Captain's log #1

Hello Commander!

As we traverse the tumultuous seas of game development, our vessel, Hammerhead Squad, continues to chart its course towards greatness. 

In the wake of the positive reception from the jam, our crew has been hard at work enhancing the tactical intricacies that lie at the heart of Hammerhead Squad. Among the waves of progress, several notable improvements have taken shape:

Tactical UI Improvements: Based on feedback from the Jam, we are expanding the user interface, ensuring that every command issued by our esteemed players is met with clarity and precision. This is something we neglected during the Jam but we're putting our efforts to offer all the information Commanders need during combat.

Cover Mechanic Enhancement: We've tightened up the cover system to ensure a smoother, more responsive experience, enhancing the overall player experience. Now, taking cover feels more impactful

Innovative Grid Dynamics: Departing from conventional methods, we've replaced the sprite-based grid system with a dynamic mesh-based alternative, which is created at runtime. While it seems like a small visual update, the performance improvements are much more noticeable, specially with larger area grids.

And a lot, and we mean a lot! of changes on the game architecture to provide a more scalable platform for the future.

Improvements on the Horizon:

Action Point System: We're exploring alternatives to traditional time units, considering hybrid systems inspired by titles like Gears Tactics or Phantom Doctrine. This refinement promises to enhance tactical decision-making and streamline gameplay mechanics.

Campaign Evolution: Delve into the evolving narrative as we transform our squad into a cadre of highly specialized units. Embrace branching levels that infuse each campaign with unique challenges and experiences. 

Crew:  While we're trying to stay true to our Jagged Alliance roots, we're reducing team size to four. This adjustment serves a dual purpose: not only does it help character selection feel meaningful, but it also enhances combat agility, ensuring every encounter feels finely tuned to the tight confines of enemy bases.

Resource Management: Prepare for a rogue-lite experience where every decision counts. Ammo and items will persist across levels, amplifying the significance of strategic choices in combat. Dive deeper into the depths of uncertainty, where each victory brings you closer to unraveling the mysteries that lie beneath.

As the compass needle quivers with anticipation and the winds of innovation fill our sails, we stand poised on the precipice of greatness, ready to navigate the uncharted waters that lie ahead, Commander!

Hammerhead Squad Development Team