Wilderness Alpha - A Look at What We’ve Been Working On
Hello Paxians,
We just announced that our upcoming Alpha will start on April 23rd. In this post, we want to explain the delay and provide more details on what our teams have been working on during the past few months, as well as what you can expect to test this time around.
Our first Alpha was focused on one-third of the game, the peaceful loop, which included building and crafting. In this next phase of development, we're shifting our focus to another third of our gameplay experience, namely combat and PvP. When it comes to the last third, social, trade, and economy, it will be one of the first updates once PxD enters Early Access - to be clear, these systems need solid foundations from the crafting and combat loops.
So, what have we been up to in the past few months?
Let's break it down:
Systems Overhaul: We've been hard at work revamping our RPG and stats systems. From different types of physical and magical damage to the introduction of durability mechanics for wearables and wieldable items, we're enhancing the depth and complexity of gameplay. Spells, special attacks, and procs are also being worked on, though there's still more to be done to ensure they function seamlessly before expanding them.
Enhanced Animations: We're crafting animations for different weapons, ensuring that each strike feels impactful.
Improved Targeting: For melee combatants, we're introducing a target lock feature that allows players to focus their attacks on specific enemies. Additionally, beneficial spell casters will, at some point, have the ability to target lock for targeted heals and buffs, adding a new layer of strategic depth to encounters – though this is still in the works.
Nutrition and Restoration: The journey to greatness requires sustenance, and in the upcoming test, we're making food more meaningful. Whether it's berries that increase your stamina or cooked delicacies that grant powerful buffs, replenishing your health and energy has been widely developed and received a first strong balance pass.
Item Durability & Repair: Durability and repair mechanics are being introduced to ensure that your gear remains in top condition throughout your adventures.
General Balancing: We have kicked off our first passes on the game balancing for items and enemies' stats, durability, crafting, and more to create an upcoming seamless gaming experience.
So, What Can You Expect to See in Alpha 2?
Crafting Expansion: While building mechanics remain relatively unchanged, crafting is receiving a significant expansion. New crafting stations, additional resources, and magical materials are being introduced, along with expanded crafting options and recipes. Balancing these additions will be an ongoing process, ensuring that every aspect of crafting feels meaningful and rewarding.
Combat Revamp: Enemies are now smarter and more formidable opponents, requiring strategy and skill to defeat. While it is far from finished, from revamped stats and damage mitigation to improved targeting and spell mechanics, combat in Alpha 2 promises to be a more engaging and immersive experience.
World Enhancements: We've made numerous changes to the game world, from lighting and biome transitions to cave exploration. These subtle yet significant improvements enhance the overall atmosphere and immersion of the game, making every corner feel alive and vibrant.
Player vs Player: We’re introducing a full PvP zone, Lyonesse, which will install the foundations of our vision for PvP. More details on this feature will come soon.
As we continue to work tirelessly on improving every aspect of the game, we're committed to delivering an unforgettable gaming experience. From refining crafting mechanics to revamping enemies, our Wilderness Alpha promises many additions to the gameplay you’ve seen or experienced previously.
We’ll provide more details on specific features in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!
Pax Vobiscum, The Mainframe Team
