Today, Frontier Developments released the Anaconda Mk II update for Elite Dangerous, introducing a modernized version of one of the space simulation’s most iconic ships, along with a new operation, ship-balance changes, and a wide range of bug fixes.
Available now through ARX Early Access in Elite Dangerous, the Anaconda Mk II retains the power and versatility of the original Faulcon DeLacy vessel while featuring a redesigned exterior and improved visibility.
The Anaconda Mk II is accompanied by new ship components, including Mk II Ablative Armor, a Mk II Mining Volley Repeater, and Mk II Cargo Racks. Players can also buy three pre-built versions of the ship in the in-game store, each with different cosmetic additions and equipment.
The Standard package costs 19,020 ARX and includes the Anaconda Mk II and an Owners Club Decal. The Stellar package costs 38,000 ARX and adds the Eunectes Ship Kit and Resurgent Ochre Paintjob, while the Galactic package costs 69,000 ARX and includes everything in the Stellar package plus the Zenith Ship Kit, four Falcon paintjob variants, and the Ember Green Holo-Kit Pack.
The Elite Dangerous update also introduces a new operation called Found Adrift, which tasks players with navigating an abandoned megaship and securing a high-value asset before rival scavengers can claim it. Frontier Developments has also improved the cutting tool’s tracking and expanded the selection of ships that can appear in various AI encounters, adding vessels such as the Python Mk II, Type-8 Transporter, Mandalay, Cobra Mk V, Corsair, Panther Mk II, Type-11 Prospector, and Caspian Explorer.
Several ships have received significant balance adjustments, with changes affecting jump range, shields, speed, acceleration, internal storage, and flight handling. The Mandalay now has a standard jump range of about 95 light-years, while the Caspian Explorer has been reduced to about 90 light-years, improving their long-distance exploration capabilities.
The Asp Scout receives one of the most substantial overhauls, gaining an additional utility slot, reduced mass, higher maximum and boost speeds, and improved forward and reverse acceleration. Its yaw rate has also increased, although its pitch and yaw acceleration have been reduced. The Sidewinder Mk I, Eagle Mk II, and Viper Mk IV receive shield improvements, with the Viper also gaining higher maximum and boost speeds alongside adjustments to its flight model.
Transport and combat vessels have also been revised in the latest Elite Dangerous update. The Type-6 Transporter gains an additional Size 6 internal slot and stronger shields, while the Type-7 Transporter receives a Size 7 internal slot, reduced mass, and improved heat management.
The Imperial Clipper gains a Size 7 internal slot, a larger fuel tank, reduced mass, and stronger shields. Meanwhile, the Federal Dropship receives a Size 6 internal slot, reduced mass, and a higher maximum speed. Beyond the new content and balancing changes, the Elite Dangerous update addresses numerous issues affecting missions, mining, Powerplay, squadron leaderboards, and on-foot activities.
Fixes include resolving issues that could prevent Conflict Zones from ending correctly, restoring the final wave of AI enemies during the Reclamation Point Operation, and correcting issues with Powerplay Modules unlocking at the required rank. Additional fixes address planetary mining resources not appearing in the Info Panel, destination locking for Planetary Ring Hotspots, on-foot mining interface problems, and disconnections when collecting minerals using a Rhino mining rig.
Frontier Developments also adjusted lighting, visual effects, ship decals, megaship hangars, and AI collision detection to improve the overall experience. Recently, the game added new ships, including the Lynx Highliner, Operations missions, and Rhino SRV.
For more information on Elite Dangerous: Operations and other space simulators like No Man’s Sky, check back with Simulation Daily.
