Drop Pod Certifications and Call Ins - 2014

The drop pod is a interesting mechanic that was present in the original game yet I feel it could be more. If you look around at other science fiction sources they crop up all over the place. In the novel Starship Troopers the Mobile Infantry are deployed via them, with each pod deploying a variety of countermeasures to stop them from being shot down and to give their cargo the best chance of staying alive when they hit the ground. The Warhammer 40,000 universe uses them in a variety of ways, deploying weapon platforms as well as squads of troops and light vehicles.

General Changes:

  • Drop pods remain on the ground for 30 seconds rather than deconstructing after 3. This provides cover for the occupant.

  • Pods made 50% weaker so they can be shot out of the air easier.

Certifications:

Performance:

  • Air brake: Slows the pod down to give the user more time in the air and therefore more control over the landing site.

  • Thrusters: Falls faster to get the player onto the ground quicker with less chance of being intercepted.

  • Grav Chute: The pod breaks apart at 100m above the ground, dropping the occupant from that height safely using a Galaxy style Grav Chute.

Defensive:

  • Flash-bang launcher: The pod deploys flash bangs as it hits the ground.

  • Smoke launcher: The pod deploys smoke grenades as it hits the ground.

  • Sensor Dart Launcher: The pod fires out three sensor darts around the pod that last for just 10 seconds, giving the occupant information about any immediate threats around them.

  • Shields: The pod deploys a shield around itself when it lands.

  • Mounted gun: When the pod lands the user emerges on a gun mounted on a gimble that allows him to swing the gun around and lay down fire.

  • Cloak: Allows for stealthy insertion.

Drop Pod Call Ins