Hey Settlers!

My team took a nice rest, and we have been at work for the last month for our first Early Access update of "QoL & Scalability" Update. Which we aim to fix quality life life issues in game and improve the game performance for scalable and stable base builds.

Highlights
We made a lot of small changes in this update to a lot of things, so instead of giving you a patch notes this time, I prepared a highlight section to talk about different updates.

[h2]Performance: [/h2]With the performance upgrades we did, I'm very happy with the current state of the game, your base can be anything you imagine, and there is no technical barrier to stop you. No limits, the limit is your imagination.



[h2]Quality Of Life: [/h2]We appreciate you giving all the feedback about the usability of the UI and sticking with us. We have some nice features now like, search input in the research screen, filtering available pods in the bottom view, press space to stop the game, and more extended game controller support. We are still on the lookout for feedback to implement new QoL features, feel free to give us more ideas.





[h2]Planet Gameplay Variety:[/h2] We reworked the 2nd, 3rd, and 5th planets where they will require different approaches and gameplay styles for you to complete them. This was mostly requested and we decided to bundle this into the QoL update. Now every planet has its special quests, these quests are different on every planet. We believed on focusing on increasing the quality of the current content in the game instead of new content. And as promised new content is on the way.





[h2]New Settlers & Settler System Updates: [/h2]Now the settler arrival algorithm is changed and instead of fully random settlers coming in, it works as tiers of settlers, some settlers are more talented than the others, more talented ones now tend to come later in the game. Additionally, we added 20 new settlers from different tiers to make gameplay more replayable.




[h2]Experimental Full Controller Support [/h2]Happy to announce that Stellar Settlers now has full controller support. But it is still experimental. If you decide to play the game with a controller, let us know your ideas or bugs you faced in the Steam Community Forums.

[h2]Better Steam Cloud Save: [/h2]There were issues with our implementation where sometimes the game doesn't sync the player's progress. We reworked this system to make it very future-proof. You can play the game across your devices with one save and uninstall the game anytime and reinstall again later, and still keep your full progress, your EXP, current planet run, settlers etc.

[h2]More Achievements: [/h2]Not we have 20 achievements on Steam, players were asking for this, we had time for 20 in this version, but there is some nice ones you can grind for :) We will add more achievements in every major update during our Early Access and try to get to 100 on the full release.



[h2]New Planet Concepts:[/h2] We are already done with our additional 5 planets that we will release during Early Access, and decided to add these in the planet selection screen, tho they are locked and you will need to wait for other updates for us to implement and fine-tune their gameplay. We aim to release a new planet every month, with game modes and other updates in between. We will make sure you don't wait for them too long. Tho, for now, they are there to hopefully excite you.





[h2]Spaceship Building:[/h2] We made some changes to how the physics works for the spaceship building, this just makes it more stable and flexible to create spaceship builds. Now all parts of the spaceship needs to be connected to launch your ship and Spaceship parts now cost less, but launching a viable spaceship is harder with the higher gravity of planets. This should enable players to build more engineered spaceships for lower costs.





https://store.steampowered.com/app/2628570/Stellar_Settlers_Space_Base_Builder/

Full Patch Notes and Changes:

That's it from the highlights, here is the full changelog of this version. As said there is a lot of small balances, changes and bug fixes in this build.

New Features:

• Added Life From feature.
  
• Added life form random rotation on start.
  
• Added `GetPlanetQuestList` function.
  
• Introduced new settler avatars.
  
• Implemented achievement-based level checking.
  
• Expanded achievement system with new achievements.
  
• Lifeform idle and walking animations.
  
• Welcome message system tailored to each planet.
  
• Introduced new lore list stubs.
  

• Builder station now has auto-rebuild functionality.
  
• Reduced AI Uprising timer from 5 minutes to 3 minutes.
  
• Adjusted spaceship malfunction settler bonus.
  
• Reduced spaceship explosion chance settler bonus.
  
• Warehouses can now rotate 90 degrees and feature auto-rotation for short tunnel tops.
  
• Updated Warehouse Prefab and Ghost visuals.
  
• Sync translations for new settler bonus texts.
  
• Added new achievement sprites.
  
• Updated quest controls for Planets 2-5, including reward adjustments.
  
• Disabled auto-scroll on the structure info panel when scrolling with a mouse.
  
• Enhanced structure info panel navigation for controller use.
  

• Corrected core drill pod connection issues.
  
• Resolved Robotics Lab collider detection problems.
  
• Tunnel placement now works properly.
  
• Fixed storage pod info panel name display.
  
• Addressed issues with raiser info panels.
  
• Late reconstruction cost calculation now accurate.
  
• Lifeform now stops if it can't move.
  
• Fixed exceptions with localized sync.
  
• Fixed issue with demolishing all solar panels in mission progression.
  
• Corrected quest instruction for Planet 1.
  
• Fixed recycling center placement and structure type issues.
  
• Adjusted life form collider rotation over time.
  

• Enhanced camera rotation with input system.
  
• Building pod filtering fully functional.
  
• Implemented controller support for tunnel and structure panels.
  
• Enabled spaceship building and launching with controller.
  
• Improved spaceship panel navigation and gamepad use.
  
• Enhanced research panel navigation for controllers.
  

Hey Settlers!

We want to share our 10,000-unit milestone with you. Thank you for the support and amazing reviews, standing at 164 reviews in total and %90 positive reviews in just 2 weeks after release! (don't forget to give the game a review)

We are very happy with the reception of the game and definitely heard the constructive feedbacks and ideas very clearly. We have a clear roadmap to reference all the issues we have in the game and keep building upon it.

With this milestone, I would also like to share that the 1.0 version is FULLY FUNDED. Very thankful to each player for their trust and support in our abilities to give you a complete game during the Early Access period.

Our first action will be to implement most requested QoL requests, make changes to current planets to make them offer variant gameplay to offer way more replayability.

Here is a draft for all the planet mechanics; (share some if you have any cool ideas)

Planet 1 - Vanilla
Planet 2 - Islands of tiles (water planet)
Planet 3 - moving lifeforms (animals) will block building tiles, they change location every 5mins
Planet 4 - Cant place higher than 12th floor
Planet 5 - Crumbling slots? grid getting smaller with time

(During Early Access)
Planet 6 - Height changing rock plates (1st floor pod moves to 3rd floor every 5 mins etc)
Planet 7 - Tree on the Middle, mechanic around that.
Planet 8 - Classic moon-like Asteroid, no original mechanic right now
Planet 9 - Build on a huge lifeform, Moving animal (but no mechanic now)
Planet 10 - Build on a Man-made Space Station that keeps switching layouts.

At the end of this post, I would like to share our current Early Access Roadmap. This roadmap can be also seen on our store page, which we will keep up-to-date.

[h2]Early Access Roadmap[/h2]

Hey Settlers,

As my team is taking a deserved break till the start of April. I have been watching reactions and feedback from players, and wanted to focus on some persistent balance issues, handle some stability issues and keep you updated with some of our plans.

This update won't have any new content, as mentioned team is on a break after the release.

- My goal in balancing the game is to make sure there is none to small waiting time for resource. This is especially a problem for waiting resources on spaceship cost resources.
- To combat this I'm going to try almost halving the cost of all spaceship parts in game (including Launch pad cost 500->300 per resource)
- Following that, the gravity of planets will be slightly increased and the explosion & malfunction chances will be 21->25% by default.
- So this means, slightly harder launches, but half the cost. This would increase the feeling of engineering a "better spaceship design" all around the board.

[h3]Japanese Font Enhancements[/h3]
There was an issue about displaying Kanji-characters in Japanese version of the game, which we fixed this.

[h3]Steam Trading Cards[/h3]
Steam, approved Stellar Settlers for profile capabilities and Steam Trading cards after just a week of release. Now you will drop cards, backgrounds and emojis while you play.

