Giving a fixed date for a release is always a bit of a risk, but if everything goes accordingly, you should save the following date for the Empyrion Alpha 12 public release: June, 15th.

Just as a disclaimer, although we know all of our community members are pretty much aware of the following: If today's Experimental phase 6 and the upcoming phase 7 release (scheduled for this friday) show any serious issues, well, then the release day will of course be pushed back a day or two. ;)

That being said, on behalf of the Eleon Game Studios development team and the QA crew: thanks a lot for your tremendous amount of positive comments on the upcoming Alpha 12 features and thanks even more for all the bug reports and helpful feedback! :)

With today’s phase 6 release, we add another bunch of fixes and adjustments but also a new variant to start your game experience: Snow Starter!


Note: the Snow Starter will NOT offer any tutorial, but will let you play all the missions.

Please find the full changelog added below.

As usual:

• Report bugs and issues right over here
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here
  
• Known Issues List
  
• Fixed Experimental version bugs can be found here

While the Experimental phases last, we will continue to update this post with the latest Experimental version changelogs for hotfixes and intermediate bugfix patches.

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum




Important note, related to our Experimental Server: the server needs to be wiped with today's update, as we integrated some database related changes that will help us to improve not only multiplayer-related features. The wipe is also necessary to introduce all the POI changes as well as having the Station Services added to the game world - which is, for the same reasons, recommended for Single Player as well.

For everyone who wants to play the new Invader vs Defender Scenario, please be aware that a final version is coming with the public release next week.

For the public release, we strongly recommend starting a new game with the release version, for getting all the latest fixes and features in your multiplayer AND singleplayer games!

Have fun playing! :)




== CHANGELOG ==

GALAXY

• Slightly increased probability of all NPC factions to appear in non-faction territory
  
• Added nebula color green/blue. Nebulas change color slightly faster now
  
• Nebulas: tweaked billboards a bit, nebulas get now colored according to their positioning to avoid too many colors adjacent
  
• Slightly desaturated red/blue nebula
  
• Solar system map: added ability to highlight all moons

STATION SERVICES

• All TradingStations (orbital) are now offering Station Services
  
• Added Station Services to many more orbital stations (those that make sense and with services that mostly apply to the POIs theme)
  
• All Starter Plantes Polaris Trading Stations are now offering Station Services
  
• Added & adjusted pricing for all items relating to 'Station Service' (ItemsConfig / BlocksConfig)
  
• Added ingame message when a player gets close enough to a structure with station services
  
• Added faction logo to station services window

GAME WORLD

• Added new SNOW STARTER playfield (No Tutorial; All Story and Loyalty missions activated.)
  
• The Legacy playfields: updated description / removed other factions POI and ships
  
• Updated other space playfields (removed very old Zirax Stations)
  
• Updated all space playfields: Only vessels and bases of the territory owner (and those allowed in their territories) should show up; Drones/Dronebase not yet changed (needs new code).

REGISTRY

• Showing now fill level for the planet resources (also on other playfields)
  
• Optimization to load less data on opening
  
• Added icon for teleporter and station services if structure supports

OTHER & TWEAKS

• Updated Default (Random) Multiplayer scenario (does not offer Tutorial or Story Mission!)
  
• Allowing proximity log now on terrain placeable (f.e. auto miners or survival constructors)
  
• Voxel resource drill resistance: Titan now "medium", Sathium now "hard" (was reverse before)
  
• Tweaked scanner delay a bit, so POIs should popup a bitter better synced to scanner graphics effect (only on planet)
  
• DialogSystem window: Exchanged font for main text and answer options to our standard UI font, reduced default font size
  
• HUD objects: Z sorting and dark background to improve readability
  
• Player drone may now spawn nearby Admin POIs
  
• AI drone and vessel configuration : AI in configuration yaml file will be filtered according the faction allowance in the current world
  
• Adjusted some NPC prefabs to better support the dialog arrow
  
• Rework of Marketplace to work with the DB

POI

• Added Progenitor artifacts to more playfields
  
• Added: Outpost Nina (Pirates), Xenu Fuel Depot T1 (Zirax); thx to sulusdacor
  
• Updated Zirax: Epsilon Com Center, Epsilon Defense 1; thx to vermillion
  
• Added Kriel: Vectrum, Turrim Alveo; Updated Kriel Center; thx to jrandall
  
• Updated Trader: Added new TraderDefenseHQ POI to defend TraderMain POIs
  
• Added placeholder OPV for Kriel and Traders Guild
  
• Updated: Tutorial Hoverbike, UCH Dart, Epsilon Defence II (thx to vermillion)
  
• Updated: Outpost Nina (Pirates) & Xenu Fuel Depot (thx to sulusdacor)

MISSIONS

• Tales of The Past: optimized AlienTower interior lighting timing
  
• Totally Overpowered: Pirates drop to unfriendly when base is discovered (they know you are coming from Polaris)
  
• Ancient Revelations: The Illmarien will be fully salvageable for those completing the mission

BUGFIXES

• Fixed: Thruster heat & radiation zone misplaced when vessel is rotated
  
• Fixed: PaxPurgatory and SkyGuy bars do not buy Platinum Bars
  
• Fixed: Lock sector button issues with non-galaxy mode games, and several other discrepancies with its enabled state and distance label.
  
