by Gilles
Weekly Update
Hello, crew! Welcome back to our sometimes-weekly update on all things Unitystation. Whether you've been floating with us since the beginning or you've just hopped aboard, we're thrilled to have you here.
This week, we're especially excited to share some groundbreaking developments – and yes, you guessed it right! We're unveiling the first iteration of the new faith system. But enough preamble, let's get to the good stuff!
Set your suit sensors to max, pls
Attention crew members! Strap in and get ready for some electrifying news. Thanks to the tireless efforts of MaxIsJoe, our jumpsuits just got a high-tech upgrade: suit sensors are now live in Unitystation!
Wondering what these shiny new sensors do? Well, they're not just for show. These sensors, integrated seamlessly into your jumpsuits, come with varied settings to provide essential info. Whether you're the CMO keeping an eye on the crew's well-being or just a fellow astronaut wanting to keep tabs, these sensors have got you covered.
Here's how you can customize your suit sensor:
- Turned Off: Go incognito. With this setting, you're off the grid. However, it comes with a fair warning: If you find yourself in trouble, locating you might be a challenge.
- Vitals: With this setting, others can monitor your health status. Perfect for those risky spacewalks or when you're unsure about that alien plant you just ate.
- Full: The ultimate tracking package. This not only keeps an eye on your health but also broadcasts your exact location. Whether you're lost in the dark recesses of the station or just want someone to find you for a space coffee, this setting has your back.
Remember to set those sensors, crew. Stay safe and stay connected!
Reactor balancing
Remember those sudden, round-ending blasts resulting from reactor meltdowns, often thanks to a stray clown wandering into the reactor room? Well, those days are now a thing of the past.
Due to overwhelming feedback, Bod9001 has finely tuned the nuclear reactor's mechanics. The result? No more spontaneous explosions — unless someone is going out of their way to cause one. Instead of the dreaded explosion, the reactor will experience a meltdown. This entails the cooling pipes bursting and releasing a massive amount of heat, leading to the literal melting of the reactor chamber. This process results in the formation of corium, closely mirroring real-life nuclear events.
For those unfamiliar with the term, corium can be thought of as the aftermath of a reactor meltdown. Initially resembling molten lava, it eventually solidifies into a minable rock. However, don't be deceived by its static appearance — chorium continuously emits heat and radiation until it's safely discarded.
That being said, if your heart is set on creating a round-ending explosion for more... nefarious reasons, it's still possible. The secret lies in using a highly enriched uranium rod instead of the standard variant. But tread carefully: these rods are exclusive to traitors.
Windy with chances of head contusions
t's a scenario many of us have faced: you've wrapped up your space jog, and with your oxygen levels dipping, you're keen to get back to the safety of the station. You reach the airlock, ready for a smooth entry. But then, the relentless push of pressure greets you, playing a tug-of-war as you try to move forward only to be nudged back. It was always a jarring experience, making things look more glitched than they were.
Thankfully, those days are behind us. Bod9001 has come to the rescue again, refining the mechanics of space wind. Instead of a mere nudge, space wind now gives you quite the toss.
Note that in the gif there is a huge amount of gasses throwing the engineer around because of the reactor meltdown. Also note that wind flying time has been reduced now, but I still used this gif because I find it funny.
Fixed the radar not showing asteroids
Navigating space just became a tad safer. Thanks to JesterX666, the previously glitchy shuttle radars that turned a blind eye to looming asteroids have been rectified. Now, with fully functioning radars, you can confidently embark on your journey without the unexpected surprises from those stealthy space rocks. Safe travels!
Introduction of faiths
Last but not least, we have to talk about the introduction of the new faith system. Inspired by RimWorld, MaxIsJoe has been developing a new system with the chaplain as protagonist, and not only elevates the chaplain's role from mere cosmetic existence but also intertwines spirituality with gameplay for the entire crew.
So, What's the Faith System All About?
At its core, the faith system offers a doorway into the mysterious realms of SS13's occult and religious lore. But rather than being mere backstory fluff, this system is fully integrated into your day-to-day gameplay.
Roles and Faith: As a chaplain, you now have the esteemed duty of preaching and inviting others to your faith. Fellow crew members can easily join a faith by right-clicking a chaplain and selecting "Join Faith". However, tread with caution: you cannot be a believer of two faiths simultaneously.
Faith Properties: Each faith comes with its distinct properties, which might set gameplay goals for its followers. For instance, knowledge-based faiths might push crew members to gather as many research points as possible. Conversely, some indulgent faiths might challenge believers to satisfy insatiable appetites or remain inebriated.
Divine Oversight: Gods of these faiths aren't just passive entities. Every six minutes, they assess the station and their followers. Please them, and you might find blessings showered upon you. But fall short, and be prepared to face their wrath in the form of curses.
What's on the Horizon?
The faith system is currently in its first iteration and promises more as the system matures. For example:
- Chaplains will be able to anticipate harnessing the power of faith, using points earned from their followers' actions to invoke miracles or secure rare items.
- While many faith properties already come with associated events, some are still in the development phase. The ultimate vision is for all faiths to boast unique styles and event dynamics based on point fluctuations.
- For those who wish to craft their own narrative, the future promises a feature where chaplains and players can design bespoke faiths, breaking free from preset confines.
In summary, the faith system promises a seamless blend of gameplay, roleplay, and narrative, adding another rich layer to the multifaceted world of SS13. Whether you're a devout chaplain or a curious crew member, new spiritual horizons await!
And that is the end of today's blog post. I personally look forward for the expansion of the faith system as it looks like a very cool idea.
Also remember that these aren't all the changes we have been introducing, as some changes are subtler than others and can't really be featured in the blog post. For a full list of everything, visit our Changelog Page.
In closing, a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you – our Patreons, players, contributors, and friends. Your continued support, patience, and engagement make all the difference. Here's hoping to catch up with you again next week (fingers crossed)!