Thank you for all your positive feedback on our 7.00 Public Beta launch last week, and also on our dedicated trailer. Those of you who have been with us for a while know how things proceed from here on out, but for all new X4 pilots, here's a heads up: During the Public Beta phase, we will regularly release new beta versions that fix issues found in the previous version, or improve features. This way, we are slowly but surely working our way towards the release of the final 7.00 update.

The next step in this direction is today's release of 7.00 Public Beta 2, which you can download now. At the end of this news you will find the changelog for this new version.

How Do I Take Part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 7.00 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum - no registration required - to find the relevant information.

Frequently Asked Questions
Since the start of the 7.00 Public Beta, a number of questions have repeatedly come up, and we would like to address those here:

❓ How do I deactivate or change the UI Glow effect?
From the X4 start menu, head to "Settings", then "Graphics Settings". You will find the "UI Glow Quality" entry. You can select "off" to deactivate the effect completely, or switch to "Low", "Medium" and "High" presets.

❓ I can't access "Timelines", it's greyed out.
The 7.00 Public Beta does not include our next expansion X4: Timelines. The expansion will not be part of any public beta tests. You will not be able to test X4: Timelines in the 7.00 Public Beta of X4: Foundations. The menu item being greyed out is therefore intentional.

❓ How do I start the new "Existential Crisis" endgame content?
The crisis will trigger upon reaching around half a billion in assets, most of which should be military. This is based on construction cost, i.e. not the monetary value you see in the Empire Menu. Boso Ta will contact you and guide you through the crisis.

❓ The 7.00 Public Beta announcement said I can now board / claim / fly Xenon ships. Why doesn't it work?
This should now work in 7.00 Public Beta 2, released today. Please update your game if you're in the Public Beta branch.

❓ I have reverted back from the 7.00 Public Beta branch to version 6.20 of X4 and now my mouse is slow when looking around while walking / in first person mode. What's up with that?
The 7.00 Public Beta modifies and adds a few settings in the key binding configuration file, therefore rendering the file incompatible with older versions of the game. Please restore your key bindings to their default by going to Settings > Controls > Input Profiles > Load Profile, and selecting the Reset to Default > Default - Keyboard & Mouse / Controller option.

❓ I'm experiencing an issue with ...
Please share your feedback / bug report in our Public Beta Feedback forum. Before doing so, please make sure you read the Public Beta Rules and Information, which you can find in a sticky thread at the top of that forum.

Specific test / feedback requests
If you have already visited our Public Beta Feedback Forum, you will have seen that we are asking for feedback and reports on specific game features. We would like to explicitly point out some of these requests here so that a wider audience can see them, and ideally participate in reporting and sending feedback:

• [Feedback Request] Tutorials
  
• [Feedback Request] Input Profiles
  
• [Feedback Request] Existential Crisis
  
• [Feedback Request] 7.00 Economy

Please post your feedback as a new thread in our Public Beta Feedback Forum, and make sure you have read the rules and information beforehand.

>> Visit our forum for the full 7.00 changelog overview.

Egosoft is thrilled to announce the launch of the 7.00 Public Beta for X4: Foundations, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the X Universe. Accompanying today's announcement is a comprehensive trailer, showcasing some of the new features and enhancements, and the futuristic universe that awaits both veterans and newcomers alike. Please join the 7.00 Public Beta and accompany us on our way to its full release later this year.

How Do I Take Part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 7.00 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum - no registration required - to find the relevant information.

With the latest update to X4: Foundations, players are invited to experience the most comprehensive evolution of the game yet, with enhancements spanning content, gameplay mechanics, usability, accessibility, and technical performance. This new chapter introduces a series of transformative updates and features designed to deepen the immersive experience of exploring the vast reaches of space, engaging in dynamic encounters, and navigating the intricate economies and political landscapes of the X4 universe.

A Wide Range of New Content
The universe of X4: Foundations grows more intricate and vibrant with the introduction of reimagined Teladi and Argon Capital Ships. These iconic vessels have been meticulously overhauled, featuring designs that add a new layer of depth and intrigue to space encounters. As commanders take the helm of these majestic ships, they'll find each battle and exploration endeavour imbued with a renewed sense of awe and strategy.

The expansion of the universe also introduces players to new sectors and landmarks, beckoning them to venture into previously uncharted regions. These fresh discoveries promise to expand horizons and opportunities, offering new adventures and mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Complementing this expansion is the introduction of race-specific managers' offices, providing a unique cultural insight into the various factions populating the universe, and allowing players to further personalise their spacefaring experience. See the cosmos like never before with the new Observation Deck module, offering breathtaking views of the universe from the comfort of your space station.

