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[Dev Note] Part-20 : Improvements of Fun Features

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Hello everyone, this is Kwon Dae-ho, Executive Producer. [/p][p][/p][p]In our previous developer note, we briefly shared the direction we're taking to complete Black Stigma. [/p][p]Today, I would like to introduce some of the new elements we’re preparing to enhance the sense of fun in the game. [/p][p][/p][h3]- Refining a Light and Fast Combat Feel -[/h3][p]Black Stigma is a game designed to express a killer-centric universe, with a strong emphasis on handgun shooting and close-quarters martial arts. 
That’s why we are always thinking about how to bring distinct and well-balanced enjoyment in both “handgun fire” and “melee combat techniques.” [/p][p]One key idea that emerged from this process was offering a lighter and faster responsive combat tempo. [/p][p][/p][p] [/p][p]To that end, we're currently adjusting handgun shooting to feel quicker and more accessible. 
By tuning factors like fire rate and shot grouping, we’re aiming to reduce the disharmony of gunplay and make battles feel more exhilarating and fluid. [/p][p]We’re also applying this approach to combat skills. 
In previous close-range encounters, many fights ended with a single skill exchange, often cutting the fun short and leaving players frustrated. We recognized this as a potential barrier to enjoyable combat. [/p][p]Our goal now is to bring the Time To Kill (TTK) from melee combat to a more appropriate level while making that time feel tense and rewarding. 
Players should feel free to engage in back-and-forth combat without the fear of being taken down instantly—battles should be about control, mind games, and intense exchanges. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]- Introducing Team Deathmatch Mode -[/h3][p]We’re introducing a new Team Deathmatch mode, where 12 players are split into two teams and compete for the most kills. [/p][p]Players can return to the battlefield even after being killed, enabling non-stop action until the timer runs out. 
This mode is the result of our aim to deliver a (1) Light, (2) fast-paced, and (3) straightforward experience—avoiding the pressure-heavy nature of Kill 'Em All and VS modes, and the complexity of Get 'Em All mode. [/p][p][/p][p]Because the mode minimizes rules and competitive pressure, we believe it will be especially welcoming for newcomers and players looking for a more relaxed, accessible gameplay option. [/p][p][/p][h3]- Micron: A New Character with Unique Combat Mechanics -[/h3][p][/p][p]A new character, Micron, will be joining the battlefield under the Gray Crows faction. [/p][p]Micron is Nano’s younger sister and began her journey as a killer within Gray Crows under Zero’s leadership. [/p][p][/p][p]Micron takes on the role of a slinger position, wielding a specially crafted compound bow. One of her signature abilities is precise sniping technique using this bow. [/p][h2][/h2][p]With Micron’s bow-based skillset, we’ve reinterpreted the joy of long-range sniping similar to military shooters’ game. [/p][p]Rather than simply hitting enemies from afar, her skills aim to convey the thrill of piercing through enemies from a distance. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]- Conclusion -[/h3][p]We’ve been reflecting deeply on all the feedback you've provided through various tests and incorporating those ideas into Black Stigma in a way that fits the game’s unique tone. [/p][p]As soon as this new build is ready, we’ll bring it to you with confidence—so we can all enjoy it together. [/p][p] [/p][p]Sincerely, 
 
Kwon Dae-ho, Executive Producer [/p][p][/p]

100,000 Wishlists on Steam!

[h4]Hello, Masters!

Thanks to your amazing support, BLACK STIGMA has officially hit 100,000 wishlists on Steam!
We couldn’t have done it without you — thank you! 🔥[/h4]

[Dev Note] Part-19 : Reflections on NextFest Feedback




Hello, this is Kwon Dae Ho, Executive Producer.

It’s been a while since the Steam Next Fest test held at the end of February, and I would like to take this opportunity to connect with you.
We truly value the enthusiastic engagement shown during Next Fest, from exploring the Steam store page to accessing the game.

Regardless of the meaningful outcomes we achieved, participants gave us a variety of feedback on Black Stigma, prompting us to significant internal discussion.
In the end, we decided to enhance the game prior to the Early Access launch by focusing on the main concerns highlighted by our community.


[h4][ Issues Identified in NextFest ][/h4]

Participants from multiple channels have pointed out several critical concerns:

1) Combat balance (especially active skills)
2) Lack of content (modes/rewards)
3) Poor delivery of essential information (UI/tutorials, etc.)

Here is how we are actively working on enhancements in these key issues.


[h3][ Issue 1: Adjusting Gun & Skill Balance ][/h3]


We focused on creating flashy and unique character actions, but many players perceived that active skills were somewhat overpowered compared to shooting in the recent build.
Even those who effectively used skills and achieved high K/D or win rates shared similar opinions. As a result, the intended balance between shooting and skills was not fully realized.


