No Clean Start – Dev Update #2

Hi everyone,
welcome back to our weekly update.
Over the past week, we focused on expanding interaction systems related to enemy behavior, particularly around distraction tools and throwable devices. At the same time, we’re continuing to see the game take shape in a way that is increasingly aligned with our initial vision, which is encouraging for the whole team.
AI Interaction: Distraction as a Tool
One of our goals is to give players indirect ways to manage encounters, not just through combat.
We’ve been working on systems that allow players to:
✦ redirect enemy attention
✦ create temporary safe paths
✦ break line-of-sight pressure
This adds a layer of decision-making that goes beyond shooting, especially in constrained or high-risk situations.

Throwable Distractions
We introduced simple throwable objects, such as stones, that can be used to:
✦ generate sound on impact
✦ attract nearby enemies
✦ influence movement patterns
These tools are intentionally lightweight and predictable, so players can rely on them without introducing unnecessary complexity.
Timed Grenades
We also implemented timed grenades as a complementary system.
Key characteristics:
✦ fixed fuse (no impact detonation)
✦ clear anticipation window
✦ strong area denial effect
Compared to distractions, grenades serve a different role:
✦ forcing enemies out of positions
✦ creating temporary space
✦ resolving high-pressure situations
The distinction between “noise tools” and “destructive tools” is something we are actively refining.

System Integration
An important part of this work has been ensuring that all these elements interact coherently with existing systems:
✦ AI perception (light, sound, proximity)
✦ deterministic simulation per run
✦ encounter balance
The goal is to keep behaviors readable and consistent, even as more systems are layered together.
Current State
At this stage, most of the core interactions are functional and integrated into the main loop.
We are now focusing on:
✦ tuning responsiveness and timing
✦ improving feedback clarity
✦ validating edge cases during longer play sessions

Build Progress
Work on the upcoming build is progressing steadily.
The current focus is on:
✦ stability
✦ consistency across runs
✦ overall gameplay readability
We’re increasingly satisfied with how the different systems are coming together, and we’re looking forward to making the build available for players to try soon.
Next Update
In the next update, we’ll share more details about:
✦ encounter design
✦ pacing and tension management
✦ how different systems combine during a full run
Thanks for your support.

Comments