Project Warlock II News

Hey Warlocks!

We’re happy to be back with a fresh entry of our weekly update and take another step on our road to Chapter 2!

As day by day we are getting a lot of precious feedback from the Chapter 2 demo and we’re getting ready for the playtest of its bigger chunk, we would like to talk a bit more about the brand new progression system.

We introduced the Wargression system in one of our previous updates but since this is a pretty big departure from Palmer's chapter - we want to give you a better look at what you can expect when it comes to choosing your progression path in the game. In today’s entry we are diving into the areas influenced by Wargression and pointing out the benefits that can come from various improvements for Urd, as well as her arsenal.

Let’s get right to it!

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[h3]OFFENSIVE UPGRADES[/h3]



To emphasize Urd’s personality and gameplay style, her offensive upgrades will show you the true meaning of “high risk and high reward” gameplay. As she embarks on her quest of revenge, you will be able to see that this theme is also reflected in some of the upgrades.

Common knowledge says wounded animals can be quite dangerous. And same goes for our red headed avenger. And you will be able to experience it in the game by following this category of upgrades.

Choosing perks such as “Aggressor”, “Anger Management”, “Sadist”, “Berserk” or “Super Combo” will give you benefits when your health points are below a certain level, your combo meter is draining or - simply - when you get hit.

The names of each of those upgrades should also give you an idea of what hides behind them.

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[h3]DEFENSIVE UPGRADES[/h3]



While wandering through the sinister locations of the brutalist west you can find yourselves cornered. Fortunately there is a suit of Urd’s abilities - and ones you can further level them up no less - that allow her to pose a threat in that situation. To paraphrase the animalistic metaphor - cornered Urd is as dangerous as a wounded one. Her set of defensive upgrades is designed in a way where she is protected from incoming danger but can also bite back and give the demons a nasty, and lethal surprise.

The first set of defensive perks relates to the classic meaning of this category. With “Defence Boost”, “Fortification”, or “Stabilizer” you can increase Urd’s armor and health points or even slow down the drain of your life essence.

On the other hand (and here’s a biting back part) you can choose upgrades that will let you also damage enemies. Pick up the “Spiked Armor” upgrade and see monsters attacking the fiery magician get wounded or start bleeding profusely.

Another tool in Urd's vast arsenal is the "Reflective Armor" - useful when facing trigger happy foes to reflect their projectiles back their way.

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[h3]INCREASE YOUR LUCK[/h3]



As the system contains over 80 different upgrades, spanned across 13 different categories, each allowing between 1 and 5 upgrade levels - it’s important to have some degree of control over your progression path.

This is where the luck upgrades come in handy. These will increase your chances of rolling the perks that will be more suited to your gameplay style.

Thanks to a “Specialist” you can choose a certain category of upgrades and be sure that you will get at least one perk of a given type on rerolls. “Bargain Hunter” will give you an additional reroll and upgrade option at each upgrade selection. With “Lucky Bastard” you will receive a rare opportunity to buy two upgrades on one go!

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[h3]CHAPTER 2 PLAYTEST TOMORROW![/h3]

Just a friendly reminder - there's less than 24 hours to apply for the Chapter 2 playtest, where anyone who applies on our Discord will have a chance to play through all of the 12 levels of Chapter 2 and experience everything we’ve been building up until this point.

So, without further ado - Project Warlock II: Chapter 2 playtest will begin tomorrow (Friday) at 19:00 CEST / 10AM PDT / 1PM EDT. It’s expected to run until Monday 23:59 CEST / 2PM PDT / 5PM EDT.

How to sign up for Chapter 2 Playtests?

Just join our Discord server and head to the “Playtest Club” channel for more information - it’s the second channel on the list.

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[h3]WHAT'S NEXT?[/h3]

That’s all for today’s update revealing more details about the progression system in Chapter 2. However, this is just one part of our Wargression Deep Dive as next week we will be sharing new bits of info about upgrades for weapons, magic and poison.

Please remember as well about the Chapter 2 demo which is available on Steam all the time. New feedback is always appreciated ;)

Till next time!

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[h3]Connect with us on our official channels:[/h3]



Follow Project Warlock on Twitter Follow Retrovibe on Twitter Visit Retrovibe Publisher Page

Hey Warlocks!

Last week was very busy for the team and a lot happened in the Warlock world.

First of all we released the demo of the upcoming Chapter 2 and we are very happy with your reception. What’s more, the weekend brought us brand new materials showcasing the mentioned chapter as well as a new announcement that expands the Project Warlock Universe!

Thank you very much for all your comments and feedback over the last week, and we collated the most pressing ones and would like to answer them for everyone to see.