Additional Fixes;
- fix hub tunnel placement on top
- fix hauler air supply targeting on map with islands
- flood and rainstorm height control of structures

Thank you for playing, please keep the feedbacks coming!

Hey Settlers, AMD Graphics Card users in specific.

There was an issue with AMD Radeon 6XXX GPUs in specific that cause these cards to go hyperdrive more. To be clear this is a driver issue on AMD's end that they need to fix. In the latest build, we limit our resource using budget, and put an FPS Cap since these drivers try to give the game a crazy amount of FPS.

We confirmed with multiple players that this fix now works with no issues at acceptable GPU usage percentage.

Hope you enjoy, thank you for the patience.

Hey Settlers!

I would like to thank you again for the amazing response to the Early Access release. We are very happy with the progress we made by far. With this stability and most requested QoLs Update, me and my team will take few weeks off from development, and come back to work April 8th.

Till that date, we will have small bug fix updates, we are very excited to start our Early Access Roadmap plans, but taking some rest is essential for our sanity <3

Let's get into full list of updates in this version;

[h3]Patch Notes[/h3]

New Features:
- Added new artifacts to the game.
- Added Alien Lifepod.
- Added Toxic Poola.
- Implemented full lore list.
- Added spaceship weight UI and updated planet properties in the glossary.

Gameplay Improvements:
- Increased storage capacity bonus.
- Improved planet navigation meshes for better pathfinding.
- Updated structure info panels and control mechanisms.
- Added timer for ongoing events.
- Adjusted explosion reroll time from 5 seconds to 4 seconds.
- Adjusted generator and launch pad costs for balanced gameplay.
- Adjusted the launch pad cost from 700 to 500 per resource.
- Made tunnel cost free for tunnel settlers.

Bug Fixes:
- Fixed issues with spaceship parts, thruster explosion, and miner targeting.
- Fixed various bugs related to loading, saving, and gameplay mechanics.
- Fixed late game FPS drops.
- Fixed octagon display on structure destruction.
- Fixed issue with the "YKLENIYOR" message.
- Fixed issue with structure slots not being destroyed when hitting water.
- Fixed issue with unlimited resource generation by Settler OnAssigned bonus.
- Fixed issues with settler assignment and resource container targeting.
- Fixed issues with lore object material saving and morale decrease on load.
- Fixed various other bugs and improved overall game stability.

Performance Enhancements:
- Improved performance, especially in late game scenarios.
- Improved demolition sound effects.
- Improved sandstorm density and visual effects.
- Added better credits scrolling for long paragraphs.

Localization:
- Synced translations and updated localization files.

Hey Settlers!

During the Steam Spring Sale Event, Stellar Settlers' price will continue to be 20%!

Recently we have released a performance update and during the 3 days of our release, we have done a lot of bug fixes. Enjoy an even more polished space city builder game with a shiny 20% discount this weekend!

[h2]Trailer:[/h2]
[previewyoutube=LYii87It3TQ;full][/previewyoutube]
Also, check out our bundle with Cardboard Town for an extra 10% discount on top of the existing one.

https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/38939/City_Builders_with_a_Twist/

See you in the stars!

Hey Settlers!

We have been watching streamers and YouTubers building crazy big settlements that we didn't anticipate. We noticed the lag and FPS drop during the pod placement for very large settlements. In this patch, we fixed these fps drop issues, and overall increased the stable FPS value.

Another big issue was that when you launch a spaceship successfully the EXP gain was linear. We changed this EXP curve to make it so that when you successfully finish a planet, you gain enough EXP to unlock the next one. So you have to play every planet once to unlock the next now.

We did other enhancements and bugfixes, here is a full list of them;

Bug Fixes
- Fixed start treatment on load.
- Fixed issue where treatment would not stop on unassignment.
- Fixed double production not working.
- Fixed tunnel collider issues.
- Fixed null ore on load.
- Fixed FPS drop when tab hold & flickering.
- Fixed main menu rendering issues for late SteamAPI response.
- Fixed connection issues on rotate over time.
- Fixed issue with saving and loading ore.
- Fixed spaceship part controls.
- Fixed issue with late-game FPS drop (octagons on slot layer).
- Fixed issue where finished ores were not removed on load.
- Fixed issue where all miners were not destroyed when all ores were finished.

Improvements
- Synchronized balance changes for first level pods.
- Added timer for ongoing events.
- Added "artifact collected" notification.
- Improved event timer display.
- Improved performance.
- Active event timer on notification panel (Like Sandstorm and Flood).
- Use PlanetController's GetSuccessfulLiftoffExp method.
- Calculate launch percentages before updating them.
- Updated launch info panel every second.
- Demolish now has an SFX.

Changes
- Don't infect the same settler for sickness events
- Don't let player rotate thrusters on the side.

Hey Settlers!

After yesterday's hotfix, we identified more issues, but thankfully nothing that's game-breaking. We also heard some important feedback about some understandability issues that we tried to quickly fix in this version.

- Fix, "cant continue the game" issue. Some players might see that their continue button was not responsive resulting from a faulty settler, this is fixed, your old save should be there after you update.
- Fix, Del button demolishes a structure but won't return demolish materials.
- Fix sometimes the settler limit is not respected in game.
- Fix bugs with Firefighting Unit & Xenobiology Lab placement.
- Fixed an issue about Sandstorm fog strength
- Now when you get to the height limit of a planet, its more clear why you can't place a pod.
- Fixed "Send Feedback" button not working.
-

Let us know the issues you face on our discord or steam discussion boards.

Cheers!

Hey Settlers!

Thank you for the awesome response to the release! We have been reading and watching the reactions and feedback, we fixed few issues in game and did some balancing depending on the feedback we got from the playerbase!

- Fixed "Camera Zoom acting weird", there was an issue with new unity input system which we fixed.
- Balanced launchpad cost, the material cost was 1000 per, now 700 per material.
- Balanced 1st level passive generator pod costs to make the early game more normalized (increased a little bit)
- Balanced 2nd level passive generators, their cost was too high, and some players mentioned instead of researching these pods, they can put multiple first level generators, we believe now the research curve is more normalized and you will want to research and use these pods.
- Balanced 3rd level passive generators, these were too pricy, now its again more "normalized" :)

Players told us they kept waiting for resources, to combat this quickly, we also drastically lowered the 2nd level generator's material cost of their own type material. If you want to build a Nuclear Reactor, because you don't have much Energy Material, now you won't have to wait.

This was soft locking the game. We would love to hear your feedback about these.

Thank you for being patient, and please give us a review on Steam to share your thoughts, we will read each of them!

Hey Settlers!

I'm glad to share our games latest version is available to purchase right now! To speak for my whole team, we worked hard on it and we are very excited to share it for the first time. Thank you everyone following our progress for our weekly updates and supporting us with your encouragement.

[previewyoutube=LYii87It3TQ;full][/previewyoutube]

Special thanks to everyone involved in testing the game, and sharing their feedback on Discord and Steam Discussion boards.

Please give us a review on Steam, positive or negative, make it as constructive as possible, because we will read each one of them, and will shape our game depending on it during the Early Access.

[h2]Early Access Roadmap[/h2]

As gamers, we know the reputation of early-access titles, and we want to share our Early Access Roadmap transparently.

7 content updates (3 major) including Combat Update, during Early Access, in less than a year!



Cheers!

Hello Settlers!

We are excited to ship our last regular weekly update before the Early Access 48 hours later. We will send in another silent update which would probably do some last-minute bug fixes, other than that, thank you for sticking out for 6 whole months, and supporting us with your engagement in our project.

I want to share that we reached 30,000 wishlists as I write these patch notes, and we are on the Popular Upcoming tab on the homepage of Steam for over 72 hours before release, which is a great visibility boost for Stellar Settlers.

We also have a new trailer up on our Steam page, would love to hear your thoughts on it!

