I did perform a search for free form OR free-form and did not find any other threads about this topic, so here goes.

I am very curious if space needs explored. Granted, there is assumed explored space, like around Earth. But there's nothing keeping people or forces from building or adding to that known space. So, in that sense, I am hopeful that you can just pilot your ship through space, planet to planet, and explore what is there or isn't there. This would particularly apply to any unexplored space. It's fine and dandy to have set missions for PvE, but I'd also like some open-ended play here.

So, we might be able to find moons or planets with surprises (remember Khan?). The sky is the limit, no pun intended.

If anyone knows of info to this end, please share it if you can. If this kind of play is out there, I am really excited!

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LtJG Arthur Pewty
Delta Squad, Engineering
12th Fleet UFP

I finally got through STOked's closed beta preview. Near the end, they seem to imply that you don't have free flight, but earlier I was getting the impression you do. Of course, the game isn't finished and it could evolve, so I'm still holding out hope.

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LtJG Arthur Pewty
Delta Squad, Engineering
12th Fleet UFP

Yes and no.. Free form flight within a system IS possible.. however per system there is only a select few planets that are visitable.
That being said the genesis system they used to create the content was apparently used to create a load of random systems with random planets in, that have little missions added to them..

So by this exploration is still possible.. Although ive yet to see it written in a review which is most disconcerning, especially since the news from closed beta is that theyve not seen any evidence of exploration content. Hopefully though it will be added before open beta.

From what I understand, it is possible. I'm assuming this because they said if you discover a new object you'll be able to name it... how else would you discover a new planet?

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Rear Admiral (ret.) - Exploration Division

“I have never been lost, but I will admit to being confused for several weeks.” -Daniel Boone

Thats been taken out though.. the whole naming planets thing, so right now youl only be able to visit planets theyve named and given little sub missions (saving from invasion, evacuating for aid, settling colonists and such)

Too bad! I don't mind naming planets but space should be big enough for some serious exploration.

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LtJG Arthur Pewty
Delta Squad, Engineering
12th Fleet UFP

I wasnt that happy when i read that...

i was beginning to wonder why no previewer had mentioned it, then yea.. turns out theyve slipped it out the backdoor without telling anyone

The impulse flight looked like the 'pizza box' format that Legacy used (except now the controls will work ) So impulse and combat flight should look and feel pretty good.

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=/\= =================== =/\=
Name: Eyrin Tigan
Rank: Lt. General (Vice Admiral)
Post: The 12th Fleet, MACO
United Federation of Planets
Assignment: Combat Duty, USS Talon
Current Location: Patrolling Gamma Orionis, engaging Borg Collective
=/\= =================== =/\=



"War? What is it good for? Absolutely nothing if you ask me." - Quark

Aww lame!!! I never read anywhere that they were taking out the naming thing! I hope they bring it back, I wanted to name a planet or two after myself.

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Rear Admiral (ret.) - Exploration Division

“I have never been lost, but I will admit to being confused for several weeks.” -Daniel Boone

They never announced it. they just stopped mentioning it.. and started mentioning a "point of interest" system instead... they kinda slipped it out without making it obvious.

But i can clarify from closed beta that it isnt there... infact theres not much exploration content at all..