Hey everyone!
This update is a pretty big one, and I'm excited to finally share what's been in the works. There are some major system changes, new mechanics, and quality-of-life improvements. There is a lot to share so let's get right to it!
Saved Games
I first need to let everyone know that this update will require you to start a new world. There are so many changes, big and small, that this update will break your saved games and you'll need to start a new world.
Art Update
The first thing you'll probably notice is the game has a new stylized appearance. I'm focusing on bold shapes and clear visuals that emphasize how your factory actually works. By keeping the art clean and simple, I can make sure the game runs well while looking great. Using a simpler style is going to be a big help in keeping factories optimized and easy on your GPUs. And as an added bonus I want to eventually allow modding and this style will be easier to replicate.
Trains
Trains are now in the game! They are functional, but still a work in progress, as with most of the game. Trains work by manually interacting with a locomotive, adding stations, and switching the drive mode to automatic. Add cargo wagons and loaders and unloaders to automate moving of resources. While the core loop is in place, this phase is about gathering feedback: what works, what doesn't, and where development time should go next. So please don't forget to hop in the discord and let me know what you think.
Belt Splitters & Mergers
This update brings separate splitter and merger machines for belts instead of the combined 2:2. This gives you easier control of belt management with 1:3 and 3:1 splitting and merging. They each also have controls for setting priority lanes and item filtering on splitters.
New Assembling Machines
There are new assembling machines for different types of recipes. The Constructor, Assembler, and Fabricator. The Constructor is a small 1:1 machine great for recipes that only use one ingredient. The Assembler is a 2:1 machine that is used for more complicated recipes that need 2 ingredients. And lastly the Fabricator, a mid game machine for complex recipes with up to 4 ingredients.
Tech Tree Balancing
I've revamped parts of the tech tree to try and balance the progression better. Some late game items are not fully balanced so I'm looking for feedback on what you think and how it progresses. Does some research feel too easy or too hard to unlock, does the reward match the required items, etc.
Resource Nodes
This update forces one of each resource node to generate near the spawn area (except crude oil). This should help players in the early game by not having to run far to find a resource node. I would like to continue improving the generation of nodes by clustering the same type together. I'm not sure the exact number but maybe 3-5 in a nearby area.
Availability
This update will be rolling out very soon!
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As always, thanks for reading and head over to the discord to learn more https://discord.gg/xmmPeZHj4T