New and Redesigned Xenon Ships
The 7.00 update will introduce several new ships to the universe, and we want to highlight a very special addition. We're thrilled to reveal the awe-inspiring, redesigned Xenon models PE and SE, which will gradually replace their previous models (P and S) in the open universe, just as the redesigned capital ships did back in 5.00.

Equally exciting is the debut of several Terraformer ships. These ships delve into the legacy of X: Beyond the Frontier (1999) to celebrate this year's 25th anniversary of the X series. These new models, reminiscent of their predecessors, can be encountered in the open universe. Get ready to explore these unique designs!

Flyable Xenon Ships for the First Time in X4
Hold on to your pilot seats, because there's more! With the 7.00 update, we are enabling you to actually fly selected Xenon ships. Both the redesigned Xenon models (PE, SE) and the new Terraformer models introduced in 7.00 can be boarded and flown, just like any other ship in your X4 fleet. Get on board to discover how they've been adapted for you to take control, offering a whole new perspective on the X universe.

Gameplay Innovations
In addition to all this new content, the 7.00 update also includes significant gameplay enhancements, such as the introduction of the "Existential Crisis" endgame challenge for veterans. This daunting confrontation pits players against a faction that spares no effort in its aggression, offering a thrilling new dimension of strategy and resilience. For those who prefer a more serene journey through the stars, this challenge can be opted out of, ensuring a tailored experience for every commander.

A fundamentally improved and more intuitive external camera system also debuts, enhancing the way players view, and more importantly, interact with the universe, almost making it feel like a new game. Alongside this, AI improvements across the board make for a more dynamic and realistic universe. Ships now utilise Travel Mode more effectively, enter and exit it with greater consistency, and exhibit improved navigation through jump gates and in combat situations. These enhancements are complemented by reworked and expanded tutorials, ensuring both new and veteran players can fully engage with, and understand, the depth of the game's mechanics.

Usability and Accessibility Focus
With an emphasis on making the game more accessible and enjoyable for all, this update introduces enhanced button remapping and ready-made control profiles to match your steering needs in space. It also provides an FOV slider and new options for colour-blind players with customisable UI colours. Additionally, the update brings audio and text feedback for various actions to further assist players in understanding the game dynamics and making informed decisions. Furthermore, a reduced speed mode has been introduced for those who find the pace of the action a bit too hectic, allowing for a more controlled and leisurely gameplay experience. These features are designed to offer players the flexibility to tailor their gameplay experience to their preferences and needs.

The introduction of Visual Enhancement Goggles that let you zoom in on the action, along with a customisable radial menu for quick access to in-game actions, and reworked shaders in scan mode, further enriches player interaction and immersion. These improvements ensure players have the tools they need to navigate the complexities of space warfare and exploration with confidence.

Technical Advancements
At the core of the update are the significant technical enhancements made to the XTECH 5 Engine, delivering smoother and more stable gameplay. Players will notice the difference these improvements make, among them the temporal anti-aliasing that brings crisp visuals and the enhanced shadows that add depth and realism to the universe.

This monumental 7.00 update to X4: Foundations underscores our unwavering dedication to the evolution of X4, aiming to deliver an experience that is richer, more immersive, and more accessible than ever before. The excitement within our team is palpable as we prepare to share the extensive enhancements of 7.00 with you through our Public Beta.

In keeping with the tradition established by previous significant updates, our work doesn't stop here. The feedback phase is crucial, and we are eager to refine the update further, drawing on both our own creative insights and, importantly, the invaluable feedback you provide during the Public Beta. We encourage you to share your experiences and observations in our Public Beta Feedback Forum, helping us to fine-tune and perfect the gameplay experience.

As you delve into the vast changes introduced in 7.00, our team is already looking ahead, diligently working on the next addition to the X4 saga, X4: Timelines. Rest assured that more information on this brand new, very different expansion will be shared as soon as possible. In the meantime, we can confirm that we are on track for the release of both X4: Timelines and the 7.00 update to X4: Foundations later this year, continuing to expand and enrich the universe we've all come to love.

Stay tuned, commanders. The journey through space continues, and the best is yet to come.

>> 7.00 Public Beta 1 Changelog

We at Egosoft are excited to unveil the upcoming major 7.00 update and our new expansion, X4: Timelines, for our space simulation game X4: Foundations, which just recently celebrated its fifth anniversary. Your support over the years has enabled us to keep working on X4, improving it and creating a game that is very special to us, as it is to many of you. Thank you, to all our players, all the content creators, all the modders, and of course to everybody who has worked on the game over the years.

Our previous four expansions have enlarged the X4 sandbox universe and drawn your interest with new factions, ships and storylines. Today we would like to give you a first look at our next, somewhat unusual, expansion for X4.

