Dear Survivors, I am the producer of Winter Survivor Protocol. First and foremost, I must offer you my sincerest apologies. We originally planned to release a Demo during the Steam Next Fest on October 13th, but this plan needs to be postponed. The primary reasons for the delay are as follows: After confirming our participation in the Next Fest, the game's development encountered some unforeseen technical challenges, particularly regarding performance and the design of certain systems. These issues caused the gameplay content and feature development for the first map to fall short of the goals I had set for myself. This is also why the previous testing phase was arranged somewhat hastily. The feedback gathered from this testing was incredibly valuable, but it also confirmed my concerns: in its current state,强行 participating in the Next Fest would likely fail to leave a good first impression and could even generate negative effects. This runs completely counter to my original intent in creating this game. After much difficult consideration, I have decided to make the following adjustments to the development plan: 1. New Timeline: · We will skip the October Steam Next Fest and instead participate in the Steam Next Fest in February 2026. · The game's official release date is also correspondingly adjusted to mid-March 2026. 2. My Full Focus - Optimization & New Content: · Core Experience Optimization: Thoroughly resolve known performance issues, optimize combat feel, iterate on the weapon attachment system, and refine the vehicle platform. · Enriching Game Content: Create brand new missions, storylines, exploration elements, and gameplay to make this world more vibrant and engaging. · Polishing Modes: Ensure the stability and enjoyability of both the single-player and multiplayer co-op modes. 3. Reiteration Regarding Game Modes: · Story Mode: You will progress as a survivor through different maps (chapters). Each chapter has a core objective; for example, the first chapter involves repairing the vehicle platform. Completing the objective allows you to proceed to the next area, experiencing a continuous survival narrative. · Survival Mode: In this mode, all maps are freely open for you to explore at your will. In multiplayer co-op, players will directly enter the final, large map to survive together. As a solo developer, I am fully aware that any delay brings disappointment, and for this, I am truly sorry. This game embodies all my passion, and I want it to meet you in its best possible form more than anyone else. It is precisely this desire that compelled me to make this difficult decision, to ensure that what is ultimately delivered to you is a complete world worthy of your anticipation and investment. Finally, thank you all so much for your interest and support. In the coming months, I will continue working diligently on the content and will keep sharing new development progress and showcases with you all. — Producer of Winter Survivor Protocol