When Encounter was released in December 2024, the priority was to make sure the game was playable and did not have any critical defects. Most reports have been positive, but I knew there were a few things that could have been done better.
This update focuses on polishing the experience.
Performance issues
For a game running on a 1MHz 6502, the game runs quite smoothly overall. However the intro and especially the typewriter sequence became painfully slow toward the end.
This has now been significantly improved.
Screen Refresh
Some scene descriptions were flickering (disappearing and reappearing) when picking up items.
A new "bubble" handling system has been implemented to fix this. It took longer than expected due to cutscene complications.
Non-Visual Items
Many more items are now properly visible on screen: cardboard box, net, hose, protection suit, knife, snooker cue, handheld device, clay, tin box, matches, and more.
Missing Interactions
Added more alternative solutions in key sections and improved hints so players no longer get stuck in "funnels".
Hopefully this helps more people finish the game!