[previewyoutube=LYii87It3TQ;full][/previewyoutube]

Let's get into the latest updates in this patch;

[h3]Patch Notes - Version 0.5.5[/h3]

New Features:
- Added animation for terra miner.
- Implemented a new "Now Playing" widget.
- Enhanced avalanche and blizzard animations for better visual effects.
- Introduced lore artifact options for deeper story engagement.
- Added a settler selection page with improved usability.
- Implemented a new research material selection panel.
- Added a fully functional flight panel with launch progress bar and launching canvas.
- Introduced new structures: Lounge, Quarters, and Toxic Pool.
- Added an alien mech for increased diversity in gameplay.

Gameplay Improvements:
- Fixed issues with scriptable objects to ensure smoother gameplay.
- Improved building materials flow for a more realistic construction experience.
- Settlers now gain morale with proper sickness control.
- Enhanced event sounds for a more immersive environment.
- Improved ore placement on islands for better resource distribution.
- Increased storage capacity bonus for more efficient resource management.

UI/UX Enhancements:
- Tweaked settler selection page for better user experience.
- Updated the research station panel to enable material buttons.
- Added a launch panel with localized text for a clearer user interface.
- Improved the structure info panel for cryogenic pods.

Bug Fixes:
- Fixed various issues related to loading and saving game states, including structure states, lore materials, and spaceship parts.
- Addressed problems with settler assignment and cloning to ensure proper gameplay progression.
- Resolved issues with the miner and hauler logic on lava planets.
- Fixed negative cost display and removed the nose cone from the spaceship assembly.

Localization:
- Synchronized translations for a more consistent and understandable game experience across different languages.
- Localized control schemes and settlement stats for better accessibility.

Performance and Optimization:
- Removed unnecessary debug logs for a cleaner codebase.
- Cleaned up code to improve overall game performance.

Miscellaneous:
- Added a failsafe panel fade animation for smoother transitions.
- Enhanced main menu level updater for a better user experience.
- Implemented logic to never show the "just researched" indicator for spaceship parts.






[h3]Bonus Content[/h3]

We released 3 singles from Stellar Settlers Official Soundtrack on Youtube.

Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlistStellarSettlersOST

When we do a full release, you will be able to purchase these amazing soundtracks and others, totaling over 20 tracks.

Hey Settlers!

I want to sincerely thank everyone excited about the early access release on March 11. As I type this, we are way past 25,000 wishlists. My team is very excited about your attention and we are working hard on delivering the best we can in the Early Access.

In addition to our team, I would also like to shout out our Asian publisher Gamersky and their Asian language translators for crunching close to the release for the localization.

Thank you for bearing with me, let's get into the list of updates this week;

[h2]New Features:[/h2]
- Added new planet landscapes and tweaks for Planet 3 and Planet 5.
- Introduced new artifacts and lore objects for the second planet.
- Implemented new special effects for spores and radiation leaks.
- Added new units: raider and alien artifact.
- Introduced a new music system with added tracks.
- Added new events: avalanche, blizzard, rainstorm, and radiation leak.
- Implemented a new tutorial system with animated arrows and indicators.

[h2]Gameplay Adjustments:[/h2]
- Adjusted ore positions on Planet 5.
- Balanced thruster force and gravity multipliers.
- Modified lava speed for a more realistic experience.
- Updated event lists for various planets.
- Balanced research and fixed robotics functionalities.
- Improved spaceship fail screen and force multiplier effects.

[h2]Bug Fixes:[/h2]
- Fixed issues with storage loading and settler null checks.
- Addressed problems with quest completion and energy rewards.
- Resolved issues with structure placement and destruction.
- Fixed visual glitches with sick icons and settler assignment indicators.
- Corrected problems with event notifications and descriptions.
- Removed unnecessary debug logs and cleaned up code.

[h2]Quality of Life Improvements:[/h2]
- Enhanced settler information panels with treatment sliders and progress bars.
- Improved navigation mesh generation for better pathfinding.
- Added corner indicators for demolish mode.
- Streamlined building canvas activation for better performance.
- Updated tutorial UI for clearer guidance.

[h2]Events and Effects:[/h2]
- Introduced various weather effects: blizzard, rainstorm, sandstorm, and heat wave.
- Added malfunction events for structures during adverse weather conditions.
- Implemented out-of-commission indicators for settlers and structures.
- Enhanced visual effects for lava activity, meteor impacts, and radiation leaks.

[h2]Miscellaneous:[/h2]
- Added new collider models for artifacts.
- Improved event audio with sound effects and scriptable objects.
- Updated monolith animations and starship tutorial UI.
- Enhanced pointer visibility on white backgrounds.
- Added control button tutorial indicators for better player guidance.




Thank you for your support, please check out our twitter for latest in game screenshots and footage HERE.

Hey everyone!

As we approach 25,000 wishlists, we reworked spaceship-building gameplay last week for the popular demand, now we have more rules and spaceship part placement is grid-based similar to the game's pod placements.

Patch Notes:

• Added successful liftoff experience points.
  
• Implemented auto-save every 5 minutes.
  
• Added a success screen and success panel for missions.
  
• Introduced a spaceship handbook page with texts.
  
• Implemented multipage structure for the spaceship info panel.
  
• Added new structures, research scriptable objects, pod scriptable objects, and corresponding sprites.
  
• Added Builder Station and modified Pods.
  

• Implemented force multiplier x2 for thrusters.
  
• Required fuel tank amount set to 4.
  
• Implemented gravity multiplier for more realistic physics.
  
• Added settler missions and tutorials for resource assignment and firefighting units.
  
• Improved spaceship parts connection and handling.
  
• Implemented reset save on successful launch and return to the main menu.
  

• Fixed various issues with ghost colliders for structures and tunnels.
  
• Addressed the issue with thrusters not working if the amount is more than the fuel tank capacity.
  
• Fixed the launch button and short tunnel connection issues.
  
• Resolved issues with settler descriptions and mission listings.
  
• Fixed various UI and layout update issues.
  

• Synced translations and cleaned up code.
  
• Improved handling of event and mission empty states.
  
• Enhanced settlement stats and production bonus UI.
  
• Updated various tutorials and indicators for better player guidance.
  

Hello Settlers!

We had a lot of constructive feedback about the spaceship-building part of the game, and we will perfect it in the early access release.

Spaceship-building gameplay in the demo is locked as mentioned in the previous posts and our twitter. You can still try out the demo and request access to the closed beta on our store page, as we take in new players as batches.

We worked on channeling a lot of content that we had the systems ready, since this update will only be on the closed beta and actual game we put all those systems and new events experimentally. We appreciate your feedback about these changes. (only bugfixes will be in the demo version)

Let's get into the full list of patch notes for this week:

[h2]Stellar Settlers Patch Notes[/h2]

New Features

• Added automatic demo/beta/early access version updater.
  
• Introduced alternate build checkers for Beta and Demo versions.
  
• Implemented missions and event tabs.
  
• Added various events including eclipse, mutiny, heat wave, solar flare, AI uprising, sandstorm, and radiation leak.
  
• Introduced a mechanic to lock certain research options and spaceship landing pad in the demo version.
  

• Updated the cost for the launch pad to 700-700-700-700.
  
• Adjusted the production speed display in tooltips.
  
• Improved the settler quest list and fixed related issues.
  
• Enhanced the structure listing by saving the position on toggle.
  
• Balanced the cost for 3rd level pods.
  
• Restricted building in front of the gate of a structure.
  
• Updated the resource generation logic for directly connected structures.
  
• Added production bonuses for directly connected structures with assigned pods.
  
• Implemented logic to allow structures to work without settlers if they are directly connected.
  

• Fixed camera rotation bugs.
  
• Resolved a bug with the miner-hauler gate.
  
• Fixed an issue where ore structures wouldn't show in the info panel.
  
• Addressed a problem with haulers not returning to storage.
  
