[Dev Note] Part-18 : Invitation to Steam Next Fest Test
Hello, I am Kwon Dae Ho, the Executive Producer.
BLACK STIGMA has been meticulously refined through field tests in the game shows and global tests. We have decided to participate in the STEAM Next Fest in February 2025, and would like to inform the results of our development in advance.
[h4][ Test Schedule and Overview ][/h4]
1. Test Schedule
The test will take place during Steam Next Fest, running from February 24 to March 3 (Pacific Time).
2. Service and Matchmaking Regions
Unlike previous tests, this one will be conducted as a global one-server service, allowing all players to participate on the same server regardless of location.
However, there will be seven matchmaking regions to ensure smooth gameplay.
The game will assess the network status between the player and each matchmaking region, displaying a list of available regions along with their connection quality.
Regions expected to have extremely poor network performance will be unavailable for selection. Players can choose from the available regions and apply for matchmaking accordingly.
[h4][ Key Test Content Scope ][/h4]
The Next Fest version will feature 13 playable characters and three PvP modes.
Kaira, a new character, will debut alongside the 12 existing members of the A.S. and AB killer groups. As a K-pop artist and intelligence agent, Kaira brings a unique playstyle to the game.
The available game modes include: Kill ‘Em All – a standard elimination mode,
Get ‘Em All – a 3 vs 3 vs 3 cash grab mode,
and Versus – a newly introduced 1 vs 1 duel mode.
Additionally, the following core elements will be showcased in this test:
1. Combat system improvements
2. Enhanced character identity
3. Game mode specifications
4. Weapon specifications
5. Introduction of Battle Pass
6. UI/UX improvements
[h4][ Combat System Improvements ][/h4]
The overall combat experience has been refined to be "faster and more intuitive."
1. Shooting has been made easier, and the first-person aiming mode is now more intuitive.
(based on the result of testing auto fire with the same Ruger Mark.4 Lite basic model)
Accuracy, the key factor affecting shooting difficulty, has been significantly improved.
As a result, bullets now land closer to the aiming reticle, making a noticeable difference, especially in moving shots or rapid-fire scenarios. Players familiar with the previous Black Stigma test will feel this improvement even more.
2. The controls for character-specific active skills have been improved.
Previous test versions aimed to reflect realistic martial arts and combat techniques, but this resulted in slow and frustrating controls.
To address this, we made significant adjustments to the game’s setting and overhauled character animations accordingly.
As a result, skills now flow more smoothly, allowing for quick directional changes during skill execution, making them feel more responsive and natural.
Further details on these skill improvements will be covered in the [Enhanced Character Identity] section.
[h4][ Enhanced Character Identity ][/h4]
Character individuality has been further refined based on extensive review.
1. Skill compositions have been made more dynamic and visually engaging.
As mentioned in Developer Note #16, we’ve reinforced the visual appeal of each character’s stylish traits.
These improvements are not just cosmetic. Animation speed, hit detection, and skill responsiveness have all been optimized to enhance the overall gameplay experience.
2. Character voices have been fully implemented.
As Black Stigma is a hero shooter that emphasizes character identity, over 20 voice actors were carefully selected to minimize cases where one actor voices multiple characters.
For now, only Korean and English voiceovers are available, but additional language options will be introduced in the future.
[h4][ Game Mode Specifications ][/h4]
The core of any PvP shooter lies in its game modes and maps.
The Kill ‘Em All and Get ‘Em All modes from previous tests remain intact, while a new Versus mode has been introduced for 1 vs 1 battles.
1) Kill ‘Em All Overview & Improvements Kill ‘Em All is a 3 vs 3 elimination mode, where teams must eliminate all opponents to win a round, with the first team to win four rounds securing victory.
The mode will feature four maps. Extension Works, Old Manor, and Abandoned Subway which were introduced before, and the newly added map 'Sewers.'
Sewers features a multi-layered central structure to increase vertical combat encounters.
The three returning maps have been slightly downsized to encourage faster engagements.
2) Get ‘Em All Overview & Improvements
Get ‘Em All is a 3 vs 3 vs 3 cash grab mode where teams compete to collect and secure the most gold. Players must eliminate opponents, gather gold from the ground, and hack enemy vaults to steal funds.
The ‘Museum’ is centered around a central hall, with each team’s safe located a relatively short distance away. Through this structure, the intention was to create a large-scale melee in the center at a faster tempo than ‘Violet Hotel’
3) Versus Overview & Improvements
The newly added Versus mode was first introduced as a prototype at the 2024 Thailand Game Show. As explained in Developer Note #15, two players select three characters each to engage in head-to-head combat.
The Next Fest version features three maps, with victory going to the player who secures two rounds first.
Additional PvE content will be available for training and practice:
- Training Ground: Practice with dummies while freely swapping characters and weapons.
- Kill ‘Em All (Training): A 3 vs 3 elimination mode with AI bots.
- Get ‘Em All (Training): A 3 vs 3 vs 3 cash grab mode with AI bots.
[h4][ Weapon Specifications ][/h4]
Weapon mechanics have been streamlined to allow for faster adaptation and intuitive gameplay.
1) Available Weapon Types
The test will feature nine types of weapons.
2) Simplified Weapon Parts Collection & Customization All nine base weapons are now pre-unlocked, eliminating the need for purchases.
Each default weapon comes pre-customized to match its intended combat role. Players can use these recommended setups or modify them at any time to fit their personal playstyle.
Weapon part customization has been adjusted to reduce stress and allow for easier attachment and detachment.
[h4][ Battle Pass Introduction ][/h4]
A Battle Pass system will be introduced to provide mid-to-long-term progression through missions and rewards.
The Next Fest version will serve as a trial run, with all missions and rewards completable in approximately 30 hours.
The new character Kaira is one of the rewards and can be unlocked by completing just 20% of the pass.
[h4][ UI/UX Improvements ][/h4]
The entire UI/UX has been redesigned compared to previous test builds.
[h4][ Conclusion ][/h4]
We sincerely appreciate the support and feedback we have received over the years. This Steam Next Fest test is an important step toward our Early Access launch, and the insights gathered will help us refine the game further.
To show our gratitude, players who participate in Steam Next Fest will receive exclusive rewards that will carry over into Early Access. Limited-edition costumes of 'Hollowpoint' and 'One,' and four special items celebrating the Year of the Blue Snake (2025): A weapon ornament, a weapon sticker, a profile card, and an emblem
We hope you enjoy Steam Next Fest, and we look forward to your feedback and support. See you on February 24.
Sincerely,
Kwon Dae-ho, Executive Producer