Hello everyone! The year 2024 is coming to a close. It’s been a challenging yet productive year for our team. Despite the hurdles, we’ve made significant progress on the game’s development. While the release is still a way off, we’re steadily moving forward. [img]{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/41896242/a44f901cdf58c499fc850b53e3c16b651e7ebeee.png[/img] [h3][b]Brief summary of the year:[/b][/h3] [list] [*] Added a host of new gameplay features, inspired by some games and anime. (You’ll see what we mean on release!) [*] Began work on a new game level, the Mines, introducing fresh enemies and weapons. [*] Updated the art style for backgrounds and environments, and improved the lighting. [*] Introduced new enemies: Shadow Warriors, a Warrior with a Naginata, and Hammerman. [*] Rewrote the game’s story and lore. [*] Implemented new mechanics, including a healing system for the protagonist. [*] Conducted an open playtest and gathered invaluable feedback. Thanks to everyone who participated! [*] Released a demo built on a new engine, featuring updated mechanics, features, and graphics. [*] Launched a new game mode called “Fever,” where players must complete the demo within a set time. [*] Translated the game into English (and we plan to add more languages). [*] Increased the project’s wishlist count and visibility, thanks to your incredible support and belief in us! [/list] We’re committed to delivering the game as soon as possible. Now, let’s dive into the latest updates. [h3][b]Level Editor[/b][/h3] Creating levels and arenas in Godot wasn’t easy, so we built an in-engine level editor to streamline the process. While it’s still being finalized and tested, we’re already loving it and plan to include it in the release. [img]https://i.ibb.co/J3R30md/image.gif[/img] We hope to integrate Steam Workshop in the future, allowing you to create and share your own custom campaigns! [h3][b]New Enemy — “a pudge”[/b][/h3] In the Mines, Leon will face a unique new enemy—a ‘pudge’. What does he do? He hooks Leon and pulls him in. What happens next? We’re still testing! Maybe he smacks Leon around. Maybe something more devious. [img]https://i.ibb.co/MZjZcZ5/image.gif[/img] The name for this character is still under development. Feel free to share your suggestions in the comments! [h3][b]Leon's New Weapon: The Hammer[/b][/h3] Leon’s new weapon in the Mines is a hammer (for those who forgot, he previously used a sword). With the hammer, you can knock enemies into the ground with a jump and smash them like skittles for devastating effects. [img]https://i.ibb.co/VqG0nhH/image.gif[/img] We’re considering designing the hammer in the style of a traditional Kanabo (金棒) to fit the Japanese setting. Got ideas? Share them in the comments! [h3][b]What About the Release?[/b][/h3] We’ll be honest. After reviewing the demo’s results, we realized we weren’t entirely satisfied. While most players enjoyed it, some noted a lack of combat variety by the end. Adding more weapons and enemies could address this, but we want every battle to feel electrifying and leave players craving more. To achieve this, we’ve reworked the combat system extensively—and we’re thrilled with the results! Development continues step by step, and we hope the release will be SOON™. We’re excited for what’s to come and will share more updates about the game’s development more frequently. Wishing you all a fantastic New Year filled with pleasant surprises, warm hugs, and amazing games! Love, HEART ABYSS Team