• Corrected a typo in the game.
  

• Reworked the design of the launch info panel.
  
• Updated the panels for the robotics lab, trade satellite, and miner factory on assignment.
  
• Added a "Select for me" button for easier selection.
  
• Improved notification positioning for better clarity.
  

• Added snap colliders to all spaceship parts.
  
• Updated the logic for spaceship parts to joint with collided structures.
  
• Enhanced the snap mode input with the F key.
  
• Protected assigned structures from negative events.
  
• Added checks for spaceship part ghosts and joints.
  
• Implemented logic to prevent building spaceships if the player can't afford it.
  
• Made various minor optimizations and cleanup.
  

Hey everyone, before and during NextFest, we almost doubled our wishlists last week, passing 20,000 wishlists!

For those who joined us recently, welcome, and every week, we send out a new closed beta version. If you like the game and would love to join us in testing it, please request access to our closed beta on the main store page.

Here are this week's changes and updates;

Stellar Settlers Patch Notes v0.5.1

New Features & Improvements

• Drill Head Addition: A new Drill Head has been introduced, enhancing resource extraction capabilities.
  
• Input System Update: A new input system has been implemented, including improved scrolling functionalities.
  
• Performance Enhancements: Significant updates have been made to connection canvas performance, along with the addition of a performance test prefab to streamline future optimizations.
  
• UI & UX Enhancements:
  
  
  
  • Scroll bars now function correctly, ensuring smoother navigation.
    
  • Slider settings are now saved upon adjustment, improving user experience.
    
  • Structure buttons and resource UIs are dynamically updated for better interaction.
    
  
  
• Localization: Synced translations to ensure a consistent experience across different languages.
  
• Visuals: Added new Asian-themed logos and updated various asset balances for a more immersive experience.
  

• Structural and Gameplay Adjustments:
  
  
  
  • Fixed issues with nose cone OnDestroy functionality and nuclear reactor pod structures.
    
  • Addressed a bug with vertical tunnel checks and neighbor placements, ensuring proper tunnel functionality.
    
  • Corrected the behavior of haulers, ensuring they return to storage as expected.
    
  • Fixed several issues related to structure placement, including vertical and downward tunnel placements.
    
  
  
• Agent & Environment Interaction: Implemented a check for agent velocity every 5 seconds to improve environmental interaction. Fixed meteor removal logic to prevent multiple removal attempts.
  
• UI/UX Fixes: Addressed typos in quests and cryogenic descriptions for clarity. Disabled the ability to rotate with right click and the use of 'H' for inhabitancy settings for streamlined controls.
  
• Sound & Settings: Resolved issues with sound settings not saving correctly. Slider settings adjustments are now properly saved to enhance user customization.
  
• Miscellaneous: Disabled unnecessary instantiation of connection canvas on structures not requiring connections and on the HQ. Improved resource management during unit creation and updated the create unit button accordingly. Corrected various descriptions and fixed a typo in satellite ScriptableObject (SO).
  

• Codebase & Repository Management: Merged changes from the main branch to keep the project synchronized with the latest developments. Addressed exceptions related to pointer interactions and updated various scripts for better stability.
  

• Performance Optimization: Ongoing efforts to enhance game performance, with specific focus on connection canvas and resource UI updates.
  
• Control Scheme Adjustments: Exploring further improvements to the input system, including Q-E rotation adjustments and alternative demolition controls.
  

Let's play the demo version of Stellar Settlers Live during Nextfest February 2024. I will be playing few colonies from scratch to show you things you can do in Stellar Settlers, and mention our future plans.



A little bit about our Game;

Stellar Settlers is a sci-fi space-base building and colony sim with unique vertical base-building gameplay.

In every new planet with procedurally generated environment, ores and events, use the local ores and resources, gain enough materials to build a better spaceship to escape and go to the next planet, and colonize even more uncharted planets.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Cheers!

Hello everyone!

Today is a very important day for us! During Nextfest, we make the "Spaceship Building" part of our game available to play for the duration of the Nextfest, make sure to give it a try. This update is also on the playtest branch.

There was a lot of bug fixing and polishing this week, and sorry for the late update, we wanted to polish the demo as much as we could before the NextFest. Oh also, we support 13 languages now, some of the Localization QA is done, but some of them are still work in progress!

Let's get into updates;

New Additions:
- Recycling Center, Robotics Lab, Silicon Factory, Cryogenic Pod, Green House, Defence System Bot, and Ship Wreck have been added to the game.
- Implemented various new structures including entertainment center, miner factory, and nano material assembler.
- Added spaceship effects, thruster effect starts on launch, and spaceship explosion and malfunction mechanics.
- New UI features such as a demo panel, spaceship design handbook UI, and an in-game debug screen.
- Localization improvements for multiple languages and UI adjustments to support these changes.

Gameplay Updates:
- Enhanced localization for bot hovers, event indicators, settler assigning flow, and many other elements.
- Updated the bot localisation via SO and fixed various localisation errors.
- Adjusted button sizing for botinfo panel & structure info panel.
- Improved vertical tunnel placement and storage collider adjustments.
- Enhanced quest progression logic and fixed general quest progression issues.
- Implemented a default language picker depending on Steam language settings.
- Updated launch info panel to stay active and show percentages.
- Adjusted spaceship button functionalities and camera movements for better gameplay experience.
- Added and updated various gameplay elements like spaceship parts button, ore info panel translation, and entertainment center morale generation.

Fixes:
- Corrected numerous localisation issues across different languages including Korean, Turkish, and Chinese.
- Fixed issues related to storage, research button hover text, layout shifts, and tutorial button functionality.
- Addressed bugs in structure placement, ghost notes, and spaceship part tooltips.
- Resolved issues with miner target rotation, hauler container null checks, and environment object navmesh.
- Fixed tunnel placement issues for downward tunnels and nano material assembler.
- Adjusted storage count from zero and fixed trade screen and text overflow issues.

Optimizations and Performance:
- Performed sync of translations and various optimizations across the game.
- Implemented performance comments to enhance game efficiency.
- Disabled build navmesh and removed all structures from navmesh for performance improvement.
- Updated and balanced sound effects for a better audio experience.

Balance Changes:
- Balanced spaceship costs, pop & pod cost, and research credit costs.
- Adjusted resource production rates and updated spaceship part requirements.
- Balanced energy gain and adjusted costs for various gameplay elements.
- Improved defense system capabilities, including increase evade chance and pod placement.

Miscellaneous:
- Introduced various scriptable objects, prefabs, and sprites for new additions like the defense system.
- Enhanced UI interactions with new scroll rect customizations and sensitivity adjustments.
- Implemented spaceship self-destruction mechanics and fixed related issues.
- Added and updated various animations for a richer game experience.

This update brings a host of improvements, fixes, and new features aimed at enhancing gameplay, expanding content, and refining the overall player experience.

Thank you everyone for your support and wishlists <3

Hello Settlers!

I'm happy to say we started working with Gamersky as a co-publisher in Asian regions. This week we gone mostly off-script and quickly implemented localization support.

We are also nearing 10k Wishlists!

We also have new exciting pods, especially 3rd level generator pods, which will give the game a lot more dept and will be fun to build with them.

Here is this weeks patch notes;
[h3]Stellar Settlers Game - Patch Notes[/h3]

New Additions and Enhancements:

• Structures:
  - Added Space Shuttle, Sickbay, Surgery Suite, Ancient Rock, and Temple Key.
  - Improved structure placement controls for Bunkhall, Dark Matter Reactor, Landing Pad, and Xenobiology Lab.
  - New structure sprites and ghost images for added realism.
  
  
• Localization and Translation:
  - Expanded language support for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
  - Upgraded CJK font readability and UI elements localization.
  - Integrated script-based localizers for dynamic translation updates.
  - Enhanced localization for tooltips, UI elements, and scriptable objects.
  
