Hello fellow daoists, This will be the final update to Heavenly Peaks prior to Chapter 1 of the game. This update took longer to push to Steam for several reasons. I wanted to raise backwards compatibility. In addition, a ton of new features have been added to carry the player through the rest of the game. In other words, this is a major tech update. I will list the most noticeable changes (in total, 300 changes both minor or major):

• A focus on stability (error fixing).
• Improved battle system. The game is now turn based-rpg style battles with a twist. Based on the # of companions you have, you can take multiple actions during a turn to defeat foes.
• A vast number of QOL improvements, such as more convenient item handling, crafting, etc.
• Revamped the workings of the training system (though, this may be less obvious to notice, you now collect talent points for mastering training types, as an example.)
• Added a new stat (Intent) and also a new set of weapon skills related to it.
• Foundation Field / Elixirs have been added. This is mostly in preparation of chapter 1, but you can play around with them here. They impart powerful and permanent benefits to your character.
• Breath Arts (affect aspects of meditation).
• Several other features that will unlock once chapter 1 begins, such as hidden weapons, inner arts, and so on.
• A new method to navigate the world at large.
• New zone exploration mechanics.

In regards to the project, I'd also like to announce that development is entering hiatus. I spent the last 8 months of this year trying to fund development to avoid this, however it's now unavoidable. Rather than rely fully on support from Patrons, I'll focus on procuring as much of the estimated 30,000$ to do the project justice. With that in mind, let me say thanks to everyone who has contributed to the project thus far. Every bit has and continues to help. In an ideal situation, I'll return to development around this summer and if that changes, I'll let everyone know. - My Big "Little" Brother