Underrun QT will receive its first scheduled update around the end of December 2019.

We want this update to focus on new enemies and combat overall, to Underrun more engaging and challenging.

So before that update, let's look at what will be added there.

First change, which was almost added in the initial version, is the ammo limit.

Right now player can run around, guns blazing, finger never off the trigger.

Adding a small ammo limit will hopefully make fights a bit more demanding and tactical. Two options we can try out are carried ammo limit or simply a reload delay.

I think reloading, without strict ammo limits, can improve fights and not slow down the entire gameplay at the same time. This will be the first change to take a look at.

At the same time, it can be a good time to add an additional weapon. Right now player can use only the default, fast Underrun blaster.

What this game lacks is the good, old-school, Doom double-barrel. Slow, heavy, very effective. While we are at it, we will also experiment a bit around recoil.

Improvement of combat means also improvements in player controls.

We noticed that slowing down the player adds more challenge to the game, but at times makes it impossible to dodge bullets.

In December we will be decreasing player movement speed, but in return, player will now be able to dash sideways.

I believe the major changes come here. After spending countless evenings on Doom, Dead Cells, and Cuphead - it is easy to see the one big flaw of Underrun fighting.

Lack of any pacing.

It is not necessarily the AI, ammo, or maps. The initial release combat was meant to be simple, of course, so it doesn't require any significant skill or timing from the player.

That's something we want to improve. And here's how.

→ Unique enemy mechanics. Every enemy will now have their unique set of behaviours. Something to learn, expect, and counter by the player.

→ Telegraphing. Along with new mechanics, we will also make sure that player can master the game over time. Right now enemies just attack you continuously, no delay or warning and this has to improve.

→ Complex Encounters. Not to spoil too much before the next post, but besides just new enemies, Underrun is about to see its first bosses! Think big enemies with complex mechanics, rhythmic gameplay, and very long health bars!

In the next post we will go a bit more in-detail about the new kinds of enemies, and how we'd like them to work. Please note that these posts are more of brainstorm sessions rather than strict plans.

In December we will keep you updated on the progress and changes coming to Underrun!