In early 2025, Chris Roberts, CEO of Cloud Imperium Games (CIG), suggested they are nearing the completion of their long-awaited project, Star Citizen. However, no specific release timeline was provided. After 13 years of crowdfunding, CIG has accumulated over $800 million in funding, yet the game remains in alpha.

Known for its substantial funding model, CIG has continually found ways for players to contribute financially, including access fees for the alpha, merchandise, and high-priced ship purchases. Recently, they announced a new referral program aimed at encouraging dedicated players to recruit new ones.

Although the revamped feature offers a more engaging and rewarding experience for those involved, many still express skepticism about CIG’s strategies, drawing parallels to pyramid schemes that exploit personal networks to recruit newcomers. This program is set to launch on July 2 and includes enhanced tracking and various incentives aimed at loyal players.

Despite the introduction of this new program, the fate of Star Citizen remains uncertain, with many fans disappointed by the game’s perpetual delay in reaching its anticipated 1.0 version.