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 Foundation Festival, a month-long civic program aimed at strengthening community spirit, returns to Star Citizen from July 6-31. Returning alongside the festivities is the Guide System, an industry leading program that leverages the Star Citizen community at scale to connect the best veteran pilots with newcomers to onboard them to the ‘verse, supplementing the recently updated New Player Experience added to Area18 in patch 3.19. The Guide System covers 12 core topics including vehicle combat, mining, trading, racing, and more, rewarding veteran players with pilot cosmetics and new players with weapons and an ever useful Multi-tool set for successful completion of Guided Sessions. Further rewarding Guide System participants, players can build up more rewards by earning up to five unique sets of armor and weapons valued at over $80 by completing Guided Sessions during bonus weekends. A full breakdown of the Guide System categories and rewards can be found here.

With a Free Fly event granting access to 12 ships from July 6-17, the recently improved new-player experience available in Area18, discounts on starter packs, updated referral rewards, and the Guide System brimming with in-game rewards, there has never been a better time to try Star Citizen and explore the ‘verse together. More information about the Foundation Festival and the updated Guide System can be found at the central Foundation Festival hub.

• Free Fly Event: 9:00am PDT Thursday, July 6 - 1:00pm PDT Monday, July 17
• Foundation Festival: 9:00am PDT Thursday, July 6 - 1:00pm PDT Monday, July 31

Sign up for a free account or log in to download the Star Citizen client to participate in the Foundation Festival and Free Fly events. New players can also learn more about Star Citizen to find a compilation of useful tutorial videos.