Hello, Stalkers!
As December winds down, we’re excited to bring you the fourth Developer's Note.
We hope you're enjoying a cozy and joyful time with your loved ones. Here’s to a new year filled with happiness and good health!
In this update, we’ll dive into how Dungeon Stalkers is gearing up for crucial aspects of multiplayer gaming, including ensuring service stability and tackling disruptive behavior. We’ll also share progress on costume creation—something many of you have been eagerly awaiting.
Stay tuned!
Building a Stable Playing Environment
“Based on insights from previous tests, we’ve reinforced server stability and are working to deliver a more reliable experience in the next phase of service."
Through three rounds of official testing, Dungeon Stalkers has identified and addressed various server stability challenges under diverse conditions. While these tests may have caused some inconvenience, they were invaluable in driving improvements. We sincerely thank all participants for their patience and support throughout the process.
In the version currently undergoing internal testing, we’ve resolved many major issues, such as game delays and matchmaking instability. With these improvements, we’re confident that the next service phase will offer a more stable and enjoyable gameplay experience.
Implementing Anti-Cheat Measures and Strengthening Server Validation
“We plan to combat unauthorized programs with proven anti-cheat solutions and enhanced server-side validation.”
Dungeon Stalkers has consistently addressed reports of unauthorized program use and hacking during testing phases. Building on these efforts, we’ve implemented a market-proven anti-cheat solution and significantly strengthened server-side validation logic to greatly reduce the likelihood of hacking attempts.
Even if used out of curiosity or for fun, unauthorized programs disrupt fair gameplay and harm the experience for many players. We urge everyone to refrain from using such programs, as violations will result in penalties in accordance with our operational policies, without exception.
Let’s work together to maintain a fair and enjoyable gaming environment!
Introducing the Kill Cam
"Quick Problem Resolution with an Easy-to-Use Reporting Interface"
Despite ongoing improvements to our anti-cheat systems and server validation, misconduct can still occur in unpredictable ways. To address these challenges swiftly, we’re introducing a Kill Cam feature.
This feature will allow players to review instances where they were eliminated or encountered questionable gameplay, providing a simple and intuitive interface for reporting any suspicious behavior.
With Kill Cam, we aim to empower players to help maintain a fair and competitive environment while enabling us to respond to issues more effectively.
*This image is from a test build and is subject to change.
Following Early Access, we will enhance ongoing monitoring of hacking and unauthorized programs, maintaining a steadfast commitment to ensuring a fair and secure gaming environment.
+ 💡Bonus
Revealing Concept Art for New Costumes
“Excited for new costumes for your Stalkers?”
We’ve been listening to your feedback about wanting more visually appealing character designs, and we’re excited to finally share a first look at the concept art for some upcoming costumes.
Our team is working hard to create a diverse range of designs that bring even more charm and personality to your Stalkers. We hope you’re as excited as we are for what’s to come! Stay tuned for more updates.
*Please note that this image is a work-in-progress and may be subject to change.
We’re actively preparing a variety of costume concepts, with plans to release new and exciting skins on a regular basis following Early Access. We can’t wait to share them with you, so stay tuned!
That concludes this installment of Dev Blog #4.
As always, we’ll finish by answering some of the questions you’ve sent our way.
Thank you for your support!
Thank you for your support!
Q. What are your thoughts on removing the ability to replace broken armor with another, or shifting its focus from additional health to other attributes like defense?
A. We’ve tested various approaches to the armor replacement system internally, and ultimately found the current system more engaging from a gameplay perspective. However, we plan to adjust the duration of the armor replacement process, which has been a bit lengthy. Additionally, we’re introducing a system where players can partially restore durability using an “Armor Repair Kit” obtainable in dungeons.
Q. You previously mentioned a “restructuring of the skill system” in Dev Blog #3. Could you explain in more detail how it differs from the current system? I’m also curious to learn more about the “Perk System.”
A.The current passive skill system, which requires each Stalker to individually purchase and learn skills, will be revamped into the (tentatively named) Rune System. This update will streamline the process, allowing passive skills purchased at the account level to be easily applied to individual Stalkers. Additionally, players will be able to create and manage customized preset pages for their skill setups. The new Perk System will introduce a range of enhancements, from minor boosts to skill power, to entirely new effects for skills. This system aims to add greater depth and flexibility to skill configurations, giving players more options to tailor their gameplay.
Q. With many new characters being introduced, is there a risk that their development will delay releases or affect the timeline for other improvements?
A. The release schedule for new characters is progressing smoothly as planned, without causing delays to other updates or improvements. In fact, these efforts are part of our commitment to delivering richer content. We appreciate your continued interest and feedback as we strive to enhance the game.
Q. Are the designs of revealed characters finalized? Will updates include features like blinking animations?
A. Both existing and upcoming character designs are being refined based on player feedback to improve their overall quality. For instance, while it may not have been noticeable from the screenshots, Hilda’s body shape has undergone slight adjustments. We also plan to implement facial animations, such as blinking, in future updates to further enhance character expressions.
Q. Are there plans to introduce new traps or enemies? While new characters are great, adding these elements could make the game even more enjoyable.
A. As mentioned in earlier updates, we are planning to offer a variety of maps. Although the release timing will depend on development progress, our second map is expected to provide a distinctly different exploration experience compared to the prison dungeon, complete with new enemies and challenges.
Q. When will the new character wrapped in bandages, shown in the key art, be revealed?
A. This character is planned to join the roster in a future update following the release of Lián. We look forward to sharing their concept and backstory with you soon. Stay tuned for more details on this character and other upcoming additions!