resources, RPG elements with factional allegiance, and space flight simulation. Assets such as spaceships and equipment are represented as NFTs. Currently, there is one major zone where players can engage in combat or exploration in a singular world. In the future, game zones will vary: a safe zone that preserves assets, a medium zone that allows combat with asset recovery, and deep space, which offers high-risk rewards like premium materials but with permanent losses.

Players can engage in both the economy-based game Starbased as well as events and solo player mode from their game in the Epic Games Store. They can also participate in events such as Surge, where factions compete for control of zones across the map.

Review

Star Atlas has created an enormous world featuring various activities for players; however, many modes and activities are not always available due to the game still being in alpha.

Graphics: The graphics of Star Atlas are exceptionally well-designed and are being developed to withstand the stress of larger events using the Metagravity engine. Each action, whether in player or ship form, works without any visual bugs. As the game uses Unreal Engine 5, the graphics meet the high standards expected of a AAA title.

Audio Design: Star Atlas excels in audio design. The ambient sounds immerse players in the vast world of Star Atlas, and the sound effects for ships and weapons enhance the immersive experience.

Gameplay: Players can explore the world in solo mode, cruising around in their ships. However, other modes, such as Surge or racing, are only available during organized events. When active, these modes are well-designed and have passed several stress tests.

Overall, I would give Star Atlas a 7.5/10. The game has created a strong foundation for its expansive world, with engaging activities like racing and combat through Surge. However, the infrequent availability of these events currently limits the game's purpose. Despite this, the solo exploration mode offers a stunning experience.