In the tranquil realms of Manor Lords, a medieval strategy city builder developed by Slavic Magic and Hooded Horse, the winds of change are gently stirring. As the game approaches its first anniversary, the developers have unveiled an array of exciting updates that promise to enhance the player experience significantly.
Update Highlights
Founded by Grzegorz “Greg” Styczeń, Slavic Magic has seen remarkable growth since the game’s early access debut. The team has expanded to include talents in various disciplines, from map design to game design, as they continue to refine and enrich the game. A recent post on Steam outlines the forthcoming features, which, while not exhaustive, provide a tantalizing glimpse into the future of Manor Lords.
- New Buildings: Players can expect the introduction of a quarry for continuous stone mining and a lime kiln essential for advanced construction projects.
- Visual Enhancements: The user interface and map resource nodes are set for revamps, alongside overhauled castle components.
- AI Improvements: The AI will now be capable of constructing and managing small villages, utilizing concepts such as burgage plots and living space extensions that were absent in the initial release.
“A lot of work was done to ensure the AI could use the plot tool effectively,” the developers noted. They are also focused on enhancing the AI’s city planning abilities, with future plans to improve its trading and farming functionalities.
Gameplay Mechanics
One of the more intriguing developments involves a new upkeep system, which introduces a requirement for consistent resource flow. For instance, a smithy will necessitate a steady supply of tools, while deep mines will require planks. While the notion of “flow” may seem out of place in the medieval setting, it adds a layer of complexity that could prove engaging for players.
Additionally, the Record View is undergoing modifications, featuring a new screen dedicated to regional production and consumption. The approval system has been adjusted to give more weight to recent events, reflecting a more dynamic gameplay experience.
Pathfinding Innovations
The developers are also tackling the challenge of unit pathfinding within multi-story castles. Previously, the game operated in a 2D environment, simplifying collision resolution but limiting the realism of gate interactions. The team is currently testing a rewritten pathfinding system that supports multiple floors, although they are weighing the computational costs against the benefits of this enhancement.
As the team continues to refine Manor Lords, players can look forward to a richer, more immersive experience that blends strategic depth with the charm of medieval life. The journey from early access to a full release may still be a while off, but the excitement surrounding these updates is palpable.
