Greetings, space cowboys! It's been some time, and we're thrilled to bring you news about the latest Exoplanet: First Contact update. This update is all about enhancing gameplay features, level design, and optimization, with less focus on the narrative. Additionally, we've included a much-anticipated feature—gamepad support! Let's get started. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/70cb14f805754a4882e95f45b8f5a697fea4beaf.png[/img] [i]For those still playing Build 0.73: With the release of 0.74, all saves from 0.73 will no longer be compatible. To accommodate players who want to continue using their existing savegames, we have created an additional branch on Steam. To access it, right-click on the game in your library, select "Properties," go to the "Betas" tab, and choose "update_073_compatible." No password is required. This way, you can continue your previous savegame. [/i] [h2]Take Full Control[/h2] One of the most anticipated features is gamepad support. We know many players find this method of gaming convenient, and while Exoplanet: First Contact is currently a PC-exclusive, we've ensured full support for the most common controllers from modern console manufacturers. Older versions of Xbox and PlayStation gamepads, including those from third-party manufacturers, should also work seamlessly. [img]https://i.imgur.com/z47qXX4.gif[/img] To enhance your gamepad experience, we've implemented focus and aim assist systems. Even our developers who usually stick to keyboard and mouse found themselves impressed with the results. We've worked hard to create a convenient default control scheme by analyzing similar modern games, but players will be able to customize the controller configuration to their liking. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/5d7798d8cc5632dd0a04198f7d877e4ab13f8784.png[/img] We plan to do extensive testing with experienced gamepad users (that's you!) and address any issues. We're also working on additional features like touchpad gestures, adaptive triggers, and various types of vibration. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/2307ed219502a377c0bfb146544cb39eed2d5e09.png[/img] After playing the new build on different gamepads, we're excited to utilize the capabilities of these devices fully. We're interested in your feedback on possible gyroscope support in Exoplanet, and whether you think we should support speakers and built-in microphones on compatible devices. Let us know in the comments! [h2]Adopt a “Healthy” Routine[/h2] One of the key features bringing the game world to life is Daily Routines for NPCs. We've developed our own toolkit to implement this aspect. These routines aren't just cosmetic; they're an essential narrative element. By observing characters' work, rest, and other activities, you'll better understand their lives and how to interact with them. [img]https://i.imgur.com/I8P1DZ9.gif[/img] Now you can lunch with Lockjaw and his companions, run around the camp with the feisty Sneaky, or find the best time to check out their living quarters if you're that kind of player. Named characters now have varied routines, and our work won't end there. Eventually, even extras and some monsters will have meaningful behaviors. [h2]Got Bullets = Got No Problems![/h2] What if you run out of bullets on a desert planet? Craft them yourself! Jack can now use his Tech skill to unlock recipes for different types of ammo, including advanced ones effective against specific targets. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/238fe645e0393453caa099a2827c262fed35454e.png[/img] Crafting changes in build 0.74 don't stop at ammunition. Jack can now create useful consumables like healing tinctures or antidotes from ingredients found in the world. Many seemingly useless items can also be disassembled into crafting ingredients or sold. [h2]Say No to Stripes[/h2] We have received feedback on multiple occasions that transparent stripes on certain elements of the graphic interface could lower the readability of the text. After conducting comparative tests, we decided to remove these stripes from text in many windows and fields. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/4777d3fc2bacc238d0a55f9fc775c9b5f0474a41.jpg[/img] This change makes icons more vivid and texts easier to read. While some stripes remain for non-critical elements to retain the retro-tech feel, please let us know if the new visuals are easier on your eyes or if you prefer the old design? [h2]Holy Moly, What the...?![/h2] [img]https://i.imgur.com/x7vNPh0.gif[/img] Introducing poison-spitting crucas! Jack can no longer sit on a ledge out of their reach and shoot them like fish in a barrel. Any traveler on K'Tharsis knows it's better to have an antidote and not need it than the other way around. This is the first iteration of special attacks with ranged projectiles for monsters. Ultimately, we want mobs to be capable in ranged combat and have abilities that reflect their alien biology. Crucas is the first test subject in this evolution. [h2]A Cushy Job[/h2] While polishing the main storyline, we're adding small side stories to the game's world. These quests reveal the lives of ordinary settlers and provide a moral choice or require ingenuity to complete successfully. Jack won't find easy money on K'Tharsis. