Here we are with our second Dev Blog.
In this update, we’re excited to share improvements designed to make it easier for players new to the extraction genre to enjoy and adapt to the game, as well as enhancements to the “Rank Match” mode to maintain a high level of intensity that even experienced Stalkers will appreciate. We’ll also dive into some changes aimed at boosting the fun of dungeon exploration.
Additionally, we would like to thank you for the love and interest you’ve shown toward our new character “Shinobu”, which we introduced in the first Dev Blog.
We’re also preparing to introduce more new Stalkers set to join the dungeons soon, so please stay tuned.
Extraction Light?
“Keeping the thrill of the extraction genre while lowering the barrier to entry by reducing the risk of loss, making it more accessible to a wider audience.”
The extraction Genre has gained popularity for its intense tension, immersion, and elements of cooperation and competition. However, we have been concerned that it may be difficult to appeal to a broader audience, since there is a high entry barrier, due to the fear of losing the results of your invested time in the game.
“Is there a way to reduce the feeling of loss while preserving the strengths of the game?”
After much internal discussion, we decided to test a system where, instead of losing everything upon failure to escape, only the items you carry in your bag are lost. This system allowed us to maintain an appropriate level of tension while reducing the overall burden, leading to a more enjoyable gameplay experience.
We have named this system “Extraction Light” and will be applying it to quick matches and adventure mode (Co-op). We believe this aligns with our goal of popularizing the dungeon fantasy extraction genre that Dungeon Stalkers strives for, and we are confident it will bring great satisfaction to our Stalkers.
Returning to the Essence of the Dungeon Crawler Genre
“To preserve the fun of dungeon exploration, we have removed the “Crimson Veil” system and will provide exploration information on the minimap to enable various strategic players.”
Dungeon Stalkers is, at its core, a fantasy dungeon crawler within the extraction genre, with dungeon exploration as a primary focus.
However, we concluded that the existing “Crimson Veil” system, inspired by battle royale mechanics, detracted from the exploration experience. After much thought and discussion, we decided to remove the “Crimson Veil”.
Now, players can enter dungeons with their party members and strategize around objectives like escape, looting, and boss hunting. To support this, we’ll be displaying essential exploration information on the map, allowing for more strategic and immersive gameplay.
*This image is a work in progress and may be subject to change in the future.
We’re working hard to bring you an even richer dungeon experience, with new elements that offer diverse exploration and thrilling challenges. Stay tuned for the exciting changes coming your way!
[h2The Reason for Keeping Ranked Mode Separate[/h2]
“We aim to preserve the unique tension and immersion that only this genre can offer. In Ranked Matches, you can earn the highest tier items, honor, differentiated rewards, and have the opportunity to challenge powerful seasonal bosses.”
Ranked matches, where everything is at risk upon failure, are designed for those who crave extreme tension, the thrill of farming, and honor.
It’s a mode for the most daring Stalkers. Through Ranked Matches, you can achieve seasonal rankings and ratings, and challenge yourself to climb the leaderboards. The most courageous and honorable Stalkers will be rewarded with titles, ranking rewards, and various other prizes after the season ends.
“But, there should be more reasons to take on the risk in Ranked Matches beyond just honor and small rewards, right?”
As the stakes are higher, the highest tier legendary items in Dungeon Stalkers can only drop in Ranked Matches. These items will have noticeably superior stats and unique options compared to lower tier items. For example, equipment with exciting effects like those below will be available.
Of course there will be even more diverse and interesting effects to discover than the sample items shown in the image.
*Stormbringer / Fury of Storm :Summon a lightning bolt on attack hit, dealing 33 Lightning damage to the target area.
*Heartseeker / Seeker’s Tooth : Shoot 2 additional arrows, Each additional arrow deals 25% physical damage.
*This image is a work in progress and may be subject to change in the future
Powerful Legendary items are tied to the right to challenge the formidable ‘Season Boss’. We will dive into more details about the Season boss in a future update.
That’s all for today’s news.
As always, your feedback and questions via Discord, Steam Community, or other channels are a huge help to us.
To wrap up, we’ll answer some questions that you’ve shared through our official Discord.
l Q&A Corner
Q. Will there be any additional monetization models beyond what was previously mentioned (Battle Pass, Emotes, Costume…)? Is there still no plan for Pay to Win elements?
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A. We have not finalized the detailed monetization play yet. However, the two main principles will remain unchanged. The game will be Free to Play, and there will not be a Pay to Win element. These principles are not up for modification.
A. We have not finalized the detailed monetization play yet. However, the two main principles will remain unchanged. The game will be Free to Play, and there will not be a Pay to Win element. These principles are not up for modification.
Q. Are there any plans to add a 2 player mode in the future?
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A. Once we are able to provide maps of various sizes, we’ll consider adding a 2 player (Duo) mode. This will likely be after the Early Access release and in a future season.
A. Once we are able to provide maps of various sizes, we’ll consider adding a 2 player (Duo) mode. This will likely be after the Early Access release and in a future season.
Q. Will there be other characters released or announced besides the ones already shown?
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A. As mentioned earlier, we are considering giving you a little hint about upcoming characters in the next developer’s note. Stay tuned! ????
A. As mentioned earlier, we are considering giving you a little hint about upcoming characters in the next developer’s note. Stay tuned! ????
Q. I want to see Shinobu’s face without her mask! Will you reveal it?
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A. We will discuss this with the concept and modeling teams. I know she is quite a mysterious character with that awesome mask, but we will definitely consider how to reveal it properly. We will think of something!
A. We will discuss this with the concept and modeling teams. I know she is quite a mysterious character with that awesome mask, but we will definitely consider how to reveal it properly. We will think of something!
Q. Are there any plans to improve character animations, specifically making the bust physics more natural and lifelike?
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A. As mentioned in the announcement after the third test, character animations will continue to be improved. Instead of focusing on a single area, we will aim to make all the animations smoother, cooler, and more natural overall!
A. As mentioned in the announcement after the third test, character animations will continue to be improved. Instead of focusing on a single area, we will aim to make all the animations smoother, cooler, and more natural overall!
Q. Are there any plans for modern-style costumes, or anything to further emphasize the appeal of character appearances?
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A. We’re currently preparing a variety of costumes for each Stalker, designed to highlight different aspects of their unique traits and offer a fresh appeal distinct from their default skins. We’re also working on seasonal costumes that follow specific themes. When the time is right, we’ll share a sneak peek of some of these upcoming costumes!
A. We’re currently preparing a variety of costumes for each Stalker, designed to highlight different aspects of their unique traits and offer a fresh appeal distinct from their default skins. We’re also working on seasonal costumes that follow specific themes. When the time is right, we’ll share a sneak peek of some of these upcoming costumes!