• Fixed dialog arrow being wrong positioned on sitting SciFi gambling NPC
  
• Fixed: Sometimes a COQ can trigger after turret fire
  
• Fixed: Projectile Turrets hit themselves
  
• Fixed: Global seed doesn't work with fixed Scenarios
  
• Fixed: Duplicate playfield name exception
  
• Fixed: Declining Robinson Protocol leads to corrupted savegame
  
• Fixed: Station service takes money without services
  
• Fixed: Pirates territory does not contain stars for some seeds
  
• Fixed: Two sentries in Hidden Pirate base were not destructible
  
• Fixed: Loot Container not reachable anymore in Derelict Ship due to indestructible walkway
  
• Fixed: Station service buttons do not have text
  
• Fixed: Door Corner 01 forcefield showing from one side when door is closed
  
• Fixed: Wildlife Cam completing on 1st deposit found
  
• Fixed: Repositioning vessels on entering a moon/planet was not working when they got repositioned on moons or planets that were not located at 0,0,0
  
• Fixed: Removal of warp tank is not recognised by CV as missing until warp engaged resulting in CoQ
  
• Fixed: Station Interface: fix for warp container not getting filled correctly if mass/volume active
  
• Fixed problem that sometimes your own structures without a clone chamber/medic bay showed up as respawn option
  
• Fixed: [MP] Teleporter trap base with public faction
  
• Fixed: Jetpack turns off after teleport from planet to space
  
• Fixed: Blocks placed in wrong locations when using pageup/pagedown
  
• Fixed: Blast Doors can get stuck & not fully open
  
• Fixed: CoQ on dedi when doing 'gents' console command or the mod command to request all structures
  
• Fixed: Incorrect state of target lock button when ctrl-clicking
  
• Fixed: Sometimes system map doesn't open correctly when double clicking from galaxy map
  
• Fixed: The Legacy planets appearing outside of The Legacy territory
  
• Fixed: Marketplace old savegame compatibility
  
• Fixed: DroneBases, PlanetVesselBases & Drones / PV missing
  
• Fixed: No ammunition display for turrets in vessels
  
• Fixed problem that asteroid fields were not created in territory areas
  
• Possible fix for sporadic DB exception when changing playfields

Fixed: Station service cost button text blinking

The public release of Alpha 12 is coming closer. For those that asked: Expect it to happen around mid of june! No liability assumed, of course :D



That being said, Experimental Phase 5 is adding one of the last features, related to the new galaxy: the Station Services.

Station Services will allow you to refill fuel and pentaxid, restock your ammo, repair your vessel or fast-charge your shields in exchange for credits. For testing how this will work, visit the Polaris Trading Station on the Temperate starter planet. When in range, open the Control Panel (P) and find the new tab ‘Station Services’.

Keep in mind this is a new feature addition. The pricing will change. We also plan to add the Station Services to more planetary and orbital structures until the next phase.

For now, let us know what you think: https://empyriononline.com/threads/a12-exp-station-services.93655/ :)

We have of course also worked on the galaxy, the stars, nebula - which are now part of the orbital skybox as well! - and bugfixes. ;)

Please find the full changelog added below.

As usual:

• Report bugs and issues right over here
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here
  
• Known Issues List
  
• Fixed Experimental version bugs can be found here

While the Experimental phases last, we will continue to update this post with the latest Experimental version changelogs for hotfixes and intermediate bugfix patches.

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum

Have fun! :)


== CHANGELOG ==

New Feature 'STATION SERVICES'

When in range of a station (300m) which has the station services enabled, open the control panel of your vessel (P) and find the new tab 'Station Services'. You can buy and refill fuel, ammo and pentaxid, as well as repair your ship (repair-2-template!) and quick-load your shield - in case you have the required credits. The availability of station services (and which services are offered) can be set individually for an orbital or planetary POI in the playfield_static.yaml PROPERTIES entry. The pricing is taken from a new parameter, set in the ItemsConfig.ecf. This base pricing can then be further modified by factors in the playfield_static.yaml file.

The station services can be tested at the Polaris Trading Station on the Temperate starter planet. You can also find a setup example in its playfield file!

Feedback thread: https://empyriononline.com/threads/a12-exp-station-services.93655/



GALAXY

• Now supporting 20 starter planets (old: 10)
  
• Space: fading out now nebulas if they are farther away than 50 LY until they fully disappear in 250 LY distance
  
• Galaxy nebulas: changed from single billboard to 'billboard cloud' to allow star systems to be within a nebula and show it 'around' the star system playfields. More to come!
  
• Moved Legacy NPC territory closer to galaxy ( should now be in range of the warpdrive )
  
• Space and distant stars: adjusted brightness and color (less bright and less saturated)

GAME WORLD

• StarterMoon now a bit more 'forgiving' + reduced enemy drone presence
  
• Swamp Starter: Added back 1 Anti Radiation Ointment to MEDIUM difficulty start escape pod equipment

GAMEPLAY

• Item grid auto-sorting now combines stacks of same item type and meta and saves the selected mode in the savegame
  
• Increased Shield-Damage of NPC Faction Plasma Turrets (Green/Red)
  
• Add label to identify unmarked column for Loot Id in Devices page for spawner pad setup
  
• Ventilator Blocks now also available in Small Constructor

PDA / MISSIONS / POI

• Offworld Grave: Found logs can now be re-read on the token console (intermediate workaround for now)
  
• Offworld Grave: Added some 'gifts' near some of the story-relevant consoles (mainly directed to new players)
  
• Tales of the Past: Prison should now spawn more reliably (please retest your seeds and report back if it does not!)
  
