Phase 3 of Elite Dangerous: Odyssey has begun.

Today, Phase 3 of Elite Dangerous: Odyssey, dubbed Exo-Biology, has begun. With this phase, players will be able to test the exploration features that will be implemented when Odyssey is fully live, such as first-step mechanics and more.

Since March 29, testers have been pushing the upcoming expansion for Elite Dangerous to its limits, testing walking missions and some basic travel between systems. Now, with Phase 3, more exploration has opened up, with players able to travel 50 light-years away from their starting system, as well as test exploration-based mechanics such as its first Footfall system.

Via a press release:

“The third phase of the Alpha Odyssey continues to expand the reproducible part of the galaxy to 50 light-years and shifts the focus to the exploration of undiscovered planets and the career path of exobiology. In addition, the Commanders will finally experience the coveted “First Step ” moments within Alpha when they first set foot on a previously uncharted planet.”

Elite Dangerous: Odyssey is currently being tested on PC, and the full expansion is scheduled to launch on PC this spring. Console players will unfortunately wait until this fall before they can experience the expansion. Phase 4, Compatibility, is still on the way, which will allow Frontier to take all the knowledge and systems demonstrated in the previous three phases and ensure full operation with existing game systems. Setting of the game kind of looks like Destiny 2.

Well, a new sampling gameplay is also available with the help of the Genetic Sampler tool. This tool will allow players to sample organic life on planets, such as vegetation, using a new surface scanner as you approach the planet to make sure you land in the right place. From there, you’ll register your discoveries, and if you happen to be the first to register that particular organic sample, you’ll get a bonus.