Star Citizen delivers the next generation of space flight simulation gaming, combining FPS (First Person Shooter) combat and persistent MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) gameplay to create a living, breathing first person universe capable of truly unlimited gameplay experiences. In addition, through the game's advanced Newtonian physics engine, Star Citizen enables players to experience an unparalleled space sim flying experience with ship control, performance and response calculated based on dozens of dynamically generated physics based variables.

Star Citizen will not require a subscription, and not be free-to-play, it will will be available for a one-time purchase. And while players will be able to play in the Star Citizen universe for free, there will also be virtual items available for purchase with in-game credits so players can customize their ships and other items.

The Star Citizen Ship Showdown is a celebration of galactic proportions, where players around the world vote for their favorite ships and vehicles available to fly or drive in the ‘verse. Community members campaigned for their favorite ships with their own original creations including videos, songs, miniatures, photos, paintings, and more during the Community Call phase of the event that ended Aug. 29. An archive of the best community creations celebrating their favorite ships can be viewed here. The event is now in the Live Showdown phase, where anyone can vote once each day for their favorite participating ships. This stage will conclude on Sept. 15 when the winning vehicle is crowned!

To celebrate this annual celebration, developer CIG welcomes new players with free access to download and play Star Citizen, as well as free access to Ship Showdown’s Elite Eight ships for both new and existing pilots. Players who own any of the final four ships with the most votes can also look forward to additional prizes including exclusive in-game paints and a challenge coin. The winning ship will be commemorated with an in-game model statue which will be granted to all backers for free, regardless of whether they own the ship or not.

The top eight most popular ships for this year’s Star Citizen Ship Showdown include:

• Aegis Redeemer: Dotted with turrets and missiles, the Aegis Redeemer is a powerful fighting gunship capable of holding its own in combat with an impressive weapons payload.
• Crusader Mercury Star Runner: Built with the same engineering and design principals that has made Crusader the go-to manufacturer for galactic transport on any scale, the Mercury checks all the boxes expected of a dependable courier vessel, and then some.
• Origin 600i Explorer: This multi-role luxury vessel from Origin Jumpworks features an exquisitely detailed hull design that balances performance and versatility in a sleek and timeless form.
• Anvil Carrack: The iconic multi-crew explorer ready for your next epic adventure.
• RSI Scorpius: With an adaptable bi-wing configuration and revolutionary rail-mounted remote turret, the Scorpius offers unprecedented fire coverage, allowing for both defensive and assault-minded applications.
• Argo RAFT: Perfect for entry-level haulers and old pros alike, the RAFT is an ideal solution for reliable local freight transport.
• Aegis Avenger Titan: With its tried and true combat abilities, the Avenger Titan is a light cargo hauler that's more than capable of handling itself in a fight.
• Anvil C8X Pisces Expedition:  Ideal for inter-system travel or investigating tight spots inaccessible to larger ships, the Pisces is a small ship ready for big adventures.

The Star Citizen Ship Showdown Free Fly event is scheduled to begin today, Thursday, Sept. 8 at approximately 10:00am (Pacific Daylight Time) and will run through Thursday, Sept. 15. A referral bonus is active from Sept. 8 through Sept. 19, which will grant a Consolidated Outland HoverQuad for free to both the referrer and referee.

Sign up for a free account or log in to download the Star Citizen client to participate in this event.