Hey Folks! Steam's "Endless Replayability Fest" is this week, featuring loads of great forever games. Including Ostranauts and NEO Scavenger! What's more, the Ostraca Bundle is on sale right now, too, which includes both Ostranauts and NEO Scavenger at a combined -49%! https://store.steampowered.com/bundle/38788/Ostraca/ And since it's a "Complete the Set" bundle, that means if you own one of them, you can still get the other at the full discount. So if you want to complete your BBG collection, or know someone else who might, let them know this is a good time to jump in! Best, Daniel Fedor Founder, Blue Bottle Games, LLC

Hey Folks! If you're a fan of the music in NEO Scavenger, Ostranauts, or Underrail, I have some good news for you! Invisible Acropolis (a.k.a. Josh Culler, and the composer of all three above OSTs) has a new album out, entitled Trismegistus - Part 2. In his words: "Its inspired by vintage fantasy and sci-fi movie soundtracks, and you can even download it for free if you want!" You can find the album on Bandcamp here: https://invisible-acropolis.bandcamp.com/album/trismegistus-part-2 Head on over and give it a listen. And if you enjoy it, spread the word! Let's all help there be more Invisible Acropolis music in the world :) Best, Daniel Fedor Founder, Blue Bottle Games, LLC

Hey Folks! Back in 2017, NEO Scavenger was approaching its 6th year of development. A far cry from the 3-6 months I expected to spend on a Flash browser game! So as I wrapped-up the last of the major patches, I decided I'd take a bit of a break from NEO Scavenger to work on another dream project of mine: a spaceship life sim that let me design ships with Lego-like parts, fill it with interesting characters, and watch it go. I still wanted to play in the world of NEO Scavenger, but this would be a fun change of pace, while also letting me flesh-out the setting.
Fast forward a few years, and it appears I just can't resist some NEO Scavenger features :) Above, you see a screenshot of the inventory screen in Ostranauts. And NEO Scavenger fans will probably recognize more than a few similarities. Even the paper doll's pose was basically a redraw over the old Philip Kindred model, now with a higher resolution. Unfortunately, since the game is in a new engine (Unity C#), I couldn't just copy/paste the inventory code from NS. But it's getting closer each day, with slotted and held items, effects from equipping items, weight and encumbrance, and a bit of inventory Tetris for good measure.
NS players will also probably recognize the UI style above, even with the re-skinning. Like with NS, there are traits that cost points, and some that grant them. And the building blocks are here for an interesting variety of character types. So far, as you can see, I haven't been able to balance the point costs as I did in NS. That'll have to come with testing. Also not seen here are some choose-your-own-adventure style screens to decide on your career history, contacts, and additional traits. All of which should hopefully give you some sense of ownership and context to your avatar. And speaking of choose-your-own-adventure:
Turns out the olden ones are golden ones, when it comes to UIs. Why reinvent the wheel? The old combo of image, text, clickable options, and a message log work in so many situations, that I've started using it in Ostranauts to communicate events that are easier to describe than to show. In this case, a sort of establishing shot explaining your first foray into the boneyard.
And just like how the encounter system evolved into NS's combat UI, socializing with NPCs evolved from that. I mean, after all, a social engagement has a lot of the same moving parts, right? We have our status info under each character, telling us how we're feeling. We have a list of moves we can make, and a preview of some effects it might have. We still have the message log, too, telling us blow-by-blow all of the things we experience and see as a player. And what about actual combat? How will that look? Well, I'm sort of expecting this social UI to come full circle and host physical "negotiations." It has all of the necessary pieces that the NS UI had, plus one important improvement: a grid map. Now we can see where everyone is standing. What's more, with line of sight in the game now, we could potentially have some fun with stealth and cover, or area effects. But I don't want to get too far ahead of myself here. Combat is still on the shelf until I finish some more pressing simulations. It's also worth pointing out that a number of NS's less-visible features are still running under the hood in Ostranauts. The entire physiological sim, for example. We have hunger, thirst, fatigue, sleep, and temperature. Illnesses and symptoms are all copied over, too. Drug effects like alcohol and caffeine are in, so far. And we even have some crossover between social and physiological effects. Another carry-over from NS is the ability to mod just about everything. I think I've done a better job this time of exposing more game data in plain text files (json format), and the usual PNG format for images. And who could forget Josh Culler's amazing soundtrack? He's back with an OST custom-made for Ostranauts. Keep an ear out for his signature haunting electronic ambiance, plus a few new tricks to paint a soundscape that spans cultures in the off-world colonies. And finally, crucially, Ostranauts is going to grow a lot like NS did. Early Access is coming soon, and like with NS, it's going to come out of the gate with much to be done. https://store.steampowered.com/app/1022980/Ostranauts/ Anyone who was along for the ride on NS knows it was slow, but steady progress to add content and features. At every step, I tried to be in there with fans on the forums, both here and my site. Spitballing ideas, answering questions, sharing jokes. And many times, these chats will turn into awesome features. Remember NS's old combat? Before the encounter-style UI? Some of you will. It was basically Civ-style hex combat, and creatures only had 5 wound states (including death). Similarly, remember when nighttime in NS was just blue hexes and limited visual range? It was user feedback that turned that into terrifying blackness that allowed us to have tools for light, visibility, and night vision. You folks are as much to thank for the evolution of NEO Scavenger over the years as anyone, and I hope to continue that tradition in Ostranauts. It'll take some time, but I think Ostranauts can become an equally good platform for telling stories of survival. And I look forward to crafting those stories with you!

