BLACK STIGMA News

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

[h5]We're looking for BS Partner Streamers to Grow with BLACK STIGMA![/h5]

Post a video of yourself playing BLACK STIGMA during the Next Fest!
Various benefits such as cheering donation and game items are waiting!

[ BS Partner Streamer Program Schedule ] (UTC)

• Application Period: Feb 18 (Tue) - 2 Mar (Sun)
  
• Partner Selection: The selected partners will be notified individually within 2 days after the application is completed (working days)
  
• Partner Activity Period:
  
  
  
  
  • Live Streaming: Feb 25 (Tue) 6:00 PM - Mar 4 (Tue) 6:00 PM (UTC)
    
  • Upload edited/recorded video content: by Mar/12 (Wed)
    

[Apply for BS Partner] 👉 Apply Now

We will individually inform the selected as partners within 2 days (working days) after the application.
Please double-check your contact information (email, Discord DM) before you submit!

[ BS Partner Benefits ]

The following sponsorship and benefits will be provided to those who are selected as BS Partners.

1. A cheering reward to support our partner activities. For more information, please refer to [Cheering Support Reward].

2. To make sure our partners' broadcasts run without problems, we will grant custom mode permission. Through custom mode, you can create a room yourself and communicate with your viewers.

3. An IN-GAME exclusive profile card & an emblem will be given to all partners.

4. Partners will be invited to a partner-only Discord channel to provide a hotline with the developers and grant you a role that will be displayed at the top of the member list.

[ BS Partner Sponsorship ]

Sponsorship will be sent to those who have been actively stream BLACK STIGMA. Please select one of the missions below and participate!

- Mission 1: Live Streaming Sponsorship
" The funds will be paid based on the number of coupon redemption!"

Please share the received coupon code as a partner streamer on your braodcasting channels or as many channels as possible.
The amount of funds to be paid will vary according to the number of coupons redeemed during the Next Fest period, and you can receive up to 700,0000 krw.

- Mission 2: Edited/Recorded Video Content Sponsorship
" Rewards will be paid based on the number of views one week after the video is uploaded! "
Please upload the live broadcast or video edited/recorded during the Next Fest period to your personal channel.
Rewards will be paid differentially based on the number of cumulative views one week after the content is uploaded, and you can receive up to 300,0000 won.

👉For more details about partner activities, please go to YET

- Available payment channels: Youtube, Twitch
* Extra requests are welcomed for those wishing to stream on other channels

- Payment period: The payment it to be done sequentially within 2 weeks after the end of Next Fest (partners will be notified separately)

- Payment method: Reward payment through the streaming platform you applied for
e.g.) Youtube (Super Chat), Twitch (Bit)
* If payment cannot be made through the above methods, it will be done through the way we negotiate individually. (The consent to provide payment information required)


We can't wait to see new faces to join our partner program.

Thank you.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

Masters! Finally, it's the time!

[h5]BLACK STIGMA will be open to play during Steam Next Fest, from Feb 24 to Mar 3![/h5]



Join our official Discord server for all the exciting updates on BLACK STIGMA!

👉 Join now

Hello everyone, I am Kwon Dae Ho, the Executive Producer.

First of all, we would like to express our gratitude for your continued interest in Black Stigma. While we shared “Developer's Note 10: Development & Service Plan” last year, adjustments to the timeline were made to reflect critical feedback received during the second global test held in July 2024. We appreciate your understanding in this matter.

We would like to share the major plans for 2025 as Black Stigma prepares for its next steps, following the gradual improvements we’ve shared in previous developer’s notes.

[ January: Participation in the Taipei Game Show ]

Following our appearance at the Thailand Game Show last October, we are set to participate in the Taipei Game Show from January 23 to 26, 2025. This event will serve as an important opportunity to promote Black Stigma to the Chinese-speaking community and directly gauge player reactions.

[ February: Confirmed Participation in STEAM NextFest ]

We are thrilled to confirm our participation in STEAM NextFest and are currently working on QA and polishing tasks. NextFest is a crucial preparatory step for Early Access (Open Beta). It will allow us to assess how close we are to meeting player expectations and identify additional polishing points. More details regarding the NextFest version will be shared at a later date.

[ Goal: Early Access Within the First Half of 2025 ]

Black Stigma began as a project by developers with successful FPS game experience and exceptional technical expertise. Since unveiling the Alpha version in 2023, we have conducted multiple tests, incorporated feedback, and continually improved the game.

Our goal has been to deliver "new and exciting experiences" by combining the core elements of shooting mechanics with unique hero-action combat, all while maintaining consistent communication with our players.

Thanks to your support throughout this process, Black Stigma, a project once launched by a fledgling development studio, has now grown to attract around 50,000 Wishlist registrations.

Despite the challenges posed by a market dominated by major AAA shooting games, we are confident and determined to achieve Early Access following NextFest, completing the game with our players’ input in mind.

[ We Need Your Continued Support in 2025 ]

Simply playing the game, visiting our website, and adding the game to your Wishlist is an incredible encouragement for us. Additionally, sharing your feedback, recommending the game to friends, and engaging with the community all help make Black Stigma a better game and bring it to a broader audience.

With your continued interest and participation, we promise to strive for an even better gaming experience.

We hope you will join us on Black Stigma’s journey in 2025.

Producer Kwon Dae Ho

[ Intro ]

Hello everyone, I am Kwon Dae Ho, the Executive Producer.

The development team has completed the core aspects, such as combat balance, and is now focusing on final improvements. These efforts are primarily aimed at polishing the game to deliver a smoother and more refined experience.

Today, I’ll share how Black Stigma is going visualize its concept of “the combinatio between guns and melee action.”

[ Portraying a Strong Characters Confronting Gunfire ]

As we have consistently emphasized, Black Stigma is built around the concept of “a harmonious blend of gunfights and melee action.”

Our characters are designed to embody this idea. They can be taken down by gunfire, as one might expect, but they can also brush off weak shots and charge in to subdue their enemies.

To achieve this, we’ve spent years conducting alpha and beta tests, implementing various systems, and carefully balancing shooting and melee combat mechanics.

Now, we are in the final stages of ensuring that the battles in this game feel natural and seamless.

[ Balancing the Game Through Skill Visuals ]

To demonstrate the immense physical abilities of the Masters in the game, we’ve been fine-tuning skill animations and effects that align with the game’s balance.

The first example is Mr. Ten, whose overflowing energy manifests as flames.



He’s one of the strongest hand-to-hand combat masters, focusing the heat radiating from his body into his specialized knuckles. As a result, when Ten swings his fists, intense flames envelop them.

Another example is Twin, known for her explosive leg power.



Twin can channel bursts of energy into her legs, showcasing devastating attacks and remarkable running speed. During these moments, you can visibly see the muscles in Twin’s legs change as the energy concentrates.

Finally, we have Parabellum, who carries the legendary title of ‘Ghost’ within the game’s universe.



Parabellum moves at such incredible speed that all that remains in her wake is a thick cloud of smoke. This makes it exceptionally difficult to pin her down with gunfire as she executes dazzling martial techniques.

[ Conclusion ]

Black Stigma pursues the ‘hero shooter’ genre, where character uniqueness is crucial. As such, we’re completing the final touches to ensure each master’s playstyle is conveyed intuitively.
Our development team aims to share the emotions we felt when encountering awe-inspiring characters in movies, comics, and other games by creating a new world with our own hands.

We will soon return with a schedule to introduce our new killer characters.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Kwon Dae-ho, Executive Producer