The latest Squadron 42 monthly report highlights significant progress in developing key features for the game, including AI improvements such as NPCs interacting with objects and fixing bugs related to NPC behavior. Teams are also focusing on enhancing character animations, narrative elements, visual effects, and tech animations to deliver exceptional content and improve the overall gameplay experience.
In the latest Squadron 42 monthly report, various teams have been making significant progress in developing key features for the game. The AI features team has been working on the usable system, which allows NPCs to interact with objects in the game world. This includes tasks like janitor NPCs using lockers and mopping buckets, which will also help clean up items dropped by players in the persistent Universe, reducing server load. The AI Tech Team has been fixing bugs related to NPC behavior, such as using elevators and tracking and shooting missiles with point defense cannons. They have also been working on NPC formations and destructible cover functionality, essential for dynamic gameplay.
The animation team has been focusing on improving the look and feel of characters, including Zer G, and creating player interaction animations for various chapters. They have also been working on clothing usage for NPCs and players, cover hit reactions, and locomotion blending into usable objects. Motion capture has been used to enhance scenes and combat reload animations, while facial animation work has been progressing well for several levels. The gameplay story team has been adding audio and facial data to scenes, delivering new scenes, and updating existing ones, with a focus on improving character animations and interactions.
The narrative team has been finalizing galactic entries and refining player experiences triggered by them. They have been playtesting content implemented last year, making adjustments to dialogue and scenes for better flow. Additionally, they have been working with the audio team to add more voice packs for allies and enemies, enhancing immersion. The tech animation team has been working on animations for putting on and taking off items, enhancing character interactions and realism. They have also integrated new heads for player customization, providing more variety and options for players.
The visual effects team has been supporting cinematics with scenes across the campaign, finalizing particles, explosions, background weapons, and destruction simulations. They are collaborating with other teams to improve environments, weapons, and vehicles to enhance the narrative and gameplay experience. Overall, the progress made by these teams in finalizing and polishing various aspects of Squadron 42 is promising. The advancements in AI, animation, narrative, tech animation, and visual effects indicate a dedication to delivering exceptional content for players. The upcoming features like physical armor interactions and AI improvements will not only enhance Squadron 42 but also have a positive impact on the persistent Universe when implemented.