Now, that alpha has entered another phase and is currently live. 

Frontier Developments said in a release that the Elite Dangerous: Odyssey alpha now gives players access to Conflict Zones, which allows them to influence the outcome of the overarching in-universe war. More about Conflict Zones, including alpha gameplay footage, can be seen in the trailer above, but there’s lots and lots of tactical shooting involved. 

On top of Conflict Zones, several more additions have been added:  

Commanders will have free access to starships and will be immediately issued with a Cobra Mk III, including multicrew seats. Expanded playable area of the galaxy to approximately 20 lightyears. New space suit available for purchase: Manticore Dominator combat suit. New starting system: Nervi. 300,000 starting credits for new Commanders. (This amount will also be added to existing Alpha Commanders’ balances. )

Frontier previously showed off an Odyssey raid where players dropped onto a planet, infiltrated a base, and fought their way out when things went south. 

Elite Dangerous: Odyssey is set to release on PC sometime in early 2021. Though there is currently no firm release date, Frontier has previously said that it’s aiming for “late spring.” Those who are interested in the expansion but haven’t yet picked it up can head over to Steam and pre-order it for $39.99. 

Odyssey will release on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in fall 2021. Stay tuned for more as we learn it.