Dear Fenris Creations Team,
I am writing to express a strong desire for the return of the Proving Grounds. While EVE Online is celebrated for its open-world sandbox, the removal of the Proving Grounds has created a significant gap for players trying to learn the fundamentals of PvP, fundamentals on which this game is based.
The core issues I have observed include:
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Difficulty for Solo Learners: Without the Proving Grounds, players have no way to “test” their skills or fits in a controlled environment. Trying to learn in open space often leads to being “blobbed” or caught by veterans before any meaningful learning can happen.
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Barriers to Skill Development: Learning at one’s own speed is nearly impossible in the current landscape. The Proving Grounds offered a unique “testing” environment where pilots could focus on manual piloting, weapon mechanics, and EWAR without the constant risk of third-party interference.
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Accessibility for New Pilots: Many players find the transition from PvE to PvP daunting. The Proving Grounds acted as a “laser-focused” training tool, allowing pilots to fly affordable ships and gain invaluable combat experience in a fair, structured setting.
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AI Training Synergy: As Fenris Creations has recently partnered with Google DeepMind to use EVE Online as a research environment for complex AI, a revived Proving Grounds could provide a more controlled “testing sort of way” for both human pilots and future AI models to refine combat behaviors.
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Accessibility for “EVE Forever”: CEO Hilmar Pétursson has emphasized a “path to EVE Forever”. The Proving Grounds are a vital tool for the continual learning of new players, ensuring the game remains accessible and healthy for decades to come.
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Bridge to New Titles: Mention that a structured PvP environment helps prepare players for the more combat-focused gameplay found in their upcoming titles like EVE Vanguard.
By bringing back this feature, even in a rotating or limited capacity, you provide a necessary bridge for the next generation of New Eden’s combat pilots to find their footing.
Thank you for your time and for everything you do for the community.
Sincerely,
Clexious Saxonite