Hello, Commanders!
This week has been a bit unusual: our lead artist has had to step away temporarily, so we won’t have new sprites for now. But don’t worry! Development is still moving full speed ahead, and here are the updates:
⚔️ Combat Rebalance
Damage vs. Defense: We adjusted the formulas so light units (infantry) aren’t wiped out by a single artillery shot, while heavy weapons still retain their tactical impact.
Cover and Terrain: We added minor penalties in difficult terrain (mud, ruins) and +20% defense bonuses in fortifications and trenches.
🔄 Improved Turn System
Turn Order Bar: We added a visual indicator showing the current unit, the next unit, and the one after, so you can plan your tactics in advance.
🏰 Fortification System
Construction and Repair: The combat engineer can build light trenches and fortifications and repair them.
Scalable Durability: Each fortification has 3 levels; leveling up increases its defense bonus from +10% → +15% → +20%.
Interactive Use: Units can now “anchor” to fortifications to receive additional fire and cover bonuses, represented by a small icon over the sprite.
Next Milestones
- Internal playtest of combat and fortification adjustments to fine-tune the numbers.
- Implementation of basic fortification animations (soldier placing sandbags, etc.) — this may take a bit longer while we find a new artist.
- Active search for a new artist or external collaborator to resume sprite work without losing momentum.
Thank you for your unwavering support! Even without art reinforcements, your patience and feedback are helping us forge a solid tactical game.
— Michael