Pendulum Meadows Gazette

Welcome back to the Pendulum Meadows Gazette! As many of you know, the hunt for hidden gems began two days ago - Steam Next Fest October 2025 is officially here. I'm pleased to share that Off the Text - Demo track is now part of the festival lineup. It's genuinely exciting to showcase our dark rhythm experience alongside so many talented indie creators during this celebration of independent gaming.

#1 Hidden Code System Overhaul: I've streamlined the hidden code unlock system based on player feedback. Previously, you had to unlock each code individually by achieving rank A or higher on specific tracks. Now, once you clear "Destined for Love" with rank A or above, all hidden codes unlock across every level. After selecting your track (on the big vinyl screen), input the code to activate special modes: Brutal Mode (randomized patterns) and Pure Brutal Mode (real-time randomization). For those seeking secrets: → ← ↑ ↑ B is your foundation, with three additional codes waiting to be discovered - these are convenience features to enhance your experience.

Steam post image

#2 Festival Submissions Update: I haven't mentioned this yet, but Off the Text has been submitted to IGF 2026. Given the game's approach to rhythm mechanics and atmospheric design, I've entered it in Excellence in Design and the Nuovo Award categories. Since the game is built with Godot Engine, I've also submitted it for the Godot Engine 2025 Show Reel. Your support would mean a lot during this process.

Steam post image

#3 Technical Improvements: A few quality-of-life fixes have been implemented.

• Achievement-related issues have been resolved

• The Discord invite link has been refreshed

These small updates ensure smoother community access and proper progress tracking.

Steam post image

The demo has received valuable feedback, and I'm working through how best to integrate these insights. I've compiled a detailed list covering graphical visibility, text readability, and note hit impact - all areas that can elevate the core experience. My sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts. Your feedback is genuinely shaping the game's development.

Steam Next Fest is in full swing, and I've been exploring several demos myself. There are truly remarkable experiences being crafted by indie developers right now. I hope these games find the audiences who'll appreciate them - the indie scene thrives when great work gets recognized. That's what events like this are all about. See you in two weeks with more stories from development.

The Editor - "Your local community updates - let's build it together"