Science fiction is having a moment in 2023, with blockbuster games and movies captivating audiences worldwide. Yet, for some franchises, sci-fi has always been at their core. Enter EVE Online, a legendary space MMO that has been thriving for over 20 years. To celebrate this milestone, Icelandic developers CCP Games have introduced a new addition to the EVE universe: EVE Vanguard, a first-person shooter that promises to deepen the lore and expand gameplay. After two months of anticipation, I finally got my hands on it. Here’s what I discovered.
A Shooter That Feeds Into EVE Online’s Universe
EVE Vanguard is more than just a standalone FPS; it’s designed to integrate with EVE Online, potentially influencing the larger game world. While the links between the two are minimal for now, given that Vanguard is still in development, CCP’s ambitions for long-term synergy between the titles are clear. For this early test phase, the focus was on the core gameplay loop: deploy, fight, loot, extract. The event also gave players a glimpse of how this shooter fits into EVE’s sprawling sci-fi ecosystem.
First Look: The Vanguard Experience
During CCP’s “First Strike” online event, EVE Vanguard opened its beta to EVE Online’s Omega subscribers from December 7 to 11, 2023. Players had access to a single map, and I spent two hours exploring, engaging in intense firefights, and testing the mechanics on PC. Here’s what stood out.
Unlike traditional FPS games that emphasize constant combat, Vanguard introduces contract-based objectives. These contracts dictate your mission goals—whether it’s looting resources, eliminating a specific threat, or blocking another team’s progress. This means stealth and strategy often take precedence over mindless shooting. That said, conflict is almost unavoidable. The map is cleverly designed to push players (and AI squads) into inevitable encounters, creating high-stakes battles.
What Sets Vanguard Apart ?
Vanguard shines in its asymmetric objectives and dynamic interactions. Not everyone on the map is pursuing the same goal, which makes for unpredictable and often tense gameplay. This is not just a shooter; it’s a game of strategy and survival where every decision carries weight.
The combat mechanics themselves are polished and engaging. Gunfights are both lethal and intense, requiring players to make the most of features like shields reminiscent of Halo and specialized ammo types that add layers of strategy. Yet, it’s not all about the action. Vanguard’s broader purpose is to contribute to the persistent universe of EVE Online. Players aren’t just fighting; they’re collecting resources, bolstering the presence of their faction across EVE’s 7,800-star system map (a stark contrast to Starfield’s comparatively modest 120 systems), or earning credits for upgrades and gear.
The extraction phase, one of Vanguard’s standout features, ramps up the tension. Once you’ve completed your objectives, you must escape via a beacon that draws a swarm of enemies to your location, creating a chaotic, last-minute scramble for survival. This mechanic feels inspired by popular battle royale games but is executed in a way that fits Vanguard’s unique universe.
A Risk-Reward System Unlike Any Other
EVE Vanguard introduces a clever respawn system tied to the game’s lore. When you die, you return as a clone, but generating that clone requires a specific resource: biomass collected from fallen enemies. Without it, your mission ends, and you forfeit your progress. This mechanic forces players to carefully weigh every decision—reckless actions can lead to catastrophic losses.
This approach makes Vanguard feel distinct from other FPS titles. Success isn’t just about shooting skill; it’s about resource management, strategic planning, and knowing when to push forward or retreat.
A Promising Future
While EVE Vanguard is still in its early stages, it already shows immense promise. By blending classic FPS elements with the expansive lore and mechanics of EVE Online, CCP Games is crafting a game that could stand out in a crowded sci-fi market. Its strategic depth, unique respawn system, and interconnected universe offer a refreshing take on the genre.
Whether it will truly rival heavyweights like Starfield remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: EVE Vanguard is shaping up to be a bold and exciting addition to one of gaming’s most enduring sci-fi franchises. For fans of EVE Online and newcomers alike, it’s a game worth keeping an eye on.
My name is Noah and I’m a dedicated member of the “Jason Deegan” team. With my passion for technology, I strive to bring you the latest and most exciting news in the world of high-tech.