Hey Folks! I'd like to tell you about my latest game, Ostranauts. Eight years ago, I began work on NEO Scavenger. And after five years of updates and ports, it was time to begin working on a new game. That game started as simply "space prototype," but has turned into quite a bit more.

So what is Ostranauts?

Hey Folks! NEO Scavenger Mobile Edition is officially launched!


After a few stumbles, and nearly a year of development, NEO Scavenger is now available on your iOS and/or Android device of choice. This is the same game you've grown to love/hate on PC, with all the same features, except the UI has been adjusted to work with multitouch instead of a cursor. That means the same slow-burn, deep-mechanics, play-at-your-leisure experience can now be enjoyed on your favorite bus/couch/train/bed/plane/armchair. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtZCxLbtaAQ

What's New?

• Achievements - Track your progress in exploring all the game has to offer.
• Leaderboards - See how your performance stacks-up against friends and other players.
• Improved Save System - No more Flash cookies!

Is There a Demo?

How Do I Get the Full Version?

Why Does It Cost $X? Why Not $Y?

If I Already Own the Desktop Version, Do I Get a Free Mobile Copy?

Will the Desktop Version Be Upgraded, Too?

I Want To Help! What Can I Do?

Hey Folks! NEO Scavenger Mobile Edition is officially launched!


After a few stumbles, and nearly a year of development, NEO Scavenger is now available on your iOS and/or Android device of choice. This is the same game you've grown to love/hate on PC, with all the same features, except the UI has been adjusted to work with multitouch instead of a cursor. That means the same slow-burn, deep-mechanics, play-at-your-leisure experience can now be enjoyed on your favorite bus/couch/train/bed/plane/armchair. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtZCxLbtaAQ

What's New?

• Achievements - Track your progress in exploring all the game has to offer.
• Leaderboards - See how your performance stacks-up against friends and other players.
• Improved Save System - No more Flash cookies!

Is There a Demo?

How Do I Get the Full Version?

Why Does It Cost $X? Why Not $Y?

If I Already Own the Desktop Version, Do I Get a Free Mobile Copy?

Will the Desktop Version Be Upgraded, Too?

I Want To Help! What Can I Do?

Hey Folks! Just a heads-up that the BBG site will be down today for a complete overhaul. Barring any catastrophe, we'll soon have a new site! Unfortunately, this means the site will be inaccessible during the upgrade. However, I'll be hanging out in the new BBG Discord server intermittently to chat, answer questions, and figure out how to use Discord :) Invite Link to BBG Discord Server See you either there, or on the flip side! Update: Site is scheduled to relaunch tomorrow morning (Wednesday, Pacific Time). Almost there!

Hey Folks! Just a heads-up that the BBG site will be down today for a complete overhaul. Barring any catastrophe, we'll soon have a new site! Unfortunately, this means the site will be inaccessible during the upgrade. However, I'll be hanging out in the new BBG Discord server intermittently to chat, answer questions, and figure out how to use Discord :) Invite Link to BBG Discord Server See you either there, or on the flip side! Update: Site is scheduled to relaunch tomorrow morning (Wednesday, Pacific Time). Almost there!

Folks! For the next 23 hours, NEO Scavenger is available at chrono.gg for only $3.50!
Deal ends at 9am Pacific, June 12th!