• Replaced story-POI cores with NPC Admin Cores: Control Station (Minefield), Com Array (Moon), Mainframe (Moon), Ilmarinen (slight updates as well), Pirates Hidden Base
  
• Added: Trader Defense outposts HQ-version (thx to sulusdacor)
  
• Added/Updated: Trader/Polaris Gas Refineries (orbital station; thx to Kaeser)
  
• Added more Progenitor Artifacts (thx to Fractalite)
  
• Added new Pirates Main base variant (creator: Twibras: modified: Fractalite)
  
• Added new Pirates CV for SpaceBaseDefense ( Reworked by sulusdacor)
  
• Updated: Polaris Asteroid Mining station (Story; thx to vermillion)
  
• Added: New version of the Tales of the Past Alien Tower (thx to vermillion)

BUGFIXES

• Fixed: PDA NearDeposit returns CoQ
  
• Fixed: Old/legacy scenarios: added another fix for solar systems not showing up on first connect to a dedicated server
  
• Fixed: CoQ on start when selecting the orbit start for creative mode
  
• Fixed: Shared markers when copied to another players private list no longer persist after server restart
  
• Fixed: The "Remove" button in the "Add a map marker" window isn't working
  
• Fixed: Ship controller torque generated by thrusters leads to zero rotation ability when adding thrusters in some cases
  
• Fixed: 'wipe poi' removing structures instead of regenerating them.
  
• Fixed: 'wipe player' not removing player structures
  
• Fixed: Infinite fuel/CP access exploit with faction "none" POIs
  
• Fixed: Planet Info shows always the 0 Origin and not working properly
  
• Fixed: Shared markers still appearing after being expired.
  
• Fixed: offline chat messages not displayed if only quit to main menu
  
• Fixed: faction messages not displayed in chat log until player first opened chat window
  
• Fixed: AIPV's once spawned do not move or "Patrol"
  
• Fixed: Remove button for bookmark dialog doesn't work
  
• Fixed: loot drops on NPC Spawner for a LOT of POIs (thx vermillion!)
  
• Fixed: several issues and exceptions when starting the Base Attack scenario.
  
• Fixed: double occurrence of structures that were taken over by players.
  
• Fixed: wrong selection on reopening.
  
• Fixed: wrong distance calculation sometimes

Although phase 4 was released just a few days ago, we have worked on some important bugfixes which we do not want to delay any longer.

That being said, this is not only a bugfix update or a hotfix to phase 4, but also adds several new elements in terms of gameplay and visuals for you to test as well! Some of these are currently work-in-progress, but - as always - require your dedicated feedback to improve them up to the next phase-release. :)


Please find the full changelog added below.

As usual:

• Report bugs and issues here
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here
  
• Check known Issues List here
  
• Fixed Experimental version bugs can be found here

While the Experimental phases last, we will continue to update this post with the latest Experimental version changelogs for hotfixes and intermediate bugfix patches.

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum.

Have fun! :)

Gameworld

• Space: now using real stars and nebulas instead of skybox images. (only for games started with 12.4.1; For old scenarios: remove the Nebula/Stars property from playfield.yaml )
  
• Space: POIs now will be placed within a max radius of 15000m around the center of the playfield (only for games startet with 12.4.1)
  
• Galaxy Map: coordinates are now displayed as LY instead as sector coordinates

Story and POI

• Added story intro mission: Starting The Journey (auto-activates on completion or decline of Tutorial BUT can also be activated manually!)
  
• Storyline missions now require a RP of 'neutral' (Talon, Polaris); Note: All story missions can be activated manually!
  
• Uncertain Outcome: Improved waypoints to avoid being guided to the wrong POI
  
• Uncertain Outcome: Asteroid Mining Station now has an Admin Core to avoid ruining Polaris RP while fighting with the Zirax
  
• Totally Overpowered: Removed secondary trading station from AridStarter to not confuse the pda mission
  
• Human Remains: Removed creature spawns from UCH Heidelberg position on starter planets ( avoids distraction by being attacked while reading )
  
• Added Defense stations for Traders Guild (thx to sulusdacor)
  
• Added Polaris Gas Refining orbital station (thx to Kaeser; for now added to playfields: Asteroid, Asteroid Few)
  
• Added more VOID and Progenitor Artifacts (thx to Fractalite)
  
• Updated Legacy POI and ships (thx to vermillion)
  
• Updated Legacy Matter Converter (thx to Kaeser)

Materials & Crafting

• Added Platinum ( Ore > Bar > Ounce) and Aluminum ( Ore > Powder > Coil); Currently only as collectibles and for trading; not used in crafting yet. Obtainable from planetary deposits and asteroids in certain locations only (Hint: Watch out for Zirax Commanders ;) )
  
• Known issue: Resource icons might not shown on some planet info cards (only number of deposits displayed; Will be fixed in Phase 5)
  
• Added back Iron/Copper/Silicon ore deposits around Tutorial 'Large Wreckage' site to reduce search-frustration at game start (for new players).
  
• Renamed 'Hardened Steel Plates' to 'Sathium Plates' to reflect the changed crafting logic and to reduce confusion (As of Alpha 12, Hardened Steel blocks use Titanium; Combat Steel blocks use Sathium).

Registry

• Added a ‘proximity log’ for own structures in the registry (see new button)
  
• Reduced amount of information shown in the Registry.
  