  
• Audio and Visuals:
  - Introduced new sound effects for various structures and events.
  - Implemented a delay for main theme music in game scenes.
  - Adjusted graphics for new pods, materials, and improved structure visuals.
  

• Drone Mechanics:
  - Updated drone behavior for repairing and malfunctioning pods.
  - Added operational conditions for drone activities.
  
  
• Game Mechanics:
  - Fixed placement and collision issues with structures like vertical tunnels and thrusters.
  - Enhanced UI interaction and flexibility, including right-click functionality to dismiss panels.
  

• Technical Fixes:
  - Conducted code refactoring and fixed various syntax issues.
  - Addressed problems with structure placement, part colliders, and auto-rotation.
  - Solved bugs in tutorial descriptions, settler mission areas, ore tooltips, and negative state canvas.
  
  
• Quality Assurance:
  - Implemented Turkish language quality checks for the main menu.
  - Various updates and fixes in game scenes and structure buttons.
  

Hey Settlers!

Busy week for us as the NextFest date coming close. Coming to you with bugfixes and a UI heavy update.

We want to provide the most polished demo experience in 5th. Also looking forward to give you access for spaceship building part of the game. It's still not quite there yet, we are planning next week's update will have an experimental access to it, please keep an eye on that.

Also want to thank The Geek Cupboard for making a youtube video on our demo, go give it a watch, it was fun!

Lets get into this weeks update;

[h3]Stellar Settlers - Game Update Notes[/h3]
We're excited to announce a series of enhancements and fixes to Stellar Settlers! Our development team has been working hard to improve your gameplay experience. Here's what's new:

Enhancements:

• Tutorial and UI Improvements:
  
  
  
  • Improved the tutorial script with more informative titles.
    
  • Introduced a control scheme tab system in settings for better navigation.
    
  • Added icons and explanations in the settler selection panel for clarity.
    
  • Enhanced the event glossary with detailed descriptions and new event icons.
    
  • Updated planet panel to display planet descriptions on hover for better immersion.
    
  
  
  
• Audio and Accessibility:
  
  
  
  • Added an ADHD filter audio setting to accommodate different player needs.
    
  • Improved meteor indicator sound effects (SFX) for a more immersive experience.
    
  
  
  
• Gameplay Mechanics:
  
  
  
  • Developed a fallback language matrix for core settings, enhancing the internationalization support.
    
  • Implemented a thruster auto-rotation feature and related tests.
    
  • Added new gameplay elements:
    
    
    
    • Xenobiology Lab
      
    • Plasma Conduction Facility
      
    • Dark Matter Reactor
      
    • Nano Material Assembler
      
    
    
  
  
  
• Settler and Spacecraft Management:
  
  
  
  • Improved settler panel with side-by-side listing.
    
  • Added max number indicators for settlers and materials on the main panel.
    
  • Updated spaceship mechanics, including part ghost rotation, collider for demolish, and auto-destruction 15 seconds after launch.
    
  • Introduced new hold tab and hold space notifications based on pod count on the map.
    
  
  

• UI and Interaction:
  
  
  
  • Fixed the position of the WL button.
    
  • Corrected a typo in "architect" on Liam's description.
    
  • Resolved issues with the lore information panel and various minor UI glitches.
    
  
  
  
• Gameplay and Quests:
  
  
  
  • Fixed issues with the miner behavior including leaving ore and incorrect rotation.
    
  • Addressed the bug where the assign all settlers quest didn't complete if all settlers were already assigned.
    
  • Resolved crash site investigation and salvage issues.
    
  • Fixed research credit quest progress tracking.
    
  
  
  
• Construction and Research:
  
  
  
  • Made surgery suite unlockable through research.
    
  • Addressed the issue with placing the nosecone on the floor.
    
  • Limited building floor to 23 levels for better game balance.
    
  
  
  
• General Optimizations:
  
  
  
  • Conducted several cleanup operations to enhance game performance.
    
  • Reworked the material ore info panel for more comprehensive information.
    
  • Fixed various minor bugs and improved overall game stability.
    
  
  

Hello Settlers!

We joined Steam's Capitalism Fest, and we are getting a lot of visibility and new eyes on our game and demo. I would like to again invite all the new players excited about Stellar Settlers to join our Playtest on Steam Store Page. Upon requesting access, you will get an email when we accept more testers.

Let's get into this week's patch notes;

[h3]Stellar Settlers Patch Notes[/h3]

User Interface Improvements:

• Enhanced paragraph sizing for the lore panel for better readability.
  
• Added new material options in the lore info panel, providing more customization.
  
• Improved storage capacity wording for each material, making it clearer and more intuitive.
  
• Refined lore material options for a more immersive experience.
  
• Updated the trade satellite structure info panel with more detailed information.
  
• Adjusted tutorial elements: Disabled button colors have been updated for clarity, and OK buttons will now be inactive for 3 seconds when they first appear for better guidance.
  

• Fixed resource gain display issue on the research screen to prevent flickering.
  
• Implemented a new mechanic where only one nose cone can be placed, adding strategic depth to gameplay.
  
• Modified hauler behavior when a landing pad is present on the map for smoother operations.
  
• Adjusted the explosion effect when ore is finished, adding more visual impact.
  
• Increased the spawn time of miners to 1 second for balanced gameplay.
  
• Added new quests and updated Quest 12 instructions for enhanced player engagement.
  
• Introduced new ghosts and updated ghost mechanics for a more dynamic and challenging experience.
  

• Implemented ore explosion visual effects (VFX) for a more immersive experience.
  
• Improved the spaceship part drop container visual when hitting the ground or structures.
  
• Enhanced the cinemachine priority on launch for a more cinematic experience.
  
• Fixed gyroscope material issue to prevent the pink material display.
  
• Introduced sound effects for the events button for better auditory feedback.
  

• Finished the ore destroy miner feature, adding new dimensions to resource management.
  
• Improved spaceship functionality: Successful launches and fixed joint tests.
  
• Adjusted the surgery suite, trade satellite, and repair station for better balance.
  
• Optimized the Plasma Conduction Facility and fixed the Plasma Sphere pivot.
  
• Balanced various structures for a more fair and engaging gameplay experience.
  

• Fixed various build issues and notification bugs for a smoother game experience.
  
• Implemented a fix for demolish control to enhance player control over structures.
  
• Increased storage capacity tracking amount to 700 for expanded gameplay possibilities.
  
• Added new PLANET descriptions for enriched game lore.
  
• Updated the event glossary by removing the term "positive" for clarity.
  

• Addressed and resolved an exception issue for uninterrupted gameplay.
  
• Disabled editor set dirty to enhance development efficiency.
  
• Performed several merges with the main branch to integrate the latest changes.
  

Hello Settlers!

You might remember few weeks ago I mentioned Nookrium played Stellar Settlers and it gave us a great push in term of visibility.

Now Real Civil Engineer made a video on Stellar Settlers and it was an even bigger push which puts us close to 6,000 wishlists.

Enough with the numbers, let's get into what we did this week, here we go, the patch notes;

[h3]Stellar Settlers Game Patch Notes[/h3]

New Features & Improvements

• Launch Concept Animation: Enhanced the launch sequence with a new animation for a more immersive experience.
  
• Thruster Effects: Updated thruster visuals for a more realistic space journey.
  
• Quest Settler Morale Display: Now shows percentage values for easier tracking of settler morale.
  
• Grammar and Typo Corrections: Improved game text for clarity and professionalism.
  
• Tutorial for New Players: Detects first-time game opening and initiates a tutorial for a smoother introduction.
  
• Settler Info Panel: Enhanced UI, now closes with the cancel key for better navigation.
  
• Spaceship Part Descriptions and UI Updates: Enhanced clarity and interaction with spaceship parts.
  
• Demolishing Notes Added: Players now receive notes when demolishing structures, adding depth to the gameplay.
  
