EVE Vanguard: Project Nemesis is out, what's it like?

EVE Vanguard has landed, and with it comes a wave of speculation: is this the long-awaited successor to Dust 514? Is it any good? While still in alpha, Vanguard already hints at a pedigree that could make it a standout in CCP Games’ expanding universe. Dubbed PROJECT NEMESIS, this new iteration invites players to explore a looter-shooter experience that feels both familiar and fresh.

From the outset, Vanguard pays clear homage to Dust 514. The character models evoke a strong sense of continuity, with visual cues and design choices that will resonate with veterans of the original title. It’s a deliberate nod to the past, wrapped in a modern aesthetic that suggests CCP is serious about building on its legacy.

The game’s strengths are immediately apparent. The map design is stunning—atmospheric and immersive, it sets the tone for intense engagements and exploration. Gunplay feels tight and responsive, delivering the kind of precision that shooter fans crave. The looter-shooter mechanics show promise, and the mission system adds a layer of excitement that keeps players engaged. There’s a sense that Vanguard is more than just a testbed; it’s a foundation for something ambitious.

However, the alpha build isn’t without its flaws. NPC behaviour can feel clunky at times, breaking immersion and disrupting the flow of combat. The current offering includes only one map, and while it’s a good one, the lack of variety may limit replayability in the short term. Turrets, too, present a challenge—hyper-accurate and capable of lasering players from across the map, they can feel more punishing than tactical.

Despite these early issues, the potential of Vanguard is undeniable. It’s easy to imagine this game evolving into a fully integrated part of the EVE universe. The dream scenario—boarding actions against enemy titans while EVE pilots battle in orbit—is tantalizing. The thought of breaching a ship’s bridge, shotgun in hand, and delivering a final blow to the captain’s pod while chaos reigns outside is the kind of cinematic gameplay CCP seems poised to deliver.

In the end, EVE Vanguard may well be Dust 514 reborn, but it’s also something more. It’s a glimpse into a future where ground combat and space warfare collide, and where players can carve out their own legends in the heart of CCP’s sci-fi sandbox. If the alpha is any indication, this is a game worth watching—and one that could redefine what it means to fight in New Eden