• Explanation: In the old version there was way too much data shown, also it was too expensive on opening (network traffic, etc). This is the first implementation in a try to optimize the data that is shown in the registry (compromise regarding performance and usability).

Multiplayer

• Added offline chat messages via DB (WIP): In Private and Faction channels, you can now send chat messages to a player who is offline. He will receive the message when coming online again and opening the chat window for the first time.

Technical changes

• Not showing star distribution on loading the game any more but only when using console command 'galaxy info' (new parameter)
  
• Removed custom VC Redistributable installation
  
• Better compression quality for nebulas

• Database: API Destroy calls don’t set parameter in DB
  
• Fixed NPC Spawn on Polaris Smelter POIs
  
• Fixed: CV RCS could not be upgraded to T2 version
  
• Fixed: Solar panel producing energy during night bug
  
• Fix for sporadic CoQ when crossing the 'green wall' border on a planet with a player bike
  
• Fixed error message in PF log: Kinematic body only supports Speculative Continuous collision detection.
  
• Fix jittering distance labels in maps. Correct distance label in system map.
  
• Fixed CoQ when taking over an enemy POI and spawners still try to spawn entities
  
• Fixed problem that you could choose a freighter CV as spawn point as medic station/clone chamber
  
• Fixed: sporadic exception when closing the space map before all planets were generated
  
• Fix for legacy (old) scenarios not sending all playfields to clients
  
• Fixed random POI overlapping bug
  
• Fixed container/constructor logic on Firebase POI (thx to Pantera)
  
• Fixed ore texture for Titan underground voxel deposits
  
• Fixed: Missing damage state for Armor Locker (BACV) made it vanish when damaged
  
• Fixed: Teleporter (CV) now returns the appropriate crafting materials on deconstruction and requesting the appropriate materials for Repair and BP Factory
  
• Fixed sporadic CoQ when opening registry
  
• Fixed: CoQ spam from Troop transport when loading into a save game
  
• Fixed missing loca entries for Orbit Lines and other panel toggle buttons
  
• Fixed: CoQ when opening Registry/Teleporter UI
  
• Fixed: Thruster torque at 0 for yaw, pitch & roll

First of all, thanks a lot for your patience, while he had to delay Phase 4. We have made good use of these additional days and a lot has happened in the code and in the game.



A few highlights:

• The galaxy is now a lot more configurable. You can now use ‘Regions’ for local hotspots and for the general shape and design (amount and type of stars etc).
  
• We have added the ‘Scoreboard’ to the old player overview (Button: B). You can now see a lot of stats and info in a leaderboard style
  
• The Registry now allows to directly jump to a system with the ‘show on map’ button

Please find the full changelog added below.

There is one caveat, though: the flexibility for the galaxy-setup, database changes and other adjustments, now require a new game start. As already announced, old savegames from the previous Experimental phases are no longer compatible anymore.

The good thing: starting a new savegame will allow you to play the updated story missions and explore the reworked POI, as those cannot be updated in existing savegames as well. :)

As usual:

• Report bugs and issues right over here
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here
  
• Known Issues List
  
• Fixed Experimental version bugs can be found there

While the Experimental phases last, we will continue to update the following post with the latest Experimental version changelogs for hotfixes and intermediate patches

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum

Have fun with Phase 4 - and tell us what you think about the changes! :)

GALAXY & GALAXY CONFIG

• Better elliptical galaxy generation, improved naming algorithm for stars.
  
• Added REGIONS: up to 99 StarRegions & StarClass are possible (See GalaxyConfig for examples)
  
• Updated GalaxyConfig.ecf and created new galaxy appeal, using the new techniques
  
• Added in-line documentation an info to the GalaxyConfig.ecf
  
• Warp target playfield names 'around the sun' got renamed from f.ex. 'Ellyon_0,0,-1' to 'Ellyon [Sun Back]'
  
• All warp target playfields are now PvE
  
• Add player/hover target position to system/galaxy maps. Make input boxes bigger to accommodate full sector coordinates.
  
• Info cards in the system map for sectors will now show a class of the playfield
  
• Added display names for space sectors map
  
• First draft of galaxy nebulas

GAME WORLD

• Space Base Defense enabled for Pirates faction (FactionWarfare.ecf)
  
• Adjusted TemperateStart planet and starter zone
  
• Decreased spawning of ground AI on TemperateStarter
  
• Added new icons for space sectors: Junkyard and SpaceEmpty (System map)
  
• Updated: Moved Legacy galactic territory to new position + changed content
  
• Updated playfields: Increased spawn probability of asteroids in space slightly

GAMEPLAY

• TurretAlien ( Pulse Laser Turret T2 ) is now fully working (Legacy Infector and Decimator class vessels will now shoot back!)
  
