Even though version 1.0 is usually the release candidate, not so with Star Citizen. It's actually already on version 1.1 and the game isn't set for final release until sometime next year. However, this latest version did add one fancy new feature of note and that's that those already playing the arena commander module can now rent ships and equipment using the in-game REC currency.
What this means, is that even if you didn't fancy putting down a few hundred dollars on some of the game's most expensive ships, in theory, you can battle your way through a few weeks of arena commander in order to rent yourself the most high end of space weapons platforms.
While there is some argument to be made that those with more powerful ships are likely to win games in Arena Commander and therefore earn more REC, thereby creating a loop of only those that paid to win continuing to do so, most seem pretty happy with the implementation.
Also added as part of the update is a new SimPod, which will act as a hub for the game when other modules are added. In the near future, players that pass through the new hub part of the game will have a choice between Arena Commander, the Hangar where they can view all of their purchased ships and the FPS module, Star Marine, which is currently still in development.
The new 1.1 update also gives players the chance to spend even more on unique ships like the Aegis Relatiator, currently priced at $300.
The only downside to this new version is it will mean you have to reinstall the entire game again. Have fun with that chunky download.