Hello, fellow Star Crusaders!
We've all been very busy here working on what seems like an endless list of features, bug fixes and improvements and I wanted to take some time to update you all on what exactly is happening in the Star Crusade universe. I'll try to make an update like this every weekend so we can keep the discussion going -- but this first one is going to be a big one, since there's a lot to talk about.
So, here we go -- these are the things we are currently working on:
1) Modules:
We are integrating the modules for all the factions now; that includes working on the new gameplay and deck user interface, creating the new module illustrations, as well as implementing and tweaking the modules themselves. Each faction will have around 7-8 modules to choose from, and each deck can include anywhere from 1 to 3 modules, so the possibilities are already very extensive. We will also likely be releasing new modules in future expansions. It's been a long time coming, but I really think you're going to like the result -- I can't wait for you to make your own custom decks using these modules.
2) iPad support:
The other big project we've been working on is iPad (and future iPhone) support. We will be demoing the game for the press at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco in March, and we need it to look and feel right. On top of that, we need to implement a way to allow a user to register for the game outside of Steam (on iPad) and then to allow that user to merge profiles into one account -- since Star Crusade will be fully cross-compatible, allowing you to play from your PC or iPad using the same account.
3) Balance:
We are also working on a large balance patch, which will include dozens of cards -- no faction will be left untouched, including neutral cards, and even some Paragons will be updated (I talked about some of these in our last developer interview). We also don't exactly know what's going to happen once all you fine people get your hands on the modules, so we may do another balance patch shortly after the modules are released, to address any big unforeseen balance problems.
4) Leaderboards:
We've expanded the functionality of leaderboards, and there will be five divisions, with 100 players each. Each player will be able to track his standing, wherever he is in the leaderboards, and there will be additional rewards for climbing ranks and reaching new divisions.
5) Deck sharing and importing:
This is another feature we're very excited about -- the ability to share your decks with friends or even post to the global Star Crusade database. You will have the ability to view the newest or most popular decks, browse by faction, by type of deck, or even by deck size. Then, with the click of a button, you will be able to import the deck into your own collection. Any missing cards will show up marked in the imported deck, so you can immediately decide whether you want to create or replace the needed cards. Try out popular (or strange) new decks or just use it as a starting point in your own deck creation!
6) GDC and PAX East show planning:
We're going to have a booth at the upcoming San Francisco Game Developers Conference on March 14th through 18th -- come join us if you're in the area -- and there is a lot to prepare. We're hoping to make a splash during GDC as we get ready for simultaneous release of the game on PC and iOS.
We're also going to have a big presence at PAX East in Boston this year -- April 22nd through 24th! We're hoping to put together some fun for the showgoers and maybe set up a live stream from the event... also a lot to prepare. :)
A few words about our update schedule: the reason why we haven't been able to roll out the updates and fixes that we've been working on piece by piece is because everything is intertwined and heavily in development. We want to get it into your hands in good condition, so we have to test the interlocking pieces thoroughly -- separately and together. Also, we finally switched over to Unity 5 and there was a ton of work dealing with artifacts and corrections from that upgrade.
We're hoping to have most of this stuff ready before GDC, and I will keep you better updated with our progress. Thank you very much for your patience and your support as we continue development -- we appreciate it!
PS: Season three of Star Crusade ranked play is ending at 11:00 PM PST on February 29th, 2016 (10:00 AM MSK on March 1st). I will make a separate announcement regarding the season rewards.
Thanks again, and see you in orbit!