X4: Timelines - A Revolutionary Expansion
Please check out our first announcement video for X4: Timelines. In this video we not only show you some of the new content, but also explain what the new structure and the slightly different gameplay loop of X4: Timelines is all about.

>> X4: Timelines Reveal Teaser <<

Embark on an unprecedented space odyssey with X4: Timelines, the latest addition to the X4 universe.

Using novel ways to introduce new players to X4's core gameplay mechanics, X4: Timelines will also delight long-serving space adventurers. With a thrilling new storyline which takes place outside of the X4 sandbox, prepare yourself for colossal challenges and unexpected excursions into the depths of the X series lore and history.

X4: Timelines is your gateway to uncharted territories and untold stories. Select 'Timelines' from the main menu of X4: Foundations and set forth on an adventure that transcends time and space. Along the way, you can unlock various bonuses for your X4 sandbox universe.

MYSTERIOUS NEW STORYLINE
In an all-new mysterious storyline, you'll take on the role of Harper Donel, a trader in the border territories, who is not averse to risky deals. A fateful encounter not only changes your short-term plans, but shakes the foundations of your understanding of the universe, and everyone in it. Prepare to be immersed in a tale of intrigue and revelation.

IMMERSIVE SCENARIOS AND UNIQUE UNLOCKS
Embedded in the new X4: Timelines storyline, you'll find a wide range of scenarios in which you will experience the many different aspects of X4 gameplay. Playing these scenarios will also unlock new missions within the X4: Timelines storyline, and bonuses for your wider X4 sandbox universe - among them reimagined, classic ships from X universe history.

X4: Timelines is more than just an expansion; it's a revolution in the X4 universe. Whether you're a seasoned space explorer or a newcomer to the galaxy, this thrilling new chapter promises to captivate you with its blend of mystery, adventure, and strategic gameplay.

While the next expansion is strikingly different from its predecessors, one thing remains the same: a substantial free update for X4: Foundations will be released at the same time as the expansion. Update 7.00 will be huge, and the changelog is likely to break our own records once again... In spring 2024, we will be able to go into more detail about 7.00 and, of course, give you access to the public beta for it, as you have come to expect from us.

For now, we can give you a few brief glimpses of some 7.00 highlights:

Update 7.00 - Elevating Your Space Experience
The free 7.00 update will bring a host of enhancements and new features to X4: Foundations:

• Reimagined Teladi and Argon Capital Ships: Marvel at the overhauled designs of these iconic vessels, adding more depth and intrigue to your space encounters.
  
• New sectors and landmarks: Explore fresh, uncharted regions in the X4 universe, expanding your horizons and opportunities.
  
• New Xenon Ships: Experience new ships from the X universe main antagonists in a way that will surprise even veteran X4 pilots.
  
• External Camera (F2) Overhaul: Experience a fundamentally improved and more intuitive external camera system.
  
• Existential Crisis: A new endgame challenge for veterans. Face off against a faction that goes all-out against you. This intense confrontation can be opted out of, for those seeking a more peaceful journey.
  
• Continuous Engine Improvements: Enjoy smoother, more stable gameplay with ongoing refinements to the game's engine.
  
• Enhanced Button Remapping: Tailor your controls with more flexibility than ever before.

Wishlist X4: Timelines today

X4: Timelines and 7.00 update will take you on an unforgettable journey through space and time. Prepare to embark on this exciting new voyage in 2024. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to redefine your X4 experience!

Time flies when you're navigating the vast expanse of the universe! It's hard to believe, but today marks the 5th Anniversary of X4: Foundations. From distant galaxies to intricate space stations, every moment of this journey has been an incredible experience, made even more special by your unwavering support and enthusiasm.

As we celebrate this milestone, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our players and fans. Your passion, feedback, and community spirit have been the guiding stars of this adventure, fuelling our commitment to creating a truly immersive and dynamic space simulation.

To commemorate this special day, Egosoft's founder, Bernd Lehahn, has prepared an XLOG episode for you on our YouTube channel. Join him as he reminisces about the game's exciting journey and gives a sneak peek into what the future holds.

>> XLOG - Celebrating 5 incredible years of X4: Foundations

Thank you for being a vital part of our X4 community. Here's to many more years of exploring the stars together!

Happy Anniversary!

Steam is celebrating its monumental 20th anniversary with a special event that kicks off today. To pay homage to its rich history and the gamers who have used the platform, Steam has set up a special landing page. This space is designed to take visitors on a nostalgic journey through the past two decades, highlighting the games that have captivated audiences year after year. Among these memorable titles is our very own X3: Reunion, one of Steam's best-selling games of 2006.

