Hi dear stalkers!
Today, we have a few items; we're nearly touching the light at the end of the tunnel, yep, that's right!
Isn't that great?! 😼
We will discuss about what is left to do but also see examples of super-efficient optimizations that have been realized for the next build, continuous improvement of Forbidden Trip in general. Have a good read!
Note: If you really like what I'm doing on my free time, you can send a tip!
You will receive major content updates and also exclusive contact with me; check Patreon!
Enjoy!
⬆ The last preparations
🏇 ON THE HOME STRETCH 💨
Good news: the next 1.5 build of Forbidden Trip is nearly ready!
At the time I'm writing those lines, some work is left on two maps, with some events/puzzles to finish.
I have added more puzzles than expected since the previous news; my creativity has exploded during last weeks, I can promise you will be surprised with the new chapters arriving! 😄
⬆ Some quick checks
Not much is left. After that work completed, I will finish implementing checkpoints and other technical necessities (so the Nightmare Mode works properly i.e.). Then it will be time for polishing, playtesting…
Update will be released firstly on Patreon and for tester team, then on Mod DB (~1 month later).
Finishing the 1.5 content update and its new chapters does not mean I did not improved previous levels. Let's see that!
🔬 IMPROVING EXISTING CONTENT 🔧
As hinted in previous news, improvements were made in the lightning department.
There are now better, smoother; I reworked of a lot of them!
As you may know, some maps are very large; it also means lot of light systems.
Before, I used to make lights generate shadows, static but especially dynamic shadows, to create realistic scenes. I changed the process: I created new gobo textures. To resume, it simulates light projection & shadows, it consumes a lot less power, meaning a huge FPS boost even on the largest maps, be it in old-school or regular visual mode!
The difference is really impressive, I should have done that for a long time! 🤦
Have a comparative shot; don't mind the difference of size of light & shadow, it was the first test from last month. Behind-the-scenes pic, gives you an idea. Good rendering in-game. 😉
⬆ Left light: previous lighting system; too sharp & demands more resources.
Right light: new system; more natural "blurry" shadows & especially demands nearly nothing in resources.
I'm really happy this was achieved, same for smooth light transitions & changes; day-night cycles, this kind of effects. Good work was continued for particle effects too, and more. ✅
Various sounds were tweaked, improved; effects or music.
A lot of new content comes with the new chapters of course, some totally original, some that will, maybe, remind you memories. Won't say much more for now… 😏
⬆ IDSPISPOPD
🎤 PREPARE TO FIGHT 🥊
With the Forbidden Trip 1.5 Early Access being soon ready, I'm targeting a private release in July 2022, for my tester team & Patreon supporters! I'm confident enough to do something I never do: give an estimate date! 😹
Public release of Early Access 1.5 should be during summer 2022!
I'm thinking about a strategic release of the final build for next October. 👍
⬆ Bring the L.A.W.
In the meanwhile, have a great weekend stalkers!
Be sure to follow the page to not miss the release! 📡
Take care! 🤟
-Yanka