Folks! For the next 23 hours, NEO Scavenger is available at chrono.gg for only $3.50!
Deal ends at 9am Pacific, June 12th!

Hey Folks! Sorry for the several days of missing devlog. I was on an important business trip. And by "business," I mean this:
Research! Braving 45°F (7°C) Vancouver rain in nothing but a hospital gown and pink flip flop, we set about filming the new NEO Scavenger mobile trailer. Let me just say, I have a newfound appreciation for what Philip Kindred must go through in every early game. And what's more, how a film production works! Digital Cyclops ran the production up in Vancouver, and did an amazing job. Especially considering the cold, rainy conditions! And what's more, they brought in Dalias Blake to play the veteran scavenger! You'll see soon enough how imposing this man can be, decked-out in layered attire and strapped with tools and optics for the wasteland. He had some great suggestions about the various shots, as well. The footage is currently being uploaded to Josh for editing, and he's already lined up none other than @WritNelson and @ElConquistadork to do VO. That's right folks. This trailer is going to be a pretty stark contrast to my first, game-footage-only trailer back in 2012. I'm pretty psyched!

Hey Folks! Sorry for the several days of missing devlog. I was on an important business trip. And by "business," I mean this:
Research! Braving 45F (7C) Vancouver rain in nothing but a hospital gown and pink flip flop, we set about filming the new NEO Scavenger mobile trailer. Let me just say, I have a newfound appreciation for what Philip Kindred must go through in every early game. And what's more, how a film production works! Digital Cyclops ran the production up in Vancouver, and did an amazing job. Especially considering the cold, rainy conditions! And what's more, they brought in Dalias Blake to play the veteran scavenger! You'll see soon enough how imposing this man can be, decked-out in layered attire and strapped with tools and optics for the wasteland. He had some great suggestions about the various shots, as well. The footage is currently being uploaded to Josh for editing, and he's already lined up none other than @WritNelson and @ElConquistadork to do VO. That's right folks. This trailer is going to be a pretty stark contrast to my first, game-footage-only trailer back in 2012. I'm pretty psyched!

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.15! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.15 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle, GOG, and IndieGameStand

• Fixed a bug that caused misplaced/missing items and camps when autosave is enabled.

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.15! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.15 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle, GOG, and IndieGameStand

• Fixed a bug that caused misplaced/missing items and camps when autosave is enabled.

Hey Folks! As many of you know, I'll be launching the iOS and Android versions of NEO Scavenger soon. And along with it, a new and improved NEO Scavenger trailer! However, I need your help.
We're planning to showcase some "NEO Scavenger moments" during the trailer, describing some of the more dramatic, funny, or even confusing experiences players have had. This will (hopefully) show new players what they've been missing, and why it's worth their time to take a look. Ideally, we need examples of the following: [list=1]

Hey Folks! As many of you know, I'll be launching the iOS and Android versions of NEO Scavenger soon. And along with it, a new and improved NEO Scavenger trailer! However, I need your help.
We're planning to showcase some "NEO Scavenger moments" during the trailer, describing some of the more dramatic, funny, or even confusing experiences players have had. This will (hopefully) show new players what they've been missing, and why it's worth their time to take a look. Ideally, we need examples of the following: [list=1]

Good news, everyone! NEO Scavenger's on sale at GOG.com, and it's the biggest discount yet!
Time to spring-clean that wallet! For the next 5 days (plus some bonus hours), NEO Scavenger is available at the lowest price since plastic bags were sanctioned by the US Government. So if you still haven't picked up a copy, you're running out of excuses! (Except if it's not your cup of tannin tea, I guess. In which case, carry on.)

Good news, everyone! NEO Scavenger's on sale at GOG.com, and it's the biggest discount yet!
Time to spring-clean that wallet! For the next 5 days (plus some bonus hours), NEO Scavenger is available at the lowest price since plastic bags were sanctioned by the US Government. So if you still haven't picked up a copy, you're running out of excuses! (Except if it's not your cup of tannin tea, I guess. In which case, carry on.)

Hey Folks! Daley just sent word that they've fixed the giveaway, so if you ran into errors before, now's your chance.
For reals this time. 15 Steam keys are up for grabs, and the only qualification is posting a comment on the NationFusion contest page. As before, the wittier and more relevant the comment, the more chance it has of winning. So if you've been saving up your NEO Scavenger jokes or anecdotes, here's the big payoff :) Thanks all, for your patience with the earlier glitch. And good luck!

