Howdy Builders,
After announcing the highly anticipated release date of September 26th for the full version of Sandrock, we were thrilled to see an outpouring of questions from our dedicated community. Understanding the importance of addressing these, we managed to carve out some time with our esteemed director, Xuzhi. Join us as we delve into the details and provide insightful answers to the queries that have been on everyone's minds. Let's dive right in and get the answers straight from the source!
Table of Content:
1. How many main and side quests will be added in the Sandrock Full release version on September 26th?
2. Is the Late May/Early June update on schedule?
3. With such tight deadlines, can quality be ensured?
4. Will all NPC stories be fully implemented in the full-release version?
5. Will the promised features, such as having Kids, Greenhouse, and the factory, be implemented in the full-release version?
6. Currently, there are many empty areas on the map. Will there be changes in the full version?
7. How about Logan and Nia's story?
Q1: How many main and side quests will be added in the Sandrock Full release version on September 26th?
A: Our team is currently working on developing the grand finale content. There are still many stories to be told, including the storyline of Greening Sandrock. Compared to the current version, we have planned around 13-15 main quests and an additional 20 side quests. This means that, excluding NPC's side quests, players will have the opportunity to undertake approximately 30-40 more main and side quests in the Full Version. Additionally, the game will include over 30 captivating story cutscenes to enhance the immersive experience and story. As for NPCs side quests, players will have access to nearly 80 new quests, providing an abundance of exciting adventures to enjoy.
The following image shows the confirmed quests yet to be filled in. As you can see, the current workload requires 189 working hours/per person to complete. So, the tasks are quite tight.
Q2: Is the Late May/Early June update on schedule?
A: Our goal is to have all the story content ready for this next update. However, we are not certain that we can finish it by June. We will work hard to release the update in July instead, but it is subject to the development progress. Otherwise, the update will be part of the full launch.
Some may wonder why we don't release a smaller portion of the content to meet the original timeline. Those familiar with software development understand the challenges of managing multiple development branches. If we were to do so, we would need separate branches for the update, bug fixing, future content, and the full release. However, having too many branches introduces complexities and instability to the game project. Here's an example from our previous branch merging process, highlighting multiple yellow exclamation marks indicating merge conflicts. Resolving each conflict requires individual attention and verification, leading to a significant increase in workload.
We value player feedback and hope to incorporate it for better adjustments. The purpose of the Early Access version is precisely to steer development based on feedback for each update. However, whether we can release an update in July depends on the specific development progress. After all, our top priority is delivering a good quality game on the release date.
Q3: With such tight deadlines, can quality be ensured?
A: Currently, the story scripts are almost complete, with only minor adjustments possibly needed for the grand finale. We have also made substantial progress in implementing those scripts into the game, with about two-thirds of the main quests already done.
We are actively working on optimization and performance, and we've set specific goals for the desired outcome. The following table presents some results regarding loading speeds obtained from previous version testing and outlines the general directions we are striving for. Additionally, we will provide detailed updates on the progress later.
Q4: Will all NPC stories be fully implemented in the full-release version?
A: Upon the full release, we will ensure that each romanceable NPC receives a well-developed storyline and a corresponding ending. NPCs who play a significant role in the main storyline may have fewer dedicated side quests, while those with less prominence will receive additional side quests to enrich their character and story. Furthermore, based on valuable feedback and player preferences from previous player surveys, we have added more content for the NPCs that garnered high popularity.
For NPCs that have captured the hearts of players, we remain open to the possibility of adding their stories and additional content even after the full release. Our ultimate goal is to deliver a rich storytelling experience and ensure that every NPC receives the attention they deserve.
Here is the promised new romanceable NPC we're working on:
Q5: Will the promised features, such as having Kids, Greenhouse, and the factory, be implemented in the full-release version?
A: Yes, all these promised features will be included in the Full Version. As the kids grow older, they will interact more with the builders. You can enjoy the wonderful feeling of going on family outings.
Regarding the feedback about limited post-marriage interactions, it's because the marriage feature in the April version was basic, and post-marriage interactions weren't implemented yet. However, we've added a lot of post-marriage content during this time, which you can experience in the full release.
Additionally, we're introducing a factory in the Full release to provide more automation features and increase Builders' efficiency. For farming enthusiasts, the greenhouse system will be even more satisfying, with automation features integrated.
And that's not all! We're also introducing an exciting new game event called the Sandy Buggy in the full version.
Please keep an eye on our community channels for more details to be revealed!
[This is the factory feature in development]
Q6: Currently, there are many empty areas on the map. Will there be changes in the full version?
A: In the final part, the main scene of Sandrock will undergo major changes to align with the storyline, as the focus of the greening and afforestation. Although certain scenes may initially seem unfinished in the current version, rest assured that we will introduce fresh gameplay elements on the map in the full version. As the main storyline unfolds, the entire map will undergo various transformations. Furthermore, there will be 3 brand-new dungeons waiting to be explored. We hope that Builders will derive a strong sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when they witness the transformation they have brought to Sandrock through their hard work.
[Can you guess where this is?]
Q7: How about Logan and Nia's story?
A: The romantic tales of Logan and Nia are nearly finished, and their journey toward marriage is going smoothly. We've also included many cutscenes in their storyline, offering you the chance to relish captivating story CGs. Some of these CGs are even more intricate than those in the main story, which has playfully led our hardworking CG composing team to push their creative boundaries and showcase their exceptional talent.
That's all of our answers to the community's top burning questions. We will continue to share more details and information about the full version on another occasion. Stay connected with our community channels to keep informed and learn more, and as always, thank you for your support and love for Sandrock. You are truly the best!
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1084600/view/3695813264931598464?l=english
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