[previewyoutube=oyA_6mbNi4M;full][/previewyoutube] Hey everyone! It’s been a while since we’ve had a chance to share updates with you all directly. The team at Hometopia has been incredibly busy reworking systems, fixing broken things and adding loads of new features, so we’re happy to finally be able to talk about some of the exciting new Hometopia updates coming soon. [h3]MULTIPLAYER[/h3] First of all, we are working on a complete overhaul of our multiplayer system. We’re totally aware of how problematic MP has been in the past, so we are implementing a new system that will allow for seamless co-op play. No more drops or desyncs. Also, the UI flow for getting into a lobby together will be much simpler than before. That's planned to go live with our next big update this month, Hometopia update 7. [h3]UI UPDATE[/h3] Second, we are replacing all the EA placeholder UI with new UI art, which is looking really great. It's more sleek, more intuitive, and more satisfying to use. We'd love to hear what you think about it. It will go live with update 7, but you can check out this sneak peek now: [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/36312004/985649c218c45ce271457b5e98be9c0135f86f5c.png[/img] [h3]CAREER MODE?[/h3] Next, you’re probably wondering what’s next for career mode. We yanked the old career mode for several reasons, but mainly because it did not work particularly well. We are replacing it with a cozier, more forgiving and creative version called Home Designer. It's similar to the old career mode, but designed to feel more chill and approachable. It’s got all the same options from before but lets you work in a freer, more rewarding environment. Also, construction projects will now have an optional blueprint template to help beginner builders get into the swing of things. Expect to see Home Designer in November with Hometopia update 8. Later on, Hometopia’s World mode will finally bring community building to life. Players will be able to construct entire neighborhoods and commercial districts, building out the world map one community at a time. But more on that later…. [h3]NEW SOUND AND MUSIC[/h3] Early Access Hometopia has always been a bit lacking in the ~~ vibes ~~ department, particularly with audio. To remedy that, we have created environmental audio ambience for each location appropriate to the terrain. So Fortuna Shores now sounds like a coastal beach area. Agave Valley sounds like a desert. It makes a big difference in making the locations feel more alive and believable. Also, to accompany the ambiance, we’ve added new music tracks that give a chill, lofi beats sort of vibe, which really lets you tune out and focus on building. Of course, music is subjective so we’d love to hear your thoughts if you think this musical direction works for the game. Audio updates are coming this week, in update 6.1. [h3]CARS AND PEDESTRIANS[/h3] In addition to the audio, we’re making neighborhoods feel much more active and immersive with the addition of pedestrians and cars. No more empty streets and sidewalks, neighborhoods will bustle appropriately depending on how busy the location is. That’s planned for September in update 7. So, you can see we’ve been busy with lots of exciting stuff in the works! Thanks so much for all the support as we’ve worked through the early access snags. Know that we’re committed to making Hometopia the best builder we can, with tons of new features and content planned for the future. Expect to see regular feature updates posted here in the coming weeks!