This is massive. Hope you like it.
New level with focus on skirmish combat and replayability (code LINE)
Co-op mode for 4 players activated for new level (!)
In-game chat added (\[K] by default)
Player limit potentially can be removed with -MaxPlayers=X launch parameter
Some missing in the multuplayer features will be added in the next updates (about it below).
Note: Adding multiplayer is dangerous. However most of the issues are now fixed. If something doesn't work as expected please let me know.
Cooperative Mode
We finally can play together!
Connection menu allows you to search for ongoing session and join them. If you want to start the game together:
New Stage "Press Any Key To Continue" is added to the loading screen, so you can wait for your friends to join you.
Note: Session will be created automatically if you are in a public mode.
Friends only sessions will be added in the next update.
New Level LINE
This level is a part of the "Frontline section" - always available levels unrelated to the main story-line.
It is inspired by massive unmanned defense lines meant to slow down the enemy and give rapid reaction forces enough time to respond.
Your main goal is to protect the railroad which serves as a lifeline feeding the besieged city.
Level offers a lot of trench combat and randomization in enemy attack vectors.
AI for this level was slightly improved, however, it still mimics untrained and disorganized troops attacking en masse.
In-Game Chat
Coms in tactical games are important. Therefore in-game chat was a priority.
Nothing fancy.
Press \[K] by default, type your message and press Enter, others will see it.
VOIP will be added rather soon.
I recommend to try it with voice, though. It immediately transforms your room into a combat HQ.
Known issues
Most of the issues related to coop are now fixed.
Sometimes level doesn't start and ends up on a black screen.Mission time is incorrectly calculated for drop-ins and doesn't respect "Waiting for players" stage.Dead characters sometimes stays in frozen standing pose.Healing soldier in client squad doesn't lead to the character rejoining the squad.Charlie's drone manual control is disabled for client, but drone itself works.
Steam Deck build has some issues with networking, because of Proton, and during the investigation multiplayer is disabled there. (Use upcoming_steam_deck branch, to have it enabled asap).
Those issues are my highest priority, but they don't affect gameplay too much to prevent me from releasing this important update.
What's next
You can help me to decide!
After issues above are fixed, there are three main directions equally important:
Add Coop to the existing levels.
Add PvP element to level LINE
Add more drones (UGVs and FPVs)
Please share your opinion in the comments or in Discussions. I truly read and listen.
Thank you for following Drone Perspective!
Remember, your voice, your likes, and your positive reviews matter a lot in this age of algorithms.
Always yours,
Demetri
