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Interstellar trading sim ‘Elite Dangerous’ sets course for PS4 in 2017

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Crowdfunded space trading sim and interstellar combat game Elite Dangerous is headed to the PlayStation 4 in an expanded bundle that collects all previously released add-ons and downloadable content (DLC), creator Frontier Developments announced today.

The upcoming PS4 port also boasts platform-exclusive features like touchpad navigation and a unique “fast headlook” mechanic powered by the DualShock 4’s built-in gyroscope.

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Elite Dangerous, initially released for Windows and Mac PCs, is an updated version of David Braben and Ian Bell’s 1984 microcomputer hit Elite. In Elite Dangerous, players explore a massive simulated galaxy in search of valuable material that can be mined and traded for cash, funding further expeditions into deep space.

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Less scrupulous pilots may opt to steal mined material from other players within Elite Dangerous‘ online multiplayer mode, building their own empire off of interstellar piracy. Players with well-armed ships can separately opt to pursue bounty hunting as a career path, making for a more action-oriented experience.

An Xbox One version of Elite Dangerous surfaced in 2015, but the game has since remained a conspicuous no-show on the PlayStation 4. Frontier Developments revealed that it has spent the last year upgrading the core experience for its forthcoming PS4 debut.

In addition to bundling all previously released DLC and Elite Dangerous: Horizons season pass content, the PlayStation 4 version of Elite Dangerous features touchpad navigation, aiding players in their trek through the Milky Way and beyond. Combat also gets a boost with a motion-controlled “fast headlook” option, and players can further customize the experience with four additional touchpad hotkeys.

Frontier Developments additionally revealed that PlayStation 4 Pro owners will “benefit from enhanced performance throughout Elite Dangerous.”

“We’re thrilled to bring Elite Dangerous to PlayStation 4,” said Frontier CEO and Elite series co-creator David Braben said. “Elite Dangerous is unlike any other space game, with a rich multiplayer or single-player space, a true-to-life galaxy including our own entire night sky, real physics, unique ship handling characteristics, and a player-driven narrative that’s really heating up. The galaxy has been stable for centuries, but all that is about to change. PlayStation 4 players will be joining our galaxy at a very exciting time.”

Elite Dangerous will launch for the PlayStation 4 in the second quarter of 2017.

Danny Cowan
Danny Cowan
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Danny’s passion for video games was ignited upon his first encounter with Nintendo’s Duck Hunt, and years later, he still…
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