Apocalypse Approaches Alpha 3.0 has been released!
You can download the latest update to the demo for free on Steam! This version contains the newest features, including a new movement tool called Blink, more Cogs, and permanent upgrades that persist between runs.
1-Minute Clock
In version Alpha 2.0 and prior, the Clock could go up to a maximum of 3 minutes. From playtesting, we found that players who gained enough time would feel safe and stop worrying about the clock. We want our players to always be thinking about the clock and constantly fighting to keep it from running out, so we've decided to lower the maximum time to 1 minute.
Also, this means that you’re perpetually in the last minute before the end of the world!
Dodge Roll is now Blink!
As development for Apocalypse Approaches has progressed, we have found that a fast-paced & high-octane gameplay is preferred over slower and more methodical, decision-focused combat. Our dodge roll was a bit too slow for that kind of gameplay, so the roll has been replaced with a quick dash called Blink.
In addition to being faster, Blink also deals damage to enemies that you pass through, and you can upgrade its damage, range, and effects using SOUL cogs!
Spells have become Cantrip!
In version Alpha 2.0, you could find and equip up to two spells from chests and shops, which you could swap out at any time. However, we found that once a player gains spells they like, any other spell pickups that spawn become useless.
In Alpha 3.0, we've decided to replace spells with Cantrip, a basic projectile that you can upgrade with MIND cogs. Instead of needing to swap between spells, you can stack a bunch of different effects on the same Cantrip!
Introducing Entropy Upgrades
During a run, you can collect mysterious orbs known as Entropy. By speaking to the Grandfather Guru in the Citadel, you can gain permanent upgrades that persist between runs!
Flow Time
Flow Time is a special state you can enter that will slow down time, slowing the Clock and enemy speed! Use it in dangerous encounters to gain the upper hand, or to reduce the threat of the Clock while exploring!
Time Reserves
Time Reserves are 15-second capsules of time that you can use to rewind the clock! They will automatically activate if you get too low on time, or you can choose to rewind at any point.
Time Reserves allow you to go above 1 minute if you use them while close to full time! While above 1 minute, your melee and spell attacks do more damage!
Orbiting Time
Orbiting Time upgrades allow you to collect additional Time Orbs that hover around you while at full time! Upon losing time, those orbs will automatically refill the clock.
New and Improved Cogs
We've rebalanced all of our existing Cogs and added a bunch more! In addition to BODY, MIND, and SOUL cogs, which improve your Sword, Cantrip, and Blink respectively, we've also added simple STAT cogs that give minor enhancements to your stats!
New and Improved Environments
We've added several new rooms and rebalanced all enemy encounters! To aid with exploration, we also added a mini-map in the corner of the screen, and a full-screen map you can view at any time.
New Visuals and Music
Apocalypse Approaches has gotten a makeover! Almost every piece of art has a new and improved look, including the player, the environment, and the user interface.
Additionally, the main area has a new song! Check it out in-game, or in our new trailer!
Thanks for your Support!
All of us at ideo ame are incredibly grateful to players like you for supporting Apocalypse Approaches! Your feedback has been crucial for making the game the best that it can be, and we're very excited to keep working on this game and show it to you all! Stay tuned for more updates on Steam, and feel free to follow our socials for more updates on development!
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Overall Change Log
Reduced maximum time to 1 minute
Replaced the dodge-roll with Blink, a dash that can be upgraded with Cogs
Replaced random spells with Cantrip, a simple spell that can be upgraded with Cogs
Added Entropy Upgrades, including Flow Time, Time Reserves, and Time Shield
Modified all existing Cogs and added many more
Added several new rooms
Added progressive fire, which spreads as the timer ticks down
Added a new enemy, Strawman
Streamlined and shortened tutorial
Improved visuals for player, enemies, environment, and UI
Added a new main song and sound effects
Removed subdials (in favor of new cogs and Flow Time)
Many bug fixes (and probably some new bugs!)
For making it to the bottom, have a party with this goober :D