• Trade and Repair Stations: Updated trade station content and renamed drone factory to repair station for better game narrative.
  
• Ancient Temple Addition: Introduced the 'Ancient Temple' structure for exploration and discovery.
  

• Terra Miner Energy Usage: Reduced from 20 to 15 energy, balancing resource management.
  
• Quest Naming Update: Changed to "Build Pods at 6th Floor or Higher" for clearer objectives.
  
• Spaceship Parts Placement and Interaction: Improved the control and responsiveness of spaceship parts during building.
  
• Resource Management: Adjusted material consumption and resource gain during spaceship part construction and demolition.
  
• Trade Mechanics: Increased spending amount and introduced trading materials at the trade satellite for a more dynamic economy.
  

• Rocket Part Build and Placement: Resolved issues with rocket part building and placement, enhancing construction mechanics.
  
• Tunnel Placement Controls: Fixed issues with tunnel placements, ensuring smoother gameplay.
  
• Cinematic Camera Fixes: Adjusted far cinematic camera for better visuals.
  
• UI and Interactability Issues: Fixed various UI issues, including lifesupport display and launch button interactability.
  
• Collision and Physics Improvements: Fixed spaceship parts colliders and added hinge joints for more realistic physics.
  

• Code Refactoring: Improved underlying code for better game performance and stability.
  
• Launch Pad Research Mechanic: Added a new research element at the end of the game for increased depth.
  

Hey everyone! Great sprint week, as usual, and we are almost 5,000 Wishlists.

I would like to say sorry about pushing this update 1 day late. We will do our best to meet our promise for every Friday patch updates.

In this update, we've introduced several significant enhancements to enrich player engagement and streamline gameplay.

Key updates include the introduction of a settler-specific morale system, comprehensive UI/UX improvements for more intuitive navigation and interaction, and visual upgrades with new sprites and prefabs for spaceship parts.

Additionally, we've refined gameplay mechanics with improved notification systems and settler quest functionalities, ensuring a more immersive and user-friendly experience. These updates are designed to deepen the colony sim aspect of Stellar Settleres.

[h3]0.4.5 Patch Notes:[/h3]

Gameplay Mechanics:

• Settler-specific morale system introduced.
  
• Implemented event warning tooltips with descriptions.
  
• Removal of settler morale display from game UI.
  
• Added settler info panel upon clicking on a settler.
  
• Notification system improved to show the latest three notifications, with new notifications hiding after 10 seconds.
  
• Event button now features an arrow rotation on press.
  
• Added new tutorial elements for better player guidance.
  
• Modified settler quest system for better clarity and functionality.
  
• Morale system updated: sickness now reduces morale to zero, and morale decreases during certain events.
  
• Improved settler missions and quest tracking functionalities.
  
• Enhanced spaceship construction elements: new parts, sprites, and colliders added.
  
• Refined tunnel construction mechanics for better gameplay experience.
  

• Redesigned settler info panel UI for better clarity.
  
• Enhanced notifications system with better event designs and multi-notification listing.
  
• Added video tutorials for easier understanding of game mechanics.
  
• Improved structure panel controls for buildings and spaceship parts.
  
• Added control diagrams for PlayStation, Steam Deck, and Xbox, along with keyboard support.
  
• Various improvements to settler UI elements, including morale sliders and quest indicators.
  
• Enhanced main menu and in-game UI for better navigation and clarity.
  
• Adjustments to material and resource management interfaces.
  

• Added new sprites and prefabs for spaceship parts and other game elements.
  
• Improved collider sizes for more realistic gameplay interactions.
  
• Fixed various bugs related to settler interactions, building constructions, and UI elements.
  
• Enhanced material effects, including meteor impacts and resource generation.
  
• Reworked settler pods and launch pads with research elements.
  
• Added and refined spaceship modules for a more immersive experience.
  
• General cleanup and optimization for smoother gameplay.
  

• Introduced new settler missions and quest mechanics.
  
• Added new widgets for settler arrival and population tracking.
  
• Implemented a system for tracking active quests on the settler info panel.
  
• Expanded the variety of settler missions with new scriptable objects.
  
• Enhanced the settler quest system with completion indicators and updated UI elements.
  
• Added new animations and visual indicators for settler states and missions.
  
• Improved quest management and tracking functionalities.
  

Thank you for the incredible support lately. In this version we started working on the Spaceship parts and still keeping the work on the understandability and playability of our demo.

Also, we had over 1,000 Wishlists this week, which puts us over 4,000! My team is very excited and we are doing our extra to create a fine-tuned experience for you.

I know the economy for a management game is very important, this week I would like to ask for your feedback on the Demo and Playtest economy and ideas to fine-tune it.

Let's get into this week's Patch Notes, keep in mind spaceship building parts are not yet ready for testing;

General
- Added NotificationPanel for improved player notifications. (not yet ready to test)
- Vertical tunnel placement now includes checks for proper positioning.
- New slot design implemented for a better user experience.
- The first event counter now starts 1 minute after the game begins.
- Fixed an issue where all settlers' bonuses were applied every time a new settler arrived.
- Implemented rocket part model prefabs for spaceship construction.
- Event warning animations added between events for player engagement.
- Players must now wait 1 minute between events for balance.
- Added earthquake camera shake effect for realism.
- Sandstorm event now uses detail noise for a more immersive experience.
- Implemented fade-in and fade-out effects for solar flare events.
- Added tutorial locked check to improve guidance.
- Introduced heatwave and eclipse events for added challenges.
- Added logic to check if the structure button background should be highlighted for clarity.
- Resource notation in the UI has been made consistent; there are no more resource minus notations.
- Fixed notification errors for a smoother player experience.
- Spaceship parts button added for easy access.
- Event icons now display relevant information.
- Notifications are now hidden when not needed.
- Demo timer duration changed to 1160 seconds for gameplay adjustments.
- Notification panel size and position optimized.
- The last 4 messages will now be displayed.
- Notifications are now shown in a "last in, first shown" order.
- The last notification will be shown when a new notification arrives.
- Notifications will be set to inactive 10 seconds after a new notification arrives.
- Notification panel now activates on pointer enter for quicker access.
- Updated notification text for clarity.
- Players can now spend research credit for various in-game benefits.
- Quest texts have been improved for better comprehension.
- Closed ghost notes on the close panel.



Spaceship Construction
- Spaceship part building ghost now works as intended.
- Spaceship mode has been optimized for a smoother experience.
- Slot OnMouseEnter functionality has been optimized for performance.
- Ghost notes are now shown when the ghost is red for better visibility.
- Spaceship parts now have colliders for interaction.
- Functioning research tab has been implemented.
- Players can now build spaceship parts on top of each other.
- Spaceship parts can be built on a building pad.
- Fixed an issue where the ghost would deactivate on a building pad.
- Improved the spaceship part button's active indicator.
- Spaceship part ghost has been set properly.
- Added spaceship part ghost visuals.
- Adjusted SO (ScriptableObject) and enabled ghost to follow the mouse on the building pad.
- Added a research panel button and updated icons with UI shadows.
- Building pad SO and placement logic implemented.
- Introduced new spaceship parts prefabs.
- Building pad structures and ghost prefabs added.

Balancing and Bug Fixes
- Fixed instant resource bonus issues.
- Implemented a quest for building a miner factory.
- Fixed issues with the increase in storage capacity bonus.
- Fixed vertical tunnel placement on octagon planets.
- Ore now changes color depending on the planet's floor for visual clarity.
- Fixed issues with building ghost being null.
- Spaceship part rotation during construction has been improved.

New Content
- Added FuelTank and ScienceModule modifications.
- Introduced Gyroscope and LifeSupport parts for spaceship construction.
- Rocket Parts and Building Pad elements added.

Thank you for playing Stellar Settlers! We hope you enjoy these updates and improvements to the game.

