EVE Online’s PanFam empire crumbles in historic power shift
In the largest space MMORPG on Steam, a colossal power struggle is currently raging, which could change everything in the epic world of online games. A new power struggle is raging in Eve Online for the dominance of the universe, and a major player has to take quite a hit in this crazy game. A dramatic shift in power has rocked EVE Online as the once-dominant PanFam coalition collapses, leaving free territories open for gamers to explore. The alliance, which ruled over vast regions of space, now faces near-total defeat after its former ally, Pandemic Horde, abandoned it. Rival factions have seized the opportunity, launching relentless attacks that have reshaped the game’s political landscape. Player numbers have soared to heights not seen since 2021, with over 40,000 active users logging in to play these epic games. The surge follows CCP Games’ latest expansion, Catalyst, which introduced sweeping changes to mining, PvE content, and ship mechanics. Meanwhile, revenue for EVE Online has hit record levels since its acquisition by Pearl Abyss in 2018. PanFam’s downfall began when Pandemic Horde, one of its largest member groups, broke away. The departure left the coalition weakened, reducing its pilot count from over 49,000 to fewer than 18,000. Many former members defected to rival factions, further eroding PanFam’s strength. The Imperium, PanFam’s long-standing enemy, moved quickly to exploit the chaos. Forces locked down the R-AG7W star system, creating a brutal 'hellcamp' that trapped fleeing PanFam and Pandemic Horde pilots. The offensive culminated in the destruction of PanFam’s Keepstar, a key stronghold, and the capture of its remaining fighters. Pandemic Horde had justified its exit by claiming PanFam’s dominance was stifling the game. The group argued that unchecked control led to stagnation, limiting opportunities for other players. Their departure triggered a chain reaction, leaving PanFam vulnerable to the Imperium’s systematic assault. The conflict coincides with EVE Online’s Catalyst expansion, which overhauled resource gathering and PvE activities. New ships, mining upgrades, and freelance job controls have drawn thousands of players back to the game. These updates, rolled out by CCP Games, also included balance tweaks that altered the dynamics of large-scale warfare. With PanFam’s influence shattered, the Imperium now stands as the dominant force in key regions. The power vacuum has set the stage for further struggles, as alliances vie to claim abandoned territories and resources. The collapse of PanFam marks the end of an era in EVE Online, leaving entire regions open to conquest. Player activity has reached its highest point in years, driven by both the game’s new expansion and the shifting balance of power. As factions regroup, the fallout from this conflict could redefine the game’s political map for months to come.