This is the biggest update so far. It changes everything related to the global map.
Although I could not migrate to UE 5.5 due to bugs I've found, I used a new package type for the game which should increase performance by up to 50% compared to previous versions. As a downside of this, I can no longer see errors in the game except for crashes. Please inform me if you find something; I'll create a bugfix thread.
Another important fix is AI changes. I refactored AI-related code and I suppose got rid of AI stucks. Please let me know if you see this.
The research tree was rebalanced, with new researches added. Researches and crafts are now divided by tiers, and to be able to start new production/research, you now need to have enough research/production points. So, better buildings and skilled workers are required.
The Proficiency Hall was reworked. Now, instead of increasing all proficiencies related to an origin, the player should pick the desired upgrade.
Character origins were reworked to better fit the changes. Now they provide less proficiency attributes but increase the speed of obtaining new proficiencies.
Factions' gathering spots were improved; they have a better amount of gathered resources but require either reputation with the faction or gathering licenses, which may be bought in factions' settlements.
A big rebalance of party vehicles/equipment was done. New researches were added which allow upgrading existing vehicles. Also, vehicles are now more specialized for hiding/carrying/overall purposes.
The player's fortress now has 2 additional building slots to allow the construction of all possible buildings (some of them, like the player's own teleport, still in progress).
Almost all buildings now have upgrades or better versions for mid-game (research required). The first tier of buildings is split into basic and upgraded versions to construct different buildings much easier, but to have the full power of them, they need to be upgraded.
Settlement slots now require different reputation with the faction to allow construction.
Wages were reduced, but overall income from gold was reduced as well. Now money management should be more important than before.
Slowed down characters' regeneration on the map. Hospitals are now more important than before.
New items and crafts have been added.
Overall, all global map gameplay should be smoother but more challenging.
Thank you, and waiting for your feedback! :)