It’s been a busy couple of months since we last spoke in November.
Between the Community Playtest in December and the release of our Major Patch in January, the team has been working non-stop.
We were thrilled with the feedback from the patch, but we haven't slowed down.
Now that the dust has settled, we are shifting our focus to expanding the world in a vertical direction. In February, we are diving deep… Literally.
We’re covering the design of new underground structures, a game-changing new gadget, and how we are shifting the balance of exploration and danger.
Let’s dig in!
This month, our design and art teams have been heavily focused on the implementation of our first set of Bunkers and Underground Structures.
City 20 has always been about what you can see on the streets, but now we are opening up what lies beneath. These aren't just empty rooms; they are intricate environments filled with new lore, hidden secrets, and unique items that you can’t find anywhere else.
You will need to brave the dark to uncover the history buried there, offering a completely new layer of gameplay for those who descend.
Exploring is about to get a technological upgrade. We are working on a new gadget: The GPS.
Once you acquire this device, you will immediately gain access to a Minimap directly in your HUD, helping you navigate the world without constantly checking the main map.
However, if you want to unlock the device's full potential, you will need to engage with the world infrastructure:
The Repeaters: You can now find broken GPS Repeaters scattered across the map.
NPC Tracking: While the minimap works on its own, repairing a Repeater links you to the local area's data. This allows you to track down specific NPCs located within that Repeater's signal zone, making it much easier to locate quest givers or traders in crowded areas.
Communication is the lifeline of City 20, and we want it to feel as natural as possible.
We are currently revamping the Dialogue Wheel to make interactions more fluid and seamless.
Getting lost in layers of options and sub-menus can happen, and we want to avoid it!
This redesign focuses on clarity. We are cleaning up the visual hierarchy to ensure you always know exactly where you are in a conversation, allowing you to focus on the story rather than fighting the interface.
With the introduction of Underground Areas, we are taking the opportunity to rebalance how Loot and Enemies interact.
Loot Rebalance: We are tweaking the global loot tables. While basic supplies remain on the surface, some of the most valuable and rare items are being moved underground. If you want the best gear, you’re going to have to go down and get it.
The Atker Threat: They have found a new home. We are rebalancing their spawn rates to make them significantly more prevalent in underground areas and the zones surrounding Bunkers.
They will be actively guarding the high-tier loot hidden in the dark. Expect a tenser, more claustrophobic combat experience when you step into "their territory".
As always, we are committed to keeping you involved in the development process!
We’ll share more details on when you can expect to explore these depths yourselves in the near future.
Thank you for sticking with us through the busy start of the year!
Until next time!