Hello, Researchers!
In my last dev update, I mentioned that the upcoming v1.2 update would be a smaller (mostly QOL) patch. Well... I'm happy to say that there's a bit more to it than that :)
As we approach our 1st year anniversary, I wanted to add some new content to the game and share an early preview for it. If you want to access the newly added content, you can join the v1.2 beta now!
🔍 How to Join the Beta:
- Right-click Research Story in your Steam Library.
- Select Properties > Game Versions & Betas.
- Type carefreebeta into the Private Versions field and click Check Code. (❗️ We highly recommend backing up your save files before playing).
One of the biggest tedium in the mid-late game is taking care of your many creatures. Introducing 5 new farm buildings to automate creature care!
📋 Beta Highlights:
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🌿 Better Creatures and Crops Management: Try building the 4 new Creature Enrichment Areas + Magical Spa (new Farm Buildings at Theo's), and use advanced Soil Modifiers (Catalyst, Stasis, and Bountiful Soils) to streamline your daily chores.
💨 Fast Travel Scrolls & Medallions: Zip around with the new Return and Mines Scrolls, as well as permanent Return and Mines Medallions!
✨ Streamlined Crafting & QOL: Fixed-ingredient recipes now pull directly from your inventory. Your Journal now has an Index Page to track all researchables. Plus, try using your Scythe to break crates and pots in the mines!
🧘♂️ "Relaxed" Game Mode: Want a stress-free experience? Toggle this mode at any time to stop animal happiness decay, lower shop prices, and remove harsh environmental debuffs in the deep mines.
🎁 Increased Archive Rewards: All Archive books now have a Gold reward tagged to them on top of their usual item rewards. Returning players will receive a mail with retroactive rewards.
🤫 ...And More?
There's a brand-new Archive Book in the game: "Summit and Shallows Vol. I". Rumour has it that a special new species has migrated to Shimmerbrook. Will let you find them on your own - be sure to check the muddy lowlands and keep an eye on the Summit Hot Spring! These creatures have a big impact on how it feels to play the game - any guesses why? :)
You might also find a new vendor somewhere in the Mushroom Forest...
New Journal Index to keep track of your progress easily!
Please keep in mind that this v1.2 Beta is a Work in Progress. Over the next few weeks, I will be fixing bugs and adding to the build based on your feedback before the official late-July launch! See detailed patch notes here.
📅 What’s Next?
- In a few days: Research Story will be participating in the Steam Summer Sale with a special discount! If you have friends waiting to jump into the game, that will be a great time to grab a copy.
- 22/23 July (Anniversary Day): The official launch of the v1.2 Carefree Creatures Update! Everyone launching a save on or after this date will receive exclusive Anniversary Decor in their mailbox to celebrate our first year together.
Please share any bug reports and feedback in our Discord or by using our bug report button on the bottom right of Main Menu. Hope you enjoy the beta and all feedback is very much appreciated! 💗
Miki