Therefore, we are working on:
(1) Ensuring the effective and rewarding use of skills in a strategic manner
(2) Adjusting damage output and hit assessment to improve the overall offense-defense experience


[h3][ Issue 2: New Game Modes for Enhanced Variety ][/h3]

The previous test build included:
(1) Team-based elimination (Kill ‘Em All)
(2) Team-based gold snatching (Get ‘Em All)
(3) 1v1 battles (VS Mode)

However, many users expressed a desire for additional options, which we understood as a need to reduce the stress of competition and complex rules.
In response, we are developing a new PVP mode that allows players to focus solely on fighting against enemies.
This mode follows a simple rule, and even if you're defeated, you'll be able to return to the battlefield within a few seconds.
Additionally, this mode will accommodate more participants than our existing modes.
We hope this makes the game experience more accessible and delivers an enjoyable, relaxed combat environment.




[h4][ Conclusion ][/h4]

In addition to balancing and the introduction of new PVP modes, we are also enhancing aspects such as the UI in response to your feedback.
We’ll share more updates as our development advances, and we have additional information to share.


Sincerely,

Kwon Dae-ho, Executive Producer


[EVENT] Next Fest Event Winners Announcement



Hello everyone! This is BLACK STIGMA.

We were thrilled to have you with us at team Next Fest and want to extend a huge thank you for your event participation!

To continue with the event prize distribution, we would like to share the great news with the winners.

Event winners, please review the [color][Prize Distribution Application Process][/color] and submit your application within the deadline.

[h4][ Winners List ][/h4]

- Top 10 Ranking Event











- Lucky 7 Ranking Event

Originally posted by author
[ 2/24~2/25 ]
- 7th : Neurodrive
- 17th : Gebra
- 77th : Veresk
- 177th : Joe2983
- 777th : Dessi
- 1777th : Misteln
- 7777th : None
Originally posted by author
[ 2/25~2/26 ]
- 7th : tranquil
- 17th : CCDC
- 77th : LotusJJ
- 177th : ZHOUshi1313
- 777th : NATT
- 1777th : Fongbeer
- 7777th : None
Originally posted by author
[ 2/26~2/27 ]
- 7th : tranquil
- 17th : SpexdZ
- 77th : Mili
- 177th : TR2003
- 777th : I_Am_Reiko
- 1777th : OgataRina
- 7777th : None
Originally posted by author
[ 2/27~2/28 ]
- 7th : tranquil
- 17th : SpexdZ
- 77th : TR2003
- 177th : GuDussy
- 777th : WindHole
- 1777th : my_ak12
- 7777th : dsihiu
Originally posted by author
[ 2/28~3/1 ]
- 7th : tranquil
- 17th : MAKU
- 77th : TR2003
- 177th : EpeRiNmentalZ
- 777th : MiddHouse077
- 1777th : Juri
- 7777th : GHOSTER11
Originally posted by author
[ 3/1~3/2 ]
- 7th : Ninjaz
- 17th : ww233
- 77th : TR2003
- 177th : Slofius
- 777th : CCV587
- 1777th : Yuu_
- 7777th : YesImAk
Originally posted by author
[ 3/2~3/3 ]
- 7th : CCDC
- 17th : SpexdZ
- 77th : Kallen
- 177th : NekoPunchOwO
- 777th : Lasttime
- 1777th : Khue2k
- 7777th : Wimbell


[h4][color][ Prize Distribution Application Process ][/color][/h4]

[color]The event prizes will be sent out sequentially after collecting the necessary payment information.
To ensure smooth delivery, winners are requested to submit their details via the link below by March 15.[/color]

👉 < Prize Claim Submission Link >



[h4] [ How to check Steam ID and store country ] [/h4]

1. Log-in to your Steam Account
2. Click on your username (Top right) and 'Account Information'

3. Check Steam ID 17 Digit Numbers
4. Check the store country



[h4][color][ Cautions ] [/color][/h4]

1. Prize Distribution Application Deadline
The Next Fest event prize distribution application date is [color]until March 15, 2025.[/color]
If the distribution application is not completed the deadline, winnings will be nullified.
(e.g. Submitting required information and accepting Steam friend requests from the staff.)

2. Prize Distribution Process (Two Options)
Steam gift card payments will be made using one of the methods listed below. Please check your Steam account and mailbox.
※ If you have not received your reward after completing the email application, please contact us by official email or Discord after March 31.

3. Other precautions
1) We are not liable for any issues with prize delivery caused by incorrect information provided through the prize distribution application email.
2) The actual value of Steam gift cards may vary depending on the currency adjustment of the winner's country.
3) The Steam ID you provided will be erased after the reward payment to the winner is finished.


Thank you.

BLACK STIGMA Team

Steam Next Fest End Notice (March 4, 1:00 am, UTC)



The February NextFest Test has ended in March 4th at 1AM (UTC).
Thank you all masters from around the world for being interested in BLACK STIGMA.

We sincerely appreciate the feedback provided through various channels.
We aim to gather and enhance these opinions, and we will share the service schedule at our earliest convenience.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.