Alert! Alert!
They Are Literally Giving Copies Away! (Actually Literally) 15 Steam keys are up for grabs, and the only qualification is posting a comment here. (Note: that means the NationFusion.com site, not Steam) Of course, the wittier and more relevant the comment, the more chance it has of winning. So dust off those fingers (if that's a thing), and get cracking!

Happy New Year everybody! It's been a long hiatus as I work on the mobile version, but one bug fix was important enough to back-port to the old desktop version. I've just finished uploading new test build 1.15, which includes a fix for the autosave feature.
The Best Worst New Feature Ever The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com and Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.15 includes only one thing:

• Fixed a bug that caused misplaced/missing items and camps when autosave is enabled.

Hey Folks! Do you want to win a free Steam copy of NEO Scavenger? Well, you're in luck! Until October 21st, Herblin is hosting a giveaway of 5 Steam keys on his YouTube channel, and it includes a chance for you to leave your mark on the upcoming space prototype! Check out the video for complete rules and explanation:
All this could be yours... Good luck, and I can't wait to see some of your entries!

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.14! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.14 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle (pending approval), GOG (pending approval), ShinyLoot (pending approval), and IndieGameStand

• Added optional autosave feature to save game at the beginning of each new turn.
• Added ability to choose whether encounter map labels appear on minimap by adding =0 or =1 at end of data. If missing, assumes minimap label added.
• Changed crowded map labels near DMC gates to be invisible on minimap, so only gates visible.
• Fixed a bug that allowed communal barrel fires to be destroyed in extinguished fire recipe.
• Fixed a bug in loading screen that prevented log from being added to clipboard if error in XML file.
• Fixed a bug that misreported 0.0 charges on charged encounter items.
• Fixed several null pointer bugs when loading save file that included content missing from currently-installed mods.
• Fixed a null pointer bug if game tried to load recipe scrap for missing recipe.

Good news, everyone! NEO Scavenger debuts on the Humble Store as part of their Build Your Own Survival Bundle!
NEO Scavenger is currently -55% on the store. But if you add more titles to your Survival Bundle, you can get up to 70% off the full price! So if your survival collection was feeling a bit...emaciated, head on over, because time is running out!

I've just finished uploading new test build 1.14, which includes a new autosave feature, new modding map label feature, and several bug fixes.
Take that, power outages! The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com, or on Desura and Steam. Desura (and therefore, Groupees) users can use Desura Connect to gain access here, or even get their Steam keys and try it on Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.14 includes the following changes:

• Added optional autosave feature to save game at the beginning of each new turn.
• Added ability to choose whether encounter map labels appear on minimap by adding =0 or =1 at end of data. If missing, assumes minimap label added.
• Changed crowded map labels near DMC gates to be invisible on minimap, so only gates visible.
• Fixed a bug that allowed communal barrel fires to be destroyed in extinguished fire recipe.
• Fixed a bug in loading screen that prevented log from being added to clipboard if error in XML file.
• Fixed a bug that misreported 0.0 charges on charged encounter items.
• Fixed several null pointer bugs when loading save file that included content missing from currently-installed mods.
• Fixed a null pointer bug if game tried to load recipe scrap for missing recipe.

Time's a-ticking, Folks! NEO Scavenger is on sale for the lowest price yet at GOG.com!
Ominous countdown clock initiated... As of this post, there are just under 19 hours remaining on GOG.com's weekly staff pick. Those of you waiting for the $5 USD water mark, your time has come :) Enjoy!

Hey Folks! A few of you may have noticed the official site is currently offline. Not to worry! We haven't gone anywhere. We've had some technical issues stemming from a spammer, and are keeping the site offline until we can verify a fix. I apologize for the inconvenience, and the site should be running again soon. Thanks for understanding!

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.13! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.13 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle (pending approval), GOG (pending approval), ShinyLoot (pending approval), and IndieGameStand

• Changed SampleMod to be self-contained in one folder.
• Changed old _readme.txt about modding to be stored in SampleMod's folder.
• Changed loading screen to only show last line of log, and to tell user how to see whole log.
• Fixed a bug in treasures with a variable output that would return one less than the specified max.
• Fixed a bug that allowed the dome light to be used in making noise traps.
• Fixed a bug that caused 4-week pickup truck extension at St. James to be free.
• Fixed a bug that deleted arrows/spears that stuck in wounds as a creature died.

