Dev Update - April

It's been a busy few weeks behind the scenes, but development on Alpine Architect has been progressing steadily! Today, I want to show you some of the latest stuff I've added to Alpine Architect :)

❄️ Dynamic Ski Run Drawing

I have now implemented a first version of the Run Drawing System. You can now carve paths directly into the snow, and the game dynamically calculates the slope's difficulty based on the terrain steepness. You'll need to balance your network to satisfy everyone from first-timers to pros.

❄️ User Interface (HUD)

I've implemented a first iteration, kinda improvable minimalist UI. Let me know if you have feedback ideas!

❄️ Upgradeable Infrastructure

A pretty standard feature for the genre, but still important! You can now upgrade your lifts and buildings to increase speed and capacity for example. This allows for fully maximizing your existing structures rather than demolishing them for a slightly better alternative.

❄️ Polish and Atmoshpere

• Dynamic Audio: The soundscape now shifts based on your zoom level and location. The mechanical hum of the lifts get louder as you fly closer to the stations!

• Outdoor Seating: Guests can now take a break outside to soak up the mountain air, lowering their cortisol (especially on sunny days!)

• AddedStormy WeatherThe mountain isn't always sunny! I've added stormy weather that change the visibility and the overall "mood" of your resort.

• Night Skiing and Illumination: I've implemented dynamic light sources across the mountain. You can now light up cabins and lodges for a extra-cozy feel, and set up floodlights to enable night skiing, allowing guests to keep going after the sun goes down.

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❄️ Other Stuff

Finally, the "boring" stuff is in. The game has a functioning Saving and Loading system, and a more genuine Economy. Buying and selling, and balancing your money is now a core part of the loop.

❄️ Moving forward...

As development moves toward a playable demo, my focus will be on the "soul" of the simulation:

• Guest "Intelligence": I'm extending the guest AI beyond simple randomness. Guests will have individual skill levels. They will remember which runs they've taken, avoid long lift lines, and proactively seek food or rest when exhausted. Their mood will depend on everything from energy levels to the current temperature.

• Full Day Cycle: I will implement the day cycle and everything it means for the gameplay loop.

• Dynamic Snow: Developing how snow accumulation and "grooming" affects the environment and skier satisfaction.

• Content Expansion: More lift types, more lodges, and more ways to decorate your resort.

Thank you all for following along! If you haven't yet, please wishlist Alpine Architect! It's the best way to support the project in the meantime.

Cheers!

/ PonderingPenguin