Iron Bit Launches Major Colonies Online Update

Planet colonization is still a bit beyond our physical grasp, but the idea is very much alive in video games. Star Citizen is over the horizon, offering a galaxy's worth of gameplay, and Ascent also exists. However, we should also keep in mind of another game in development, currently available on Steam's Early Access. Titled Colonies Online, Iron Bit's sci-fi action sandbox MMO is a journey where players slip into the shoes of space colonists. Huge and diverse planets await you, all rich with discovery, fauna, and resources that would prove pivotal for colonization.

Today, a new update has been released, giving colonists the ability to craft their own stations in the colonies, which opens access to weapon and armor creation. Colonists are able to put to use the vast resources gathered from planets for creation. New types of weapons and armor carry various attributes. Players can additionally built an all-new construction named the Bonification station, which adds bonuses to previously-crafted items. Additionally, three weapon archetypes have been introduced: shotguns, for close-range combat, pulse guns for mid-range, and rifles for long-range.

To quote Nick Borschew, developer, on idea of Colonies Online:
 

"We want to give players complete freedom of choice in creating their colonies, as well as encourage colonists to collaborate with each other to fill and enrich the game environment. The actions that players take leave visible marks on the world and can be easily seen by other players, so there is a strong sense of consequence and unpredictability in the Colonies. We are eager to see how many directions players take this in and how many interesting creations they build!"

To give players an idea of what Colonies Online is all about, the game throws players into a cluster of alien planets. Players must gather resources to build colonies and be able to endure the harsh environments surrounding them. There are no restrictions in the MMO; players must work together (or even against each other) to build and create economic ties and full-scale cities. Players will additionally have to battle enemies, whether colonists or aliens.

If you want to give the game a shot, you can purchase Colonies Online on Steam for $14.99. Keep in mind, the game is still in Early Access, so the developers will definitely want your feedback.