I've just finished uploading new test build 1.13, which includes some changes to make modders' lives easier, and a few bug fixes. The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com, or on Desura and Steam. Desura (and therefore, Groupees) users can use Desura Connect to gain access here, or even get their Steam keys and try it on Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.13 includes the following changes:

• Changed SampleMod to be self-contained in one folder.
• Changed old _readme.txt about modding to be stored in SampleMod's folder.
• Changed loading screen to only show last line of log, and to tell user how to see whole log.
• Fixed a bug in treasures with a variable output that would return one less than the specified max.
• Fixed a bug that allowed the dome light to be used in making noise traps.
• Fixed a bug that caused 4-week pickup truck extension at St. James to be free.
• Fixed a bug that deleted arrows/spears that stuck in wounds as a creature died.

Folks!

Hey Folks! GOG.com is putting all game deals back on the table for their 24h Grande Finale!
So if you missed NEO Scavenger's 50% off deal last week, now's your chance! As before, NEO Scavenger will not appear in the Indie Piñata, just as a 50% discount. The Grande Finale runs until 10am GMT tomorrow. So head on over!

Hey Folks! For the first time ever, NEO Scavenger is discounted 50%! And you can get it at GOG.com's Indie Pinata Sale.
NEO Scavenger 50% off deal at GOG.com For a limited time, you can get NEO Scavenger for half of it's normal list price. And while you're there, check out the many other games featured with up to 80% discounts! Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try giving the piñata a whack! Every Indie Piñata costs $3 (or your local equivalent) and includes a random indie game that GOG.com thinks you should play. The Piñata can include games anywhere from ~$9.99 to ~$44.99. Note that NEO Scavenger is not inside the Indie Piñata, so if you want NEO Scavenger specifically, you'll have to purchase it directly. However, there are reports of some very cool games coming out of the Indie Piñata, and the selection changes regularly! So head on over to GOG.com's Indie Pinata Sale, and take a look around!

Hey Folks! Just taking a quick break from new-dad-hood to alert you to a new NEO Scavenger sale. For the first time, NEO Scavenger is -40% at Coinplay! Not only that, but you can use both traditional and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin/Dogecoin to buy the game. So if you're still awaiting a chance to buy NEO Scavenger, head on over! As for me, back to changing diapers :)

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.12! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.12 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle (pending approval), GOG (pending approval), ShinyLoot (pending approval), and IndieGameStand

• Added code to drop only one item in dragged stack if right-click.
• Added code to rotate dragged item if using mousewheel.
• Added code to cleanup orphan quick recipe buttons on click.
• Changed flashlights and NV goggles to deplete when "on" even if not equipped.
• Fixed a null-pointer bug in ConfirmCraft if no current recipe set.
• Fixed a bug that caused random UVD loot to never spawn Hiya Poopy case.
• Fixed a bug that caused crash site loot to spawn soup chunks instead of cans.
• Fixed a bug in locked/off iSlab that allowed telling time.
• Fixed a bug that caused "exit" option in Rollo conversation to be missing, and only available via spacebar.
• Fixed a bug in the preloader that caused SWF version to fail transition into title screen when done loading.
• Fixed a bug that caused whole item stacks to be identified on load if one in stack was identified on save.
• Fixed a bug in the SampleMod file structure that caused it to fail when loading.

I've just finished uploading new test build 1.12, which includes mouse enhancements and several bug fixes. The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com, or on Desura and Steam. Desura (and therefore, Groupees) users can use Desura Connect to gain access here, or even get their Steam keys and try it on Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.12 includes the following changes:

• Added code to drop only one item in dragged stack if right-click.
• Added code to rotate dragged item if using mousewheel.
• Added code to cleanup orphan quick recipe buttons on click.
• Changed flashlights and NV goggles to deplete when "on" even if not equipped.
• Fixed a null-pointer bug in ConfirmCraft if no current recipe set.
• Fixed a bug that caused random UVD loot to never spawn Hiya Poopy case.
• Fixed a bug that caused crash site loot to spawn soup chunks instead of cans.
• Fixed a bug in locked/off iSlab that allowed telling time.
• Fixed a bug that caused "exit" option in Rollo conversation to be missing, and only available via spacebar.
• Fixed a bug in the preloader that caused SWF version to fail transition into title screen when done loading.
• Fixed a bug that caused whole item stacks to be identified on load if one in stack was identified on save.

