Hello deep space explorers,
Here's an update on the upcoming free EA update! Plus, a question: who’s interested in playtesting the first two planetary systems of the new update and provide us with feedback? DM me if you're in (or reply to this announcement): your feedback will shape this game.
Progress on the next update is moving along smoothly and steadily. There are so many changes that we've decided to call it v2.0! :)
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes you can look forward to:
- v2.0 will emphasize your role as a deep space explorer/scientist. A new gameplay mechanic called the "Planetary System Study" will be introduced, where you must complete study tasks to deliver a final assessment of the system. Tasks could include things like “find and scan this plant species” or “build an atmospheric probe to analyze the atmosphere.” Each completed task reveals more about the planetary system.
- v2.0 extends EA's unique ray marching engine with polygon meshes. The polygons will be used to render details like vegetation, your ship, and other constructs.
- v2.0 introduces a building system inspired by a famous Danish toy brand, allowing you to build pretty much anything. Yes, even SNOT construction is possible (the building experts know what I mean :) ). You’ll be able to construct bases with teleporters to travel quickly between them. Imagine building a home on a distant planet in another dimension...
- The flight model has been tweaked—e.g. an auto-leveling system now keeps your roll aligned with the horizon. Full Thrust mode is gone, replaced with a more precise throttle.
- Flight controls have been simplified and streamlined. Fewer controls are now needed for standard flight actions, and all redundant control mappings have been removed.
- Dark energy will now appear in pockets you’ll need to fly through, demanding more skill and making flight feel more rewarding.
- Greater focus will be placed on the Radio Scanner, which has become more refined.
- You can now freely upgrade your ship by spending Expedition Points, earned by selling stones or artifacts to pylons. The number of ship systems and upgrades has been greatly expanded—there are now 50 in total, with more planned.
- The UI, HUD, and ship computer have been completely overhauled for a better user experience.
- The tutorial has been removed, replaced with a “learn as you play” system.
- Textures and images have been upgraded to 4K, delivering sharper detail and higher visual fidelity.
...and much more!
When can you expect the next update? That largely depends on the results of the playtest. If the new game mechanics prove to be fun in their current form, we’re aiming for a release by Q2 next year.
I hope you're as excited for v2.0 as we are! Thanks for your time, and see you soon.
nkm