In this version, we worked a lot on polishing the onboarding experience for the player, fixing bugs and things that confuse players.

Got some news for you, Stellar Settlers reached 3.000 wishlists! Thank you for the amazing support. If you haven't already, please go ahead and press the Wishlist button to be notified on the release of the game. Also follow the game for updates like this one.

Also we started playtesting on G.Round, which is a intensive based playtesting platform. Go ahead check our page there.

Let's get into the patch notes for this week;

[h3]Changelog for Stellar Settlers 0.4.3[/h3]

Gameplay Enhancements:

• Improved logistic factory, structure, and hauler colliders.
  
• Enhanced demolish mode with red material on hover.
  
• Implemented ability to build on environment objects.
  
• Updated quest system and scriptable objects.
  
• Adjusted tutorial conditions and trigger mechanisms.
  
• Refined placement mechanics for tunnels and buildings.
  
• Updated event manager and added new scriptable objects for events.
  
• Enabled building on top of ore deposits.
  

• Added new drone model with basic animations.
  
• Introduced new designs for storage entrance and other structures.
  
• Updated miner animations for a more dynamic experience.
  
• Added new hauler and miner truck models.
  

• Fixed various issues with tunnel placement and rotation.
  
• Addressed bugs in hauler container removal and hauler unit glitching.
  
• Resolved issues with demolishing objects and core drill pod placements.
  
• Fixed bugs related to surgery suite and research station ghost prefab.
  
• Corrected storage show resource change bug.
  
• Improved miner's interaction with ore.
  

• Changed control scheme for testing events.
  
• Implemented main menu timescale adjustments.
  
• Added pause game functionality.
  
• Enhanced tutorial toggle changes in-game.
  

• Adjusted audio settings with a temporary fix for audio change.
  

• Performed general cleanup and optimization.
  
• Various minor enhancements for gameplay balance and user experience.
  

Let's play the demo version of Stellar Settlers Live during Nextfest February 2024. I will be playing few colonies from scratch to show you things you can do in Stellar Settlers, and mention our future plans.



A little bit about our Game;

Stellar Settlers is a sci-fi space-base building and colony sim with unique vertical base-building gameplay.

In every new planet with procedurally generated environment, ores and events, use the local ores and resources, gain enough materials to build a better spaceship to escape and go to the next planet, and colonize even more uncharted planets.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Cheers!

Happy to announce that our DEMO is out! If you are randomly stumbling upon this post; Stellar Settlers is a Vertical space base building game with colony sim elements.

We put a lot of effort into making the demo as polished as possible, but you will probably see some issues or bugs, feel free to share them in Steam Community Forums and as always thank you for all the support!

Give it a try yourself!

PLAY NOW!

[h3]New Demo Gameplay Video:[/h3]
[previewyoutube=4gXWQzu3ihc;full][/previewyoutube]

Announcement: With this update demo is also released!

Hello everyone, very happy to share the latest updates in the Stellar Settlers with you. We focused a lot on polishing our demo this week and in general the gameplay onboarding for the player.

Also with this release, our demo is also out, don't forget to give it a try!

[h3]Gameplay:[/h3]
- Speed Control: Added a speed control UI to adjust game speed.
- Hauler Enhancements: Improved hauler behavior, including pre-assigned positions and prioritized container handling.
- Material Prioritization: Enhanced material prioritization, activation, and fixed related bugs.
- Bot Info Panel: Added a bot info panel with material button prioritization.
- Tutorial Fixes: Fixed issues with the tutorial, including wide screen display and ore resource problems.
- Vertical Tunnel Placement: Improved placement and detection of vertical tunnels.
- Bot Limit: Implemented bot limits and behavior for miner-hauler units.
- Demolish Mode: Fixed bugs related to demolish mode and demolishing containers.
- Landing Pad Balance: Balanced landing pad functionality.
- Resource Handling: Fixed issues with resources staying in ghost materials.
- Material Collection: Enhanced hauler material collection behavior.
- Ore Model Updates: Updated ore models and related rotations.
- Gameplay Rules: Fixed gameplay rules, such as the "Can't start game without 5 settlers" issue.
- Unit Behavior: Enhanced miner and hauler unit behavior.
- Prioritization: Fixed issues with prioritization buttons and resource collection.

[h3]Bug Fixes:[/h3]
- Meteor Sound: Updated meteor sound effects for better gameplay.
- Tutorial Fixes: Fixed issues with the tutorial, including wide screen display and ore resource problems.
- Air Supply Fixes: Addressed air supply glitches and destruction issues.
- Demolish Mode: Fixed bugs related to demolish mode and demolishing containers.
- Storage Unit Fixes: Fixed storage unit issues, including gate colliders and entrance problems.
- Resource Container: Improved resource container handling and tunnel colliders.
- Ore Model Updates: Updated ore models and related rotations.
- Gameplay Rules: Fixed gameplay rules, such as the "Can't start game without 5 settlers" issue.
- Prioritization: Fixed issues with prioritization buttons and resource collection.

[h3]UI Improvements:[/h3]
- Speed Control: Added a speed control UI to adjust game speed.
- Bot Info Panel: Added a bot info panel with material button prioritization.
- Structure UI: Added an active structure indicator and improved structure panel scrolling.
- Late Welcome Message: Improved late welcome message display.
- Sound Effects: Added sound effects for material gain and landing pads.

[h3]Miscellaneous:[/h3]
- Localization: Limited the demo to English only.
- Tutorial Videos: Added new tutorial videos.
- CTA Logos: Added CTA logos to the game.
- Gameplay Balance: Adjusted unit costs and credits text.
- Demo Improvements: Made various improvements to the demo version.

As always thank you for continued support, don't forget to try out the DEMO!

In this version, we have a lot of clarification updates for the interface and biggest thing we worked on was the tutorial. I'm happy to share with you that we have a Demo ready and sent it to Steam for approval.

It will be with you in few days. Lets get into the changes in this version;

Stellar Settlers 0.4.1 Patch Notes

New Features & Enhancements

• Headquarter Arrival Animation: Enhanced visuals for the arrival of headquarters.
  
• Tutorial Enhancements:
  
  
  
  • New system to check if the tutorial has been seen.
    
  • Option to disable tutorial in settings if already seen.
    
  • New tutorials added for research, settler pods, vertical tunnels, and more.
    
  • Improved tutorial panel interface and interactions.
    
  
  
• Gameplay Mechanics:
  
  
  
  • Raiser structures now remain consistently connected.
    
  • Functionality enhancements for resource stations and solar panels.
    
  • Adjustments in structure placement, particularly vertical tunnels.
    
  
  
• UI/UX Improvements:
  
  
  
  • Enhanced locked structure button UI.
    
  • Improved color coding for unavailable structure buttons.
    
  • New indicator system for game modes.
    
  • Wishlist buttons added on main and pause screens.
    
  
  
• Demolish Mode & Meteor Events:
  
  
  
  • New demolish mode with integrated UI.
    
  • Adjusted meteor event mechanics and visual effects.
    
  • Enhanced meteor sound effects.
    
  
  

• Tutorial Related Fixes:
  
  
  
  • Issues with tutorial triggers and progress tracking resolved.
    
  • Bugs in tutorial panel and video integration fixed.
    
  
  
• Resource Management & Structure Interaction:
  
  
  
  • Fixed resource station connection bug.
    
  • Adjusted resource gain when capacity exceeded.
    
  • Resolved structure auto-rotation and placement issues.
    
  
  
• Meteor and Raider Mechanics:
  
  
  
  • Fine-tuned meteor falling mechanics and radius.
    
  • Fixed raider movement issues.
    
  
  
• Miscellaneous Fixes:
  
  
  
  • Various UI issues and cursor sorting fixed.
    
  • Bugs in quest progression and completion indicators addressed.
    
  • Issues with hauler AI and container interactions resolved.
    
  
  

• Adjusted life span of ore containers.
  