To get X3: Reunion into shape for this celebration, we have invested time and effort in refreshing the game specifically for this event. To further entice both newcomers and long-time fans of the series, an 80% discount on X3: Reunion will be available from September 12 to September 19.

Thanks for your support, and enjoy the Steam 20th Anniversary celebration!

Changelog:

• Added support for wider range of resolutions.
  
• Added default controller layout for keyboard/mouse emulation via Steam Input.
  
• Fixed video/animation timing issues with high framerates.
  
• Fixed several causes of crashes.

After launching our Blender Modding Tools alongside the 6.00 update and the X4: Kingdom End expansion back in April 2023, we're excited to bring you another important update to our tools for modding X4: Foundations.

Firstly, we've introduced a one-click conversion tool that easily transforms old mod models into the new format Egosoft uses. If you've been using older community tools, this is a game-changer for you.

For those interested in adding a layer of dynamism, you can now create custom animations. This will allow more interactive and engaging elements within your modded worlds.

We've also simplified some of the more technical aspects of the tools. During model export, the tools will now automatically generate "component" XML files, resulting in a speedier process for asset creation.

Last but not least, we've incorporated a feature that allows the creation of waypoints, specifically for drone routes.

We're in the process of compiling more detailed documentation for all these new capabilities. In the meantime, keep an eye on our Wiki for updates and documentation links. Though still under construction, it's shaping up to be a valuable resource: X Wiki.

Go ahead and download the updated modding tools to explore these new features. Whether you're a modding veteran or new to the scene, this update is designed to streamline your creative process. Happy modding!

Thanks to your continued support over the course of almost two months of public beta, we are now able to deliver the next significant update for X4: Foundations.

With the 6.20 update, players will find quality of life improvements to the Interact menu, and improved NPC behaviour such as enhanced police responses and better use of deployables during combat. Some other key areas addressed include mission bug fixes, as well as improvements to AI behaviour and ship movement, aiming to provide players with a more immersive and realistic spacefaring experience. Mouse steering mode has been tweaked for more intuitive control, and new hotkey bindings make gameplay more efficient. We have also added a full text Czech localisation, which extends the game's accessibility to a broader audience. This update represents a comprehensive round of enhancements, bolstering the overall game quality.

Please check out the complete changelog in our forums for more details.

We would also like to use this opportunity to forewarn you that 6.20 will most likely be the last update before the big leap to version 7.00. We gave a brief insight into some planned aspects of the future 7.00 update shortly after the release of 6.00 and X4: Kingdom End. You can still watch the video on our YouTube channel. Of course, it won't stop there, and we have many more exciting surprises in store for you for the big 7.00 update. However, it will be a while before we can start talking about it in more detail. So, please don't worry if it gets a little quiet in the coming weeks and months - the team is working hard on 7.00, and on other things that we will reveal in due course.

By the way, we will be exhibiting for the first time at EGX London in mid-October. Feel free to drop by to meet team members and have a chat about the X-series. We will remind you about this in a separate news item closer to the time.

As always, thank you for your continued support! 2023 has been very successful for us so far and we look forward to updating you on the next steps for X4 in the not too distant future.

Having recently made some fundamental technical changes to the X4 graphics engine in our public beta branch, we're reaching out to specifically invite you to test the latest public beta version (6.20 Public Beta 6) of X4: Foundations on Steam and GOG.

Your experiences and impressions, especially concerning graphical effects across various hardware configurations, are of great importance to us. We need as much feedback as possible to further optimize the X4 experience.

Please read the specific test request and report your feedback in the forum thread.

Thank you for your support!

How do I take part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 6.20 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum (no registration required) to find the relevant information.

Following the recent rollout of the 6.10 update for X4: Foundations, we're ready to embark on the next stage of our journey: the 6.20 Public Beta. The 6.20 update is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to refine and improve your X4 experience.

Here are some of the highlights you can look forward to in the first beta version of 6.20:

• Mission fixes
  
• AI and ship movement improvements
  
• Mouse steering mode tweaks
  
• New hotkey bindings
  
• Full text Czech localization
  

Please check out the complete changelog at the end of this news for more details.

Your feedback has always been an essential element driving the evolution of X4: Foundations, so we encourage you to participate in the 6.20 Public Beta and report your findings to our Public Beta Feedback forum.

How do I take part in the Public Beta?
Every player who owns X4: Foundations has the opportunity to download the new 6.20 Public Beta version. In order to ensure that beta participants are aware of the risks and rules involved, we ask all interested players to visit our forum, where they will find the rules and disclaimers, as well as practical instructions for participating in the beta. Follow this link to our forum (no registration required) to find the relevant information.

Thank you for your continued support, and we can't wait to see you in the 6.20 Public Beta universe!

>> 6.20 Public Beta 1 Changelog