• Added Titanium Rods to MA Corp Traders
  
• First draft: Item-Sorting now persistent per container/inventory (In-Session. Not yet saving to savegame)

SCOREBOARD

• Added Ranking to scoreboard ( press B )
  
• Added leaderboard values ( Visited systems, Blocks placed, deaths,..and a lot more)
  
• Added sections to scoreboard window: Player, Player's Faction and All Factions

REGISTRY

• Registry now remembers last selected entry and selects it again when reopening
  
• Added "Show On Map" for selected stars and solar systems
  
• Showing bookmark icon now always for all bookmarks and not the chosen icon of the bookmark, to easier identify bookmarks in registry

POI & BLUEPRINTS

• In playfield yaml, random POI config: Added "UseEachGroupPoiOnlyOnce" flag to force each POI of a POI group to be spawned only once
  
• POI in orbit are now distributed up to 15.000m from center in each direction (before: 2000)
  
• Manually spawning blueprints: limiting the move down into terrain until the first device
  
• Manually spawning blueprints: added game option 'UndergroundBpSpawn' to override spawn limit (see possible values and default in an gameoptions_example.yaml)
  
• Improved RandomPlacer to overlap less, to better use the allowed distance between POIs (even before one POI fails to be placed)
  
• Updated: Small adjustments to Ancient Revelation Control-Station POI
  
• Updated: Removed cores from orbital CV wreckages
  
• Updated: Reworked Unknown Artifact, Helix, Structure
  
• Updated: Xenu POI groups (standard, advanced and special POI)

PDA, DIALOGUE & MISSIONS

• All Story Missions are playable on all starter planets now
  
• All Story Missions have been updated and improved (sometimes significant changes) for consistency with the game story ( Note: The missions are currently 'free to activate' or will activate automatically in certain conditions. They are not linked in a row, to make testing easier. This will change with the public version!)
  
• PDA window improvements: for each category the last selection (chapter or task) is remembered, if the active chapter is displayed the currently active task is selected
  
• PDA window: Added hint to "Activate" button if disabled because chapter is ChapterActivation controlled
  
• Dialog window: Changed all texts to TextMeshPro, now all features of the Sign blocks can also be used here, e.g. alignment
  
• DialogueSystem: added function GetInstanceTicket()
  
• DialogueSystem: added dbglobal_int
  
• Allow optional scenario Localization.csv (SP and MP!)

BALANCING

• Added Radiation-removal to all Anti-Rad medicals ( Ointment: -1, Pill: -3, Injection: -5, Decontamination Kit: -7)
  
• Reduced RP gain from killing a member of an NPC faction

DATABASE

• Now logging player AI vessel destruction
  
• Now logging player completed PDA chapters
  
• Added network profiling data (package count + size), added IsPvp flag for playfields,
  
• Added dialogue states visited, player structures visited, build nr and version, player credits

CONSOLE COMMANDS

• ConsoleCmd GalaxyConfig: added output where the config file is loaded from
  
• Added console command 'galaxy' to reload the GalaxyConfig.ecf of the current savegame and test the parameters on the galaxy. Might break the current savegame!

(Experimental 12.4 2913)

• Fixed: Regeneration of asteroids, POI's etc not working
  
• Fixed: Can’t click "New Game" with some languages
  
• Fixed: Terrain "Walls" appearing in or around structures
  
• Fixed: Planet resource deposits are identifiable with map marker
  
• Fixed: Clone chamber does not appear in the respawn options
  
• Fixed: Autominer cannot be upgrade to T2 and T3 anymore
  
• Fixed: A waypoint that is setup for a planet follows the player when the player enters the planet
  
• Fixed: Unable to warp to a waypoint setup in another star
  
• Fixed: Difference in distance between the warp line & "Lock button" distance
  
• Fixed: Infinite fuel/CP access exploit with faction "none" POIs
  
• Fixed: [MP] Vessels don't load/update in correct position for other clients
  
• Fixed: Waypoints persist after picking up a waypointed terrain placeable
  
• Fixed: Added touchable collider to station console hologlobe element
  
• Fixed: Alien turrets should not attack predator animals (like spiders) any more
  
• Fixed: LY distances between stars, as a result: galaxy radius is now 500 instead of 3000 LY (it was always smaller than 3000LY, the display before was faulty)
  
• Fixed: Wipe command to work also with the new DB
  
• Fixed: Label anchors for player position and other labels
  
• Fixed: Incorrect display of LY label and distance in sector list
  
• Fixed: Solar panel in space not producing energy bug
  
• Fixed: Exception sometimes when opening system mapMode
  
• Fixed: Menu tab not updated to system map when double clicking star to open console Window
  
• Fixed: Missing entry for LY distance
  
• Fixed: Access Constructor step did not work in RP-2 tutorial
  
• Avoiding exception when ticks get out of bounds and opening player window
  
• Fixed: Wrong tooltip for minimap when in various screen aspects
  
• Fixed: Legacy planetary playfield issues
  
• Possible fix for sometimes flickers when switching between system and galaxy maps
  
• Fix for bookmarks in instances not showing up
  
• Fixed missing scrollbars in system description panels
  
• Fixed sorting visited star system list
  
• Registry: fixed problem that two entries for some objects appeared
  
• DB: fix for communication abort when entering a server the very first time and opening the player window
  
• Fixed: Polaris Scout pivot issue

Welcome to week 3 of Alpha 12 Experimental.

For all those waiting to get hands on the dedicated server files: With phase 3 we made good progress in terms of performance and functions of the database and in fixing issues related to the server files. That being said, although the changes now have to be tested with your help in the current update, we are quite confident that next week's phase 4 will have the server files included eventually! :)

Please also note, there are a few more adjustments to be made for phase 4, which will result in a savegame break for your current, running savegames - which will also result in a full wipe of our Experimental Server.

Although this might be a bit inconvenient, but as you know: only new games, started with each phase will have all the changes on playfields, POIs and missions - as these game elements, unlike config changes, do not get updated in a running savegame.


