City of Steam Design Dev Journal - House System news - PC Gamers

Repost from City of Steam Dev Journal

The House

So after the recent news about the dastardly house thieves we’d like to return and talk a bit about the modifications and what we plan to have.

So here’s a peek at our plans for the Player’s House. For those who don’t know, the house is a special area filled with things for you to do between quests, plus it has quests of its own which will develop your family story independently from other stories in the game. It can be accessed from the map screen of any town with a Railhauler Station.

Right now, we are only planning the house for human characters. We aren’t sure if the elven and greenskin characters will fit this specific house, so we really can’t say much about that. Anyway, here it is:

Description

Your house is an old estate which has fallen somewhat into disrepair. It stands on a large piece of property, at the back of which sits graveyard where your ancestors are buried. Upon reaching the house, your first task will be to clean up the infestation of *(no spoilers)* who have moved in during your absence.

Secondly, you will need to locate the deed for the house, and thus prove that you are the rightful heir. But the previous ancestor was entombed many chronicles ago in the crypt behind your estate. And who knows how deep those catacombs go.

Of course, there are other locations you can discover, many of which your ancestors wished to keep secret, and have remained that way. But naturally, those places have become home to lurking creatures that shy away from the light of day.

Narrative

Your house will serve as a kind of hub for the player’s story. You’ll be able to talk to family members and pick up additional quests. Also, from the first time you arrive, you’ll be able to store and access your stash from here. It will also have a mailbox where you can read messages from friends and write to them.

As you play through the chapters in the story, the house itself will be upgraded to reflect your progress. Sometimes the way your house upgrades depends on what choices you made.

Other areas of the level will also be unlocked. You may discover that a rival faction has taken up residence next door to spy on you, or you may find the key to a mysterious tower, which is not described in the blueprints of your house! Actually, we haven’t defined many of these things yet, but have left plenty of locked doors to interest you for later.

Race Specific?

We’ve based the house design on the human races in the game. If time permits, we may work on unique house designs for the other races. So what you think? If you have any suggestions or questions, head to the forums and let us know!