Hello, Chasers!
This month, our team is taking some very well-deserved time off during the holidays, but we still have a pretty packed newsletter for you!
This month, we released the car tablet module update, followed shortly by a minor update that improved the tornado simulation.
The tablet module and probe receiver update brought a ton of new shareable moments on social media, and we’re very happy with the overall reception from the community.
https://steamcommunity.com/app/1107320/eventcomments/682989180373075585/
We released an update to our tornadoes shortly after, improving pathing, pressure calculations, and temperature readings. This update was somewhat overshadowed by the major release, but the changes to tornado pathing should now feel much more natural.
https://steamcommunity.com/app/1107320/eventcomments/682989526499467247/
Our gameplay development focus is now shifting to the upcoming Weekly Challenge mode. This new mode will let players compete in the same scenario each week, compare their performance on a leaderboard, and earn rewards based on their ranking.
More information will be shared as we get closer to the release of this game mode. For now, here’s a screenshot of a Photoshop mockup of the menu:
The same system is also laying the groundwork for OUTBRK Forecaster, where players will be able to play real model runs tied to upcoming real-world events.
Work on the new tornado system is progressing very well. Most of the shader work is complete, and integration with the volumetric cloud shader is now underway, along with the first steps toward the new multi-vortex system.
We don’t have screenshots to share yet, as this phase is mostly technical, but what’s exciting is that this system gives us the tools to create a massive amount of variation in tornado shape, size, structure, and behaviour. Every tornado will feel unique.
We’re wrapping up the workflow for the new, higher-resolution weather model and are currently testing it with new data products such as weather soundings. We’re also planning how to start releasing scenarios generated with this new system and how to introduce them to players.
We’re working on new hail guards to fit some more rugged-looking cosmetics currently in production. We’re creating a series of more “backyard / home-built”-style chasing accessories, and this new hail guard will be part of that batch:
We’re getting ready for the OUTBRK competition at the National Storm Chaser Summit in Denver, from February 5 to 7, 2026. We’re all very excited to see familiar faces and meet new people. It’s going to be a great time.
That’s all for this development update!
Thanks for all your support. Consider leaving a review on the Steam store to help us reach more future chasers:
Till next time,
-The OUTBRK Team