• Balanced resource gain and structure production.
  
• Sound effects tweaked for better audio balance.
  

We reached 1,000 Wishlists! Thank you so much continuing support and feedback everyone.

Currently, we have implemented most of our game design tasks, which we want to test and see which to keep or remove depending on how fun it is. We have created a playtest on Steam, which you can request
access on our Steam page.

Be aware that the game currently has issues explaining itself to the player, and please consider the fact that it's in the early stages to be enjoyed. Join the playtests at your expanse please.

While you are there, don't forget to wishlist and follow the game for updates.

In this update;
Game Patch Notes - Update November 16, 2023

[h3]New Features:[/h3]

Structure Management Improvements:
- Introduced a new "structurelist" feature to enhance structure management.
- Implemented a system for saving Global IDs (GIDs) for structures.
- Enabled GID assignment during structure construction.
- Added the capability to identify structures using GIDs.

Miner Unit Enhancements:
- Improved miner unit movement for smoother gameplay.
- Containers now exert force when colliding with miners, enhancing realism.
- Miners now function as obstacles while mining to prevent collisions.

Sickbay and Container Interaction:
- Introduced rectangular selection functionality for sickbays.
- Containers no longer remain inside ore deposits, reducing interference.

Vertical Tunnel Enhancements:
- Refined checks for vertical tunnel placement.
- Fixed issues with slot activation in vertical tunnels.
- Tunnel placement now requires a minimum Y coordinate of 9.

Hauler Behavior:
- Containers now apply force when on top of structures.
- Create hauler button visibility now depends on factory connectivity.

[h3]Bug Fixes:[/h3]

Miner Movement and Sickbay Research:
- Resolved inaccuracies in miner unit movement.
- Fixed premature research activation in sickbays.

Tunnel Placement:
- Addressed issues related to tunnel placement constraints.

Container Interaction:
- Rectified the problem of containers staying inside ores.
- Corrected the issue of containers failing to exert force when colliding with miners.

Factory Connectivity:
- Concealed the create hauler button when the factory is not connected.

[h3]Performance Improvements:[/h3]

Navmesh Optimization:
- Optimized the game's navmesh tests for improved performance.

[h3]Balance Changes:[/h3]

Resource Management:
- Implemented a quest saving system for better resource management.
- Adjusted constant ore spawning positions for gameplay balance.
- Fixed resource generation amounts for more accurate gameplay.
- No longer displaying "no connection" notifications when structures are adversely affected.
- HQ now generates 4 materials for better resource balance.

[h3]Visual Enhancements:[/h3]

Material and UI Improvements:
- Enhanced collapsed and collapsed hover materials for improved visuals.
- Added new material spawn effects upon demolishing for a more immersive experience.
- Improved create unit buttons for enhanced user interface.
- Enhanced unit spawning and logistic factory user interface for better gameplay experience.
- Corrected the logistic factory collider for visual consistency.

[h3]Miscellaneous:[/h3]

Error Handling and Fixes:
- Addressed various error checks and fixes for a more stable gameplay experience.

[h3]Technical Updates:[/h3]

Save System Improvements:
- Removed the legacy save system for better data management.
- Restructured save structure data for improved efficiency.
- Implemented saving upon using the main menu button for player convenience.
- Added support for saving structure rotations for more accurate data retention.
- Structures' positions are now saved for better continuity.
- Implemented saving for Structure Type IDs for improved data tracking.
- Introduced support for structure GID (Global ID) saving to streamline data management.

[h3]Known Issues:[/h3]

Visual and Resource Issues:
- Some players may still encounter water black strip issues on the second planet.
- An issue with resource generation exceeding 150 has been reported.

Please note that this patch includes various bug fixes, improvements, and new features to enhance your gaming experience. Thank you for your continued support and feedback!

First of all, thank you so much for 700 Wishlists on Steam! We are commited to getting a playtest version of our weekly updates every Friday on steam closed beta.

Please give us a follow on Steam Store Page to receive updates about taking in new playtesters!

It was a busy week! This update brings a host of improvements and fixes, enhancing both gameplay and technical performance. We thank our community for their continued support and feedback.

[h2]Patch Notes[/h2]

[h3]New Features and Enhancements[/h3]

• Tunnel Mechanics: Improved auto rotation for various tunnel types including three-way, half-turn, long, short, and upward tunnels towards other tunnel slots.


• Building Mode: Changed build mode activation keys to 'T', 'B', and 'ESC'.


• Quest System: Added quest scriptable objects and improved quest UI for better spacing and progression.


• Support for Additional Platforms: Added Linux and SteamOS support.


• Environment and UI Improvements: Enhanced resource generation bonus info UI, added event timer and UI, implemented more vegetation on planet 2 and better atmosphere, improved ore panel visuals and dynamic ore info panel, and enhanced landing pad with new animations and info panel.

• Bonuses and Settler Mechanics: Instant resource bonus, increased storage capacity, unit speed, and resource production bonuses, implemented bonuses for preventing morale decrease, triggering positive events, and evading negative events, added settler morale feature and top settlers jump to assigned structure on click.


• Structures and Storage: Storage must now be connected for functionality, save system enhancements for structures and resources, added destructible structures with collapse mechanics.


• Quests and Units: Various quest-related enhancements including rewards, assignment, and save system, separated miner and hauler units, added air supply to haulers, implemented raider units with related scriptable objects and prefabs.

• Visuals: Reworked planet terrains and introduced new concepts for planets 4 and 5, added sickbay & surgery suite sprites, implemented better visuals for ore panel and settler hover effect.


• Sound and Effects: Updated environment click sound effects (SFX) and added new landing pad SFX, improved meteor effects and spawning logic, fixed z-fighting on transparent GPU instancing.

• General Fixes: Fixed various bugs including active ghost bug, meteor issues, and quest manager infinite loop, addressed settler rendering issues and fixed structure rotation, resolved issues with unassigned settlers and malfunctioned structures.


• UI and Localization: Improved language switcher for better localization, fixed UI rendering issues and updated menu translations.


• Performance and Stability: Conducted cleanups and optimizations in save systems, event management, and game scenes, enhanced fire spreading and collapse mechanics for a more dynamic environment.

• Key Bindings: Adjusted key bindings for building mode, event triggers, and malfunction resets.


• User Interface: Implemented various UI enhancements for an improved user experience, fixed issues with UI object primary clicks and added new tooltips.

Here is a list of changes for reference during tests;

[h2]Features:[/h2]

• Structure Interaction:
  • Added the ability to turn structures with a right-click.
• Transport System:
  • Implemented a new miner and transporter system.
  • Introduced a warning UI for transport storage.
• User Interface Enhancements:
  • Improved top settler rendering.
  • Fixed escape panel display issues.
  • Event warning indicators now provide clearer feedback.
  • Storage notifications alert players if there are no storage units on the map.
• Controller Support:
  • Enabled structure selection with a controller.
  • Improved panel opener functionality with a controller.
  • Enhanced planet selection using a controller.
• Bug Fixes:
  • Fixed connections, tunnel no connection, and structure info panel issues.
  • Resolved tunnel not connected indicator problems.

• Tunnel System:
  • Implemented various tunnel placement improvements (half turn, turn, long, short).
  • Adjusted detection colliders layer for all structures.
• Cursor and Input:
  • Added locked cursor flow for improved player experience.
  • Ongoing work on virtual mouse controller and gamepad controller support.

• Cleanup and Optimization:
  • Continued cleanup for virtual samples and codebase.
  • Better positioning for structures.
  • Overall codebase cleanup for better maintainability.

• Versioning:
  • This patch is part of version 0.3.8 of Stellar Settlers.
  • Merged changes from the main branch for better code integration.

• Dynamic Material Change:
  • Fixed an issue with short tunnel ghost material change dynamics.

Come and chat with us about the progress and your ideas about our game.