CCP Games, the studio behind the long-standing sci-fi MMO franchise EVE Online, has moved its latest title EVE Frontier from a closed alpha stage into a broader public-access phase through the rollout of its “Founder Access: New Era for EVE Frontier” initiative. This marks a significant milestone in the game’s development, enabling a wider player base to engage with its web3-based survival gameplay.
Seasonal Gameplay Introduced with Reward-Based Progression
The update introduces a structured progression system known as “Cycles,” designed to guide player advancement through a seasonal format. These cycles reward participants with a newly introduced in-game currency called “EVE Points,” which can be earned by completing missions and performing well on competitive leaderboards. While the total number of cycles in the public access stage remains undisclosed, the developer clarified that users participating in the Founder Access phase will have the opportunity to collect these points.
The first cycle in the series, named “Promised Lands,” is already active. It enables players to accumulate a progress currency called “Grace” by taking part in a variety of in-game tasks. As Grace accumulates, users climb rankings on both individual and tribe-based leaderboards. Those who secure top ranks are eligible for EVE Points, which in turn unlock in-game benefits such as exclusive items, character upgrades, or tactical advantages.
Alongside these game mechanics, CCP Games has removed previous limitations on content creation. Players now have full freedom to stream, record, and distribute gameplay footage. The title is available on both PC and Mac platforms and is priced at $39.99.
Immersive Web3 Survival Experience in Deep Space
Set in an expansive galaxy, EVE Frontier immerses players—referred to as “Riders”—in the role of genetically cloned beings tasked with reviving civilization. Although the initial focus is on survival, players can shape their journey into various roles, such as explorers, warriors, traders, or builders.
EVE Frontier is a sandbox shaped by player-driven activity. From player-made factions, to bases, private economies and the stargate network, you create the ultimate living world.https://t.co/mDsQWjmkJU
— CCP Games (@CCPGames) June 18, 2025
The gameplay focuses on the exploration of star systems, collection of a resource known as Crude Matter for energy, and engaging in space combat that is influenced heavily by environmental conditions and physics-based mechanics. Players must use strategic movement and terrain to defeat enemy drones or rival participants.
Additionally, the game allows users to build and personalize space bases. These structures can be interlinked to form vast settlements equipped with trade hubs, manufacturing units, and defense capabilities. Faction-building is also part of the gameplay, with players able to create networks, establish trade routes, and build stargates to connect remote areas of the galaxy. The ability to upgrade ships and refine skill sets enables players to adopt diverse approaches—ranging from high-speed stealth operations to full-scale assault tactics.
Expanding the EVE Universe and Embracing Blockchain
Founded in 1997 and originally named Crowd Control Productions, CCP Games has become renowned for its flagship title EVE Online, launched in 2003. The game gained fame for its massive space battles, user-driven economy, and sprawling exploration possibilities.
Over the years, CCP has expanded the EVE universe with several spin-offs, including EVE Echoes (a mobile MMO), EVE Vanguard (a first-person shooter), EVE Galaxy Conquest (a strategy title), and the current EVE Frontier (a space survival simulation).
In 2023, the studio secured $40 million in funding from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) to develop a new AAA blockchain-integrated game within the EVE universe. The goal of the project is to embed blockchain infrastructure and smart contracts into the game’s core mechanics. This initiative places strong emphasis on composability, persistence, and allowing open third-party development—paving the way for increased player control and richer interactions within the game ecosystem.
