Hey everyone!
We’re excited to share an early look at the main content coming in the 1.1 NPC update. Version 1.1 will focus on new NPC systems, including companion automation, the addition of hostile NPCs, and battles involving fortified houses. Our goal is to add depth to the survival experience and offer more diverse gameplay elements.
1. Companion Automation
Your companion characters will now be able to automatically engage in combat, eat food, read books, and carry out necessary activities on their own. This update will allow you to focus more on your main character’s survival. To improve the companion automation system's functionality, we’re also working on adding various character animations for activities such as scavenging and eating.
Additionally, the companion automation system is being developed with customizable options so that companions can act according to your preferences. You will be able to toggle and adjust behaviors like movement style, attack patterns, weapon choices, and which types of books to read.
2. Introduction of Hostile NPCs
We are adding a variety of NPCs, such as bandits, pickpockets, and starving elders (non-hostile). These new NPCs will bring unique interactions, such as threatening the player to steal supplies or offering opportunities for players to help and gain morale boosts.
To distinguish NPC combat from zombie encounters, we’re creating a new combat system specifically for NPCs. Unlike zombies, NPCs will have a unified HP system and be subject to unique effects based on targeted attacks, such as bleeding or sprains.
To complement this system, we’re also revising the weapon mechanics. Instead of body-part-specific damage bonuses, weapons will now have different effects based on their type—slashing, blunt, or piercing. For instance, slashing weapons may cause bleeding, and head-targeted attacks could deal critical damage.
3. Battles with Fortified Houses
You will now have the opportunity to engage in battles involving fortified houses. These encounters, while challenging due to the presence of multiple NPCs, will reward successful players with valuable supplies.
In addition to these main updates, we’re working on adding more gameplay features, such as the ability to release recruited companions and unique voices for different zombies and NPCs. Your feedback has been instrumental in shaping this update, so please continue to share your ideas in the discussions! Your suggestions greatly contribute to our development.
While we’re pushing to release this new content as soon as possible, the extensive AI enhancements and content updates mean that the completion timeline is not yet set. We’ll keep you updated with any new information as it becomes available!
Thank you to everyone for supporting and enjoying Terminus: Zombie Survivors.
Best,
In-geon
Longplay Studios