[ New mission: Offworld Grave ]

As usual:

• Report bugs and issues right over here: https://empyriononline.com/forums/bugs.34/
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here: https://empyriononline.com/forums/tracking-filed.91/
  
• Known Issues List: https://empyriononline.com/threads/...own-issues-troubleshooting.47118/#post-290341
  
• Fixed Experimental version bugs can be found there: https://empyriononline.com/forums/fixed.90/

While the Phase 3 lasts, we will continue to update the following post with the latest Experimental version changelogs for hotfixes and intermediate patches: https://empyriononline.com/threads/alpha-12-experimental-updates-and-hotfixes.92687/

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum: https://empyriononline.com/forums/experimental-features-discussion.35/

REGISTRY

• Added toggle button groups for private, faction, others to filter results

FACTIONS

• Traders Guild is now an intractable faction (you can change your standing up and down now)
  
• Updated Reputation actions for Traders Guild
  
• Adjusted reputation points of other factions (reduced/adapted gains and losses; please check ingame NPC faction screen)

MISSIONS / DIALOGUE

• Added / Full rework: Human Remains Solo Mission (WiP, Test Ready!)
  
• Added: Offworld Grave as follow up to HR (WiP, Test Ready!)
  
• NPC dialogue system: added function DeltaTimeToString()
  
• DialogSystem: added control element "@d<n>" to set typewriter effect speed for current page, use "@d0" to show remaining text immediately
  
• Updates/ fixes on Talon/Polaris/Zirax quest missions ( Approaching targets should now work again)

POI and PLAYFIELDS

• Added Polaris Shuttle T1 ( PV )
  
• Added OPV Corvettes for Pirates ( Original creators: urialia & Sulusdacor)(Note: Space Base Defense not yet set up)
  
• Added new settlements for Polaris ( now following the "Polaris Style") + swapped all Polaris-held CivilSettlements on all playfields to new design group
  
• Re-added Civil Settlements (remaining POI) to playfields
  
• Added new water-floating settlements for Polaris on Ocean playfield (incl. Defenses!)
  
• Added Kriel Defense T1 (by vermillion)
  
• Added PV for Zirax (XenuCutter; Not yet added to PV group)
  
• Updated Rados Fuel Depot Desert variant
  
• Added more POI to Traders Guild faction
  
• Added Traders Guild to more planets Now available at: Temperate, TemperateSwamp, Desert, Arid, Snow, Ocean, MoonDesert, MoonForest
  
• Added more 'other' factions to galactic faction territories (Check \Content\Configuration\GalaxyConfig.ecf for details)
  
• Added Kriel Empire to all planetary playfields (They only spawn their POI in their galactic territory, though)
  
• Added Pirates to all Planets and Moons Main bases are often found on desert and forest moons; Ambush POI are most on the lush planets but also spread a lot; Waystations are seen on places where the Pirates only want keep up a presence for whatever undisclosed reason.
  
• Removed mapdistance/huddistance from all playfields (where not necessary) as it breaks scanning mechanic and is not necessary anymore (except you want to really hide a POI from the scanners)
  
• Added Crashed Legacy Infector to AlienLegacy playfield

Thanks to all builders and contributors! :)

GAME WORLD TECH

• Extended space playfield area also in SP from +/-50k to +/-100k. Only outside this area, the warning message will appear
  
• Supporting "Main" as a faction in playfield yamls to take the faction from the territory ( 'Faction: Main' ). If no territory then this POI will be left out

BALANCING / CRAFTING

• Armored Windows S now made from TitanPlates instead of Hardened Steel (Sathium)
  
• Reduced output of Fiber (40>30) and WoodPlanks (60>50)
  
• Fridge (HV and SV) now available in Portable Constructor
  
• Reduced PowerBar Food points to 45
  
• Reduced CPU on Generators ( related to reduced power output and other changed parameters )
  
• Reduced CPU on Harvester (HV)
  
• Ground repulsor engine for HV : torque decrease from 10 -> 5
  
• CV Projectile Turrets can now be crafted in Large Constructor as well

OTHER

• Updated Armor Locker model for BA and CV as a preview test
  
• Detectors can now also be fired underwater
  
• Changed submarine-style scanner ping to a more sci-fi variant
  
• Time in character window is now shown in "game time played" and not in "real time" as it was before

DATABASE & TECH

• DB: optimized query for getting medic station on player death, added info what BP got spawned
  
• DB: writing now player inventory on every player data save. added possibility to execute multiple update queries with one call
  
• DB: Added deadticks and isdead to Entities
  
• DB: added entity death timestamp, added bool if structure was spawned from BP library
  
• The structure .txt files are not written into the Shared folder any more. Instead of that, we put this information into the DB table StructuresHistory
  
• Relaxed timing for threads
  
• Set Animator component to "AlwaysCull" on a lot of turret/weapon animations to improve performance (a bit)
  
• Optimized Animator component on doors and retractable weapons to not be active when not needed
  
• Stripped down some dedi unity prefabs for better performance of playfield server: CockpitSS04Prefab_dedi, VentilatorEdgeRoundMediumHalfPrefab_dedi, PassengerSeatSVPrefab_dedi, TurretMSCannonRetractPrefab_dedi, TurretMSMinigunPrefab_dedi, WeaponSSMinigunRetractPrefab_dedi, FuelTankSVSmallPrefab_dedi
  
• Optimization from pf server profiling: mapped SphereCast to Raycast for all none player checks for "which structure we are on".
  