We would also like to wrap up the latest events as well as share with you what is coming next.

So, let’s get to it!

[h2]ANSWERING COMMUNITY QUESTIONS! [/h2]



[h3]Chapter 2 general FAQ[/h3]

Q: What exactly are the chapters and what are the levels?

A; Chapters are parts of the game containing stories of different playable characters

• Chapter 1 (featuring Palmer) is available now in the Early Access version of the game.
  
• Chapter 2 (featuring Urd) will be out soon.
  
• Chapter 3 (featuring Kirsten) will be developed and released after Chapter 2.

Each chapter contains 12 levels - which means 12 different locations to battle evil minions in.

Q: If I play Palmer, will I have the same Wargression system or Hub?
A: Chapter 1 with Palmer as playable character retains certain aspects of the first Project Warlock game - with HUB serving as a place to upgrade weapons, skills and stats. Chapter 2 has the dynamic Wargression system implemented specifically for Urd. We’re constantly looking at feedback regarding both of these systems, and after launching Chapter 2 will see what you guys think to find the best way to enjoy the game.

Q: Will Chapter 1&2 force you to play specific characters ro will you be able to play as any character?
A: At the moment the game lets you play a specific character in the given chapter but we would like to make sure you can have more freedom in choosing the character to tackle each of the chapters.

Q: Is there any ability unlocks in the level? Didn't see any. (Like character ability, not the wargression ones). Same thing with weapon upgrades).
A: At the moment the Chapter 2’s Level 1 presented in the demo is tailored to showcase certain elements of the game on top of the new progression system. It is tailored to give the player a bit more things to experiment with. As to the spells - those are unlockable in the following levels.

Q: Dagger with its Wargression stuff feels too OP. Would this balance out in later levels?
A: We are still tweaking the balance of the game so based on your feedback we will look into this case as well. We have a couple of ideas on how to make sure the dagger’s melee attack is as fun as the projectile one.

Q: Is there any reason to replay the demo?
A: We definitely recommend replaying the first level - Wargression, the new progression system is designed to make each run different. By replaying the demo level you can check out various upgrade combos and try them out before Chapter 2 comes out.

Q: I don't think there is any way to see currently which powers/upgrades I have chosen and currently possess.
A: You can see your current upgrades in the Status menu which can be activated by pressing TAB.

Q: Quick save isn't working in the demo
A: The quick-save option was not implemented into the demo version to make sure you can complete this in one go. Cloud saves are also disabled.


[h2]CHAPTER 2 PLAYTESTS![/h2]



It’s very important for us to make sure you have a chance to influence the game before it is released so we will be starting the Chapter 2 community playtests before its eventual release!

Chapter 2 playtests will launch next week and will let you play through all the 12 levels of Urd’s adventure.

How to sign up for Chapter 2 Playtests? Easy. Just join our Discord server and head to the “Playtest Club” channel for more information - it’s the second channel on the list.

[h2]FEEDBACK LIVES AGAIN! [/h2]



Did we already mention that your feedback is very welcome? Well, it wouldn't hurt to say that again. If you had a chance to play the Chapter 2 demo (available both for the owners of the game, and those still holding off) please consider sharing your thoughts on game forums as well as on our community Discord.

In case you have any questions regarding the installation of Chapter 2 demo, please check our last post which containing step by step instructions on how to do it!

[h2]NEW CHAPTER 2 TRAILER FROM REALMS DEEP 2023! [/h2]

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

And now for a short trip down the memory lane. Going back as far as last weekend. Saturday to be exact. On that fateful day Realms Deep 2023 showcase hosted a bunch of cool games, reveals and surprises, including Project Warlock 2’s Red Head Redemption trailer! See it here.

We also announced Project Warlock: Lost Chapters that will be arriving after Project Warlock 2 leaves Early Access. You can check it out here.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1043850/Project_Warlock_Lost_Chapters/

SEE YOU NEXT WEEK!

That is all for today’s update!

[h3]Warlocks! [/h3]

Watch a brand-new Project Warlock II: Chapter 2 gameplay trailer, straight from the Realms Deep 2023 showcase! Take a peek into the dangerous corners of the brutalist west and feast your eyes with the intense action featuring brand new weapons and monsters!

