PC gamers have a limited window to try out one of the most talked-about sci-fi games of recent years for free. Star Citizen is available free of charge until February 23 as part of a temporary event.
After this date, the title will return to its usual model based on the purchase of starter packs. The Citizen pack starts at $55.35, while some more advanced options exceed $100. To participate in the free event, players must download the game via the official Roberts Space Industries website, where installation guides are also available.
A colossal project launched in 2012
Star Citizen is a multiplayer space trading and combat game developed by Cloud Imperium Games. Its development began in 2012 after a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. The initial goal of $2 million was quickly reached. Since then, the studio has continued to fund the project through the sale of ships and in-game items, raising over $900 million to date.
This impressive figure places Star Citizen among the most funded crowdsourced projects in history and among the most expensive video games ever developed. However, the title remains in early access, with no definitive release date announced, which regularly fuels controversy within the community.
A “Free Fly” event to test the Alpha 4.6 version
The current event allows players to experience the state of development via the Star Citizen Alpha 4.6 release. During this period, five vessels are made available to be piloted. Players can take control of the RSI Salvation, more accessible to beginners, or try more specialized models like the Anvil Arrow, the Drake Golem, the Argo Mole and the Drake Cutlass Black.
At the same time, a “recruit-a-friend” campaign accompanies the event. New players can enter the code of a friend who is already registered. If a pack worth at least $40 is subsequently purchased, both players receive rewards. Newcomers get the Greycat Aril “Red Alert” armor, including a built-in tool belt and backpack. Existing players receive a Consolidated Outland Hoverquad with a Lovestruck paint job.
Squadron 42 gets closer to a release
This free promotion also aims to draw attention to Squadron 42, the single-player spin-off of Star Citizen. The project would aim for a release in 2026. According to information provided by Cloud Imperium Games, the single-player campaign would be fully playable from start to finish. It would offer approximately 40 hours of scripted content. The cast includes several well-known names, including Mark Hamill, Gillian Anderson, Gary Oldman and Henry Cavill.
While Squadron 42 is moving closer to a beta phase, Star Citizen remains in alpha, with a full release mentioned for 2027 or 2028 without official confirmation. In the meantime, players have until February 23 to explore this ambitious space universe for free and make up their own mind about one of the most expensive and discussed projects in modern video games.