Over the past two months, we have redesigned the game's upgrade system to provide clearer tactical choices, allowing players to build their own playstyles and enjoy different strategic approaches.

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With this update, the upgrade system is now more structured into three distinct build paths, allowing players to choose a strategy that fits their preferred playstyle:

• Soldier Build - Focuses on strengthening soldiers, ideal for players who enjoy micro-management and high skill expression.
  
• Support Unit Build - Grants and enhances more support units (defense towers), perfect for those who enjoy tower defense mechanics.
  
• Support Fire Build - Uses automated sniper and artillery strikes from headquarters, best suited for players who prefer high damage with minimal controls.

Additionally, each build can be combined with elemental status effects, adding even more depth to tactical choices:
Burning: Stacks up to 15 times to trigger a Flame Explosion, dealing area damage.
Chill: Stacks up to 15 times to trigger Frozen, immobilizing the target.

Players can specialize in a single build or mix elemental effects to create unique playstyles.

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This update introduces major changes to the game's core mechanics. The Support Fire Build has been fully implemented, while the Soldier and Support Unit Builds are still being refined. We encourage players to test these changes and provide feedback to help us fine-tune the balance.

• New Support Fire System - Headquarters can now launch sniper and artillery attacks, adding automated firepower. Currently, there are six different types available.
  
• New Shield System - Units can now acquire shields, which absorb damage before affecting health.
  
• New Status Effect – Burning - Deals damage over time and triggers a Flame Explosion at 15 stacks, dealing area damage.
  
• New Modules, Relics, and Tactical Modules - More strategic upgrade choices allow for a wider variety of powerful builds.
  
• New Enemy Unit - Enemy behaviors have been adjusted to enhance combat variety.
  
• Event Visual Updates - All events now feature dedicated pixel-art animations to improve immersion.

• The soldier upgrade interface now displays acquired Tactical Modules, making it easier to plan builds.
  
• The soldier stats interface now provides more detailed values for better tactical clarity.
  
• The map interface now displays special rewards for each node, allowing players to plan their routes more effectively.
  
• Damage numbers now show status effect icons when an attack applies an effect, providing better visual feedback.
  
• A chapter selection screen has been added. Future updates will expand on this, with each chapter featuring a unique battlefield.

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We will continue refining the gameplay experience and expanding content. Below is the planned roadmap for upcoming updates.

Before the demo release, we plan to introduce additional updates, including:

• The 5th playable soldier
  
• Completion of the Soldier Build
  
• Completion of the Support Unit Build
  
• Chapter 2 stages
  
• Sound implementation

• Chapters 1-2
  
• 5 playable soldiers
  
• 3 core builds
  
• 2 elemental status effects
  
• First page of Tactical Modules

• Chapters 1-6
  
• 7 playable soldiers
  
• Third page of Tactical Modules
  
• A highly replayable endgame mode

• Chapters 1-8
  
• 8 playable soldiers
  
• Fourth page of Tactical Modules
  
• A fully developed final challenge mode

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This update brings significant changes, and we need your help to further refine the game's balance.

• Does the Support Fire Build provide a distinct and satisfying playstyle?
  
• Does the Shield System function effectively in combat?
  
• Do the new Modules, Relics, and Tactical Modules create meaningful upgrade choices?
  
• Are the Burning and Frozen status effects impactful, and does their visual feedback feel satisfying?

We would love to hear your feedback! Join the Steam Discussion Board or Discord to share your thoughts. Your feedback will help us ensure that each build offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

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Join our Discord community here![discord.gg]

We look forward to your feedback. Let's make Iron Vulture even better together!