Questions and Answers: Round 2
[h3]Fellow Survivors,[/h3]
We are pleased to reveal the answers for our second questions and answers session for Serum. We received many great questions from the community, and here is our pick of the best ones. Also, don’t forget to register for a chance to access the forthcoming Serum Playtest here on Steam.
Compared to the Next Fest demo the current Serum brewing UI looks different, has that changed?
We looked at the player feedback from the Steam Next Fest demo, and it was evident that we needed to improve how intuitive the crafting and brewing system was to use. We also wanted to make it easier to understand, so we’ve improved that aspect with a new format and layout, which players can explore in the forthcoming playtest.
Where is the story of Serum set in terms of its location?
The story is set on a remote island known for its potent source of life-saving liquid, which is the key ingredient for serum. It's also where the EVAS Corporation set up its main base of operations and started its research to enhance the cure of Blight.
How important are resources, is player progression tied directly to the brewing and crafting of Serum, do I need to craft and brew Serum?
The story hints at how important it is to utilize different resources found in the game world to survive, and we want players to explore and seek out those resources as they play. This includes organic material found in things like plants and animals that, when combined with other things found discarded in the world like batteries, nails, scrap metal, welding Electrodes etc, they all play a part in enhancing and upgrading your abilities and equipment, including upgrades to your base facilities. The serum brewing mechanic plays a big part in your survival and progression.
How many different abilities based around Serum brewing will be possible?
The game's development extends beyond the initial Early Access release, so there’s no definite number of abilities at this point. We can only say that we already have a decent number ready, and all of them will be useful in both combat and exploration. We are always open to more suggestions from our players, and we will definitely consider adding more abilities based on player feedback.
Why does the player character need to inject Serum to survive in the wilderness if animals don't rely on it to survive?
Like any other person in the game world, the character needs to inject Serum to counter the effects of The Blight. The animals and other enemies in Serum mutated due to the experimentation on Serum variants conducted by EVAS Corporation; hence, the substance has already altered their DNA, and they no longer require it. They have become a completely new species adapted to survive in the harsh post-apocalyptic environment.
I noticed cable cars in the demo, can players transit between biomes using them?
We’re not going to spoil that for players, but let’s just say it's well worth investigating when you play the game.
How would you position Serum, is it biopunk or sci-fi?
Serumis definitely inspired by science fiction in relation to its themes. The story is set in the future but has aspects that still keep it quite relevant and grounded, so it still has that appeal and familiarity. Serum could be classed as a kind of Biopunk story, given that the story hints at the implications of biotechnology, not to mention the mutated creatures you’ll encounter.
Are there any plans for a beta version?
We have just announced a playtest starting on April 24th which will last for a whole week. We're keen for players to test and help us with constructive feedback and insights for early access. If you missed the chance to play the Steam Next Fest demo, then the Serum playtest is a great opportunity to try the game and tell us what you think.
Want to be a part of the forthcoming Serum Playtest? register on our Steam page for a chance to join in and help shape the game for early access.
Join the conversation on our Discord and stay up to date with Serum news and updates on our social channels.
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1610520
