RPG protagonist update (v1.0.43)

This update brings more RPG elements to the game!

There is a new starting mode that allows you to create a custom starting pilot:

This allows you to customize the appearance and type of your first pilot (mercenary or android):

But that's not all, this pilot will start with two unique traits: versatile and loyal.
The versatile trait decreases the traits reroll cost significantly, meaning you can grow your protagonist in a way you like the most (that trait can also be rolled for some other pilots, but it is guaranteed for your avatar).
The loyal trait means no mission fees for this pilot.

In fact, the character editor can be used at any moment, for any pilot. You can customize to look like a team! Dress them in the uniform of your choice:

Another big RPG-related system is pilot specializations. Upon reaching level 10, the pilot can learn a special specialization trait. Those traits grant significant bonuses for a certain tactic / play style. Only one specialization per pilot is allowed - you can't learn another specialization after getting one. The future patches may introduce more specializations, and we're starting with 7.

This patch also includes several content and balance improvements, along with a few bug fixes.

Bug fixes:

• The research auto-continue after the lab was moved now works properly
• Shocker weapon hitbox is now properly aligned with its visuals
• Androids will no longer get useless behavioral starting traits because of their faction

Campaign:

• Added new politics action (it is especially useful during the Ensis route)
• Cult bosses got some new behavior tricks on the world map
• More way to affect the speed of the planet's tech progress growth
• 2 new Cult-related late game missions
• Cult Hunt mission gets 1 AUX deployment slot

Equipment:

• Added a new weapon (Needle Sprayer)
• Added a new drone launcher

Pilots:

• Added new hair colors
• The outfits can now have different colors
• Added new accessories, eyes, expressions, etc.
• New high-level unique traits: specializations
• In addition to specialization traits, there are also around 5 new "normal" traits
• Can use a character editor to customize any pilot during the game

Flagship:

• Added a new hangar booster module: Drone Accelerator
• Resource crafting modules are now cheaper

Balance:

• Charge-based weapons now do an auto-fire/release after 15s
• Changed the costs of many weapons, rebalanced values of some of them

Programming:

• Enabling fast-forward will no longer cause doubled input
• Added an "is focused" mode for sysvar query command
• The Time Lock commands get an extra ID argument - you can now easily use it inside the drone programming context
• The Scan Color command can now be parametrized by a vessel filter prefix command

Misc:

• Improves Stunner weapon attack animation

I still have more ideas for the game, so stay tuned.
If you want to discuss the game and share your ideas, join our discord (the game's main menu has the link).