Hello, dear backers!

Today we're releasing our second update, and this one is all about performance and optimization!
We've dramatically reduced VRAM usage, improved performance on AMD and other non-NVIDIA graphics cards, added a proper shader compilation system, and much more.
This update should be downloaded and installed automatically through Steam.
If you don't see the update, completely exit Steam and launch it again to force it to check for the latest version.

We'll also be resending individual Steam keys today to any backers or late backers who didn't receive their key for any reason.
If yours never arrived, keep an eye on your inbox!
If you haven't received your email within the next 24 hours, please contact me at [email protected], and I'll make sure you get your Steam key.

Here's everything that's new:

🚀 Massive VRAM Optimization
We've reduced VRAM usage by at least 4 GB!
This should significantly improve stability, prevent many memory-related crashes, and may even allow the game to run on graphics cards with 6 GB of VRAM.

🎮 No More Hard Lock for Graphics Cards with Less Than 8 GB of VRAM
Previously, the game would refuse to launch on graphics cards with less than 8 GB of VRAM.
While Unreal Engine 5 still recommends 8 GB of VRAM for its native rendering features, I no longer want to prevent anyone from trying the game.
From now on, if your graphics card has less than 8 GB of VRAM, you'll receive a warning explaining that your hardware is below the recommended specifications—but you'll still be able to continue if you choose.
Thanks to the extensive VRAM optimizations, the game may now run on 6 GB cards.

✨ A Completely Redesigned Startup Screen
The first-launch system check has been completely redesigned, and I think you're going to love it!
Be sure to let me know what you think in the comments. 🙂

⚡ Shader Compilation Screen.
Some players reported stuttering and occasional freezes the first time they launched the game.
To eliminate this, the game will now display a shader compilation screen with a progress bar the first time it's launched (or after your graphics drivers are updated).
During this one-time process, the game compiles all required shaders ahead of time, ensuring smooth gameplay without shader-related stuttering afterward.

🔒 Added Windows Code Signing Certificate
The game is now digitally signed with a Windows certificate to help prevent Windows Defender and SmartScreen from flagging it as an unknown application.
This should provide a smoother first-launch experience and reduce the chances of Windows blocking the game from running.

🛠️ Other Fixes

Fixed a low-resolution texture for the cosmetic letter in the inventory.
Restored the missing New San Francisco skyline.
In the previous build, only the smaller buildings and the ruins of Old San Francisco were visible.
The New San Francisco skyscrapers have now been added back to the main level.
As always, thank you for your incredible support and for helping us make this project better with every update. Keep the feedback coming—we're reading every comment!