[h3]Watch the trailer:[/h3]

[previewyoutube] [/previewyoutube]

[h3]Don’t miss the DEMO of Chapter 2 which is available now on Steam! Learn more about it here.[/h3]



[h3]You can also read more about Chapter 2 in our series of content updates:[/h3]

https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1640300/view/3687940304687768928
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1640300/view/6816816781623005835
https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1640300/view/3741984674869145550

[h3]Introducing Project Warlock: Lost Chapters![/h3]

That's not all! We are also working on a brand new Project Warlock game - you can find the teaser here. Stay tuned for more info!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2K9DQncq10

[h3]Connect with us on our official channels:[/h3]



Follow Project Warlock on Twitter Follow Retrovibe on Twitter Visit Retrovibe Publisher Page

[h2]DEMO AVAILABLE! [/h2]

Hello Warlocks!

Today we wanted you to finally put to the test all those features mentioned in the previous updates. The final polish of Chapter 2 will take another couple of weeks, so before we can share it in its entirety we wanted to give you a taste of Urd's adventure by launching the demo earlier. Your reception of the recent content updates regarding Chapter 2 on Kickstarter and Steam is very appreciated, but at the end having the chance to play the actual game is worth more than a thousand words and gifs we could insert here!

So, without any further ado the demo for Chapter 2 is available RIGHT NOW on Steam! We can’t wait to hear what you think both on Steam and Discord.


[h2]CONTENTS OF THE DEMO[/h2]

The Chapter 2 Demo lets you jump into Urd’s shoes and play the first out of 12 levels, test her arsenal and face new, fearsome enemies!

On top of that you will be able to check out our new progression system which will let you replay the demo with different upgrades thanks to its randomisation!

Here is the full list of content that you will be able to check in the demo:

[h3]LEVEL[/h3]

• The Blankrog Outskirts (E2M1) - maneuver on cliffs over the hot lava, detonate the rocks to break through narrow passages and find your way out in villages overwhelmed by hordes of enemies
  

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[h3]WEAPONS[/h3]

• Dagger - stab your enemies on short distance or throw the blade from afar
  
• Crystal-powered SMG - drench your enemies with crystalline rain
  
• Demon-infused Shotgun - use two fire modes to tear beasts into pieces
  

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[h3]ENEMIES[/h3]

• Ghoul: classic Warlock 2 horde, don't put your finger off the trigger
  
• Vampy: agile and devious, like to get behind your back or open up with sonic attacks
  
• Red Elf: skilled weapon operators artfully dodging shots with their barrel rolls
  
• Manbear: a true force of nature throwing rocks and rush the player
  
• Spidey: surely not your friendly neighborhood type, likes to jump a lot
  
• Spiderling: don't get cornered by a few of those
  
• Sasquatch: the biggest guy in this area, having a beef with everyone - not only Urd
  

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[h3]SYSTEMS AND ABILITIES[/h3]

• Wargression - new progression system developed for Chapter 2
  
• Dagger Dash - available via Wargression system
  

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[h2]HOW TO INSTALL THE DEMO?[/h2]

As we need to take into account the current owners of Project Warlock 2 as well as new members of our community, trying out the game for the first time, here are some quick guidelines regarding installation of the demo.

👉 Project Warlock II Early Access owners:

1. Make sure that Project Warlock 2 is installed on your Steam client.
   
2. Launch the game on Steam and choose “Project: Warlock II - Chapter 2 Demo” in the launcher that will appear on the screen.
   

👉 Players who are not Project Warlock II Early Access owners :

1. Find the demo on Project Warlock II Steam page:
   https://store.steampowered.com/app/1640300/Project_Warlock_II/
2. Download, install the demo and launch it from your Steam account.
   

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[h3]STAY TUNED! [/h3]

That’s it for today’s update! Tune in this Saturday (30.09) and watch the Realms Deep 2023 Showcase to see the new footage from Chapter 2 of Project Warlock II in our new trailer!

In the meantime, have a great time with the demo of Chapter 2! Don’t forget to join our Discord server here to share with us your first impressions and feedback about the new content!

Till next time!

Hey Warlocks!

We’re happy to be back with Part 3 of our Road to Chapter 2 series! In the previous updates we introduced Urd, showcased parts of her arsenal and teased some of the beautiful landscapes she will get to traverse, as well as meanies she will get to slaughter.

Today’s article will focus on our fresh approach to the progression system and reveal the second part of Urd’s arsenal - her magical spells and abilities. Let’s jump straight into the details!
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[h3]WARGRESSION SYSTEM[/h3]



During the development of Chapter 2 we were looking for ways of expanding the variety of your play-throughs and to better convey the agility and moment to moment gameplay as Urd. That lead us on the path to streamline the way she upgrades. Everything. Also - this should allow the players to experience more unique runs and speed up the progression process to stay in the action all the time!

And this is what our brand new Wargression system is all about. It is a variation of the first Project Warlock’s and Chapter 1’s Palmer’s system tailored specifically to the experience of playing Urd in Chapter 2.

