The space-based massively multiplayer online game Eve Online has been around since 2003, but playing it requires downloading and installing the game either on Windows or macOS. However, that won’t be the case for much longer as developer CCP Games is testing a browser-based version.
The browser version is called Eve Anywhere and for now, it’s being restricted to a select few players in the US as CCP continues to test and fix any bugs that appear. Finding out if you are eligible to try it simply requires heading over to the game’s home page and logging in. If you’re eligible, a “Launch Eve Online” button will appear and the game can be played directly in your browser. Eve Online players who subscribe (Omega pilots) can also enjoy access “for the duration of the test.”
CCP is promising that Eve Anywhere will be a fully-featured version of the game and that it will be supported in the Chrome, Edge, Safari, and Firefox browsers. The game runs at up to 1080p resolution and 60fps, which should make for a rewarding experience in what has always been a great looking game.
So why spend time developing Eve Anywhere? CCP says it was “Conceived to expand the player community of EVE Online, EVE Anywhere removes barriers for newcomers, while providing veterans of New Eden with an extremely convenient way to access their game. The early-stage trial has already demonstrated that potential, seeing first-time EVE Online players stay for longer, with higher numbers converting into full-time pilots.”
MMOs live or die by the number of players they manage to attract and retain, so if a browser-based version aids with player retention, CCP will certainly be putting a lot of focus and effort into making it a great experience. It also means that new platforms can be unlocked in future, including Chromebook users who otherwise wouldn’t be able to play.
