Since the release of the Sand Update, I've been working on the next Community Update. Like most updates, I've let it get away from me and I've grabbed a few line items from future updates in addition to adding a few unplanned ones. But I'm excited to share with you what you can expect in the next update, which should be ready first thing in 2024.
Creative Mode
Starting in this new update, when starting a new game or loading an existing save, advanced game options can be selected to disable resource costs, enable infinite survival and other options which allow a build focused game session.
Angled Pieces
In the spirit of building, I decided to bring forward an exciting feature from the upcoming Content Update - angled ship pieces! In my limited testing, it's created so much more interesting builds and I'm excited to see what you build with it. Some limitations apply with the current sets of pieces but I'll continue to expand this for the next update.
Build From Storage
When not in Creative Mode, working on a large build started to become tedious. Now, with the Build Range Extender equipped, building (and research) will pull from your inventory first, and nearby containers second.
Visual Updates
What started as a one night experiment of "what-if", I began exploring some visual updates, specifically adding outlines to the models. I've found it really adds a better sense of depth to the game and am excited to hear your feedback.
Decreased Bot Friendliness
I've had a long talk with our robot friend and asked him to give people more personal space.
Crafting Quick Buttons
Managing inventory and splitting stacks is great, but should not be the main action of the game. Crafting machines now have three new actions: Clear Inputs, Add One and Add Five which can give you easy methods to load up machines with the right materials. And with the Build Range Extender equipped, it will pull from nearby containers.
Inventory Sorting
In the spirit of reducing tedium, I've added two new inventory actions. Sorting and Quick Insert. Sorting works as expected and Quick Insert will attempt to transfer any items in your inventory that currently exist in the container.
Basic Controller Support
This update will also contain basic controller support for Drift. I plan on playing Drift exclusively on a Steam Deck over the holidays to iron out any kinks before this update drops.
Misc Changes
- Updated Engine which should fix more unexplained crashes
- Increased the light output from your flashlight in both low and high power mode
- Turn off the "add a crazy amount of lag" option of the build smoke
- Fix lots of little bugs
I look forward to your feedback when Community Update 2 releases early next year. If you're interested in testing builds sooner, reach out on Discord!