The Stars Reach team has released the Open Horizons Update, followed by a hotfix, introducing a redesigned starting experience and significant gameplay changes based on player feedback.
Starting Experience Redesign
The update focuses on more open-ended exploration, reducing forced step-by-step guidance to give players greater freedom from the start.
UI and Skill System Overhaul
- Skills Window: Now more informative with easier navigation, including a zoomable and pannable skill tree that auto-centers.
- Skill States: Skills are clearly labeled as Not learned (with cost shown), In practice, Out of practice (reduced visibility), or WIP.
- Profession Info: Right panel displays name, icon, tooltip, and detailed panel on click, along with required XP type and description.
Gameplay Changes
- Weapon Updates: Pistol reworked with a 6-shot battery, faster projectiles, less homing, and auto recharge after a pause. New abilities include Double Tap, Ricochet, Unload, Double Time, and Pistol Whip.
- Grenade Launcher: Now tied to specific XP types, with new abilities: Cluster, Repulsor, Implosion, and Uplift.
- Healix: Gains Siphon, a life-drain beam ability.
- Crafting Tweaks: Besom Scrubs now drop branches, and a new Wood Slurry recipe uses wood instead of planks for Grip/Stock items.
Tech Improvements and Known Issues
- Gamma setting added, server performance improved for less lag on harvesting, and consumable UI no longer resets on death or zoning.
- Known issues include Ricochet visuals being bugged and Pistol Whip missing an animation.
The current playtest runs through April 14, inviting players to explore the changes and provide feedback.