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.11! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.11 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• Desura customers must connect their account to bluebottlegames to receive further updates.
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle (pending approval), GOG (pending approval), ShinyLoot (pending approval), and IndieGameStand

• Game now looks in /data subfolder for xml data, instead of root game folder.
• Game now loads data from either a single neogame.xml file or separate xml data files for each data type.
• Game will try neogame.xml first, then separate files.
• Base game data has been moved into separate data files, for easier reading.
• Loading screen log messages are copied to the clipboard upon reaching the title screen.
• Fixed a null-pointer bug in wounding code that occurred if no valid wound chosen before modifying stats.
• Fixed a null-pointer bug in HandleCombatResponse if player died in combat.
• Fixed a bug that caused Ginny to never give reward if all questions answered.
• Fixed a bug that incorrectly identified string ID request for sounds as item IDs, causing crashes.

I've just finished uploading new test build 1.11, which includes a few important bug fixes. The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com, or on Desura and Steam. Desura (and therefore, Groupees) users can use Desura Connect to gain access here, or even get their Steam keys and try it on Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.11 includes the following changes:

• Fixed a null-pointer bug in wounding code that occurred if no valid wound chosen before modifying stats.
• Fixed a null-pointer bug in HandleCombatResponse if player died in combat.
• Fixed a bug that caused Ginny to never give reward if all questions answered.
• Fixed a bug that incorrectly identified string ID request for sounds as item IDs, causing crashes.

Many of you have likely heard the unfortunate news about Desura, but if not, their parent company has filed for bankruptcy. What this means in practice is yet to be determined. However, if you own NEO Scavenger through Desura, now would be a good time to make sure your Desura account is connected to bluebottlegames.com. In the event Desura goes offline, this will ensure you still have access to NEO Scavenger's latest builds. It will also grant you a Steam key. Here's how it works:
From Desura's NEO Scavenger page, just click "Connect" and then "Connect Game" From the NEO Scavenger page on Desura.com, or Desura's client, click the Connect tab, and you'll see a page that describes what info will be shared. If you agree, click "Connect Game." You can read more information on Blue Bottle Games's privacy policy here. Just to be clear, I only use your info to verify your purchase, and keep your email to contact you if something NEO Scavenger-related needs to be communicated to customers (like where to get a new build if the URL changes, etc.). I will not share your information with any third parties, no matter how much they offer to pay me. I hate spam, and I don't want to contribute to that problem. After clicking "Connect Game," you'll be taken to bluebottlegames.com, where the site will attempt to authorize your account. If you're not already logged into bluebottlegames.com upon arriving, you'll be asked to login or create an account. Once logged in, it should report whether the update was successful or not. Note: if you have to create an account, and lose the link to connect the account in the process, you can repeat the Connect process described above, and it should still work. It will only stop working once an account has been successfully linked. If there are any issues using the process, let me know! It's been working pretty smoothly for a few years now, but if problems have crept into the process, I'd like to restore it for everyone in the wake of Desura's bankruptcy. Please spread the word to other folks you know who might be affected by this situation. Thanks!

I've just finished uploading new test build 1.1, which introduces a new XML data format to make modding easier. The build is available to anyone who owns the game at bluebottlegames.com, or on Desura and Steam. Desura (and therefore, Groupees) users can use Desura Connect to gain access here, or even get their Steam keys and try it on Steam. To access the test build on the official site, simply visit the game page, and click any of the download links below the usual Windows, Mac, and Linux buttons (look for a red "Test" button). Steam users can access the test build by opting into the beta for it. Updates Included in the Test Build Test build 1.1 includes the following changes:

• Game now looks in /data subfolder for xml data, instead of root game folder.
• Game now loads data from either a single neogame.xml file or separate xml data files for each data type.
• Game will try neogame.xml first, then separate files.
• Base game data has been moved into separate data files, for easier reading.
• Loading screen log messages are copied to the clipboard upon reaching the title screen.