• Added automatic VC Redistributable installation to fix missing dll dependencies problems

MOD API

• ModApi.IPlayfield: added SolarSystemName and SolarSystemCoordinates
  
• ModApi.IBlock: Implemented Get/SetTextures, added SetTextureForWholeBlock, added equivalent methods for colors

• Fixed: Waypoints from space mirroring to the ship on the planet
  
• Fixed: HUD markers do not show the shortest direction on a planet
  
• Fixed: Wrong fps logging of playfield servers
  
• Fixed: NPC dialogue arrow showing too high on HolographicAIConsole
  
• Fixed: NPC dialogue system > fixed bug that when using OptionIf the wrong index was chosen if options were "thinned out"
  
• Fixed: HV > unexpected oscillation with very light HV
  
• Fixed: Polaris floating POIs
  
• Fixed: HV ground repulsor engine switching back on unexpectedly when switched off in control panel bug
  
• Fix for not possible to spawn blueprints in some orbit playfields (2nd try)
  
• Fixed retractable weapons and hangar doors in MP
  
• Fixed: Registry > fixed exception when a bookmark was corrupt
  
• Fixed: Registry > corrected bug that when in faction private stuff was not displayed reliable
  
• Fixed: Player window > fix for "day X" not displaying game time in days correctly (game time is roughly real time * 6)
  
• Fixed: Waypoints from space mirroring to the ship on the planet (fixed special case)
  
• Fixed: Devices morphing onto docked vessels (FIX UPDATED)

• Fixed: CoQ regression if starting a new game and opening character window
  
• Fixed: PDA > On re-log chapter-activation done even for active and repeat-waiting chapters and for not / no longer repeatable chapters
  
• Fixed: PDA > fixed exception when starting a Creative game
  
• Fixed Totally Overpowered intro (Finding TOP Manager on Akua Orbit)
  
• Fixed: Serdu Monastery sunk into ground (plz retest)
  
• Fixed: Devices morphing onto docked vessels
  
• Fixed: NPC blocks showing only T-Pose
  
• Fixed: Remove Seed from Game Start > CoQ
  
• Fixed: Nothing is shown on devices for Energy in or out when the Italian [or Spanish] language is being used
  
• Fixed: Ship cruise mode UI pin indicator not moving bug -> fixed
  
• Fixed: [Possible fix for] Radial menu can become frozen when using "Back" whilst a device window is open

Today we kick off the first testing phase of the Alpha 12 Experimental! :)



Main feature additions:

1. The Galaxy
   
2. Active detection system
   
3. Registry journeybook
   
4. Interactive dialogues
   
5. Dynamic key-token generation
   
6. Space Base Defense
   
7. Player-build teleporter system
   
8. Full config files exposition

Besides those major topics, we added several new NPC Factions, a slew of technical and feature additions, new crafting materials like Titanium, updated POIs, Model and a lot more.

Have a look at the full changelog over here



Remember: For the first days of the Experimental version, multiplayer games can only be played on our Alpha 12 Experimental server, because we first need to thoroughly test the new database, before we can release the EXP server version. The Singleplayer/Coop client version of the Experimental version are of course available with todays release! Please read the full reasoning over here

As with every major releases, the Experimental version phase will see several stages and last at least a few weeks, until we will release to the 'public' branch eventually. ;)

Please also note:

• Report bugs and issues right over here
  
• Any bug fixed for A12 can be found here
  
• Known Issues List is here

For discussing the new and updated features, please head over to the pinned threads in our Experimental Feedback forum

There, we will also gladly answer your questions and set up help topics as we go.

Now, please have fun playing Alpha 12 Experimental Phase 1! :)
- Empyrion Dev Team

Most of you might wonder, when the Alpha 12 Experimental will hit your PC. Good news!

If everything works out as planned, the Experimental phase will start anytime next week!
As always..no liabilities assumed.

There is one thing to know about the upcoming Experimental:

For Alpha 12 we made a real BIG change in how the game handles data and info by adding a persistent database. This offers a myriad of new possibilities - in fact, it made some of the Alpha 12 features possible in the first place - but this needs to be tested in-depth, especially for Multiplayer.

That’s why this time, in the first week of the Experimental release, we will only have our own EXP Server as a testing field.

This way, we will be able to grab all the logs directly and track the performance of the database in a live environment with the highest possible load. Again, and to be precise: this is for the initial phase (only!)
We hope everyone planning to set up an own EXP Server will understand this move, as testing the database is crucial for the progress of the game as a whole.

Rest assured the EXP will have a server version released, as soon as the tests are passed and we are confident about the stability of the database.

The Singleplayer version will of course be available from day one, just the dedicated server version will be delayed.

If things go accordingly, this initial phase might only last a few days. A minor period, given the Alpha 12 is a milestone release with an Experimental phase of several weeks, where we will be happy to see a lot of Experimental-version servers out there.

A note for the server owners, as this might not be known a lot: feel free to get in touch with us about any global topics via server@empyriongame.com (Feedback, Ideas etc.. no specific topic ;) )

Hope to see you soon playing the Experimental version! :)
- Empyrion Dev Team

PS: For all of you interested in an evening talk about Alpha 12 and maybe some gameplay right from the final Experimental pre-release candidate, tune in to our Dev Q&A, hosted by Spanj

For today's blog, we would like to give you more insight on a device feature, a lot of you have asked for.

Until now, you could make use of the device in question in NPC stations and some dungeons.
Now, it will be available to you players: Teleporters!


