This is the special update that I've mentioned a few times. A new addition to the town - Nika the dog!
Nika was my dog in real life. I lost her to heart disease back in February.
A few months ago I commissioned an artist to create and animate a 3D model of her that I could put in HammerHelm. I wanted her to do something special, so not only does Nika wander around your town, whenever she passes a townsperson they get a mood buff!
Nika is added to your town automatically when you place your Champion's Home. If you already have a home placed, she'll join the town once you get this update. When you walk near Nika, she will stop walking and sit. And yes, you will also be able to pet Nika as soon as the petting animation is ready.
I hope she brings as much joy to your town in HammerHelm as she did to my family in real life.
Oh and I should also mention that updates might slow down a bit for the next few days. I'm flying across country to attend a wedding and then as soon as I get back, I'm moving to another state! Busy week to say the least. I will have my laptop with me though so I might sneak in some work. :)