The latest 3.3.0t test patch for the PTU of Star Citizen has rolled out for alpha backers. The new update sports a number of new features, including the ability to purchase ships from the ship stores. You can even look over and walk around in the ships in the ship shops, but you can’t fly them while they’re in the showcase floor, but you can fly the ships once you put down the necessary in-game funds to purchase the ship and go fly around in space with it.

This is one of the features that a lot of gamers have been begging for in Star Citizen for some time, so RSI finally made that option available in the alpha build of the PTU, so gamers can now save up money and purchase the available ships in the game.

This week’s Around The Verse also delved into the behind-the-scenes elements of some of the tech that went into the CitizenCon demo, which you can check out below.

The ATV covers how they had to modify the numerical backend of the animation in order to modify the kinematics so that the player-character can grip different mission items. It also covers how the modular inspection unit will also be applicable for customizing items and weapons, as well as being able to view mission items right from the palm of your in-game character’s hand.

Item previews in Mobiglas for shop purchases are now working properly, along with an update regarding the truckstops where your criminal rating will determine whether or not you’ll be shot down by the auto-turrets. This is a good way to deter players from deliberately trolling by being player-killers because ramping up your criminal rating will make life awfully difficult for you… especially if you plan to play as a hard-boiled criminal.

While the update patch isn’t huge this week, the ability to purchase ships is a huge step forward when it comes to in-game usability and feature enhancements.

You can learn more about Star Citizen and its development by checking out the developmental roadmap over on the official website.