(New CV teleporter model)

The Teleporters will come in two versions:

• Teleporter for bases. Their range will be 30 LY
  
• Teleporter for capital vessels. They will allow you to teleport within a sector, what means between Planet <-> Orbit, Planet <-> Moon, Orbit <-> Moons etc. No need to EVA over to a space station anymore!

There are a few constraints of course.

• You can NOT teleport to another PLAYER or PLAYER FACTIONS teleporters! You can only use your own teleporters, those of your faction and from NPC factions you are at least in a friendly state.
  
• It is not possible to teleport FROM or teleport TO a CV that is currently MOVING
  
• It is not possible to use a CV or BA teleporter (as outgoing-transport) when
  a) shields are active
  b) the structure is under fire (cooldown of 20 seconds after last “hit”)

Incoming teleports currently can end on devices that are off or behind a shield - of course only if you ‘allowed’ to use the teleporter as a target.

If there is any condition that denies you to use a teleport target, its destination simply will not show in the teleporter target overview.



We hope you will like this little feature improvement.
As usual, feel free to post an questions to the comments. :)

Read you soon,
Empyrion Dev Team

It’s wednesday again! First and foremost: We hope you are all well - and if not, we hope you will get well very soon! And because we got a lot of concerned emails and messages: Everyone in the team is Ok or is already getting better. Thanks a lot for all the wishes. :)

We have been kind of silent the last 2 weeks, simply because a lot of code work had to happen, to flesh out the features.

Today we have a mix of different things that made good progress and got added until recently.

1. The Empyrion ingame card game?
   Our Modelling team has been busy with some new stuff. We added two new devices (we will not disclose just yet. Sorry ;) ) and a few others, like the Zirax CV turrets that are currently in a finishing phase.
   
   A new entry to the blocks and devices are two gambling tables.
   
   
   
   What started as an internal use case, just for testing the NPC Dialogue system with a Black Jack script, found some interest in the tester group and the team itself. So we thought: Where Star Trek TNG has had Poker, Star Wars has Sabacc, BSG has Triad Cars .. how would the favored Card-game based amusement of Polaris, Talon, Zirax and other species in Andromeda be named and how would it work?
   Any ideas? Let us know your suggestions for a name and a system! We might use it! :)
   
   
2. New playfield types!
   While the galaxy has grown the amount of stars to fill with something to explore, we are constantly looking for new playfield types to integrate. While we are happy to review any suggestion you send us via email, we have opened the CUSTOM PLAYFIELDS forum for that purpose.
   
   That being said, reworks of old playfield types and new iterations, are in the works already. A new Ice Moon and a Forest Moon will be part of the mix, soon.
   
   
   
   
   Hint: Alpha 12 will also see the addition of a menacing “Legacy Faction” playfield type, which will reveal a lot of what this faction is up to. Playfield will be revealed in the next weeks. ;)
   
   
3. New models and resources!
   In Alpha 12 we will not only have Ice available on Asteroids in space eventually, but we will also add a new resource to the game the first time ever: Titanium
   
   And while we added a forest moon with endless quantities of Plant Fiber, and because the item has become a very popular meme in the current pandemic times, we added Toilet paper (including a slightly updated toilet model) as an item for your very discreete player avatar needs as well. Of course you cannot buy it at a trader. ;)
   
   Feel free to make suggestions which status effect we should allow to be cured with it! (except the obvious ;)
   
   
   
   
4. Respawn changes
   Alpha 12 will also see some changes in the Respawn mechanic which everyone, who has run into a literal dead end, might like.
   
   First, the survival tent is now a possible respawn option. When you die, you can select the closest survival tent from the respawn menu. So make sure to be prepared.
   
   Second: you will now get a respawn option, even if you have NO home-button checked CV or BA or even a survival tent. You can respawn in a Clone Chamber or Medbay of the CLOSEST BA or CV that belongs to you or your faction, even if these structures have not been set in the HOME checkbox in the Control Panel!
   
   In addition, you get a third way of respawning: When you are at least NEUTRAL with a NPC Faction AND you discovered one of their stations, equipped with either Medbay or Clone Chamber, before, you will get offered the closest of these stations as a respawn option as well!
   
   
5. Registry and Markers
   We are currently reworking how the REGISTRY works. Not only because the Registry needed an update to handle the new star systems, but with Alpha 12 it will offer a lot more options and work more like a real Journey-book, where all your discoveries are noted. Not only your own or your faction's stuff, but also terrain placeables like Autominers, ore deposits and a lot more. Filters will help to manage all these entries.
   
   In addition, when setting a Waypoint on one of those entries, those markers are now visible on planets while you are in space - and vice versa!
   
   And: the markers will also work in space as a pre-set warp target. So aim for them, accelerate and warp right away! No need to hammer the Lock-Target Button on the Map anymore.
   
   

As a closing comment - and because we got asked this quite a lot: we are currently preparing for the Experimental to start mid of April (if nothing goes wrong). As always: No liability assumed. :D

Watch out for a scheduled live Q&A ahead of the EXP.

Read you soon,
Empyrion Dev Team

We recently completed the technical integration of the gas giants. Similar to the new suns, you cannot land or fly to the gas giant itself, but they will offer more than enough moons for your exploration demands.

Time for a few impressions of this milestone progress. :)

Cheers,
Empyrion Dev Team

PS: Find all the dev blogs over here