If you are running the beta version of Star Explorers, you should be getting an update. The new version 4.0 is a brand new build of the game that will require players to start a new game. If you do not want to start a new game, keep using the default version (which is the same build as the previous beta).
IMPORTANT
If you do choose to start a new game, take the extra time to uninstall Star Explorers completely, then reinstall it. There are problems that occurred with the last build which may have been caused by some descrepancy betwen the various builds of the game. In order to eliminate this as a possibility, a fresh install will rule that out.
The new version has a number of improvements and new features, here's a list of what to expect. The new features list is rather short but offers some significant gameplay changes.
New Features
- New Unique Blueprint Items - you'll have to find them to see what they are.
- Locked Doors - some special places now require a key to get into.
- Solar/Manual Engine Limit - Solar and manual engines are now limited to working only in the current solar system or near the mothership.
Fixes
- Updated Terrain Generator - this time the terrain generator tests for terrain errors while building. Terrains larger than the default 14 x 14 (set in Video Options) may reduce your framerate, will take a longer time to generate, and will be more likely to cause the types of errors seen in previous builds. So far it seems to be working even on large terrains, but if you are feeling adventurous, try it out.
- Errent Sectors - there was a bug that allowed sectors to show up in the star chart that do not actually exist in the game. This should no longer occur.
- Landscape Flash - on planets, terrain objects would occasionally disappear and pop back into existence. Transitions should now be smoother, however it may reduce the framerate on slower machines. If the framerate reduction is significant, let me know.
- Storage Info Crash - Occasionally, reloading a planet would get stuck on "Updating Storage Info." This has been resolved, and should no longer occur.
- Ice Model Updated - Well, it looks exactly the same, but I reduced the number of polygons on the mirror ice model. This should improve the framerate on ice planets slightly.
My plan is to keep working on this version until the full release in May. I do not plan to add any new features that will require starting a new game. My focus will be on resolvine any remaining bugs, and streamlining the gameplay.
As always, let me know if you encounter any problems with the update, should you decide to use it.