Testing Build has been updated to v1.22.1. If you wish to try Testing Build, or if you're on Testing Build and want to return to v1.22, you can find instructions on how to do this here.
v1.22.1
So what's new with v1.22.1? The main focus of v1.22.1 was a redesign of the contracting system. We succeeded in this. The new design is a more flexible system internally. This will allow modders to alter more externally. Most of these changes will not be visiable to the user, but it allows us to implement additional features such as chassis, gearbox, and AI contracting easier. We can expect these new features in v1.22.2. And mod tools in v1.22.3.
Besides a bunch of bug fixes and contract balancing, the other notable feature in v1.22.1 is the Assisted Contract Engine Designer. This was a heavily requested feature. It is an additional drop down box and two buttons in the Assisted Engine Designer, that attempts to automatically design an engine for a selected contract. This system may take a while to complete depending on your system's specs. It is not guaranteed to be able to design all contracts. But it can handle many of the mid/lower ones. We will expand this system to Chassis and Gearbox contracts in v1.22.2. And Vehicle contracts when we get pre-designed vehicles.
For a complete list of changes for v1.22.1: http://steamcommunity.com/app/285110/discussions/0/1353742967812528994/
Other News
Several users of OS X 10.12 Sierra have reported an increase in crash problems. I believe most of these are related to video drivers. I have installed Sierra to see if I can duplicate the crashes, but have been unable to after a couple hours of play yesterday and the day before. The report system does have a little problem in Sierra, in that it will stay white for a while until Berkelium loads. Once loaded, reports should work normally.
I am exploring using a windows compatibility layer (WINE) as an
optional way to run the game if you are having trouble with the native port. Unfortunately, most of the technologies used in GearCity are close to a decade old, using older OSX APIs, and are completely abandoned by their developers. It would take a near rewrite of the game engine to improve the native OSX port. (And when Apple drops 32-bit support after High Sierra, the native port will stop working in OSX all together...) Currently the game runs much smoother in WINE, but more testing is needed.
Pootle Translation Server has been shut down. We should have our own custom translation program soon. I have subcontracted this work out. So I can't guarantee the date. However it didn't make sense for me to renew the subscription to the Pootle server when the new translation program is coming soon, and will be ran on the main server.
All translation data from Pootle has been saved.
Future
v1.22.2 will bring contracting options for chassis and gearboxes, mainly for racing contracts. Racing will be prepopulated with racing teams. These teams/series will create contracts for the player to fill. This may replace some forms of auto racing in the racing menus.
We'll also be expanding the contract system to work between in game companies. You'll be able to create contracts which the AI can bid on. And you can bid on AI contracts. The AI (or you) will have to fill the contracts as you normally would. Sales, or total production will be limited to the amount of units you acquire.
Well that's all. Enjoy v1.22.1!
[ 2017-08-04 11:54:18 CET ] [ Original post ]