Today, on August 13 at 0800 UTC, EVE Echoes will launch and bring a taste of New Eden to Android and iOS gamers. EVE Echoes is a mobile spinoff of EVE Online developed by NetEase, which publishes EVE Online in China, and takes place in its own version of the EVE universe.
While there is no cross-play with EVE Online, PC gamers may be happy to learn that playing Echoes on an emulator is allowed. In typical EVE fashion, there are already screenshots floating around of people with several emulator windows already set up for some day-one multiboxing.
Players joining in on launch day will receive three “insurance vouchers” and four ship SKINs to celebrate Echoes reaching five million pre-registration signups. Another one-time gift will drop in thirty days, containing skill points, more SKINs and insurance vouchers, and rig packs. This is in addition to the game’s regular daily login reward scheme, which contains a free gift alongside an Omega pilot track, including non-tradeable “collectible” Yan-Jung ships unique to Echoes.
EVE Online players should find the help and tutorial interface familiar. EVE Echoes introduces a concept of “tech levels” which unlock the next tier of ships, skills, and equipment as players reach skill point thresholds. Players who forget to keep their skill queue up to date will also generate free skill points for up to 24 hours, though at a reduced rate.
It also appears that Echoes wishes to focus on the lore of New Eden, with investigating “Ancient Remains” falling under general gameplay, and the Hitchhikers Guide to New Eden being linked in the beginner’s help section. Since NetEase mentions five volumes of lore, yes, it’s probably that Hitchhiker’s Guide.
Lastly, in addition to gameplay differences, the game’s monetization setup is a little different to EVE Online. EVE Echoes has three tiers of Omega ranging from $5 to $15 USD per month, and with an option for corporations to buy individual members what’s effectively the $5-tier subscription.
We at INN wish Echoes players all the best as the game goes live, and will keep an eye on major developments going forwards.
