EVE Online: How to Make Money with Planetary Interaction
Embarking on the vast and intricate universe of EVE Online, one of the most popular space-based MMORPGs, presents a plethora of opportunities to earn ISK, the in-game currency. Planetary Interaction (PI) is one such method that allows players to extract valuable minerals from planets and moons, turning them into profitable commodities. In this guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of PI, offering you a comprehensive guide to making money through this unique gameplay feature.
Understanding Planetary Interaction
Planetary Interaction is a resource gathering and processing system that allows players to extract raw materials from planets and moons. These materials can then be processed into refined goods, which are often in high demand and can be sold for a significant profit. To get started with PI, you’ll need to have a planetary scanner and a mining ship, as well as the appropriate skills to operate them.
Choosing the Right Planet
Not all planets are created equal when it comes to PI. Some planets have more valuable resources than others, and some are more accessible. To find the best planets for PI, you’ll need to use the planetary scanner to analyze the composition of each planet’s surface. Look for planets with high concentrations of valuable minerals, such as Pyrite, Uranium, and Platinum.
Setting Up Your PI Station
Once you’ve identified a promising planet, you’ll need to set up a PI station. This station is where you’ll process the raw materials into refined goods. To build a PI station, you’ll need to have the appropriate blueprints and the necessary construction skills. The station can be placed on the planet’s surface or orbiting above it, depending on your preference.
Processing Raw Materials
With your PI station in place, it’s time to start processing raw materials. The process involves using various refineries and processors to convert raw materials into refined goods. Each type of raw material can be processed into multiple refined goods, each with its own market value. For example, Pyrite can be processed into Pyrite Ingot, Pyrite Dust, and Pyrite Shards.
Here’s a table of some common raw materials and their refined goods:
| Raw Material | Refined Goods |
|---|---|
| Pyrite | Pyrite Ingot, Pyrite Dust, Pyrite Shards |
| Uranium | Uranium Ingot, Uranium Dust, Uranium Shards |
| Platinum | Platinum Ingot, Platinum Dust, Platinum Shards |
| Isogen | Isogen Ingot, Isogen Dust, Isogen Shards |
Market Research and Trading
Now that you have a steady supply of refined goods, it’s time to sell them for ISK. To maximize your profits, you’ll need to keep an eye on the market. Use the market boards to track the prices of various goods and identify trends. Look for opportunities to buy low and sell high, and consider using market orders to automate the process.
Advanced PI Techniques
As you become more proficient in PI, you can start exploring advanced techniques to increase your profits. One such technique is Planetary Surveying, which allows you to analyze the composition of planets and moons from a distance, without the need for a PI station. This can help you identify promising planets before you invest in a station.
Another technique is Planetary Harvesting, which allows you to extract raw materials from planets and moons without the need for a mining ship. This can be particularly useful for players who want to minimize their investment in ships and skills.
Conclusion
Planetary Interaction is a versatile and rewarding way to make money in EVE Online. By understanding the basics of PI, choosing the right planets, setting up your PI station, processing raw materials, and engaging in market research, you can turn your PI endeavors into a profitable venture. With a
