Star Citizen interface layout focuses on clarity and usability.
Star Citizen interface layout focuses on clarity and usability.
Hello everyone, the newest version of the monthly report (available at https://robertsspaceindustries.com/comm-...ember-2014) reveals a completely redesigned HUD for the Aurora. This reminded me of the outdated HUD design in SC and how disappointing it is now. I hadn’t considered this issue much before, but I’m realizing how much is being lost here. Some cockpits are overly detailed but become completely dark during gameplay, with all instruments reduced to holograms. From my perspective, this breaks immersion and makes ships look identical. Another concern is the HUD’s usability—especially for those using HOTAS, it’s so cumbersome you might need ten attempts before making a change. That’s why I’m bringing this up. Do you have any suggestions or ideas on how to improve it? Perhaps we can gather thoughts here and then share a more polished discussion in RSI. If I have time later today, I’ll compile a list of ideas. What are your thoughts? Could the current HUD still work? Peace.
It's likely that more customization choices will improve HUD accessibility for HOTAS users, though I remain skeptical. It seems you'll likely depend on third-party tools like Voice Attack to fully utilize the HUD. Regarding the Aurora HUD updates, they might not occur, which could disrupt your experience if windows are obscured. Armor plates would help prevent being hit by kinetic weapons when enemies turn around. I can't say for sure if there are superior HUD alternatives, but the current version is useful for tracking damage and overheating risks. Looking ahead, I'm curious about how it will evolve over the next couple of years.
Hopefully, at least it looks more appealing now than it was before. I believe certain changes won’t happen regarding the cockpit layout. Those screens, buttons, and lights don’t actually improve gameplay. This situation seems unlikely to shift. What I appreciate about games like DSC or Flacon BMS is that the cockpit design is crucial—every part has a purpose.
By this stage it seems they’re focusing first on core features before diving into custom HUDs for each ship. It’s a decent beginning but needs more polish and varied ship-to-ship interactions. I recall hearing Chris mention that all displays would show events and respond to actions, though not every one will be interactive. P.S. I was really let down when I tried to locate the old Aurora HUD in the game.
A clean HUD similar to the one shown would be great, and I agree—there’s a lot going on in the ships, but they’ll still feel useful. What if we mainly use a screen like in ED, but let the character touch things while we move through the displays? That sounds okay. Honestly, I don’t want a heavy A10 Warthog experience in Star Citizen; that’s way too intense.
It's accurate that a DCS level interaction could be excessive here. I'm not aiming for complete realism, but rather something that feels natural and easy to use. The present layout looks quite generic in a sci-fi style and isn't designed for real military applications. We'll find out how it turns out. I'm glad they're making progress and improving it. For me, practical elements like HUDs or flight models are far more valuable than highly detailed assets. I'm starting to worry if they'll master the fundamentals before diving into finer details.
I'd feel uneasy about the game being open for modders; such titles often allow more content to be added. My main concern is whether you're required to press buttons constantly. The idea of using a mouse breaks the immersion and having to keep track of engine priming would be frustrating. I'm okay with animations handling these tasks, along with sound effects like beeps and engine noises, visual effects such as air intake and slip stream, and then the engine finally starting. -Chills from turning it on- I hope they include both features.
Sure, I'm in support as long as it doesn't deter those who oppose it. A selection in the menu would be nice. It'd be great if the military had a direct connection and civilians could simply press start. 😄