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/a67ec02e8178c76ab034bfccd1e0f963c1ee5036.jpg[/img] One such quest, starting with a notice on the board in the Outcast Outpost, lets you help a complex individual overcome a bad habit—or not. We'll be adding more quests like this in future updates. [h2]A Thousand Little Bits and Pieces in Sound Design[/h2] [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/2bc25218e01e21507bcc48a5029e886c754e82b1.png[/img] Our sound engineers have introduced effects for most interface elements, enhancing the immersive experience. Striking the right balance, these sounds are expressive yet not overwhelming, harmonizing with the game's style. New sounds have been added for interactive objects and mechanics, including climbing ropes, ladders, finishers, choking targets, melee attack shouts, and picking up bone objects. We've also designed sounds for new features like the spitting crucas. [h2]New Outfits[/h2] [img]https://i.imgur.com/qKe3UH4.gif[/img] Several new clothing sets have been added, enhancing NPC visuals. Hats and accessories can complete a stylish look, whether you're a sophisticated gentleman, a hardworking farmer, or a desert raider. Some NPCs now dress to better match their characters and occupations. [img]https://i.imgur.com/W2ZwmIV.gif[/img] [h2]Changes and Improvements to Locations[/h2] The Scalphunter faction's camp has been revised and polished. Emphasizing their nomadic and traditional lifestyle, the camp now uses more natural materials, with individual structures gaining more detail. [img]https://i.imgur.com/GrikWSF.gif[/img] The camp has undergone some minor restructuring and changes in the appearance of the tents for better navigation. For example, the shaman's tent is now easier to spot from the outside and inside, there are more characteristic cult features. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/5a9210b698b01e45ade5f293e33058b20c03fbcb.jpg[/img] A new Fast Travel point is located next to Rusty Nails shack. Safe zones have been added at key locations where players can rest and sleep. [img]https://i.imgur.com/jpPOboR.gif[/img] Other improvements include: [list] [*] Enhanced points of interest in the large desert [*] Updated visual appearance of the Leviathan [*] Added more stealth bushes [*] General polishing throughout the game [*] Additional stealth bushes [*] General polishing everywhere [/list] [h2]Tech & Engine[/h2] We've focused on optimization in this update. Most players should notice significantly improved FPS, up by 30% or more depending on their PC configuration. We'll continue to improve performance, so let us know if you encounter any issues. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/9d888d1d502f878ecefd66d6829e7bc5e2dea313.png[/img] In the options, you can now set an FPS limit to prevent GPU overload, especially in menus. The default limit is set to 90 FPS, but you can customize this in the settings. Many players, especially streamers, prefer playing without a window frame when not in full-screen mode. Now, they have that option. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/a147a2121d42a40a9a3a9fbdbceaca46c7c77fa6.jpg[/img] Previously, if players alt-tabbed or clicked a lot during loading, the game window could turn gray and appear as Not Responding, causing confusion and process termination. Now, the game window functions normally during loading. We also fixed several small bugs related to screen mode switching (windowed to fullscreen etc.). [h3]P.S.[/h3] [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/fe8cb1334379933af4e5c4888af77f53dd412837.png[/img] Stranger finally got his stylish hairstyle back! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- That's it for now—we hope you enjoy the update! Share your feedback, report any issues, and join the discussion [url=https://steamcommunity.com/linkfilter/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fdiscord.gg%2FC3AvpQwmNn]on Discord[/url]. Until next time, space cowboys! [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/27028179/8c058f09536d3d163082bc9d792b940eac4f5e38.png[/img] https://store.steampowered.com/app/531660/Exoplanet_First_Contact/