[h3]Development Progress Update[/h3][p]This is the first in a series of development updates for [b]Stormbane[/b], sharing progress as core systems come together and the game takes shape.[/p][p]Recent work has focused on stabilising and unifying the foundations of the game — particularly combat and AI behaviour — resulting in a much more coherent and playable core experience.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]Combat: Deliberate and Timing-Driven[/h3][p]Melee combat in Stormbane is built around intent rather than speed. Attacks, blocks, parries, and movement are governed by stamina, recovery windows, and positioning.[/p][p]Recent work has focused on:[/p][list][*][p]Directional attacks and defensive responses[/p][/*][*][p]Clear stamina costs and consequences[/p][/*][*][p]Knockback and recovery that reward good timing[/p][/*][*][p]Reducing button-spam in favour of readable fights[/p][/*][/list][p]Combat is now closer to its intended final feel: slower, weightier, and more tactical.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]AI: Playing the Same Game as the Player[/h3][p]A major milestone has been unifying AI and player combat systems.[/p][p]AI characters now:[/p][list][*][p]Use the same combat abilities as players[/p][/*][*][p]Respond to spacing, pressure, and recovery windows[/p][/*][*][p]Commit to actions rather than reacting instantly[/p][/*][/list][p]This has significantly improved melee encounters, especially in smaller engagements where positioning and timing matter on both sides.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]World Systems Taking Shape[/h3][p]Alongside combat work, foundational world systems are being brought online:[/p][list][*][p]Region and territory structure[/p][/*][*][p]Faction presence and influence[/p][/*][*][p]Internal tools for managing world data and iteration[/p][/*][/list][p]These systems underpin how the world will evolve as conflict escalates.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]Going Forward[/h3][p]With these core systems now working together, development can move faster and more confidently into expanding playable content and refining balance and feel.[/p][p]Future updates will focus on individual mechanics and features as they’re iterated on.[/p][p]Thanks for following along — more updates soon.[/p]