CCP confirms the name and release date of the 26th free expansion for Eve Online with the announcement of EVE Online: Invasion Chapter 2 to be released, coincidentally, November 26th.
Invasion Chapter 2 is the first expansion since the introduction of Team Talos. The newly formed group of developers is tasked with rapid releases to EVE’s features, game balance, and changes intended to shake up the meta every few weeks. CEO Hilmar Petursson is confident that the continuation of the Invasion story will deliver just that to the 16-year-old game.
It is important to keep the “every few weeks” update schedule in mind as there isn’t a lot of meat on this expansion’s bones, all of which were previously unveiled at the recently concluded 2019 Eve Vegas event.
Shareable Bookmarks
The existing bookmark and saved location systems are being entirely replaced with the new Shareable Bookmarks system, as outlined by CCP Lebowski in an October 3rd forum post. Shareable Bookmarks are being given Access List functionality. Capsuleers, corporations, and alliances will now be able to select who are able to access their bookmarks and even determine how long a bookmark will last with the addition of expiration times.
Shareable Bookmarks seem to be a great quality of life change that will improve the experience and functionality of the system, with one exception. As criticized on a recent r/Eve reddit thread, the new system does not support selling bookmarks on contracts. Would-be peddlers will now be forced to sell access via the Access List to potential buyers.
Zirnitra
The Triglavian dreadnought Zirnitra will make its first appearance with the release of the new expansion. The Zirnitra will continue the Triglavian tradition of using the Disintegrator weapons system with its signature spool up mechanic.
Universe-Changing Events 2
Invasion Chapter 1 succeeded in EVE Online’s Creative Director Bergur Finnbogason’s stated goal of providing a “universe-changing event for our community to experience in familiar space.” The unannounced Drifter Invasion surprised and gave consequence to the entire player base, from the Highsec solo pilot to massive nullsec coalitions.
Pilots looked on in disbelief while their ships exploded around them from the unprovoked assault of NPCs far more capable than previously seen before in EVE. Nullsec blocs lost trillions of ISK in ships and structures from roaming and timer-conscious Drifters. The Mittani recalled The Imperium’s northern campaign against PanFam to handle the threat.
Finnbogason goes on to promise that Invasion Chapter 2 will double down with exciting and impactful features. CCP has shown that EVE is “about actions having lasting and meaningful consequences” and rolling off of the initial success of Chapter 1, they seem to be capable of delivering on that promise.
The Core of Eve
The Invasion World Tour 2019 that began March 23rd in Amsterdam will reach an end on November 23rd in London. In between the launch and finale locations, the World Tour touched down at St. Petersburg, Sydney, Toronto, Kemionsaari, Berlin, and most recently Las Vegas. This globetrotting and interacting with EVE players these past eight months have lead CCP to see a common thread: Community is the core of Eve.
Debuting is The Core of EVE. CCP has enjoyed success from several promotional videos that leverage Eve’s players and interactions as the focus. This latest entry is no exception, drawing on the attendees of the Invasion World Tour.
