Dear Community,
I am excited to update you today on the latest developments in my game. A crucial step has been taken to improve network stability and performance: the switch from UNET to FishNet! Additionally, I want to give you an insight into the upcoming content. But first:
Why the Switch?
Since Unity 2018.4, UNET has been officially declared obsolete and no longer receives updates or support from Unity. This change meant that I had to look for a modern and efficient alternative to offer you the best possible gaming experience.
What is FishNet?
FishNet is a modern network framework for Unity, known for its high performance and stability. It offers me the flexibility and scalability I need to further develop and improve our game. With features like efficient message handling, support for dedicated servers, and easy implementation, FishNet is an excellent choice for our game.
What Does This Mean for the Game?
With the switch to FishNet, you can expect a more stable and smoother online experience. There will be improvements in network performance and reliability, which are essential for multiplayer gaming. I now also have the opportunity to integrate new and exciting features that were not possible before.
Rebalancing the Talent Tree and Items
Another important aspect of my work is the rebalancing of the talent tree and items. My goal is to reduce the influence of items and talents so that choosing the right talents and items becomes less crucial. Instead, strategically building the right towers should take center stage. I want the strategic depth and player skill to have more weight.
Level 4 for All Towers
Furthermore, I am working on introducing a level 4 variant for all towers. This will add another layer of strategic planning and customization to the game. I am excited about the possibilities that this new level of tower development will bring and look forward to seeing how you use these new options.
Standard Mode
In the upcoming updates, some exciting revisions are planned for the standard mode. This mode will get its own scene, where you can select levels and talents. This allows you to plan your talent tree in a relaxed manner outside of the actual game. Also, it will soon be possible to purchase bank slots to safely store your items. Another planned feature is the ability to invite friends to play the mode together.
Roadmap: Additional Points
I am nearing the completion of three additional languages. All three languages are already selectable in the game and will be officially supported with the upcoming updates.
The custom key-bindings have also been completed. With the next update, you can easily set your own shortcuts!
I have also revamped the User Interface (UI). All windows can now be selected via a quick selection on the side of the screen. By default, no toggle is set, so opening one window closes all others. However, the windows can now also be pinned, which means they remain open even when another window is opened. In addition, there is an indication in the quick selection if new information is available in a dialog – for example, if new talent points are available or if an item has been picked up without the inventory being opened. There is also a new window for in-game notifications. For example, when a new enemy type is discovered, a click on the notification takes you directly to the description of the enemy type.
The Roadmap
New Map
It's not on the roadmap, but with the new update comes another new map for the game.
Emberwood Forest
Teaser (not final)
Large Map
Lava Dungeon
Graveyard Entrance
Your Support
I want to thank all of you for your ongoing support and patience during this development phase. Your feedback is incredibly
valuable and helps me steer the game in a direction that is fun for all of us.
Stay tuned for more updates and exciting developments!
Best regards,
Sascha