Alpha Retest Begins - New Combat Direction Explained

First of all, thank you once again for participating in our tests and helping with development of God Save Birmingham.

After the previous Alpha test, we reviewed a great deal of feedback and confirmed that many aspects of the game are moving in a positive direction. However, combat received quite a bit of negative feedback, so after extensive internal review, we are trying several important changes. To verify whether these changes are moving the game in a better direction, we decided to run an additional test with our existing testers and this is that test.

As the test begins, we would like to share our intended direction going forward, as well as the details of what has been applied in this test build, so that we can receive more accurate feedback.

Future Direction for Combat Improvements

• Improve the existing combat animations to make the overall combat feel more responsive and satisfying.

• Instead of zombies being defeated in just one or two hits, each body part will have its own health value. Damage to each part will depend on weapon type, weapon condition, and hit accuracy, with body parts eventually bursting or being severed accordingly.

Current State of Combat Improvements in This Test Build

• The basic framework of the new combat direction has been implemented.

• Body-part health values and balance still need tuning. Currently, head health is set quite low, making headshots very effective and easy. This will be adjusted later.

• The current animations are meant to give a rough idea of the intended direction. However, they are not representative of the final attack and zombie hit reaction animations. Final-quality animations will be further refined to deliver stronger impact and a more satisfying feel.

As you test, please keep the above details in mind when evaluating combat. In particular, we would appreciate feedback on whether this direction feels better than the previous combat system, and whether the overall responsiveness and accuracy of combat feel improved.

Thank you again for participating in the test. Based on the results of this round, we will continue sharing our progress through future dev logs as we work toward creating combat that feels both more realistic and more enjoyable.

— ODS Team