NEO Scavenger is now officially updated to v1.06! Since the test builds have been relatively stable, I've just finished updating the default builds to 1.06 on all sites. The "test" links are no longer necessary, and have been removed for now. This updates the following builds:

• Flash version on the official site
• Downloadable versions on official site
• Steam default builds
• Desura client and stand-alone builds (pending approval)
• DRM-free downloads at Humble Bundle (pending approval), GOG (pending approval), ShinyLoot (pending approval), and IndieGameStand

• Added ability to mod exempt certain recipes from having paper scrap loot. (New optional recipe property.)
• Added code to trim spaces out of neogame.xml mod ID and data ID references before trying them.
• Added code to display error message if file not found while loading game data and mods.
• Added code to display error message if xml file is badly formed or has errors.
• Added code to display error if getmods.php has a missing mod, wrong mod name, or wrong mod path.
• Changed torches to degrade when used in recipes, so torch degrades at same rate as branch inside it.
• Fixed a bug that caused fullscreen to exit when switching states on Macs.
• Fixed a bug in ATN conversation that allowed asking same question twice.
• Fixed a bug that caused player to see footprints everywhere after gaining legendary reputation w/tracking skill.
• Fixed a bug in the ATN conversation that would exit if no choice was made.
• Fixed a bug that allowed player to ask Hatter about Blue Rot before it makes sense.

Features

• Unique Setting - Near-future, post-apocalyptic Michigan with local cryptids and folklore. And something else beneath the surface...
  
• Turn-Based Play - Take your time with each turn, and play at your own pace. Save and quit when you want, and resume later.
  
• Permadeath - If you die, that's it. NEO Scavenger is balanced around a single difficulty level: permadeath. Your save will be deleted if you die. So choose every action carefully!
  
• No Grinding - There is no XP in NEO Scavenger. No levelling-up. Instead, progress comes from learning how to play the game better, and using your strengths to your advantage.
  
• Semi-Random - Much of the map is randomized each game, including the location of ruins, creatures, weather, and certain quest branches.
  
• Sandbox or Story - Search for clues to your identity, what happened, and who's hunting you. Or simply test your mettle against man and nature alike. Play how you want!
  
• Abilities and Flaws - Choose abilities and flaws each time you play. Different combos unlock different abilities and quest branches.
  
• Crafting - Extensive crafting system which allows for substitutions of similar items. Make a rifle scope from half a pair of binoculars, or a noise trap from a pill bottle and pebbles.
  
• Desperate Combat - Detailed combat with moves like "Tackle," "Lure," "Kick While Down," "Demand Surrender," and "Threaten."
  
• Realistic Wounds - Creatures have complex wound simulation, with multiple wound locations, infection, bleeding, and pain management.
  
• Realistic Metabolism - Hypothermia, fatigue, thirst, hunger, disease, intoxication, shelter...everything is tracked.
  
• Realistic Inventory - Complex inventory system with slots for holding, wearing, containers, and more. Fit items in grid spaces, and manage encumbrance.
  
• Hex-Based World Map - Navigate ruins, hills, forests, and plains in a hex-based map. Line-of-sight, elevation, and daylight matters.
  
• Tracking - Creatures leave their tracks and spoor on the map, which can be followed by others. Players can also hide their tracks.
  
• Hiding - Players can use hiding to avoid being seen while traveling the map, as well as during story encounters.
  
• Hunting - Trap small game for food and fur, or track and kill larger prey on the map for butchering.
  
• Hacking - Use hacking skills to unlock scavenged laptops, cellphones, smartphones, and tablets. Mine them for paydata, or snoop through personal files.
  
• Foraging - Search for edible plants and water, and use special skills to identify what's safe to eat.
  
• Haunting Soundtrack - Music composed by Josh Culler, specifically for NEO Scavenger, plays periodically, lending an atmosphere of loneliness and desperation. (Also accessible as mp3s outside game.)
  
• Creature AI - Wandering creatures go about their own business, hunting, scavenging, and hoarding. Morale affects their choices, and some will gang-up and cause trouble.
  
• Dynamic Weather - Temperature, rainfall, and night/day are based on real-world data for autumn in the area. If you live long enough, you may see snow fall.
  
• Detroit - Take refuge from the wasteland in one of mankind's last bastions of safety. Buy supplies, get medical care, and seek clues in a cyberpunk-styled city.
  
• Trading Cards - Collect NEO Scavenger trading cards, badges, emoticons, and profile backgrounds!

• OS: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 5.6 or later (32 bit and 64 bit). openSUSE 11.3 or later (32 bit and 64 bit). or Ubuntu 10.04 or later (32 bit and 64 bit)
• Processor: 2.33GHz or faster x86-compatible processor. or Intel Atom 1.6GHz or faster processor for netbooksMemory: 1 GB RAM
• Memory: 1 GB RAM
• Graphics: 128MB of graphics memory
• Storage: 75 MB available space