Greetings Haunters,
First, thank you for your continued support as I continue to develop this game, I am looking forward to hearing your feedback on the new changes and new ways to play Horror Tycoon!
My initial concept for the game was always a combination of 2 genres I love, Tower Defense and Tycoon/Management. I know a lot of players wanted more of the latter so this will be an exciting change to the game.
Speaking of new things...
Horror Tycoon is still being worked on and some big changes are coming to the core gameplay loop in Q1 of 2024. I originally had planned for this update to be ready before the end of the year, however, was unable to reach that deadline, but, I have been hard at work over the past few months implementing new systems and functionality to make the gameplay more exciting and interesting.
Note these changes do not affect Sandbox/Creative mode :)
What to expect in the coming weeks:
This new update will break any existing saves as there are a lot of new variables and data that is saved so be advised if you are attempting to load a save and it crashes... this is most likely the reason.
The experimental branch on Steam will receive a preview of this next update for you to test and provide feedback on if you wish to do so. Once testing has been completed and any major bugs squashed the update will roll out to the public version of the game. If you want to try the experimental build when it is live, Right click on Horror Tycoon in your steam library then access the Beta's tab to find Beta Participation and select Experimental. Steam will then download and update your game to the experimental version, and to opt-out just do the same as before but select none as the beta option.
Now, onto the fun stuff!
NEW Power Management system - Install generators/batteries to keep your off-the-grid haunts up and running. Items that require power will have a power level indicator of the minimum power needed for the item to run so you will need to plan accordingly to ensure you have enough resources to keep expanding your build.
NEW Refueling System - Most of the generators will require fuel so you will need to refuel, but as you are well aware fuel is expensive so you will need to manage your finances to ensure you have enough for the equipment, fuel and potential repairs! Refueling can be done via first person or regular top down view, if your fuel runs out attractions will turn off and each one will need to be turned back on to ensure you can scare your guests!
NEW Breakdown system - Items that require power or have moving parts will breakdown randomly over time, the chances can of course be reduced by upgrading your traps, however, even at max level it wont completely stop them from breaking down over time.
NEW Repair system - When your item breaks down you will need to ensure you have the correct parts in stock, if you do, you can easily repair an item in either first person mode or the normal top down view via the UI.
NEW Parts Store - There are hundreds of components, circuits, motors, gears etc... you will need to find the correct part, purchase it, and once you have all parts needed... install them to repair your item. You can find the parts needed on the backside of any item card in the build menu.
There will also be some new scare traps, decor, secrets to uncover and construction items added in this update as well but primarily this update is focusing on the Tycoon / Management aspect of the game with even more depth to come later this year.
Even more new and exciting things are coming!
I hope you had a wonderful holiday with family and friends and bring in the new year safely and with excitement for new experiences in 2024!
Happy New Year,
Casey
Owner - Smidge Games LLC