In Chapter 2 instead of buying the upgrades from the stations located in the HUB, you will be able to do it with Quick Buy Menu during your run. The menu will appear once an Upgrade Token is picked up and - in general - it will automatically roll 3 random upgrades to choose from.

Playing as Urd you will be able to test and play around with all available upgrades and each play-through will guarantee its different combinations. You will be able to choose from 80 different upgrades spanned across 13 different categories, each with a varying number of upgrade levels. That’s 80 right now, but we’re still tweaking specific upgrades and will see if that number is enough.

The upgrades available via Wargression System will significantly influence Urd’s arsenal on many different levels. For some weapons it will let you boost their accuracy, rate of fire, reload speed, extend ammo capacity or even increase the chance to fire crystal projectiles! Certain upgrades will reduce the cooldowns for alternative fire and add additional effects to bullets, such as piercing or fire damage.

New progression will also influence how your attack, defense and magic works. It will improve the duration and performance of elemental effects like poison or frost or let you increase your health, armor and bleeding effect which you can inflict upon enemies. You will also get a chance to tweak the combo meter in numerous ways to feed your inner demons calling for high risk, high reward plays!

Even with a completely new approach to the progression the core Project Warlock II feature - the option to have deterministic builds - remains. To offer you more control over managing the progression of your builds we introduced the “Specialist Upgrade” (from the Luck category) narrowing down your option to 3 guaranteed categories of upgrades. You will also be able to use Reroll Tokens, Extra Roll Tokens and Luck Upgrades to manipulate the shop in a slight way to your advantage.

You will also be able to track your active upgrades in the Status Menu, so you will be able to keep an eye on your build whenever you like.
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[h3]SPELLS AND SKILLS[/h3]

It's a tradition for Project Warlock II to have guns and melee weapons accompanied by different sorts of spells or skills. That is why the witchcraft in possession of Urd goes a lot deeper than before into a wide range of useful and deadly spell techniques!



Do you want to feel the real vibe of being Warlock’s student? Spell book will let you release the mayhem with different types of spell attacks. When you pick it up for the first time, it will become a permanent addition to your arsenal. Just as if it were a regular weapon, you select it and then… - as the kids used to say - the real magic happens.

Spell book lets you use five different spells, each with a different element attached. They are designed to suit Urd in various circumstances and to deal damage corresponding to specific monsters’ weaknesses.

With the spell book selected, you will be able to turn its pages with the right mouse button to use spells based on fire, frost, poison, magic and crystal elements.
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We already covered Dagger in our previous update. Suitable for the fast-paced gameplay style for Urd that might need to get painfully close to her enemies to dish out some personal damage, but she has another trick up her sleeve when it comes to this weapon.

Apart from the new addition of the spell book, Urd also has access to three different utility spells. Let’s check out Dagger Storm first. It creates a static tornado of flying Daggers damaging nearby monsters. Which makes it a good idea to conjure it in the middle of the demon horde. Until now, we let you dismember monsters with guns and blades, and used “meat grinder” as a metaphor - now you will be able to create a literal one!
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Having to spend all those years in exile would make everyone feel lonely. Urd’s no exception here. So what does she do? Having no friends around she… created one. Introducing: Crystal Sentry - our first summoning spell in the game!

Crystal Sentry follows the player and attacks monsters by shooting powerful crystalline projectiles. It cannot be attacked by monsters, however each shot takes some health away from the Crystal Sentry until it breaks apart. Only to be summoned again a bit later, don’t worry!
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Next to the rich set of magical spells, Urd can also use one of the traditional tools but with a twist that will go hand in hand with her gameplay style - the Poison Grenade.

It will assist you in many different gameplay scenarios - whether you want to deal more damage to larger groups of enemies in the open area or throw it into the narrow passages to slow down some foes.

Poison grenade deals poisonous damage on explosion but also affects your enemies with poison over time with the cloud that will emerge after the bang.
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To elevate Urd’s agility and spice up the gameplay with more useful maneuvering during battles we also implemented the dash move.

This is actually a special upgrade for the Dagger which allows more dynamic combat and bullet dodging! The dash has two upgradable stages - the first gives the ability to dash forward while attacking, the second lets you dash in all directions when Dagger is equipped.
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Lastly it is worth mentioning that Urd’s arsenal is not just your regular set of pistols and rifles. Almost every weapon is infused with some magic which corresponds to the additional damage you deal to incoming monsters.

The main infusion in the set of weapons is Urd’s crystal magic which supports the performance of SMG (upgrading it will give you a chance to fire crystal bullets) and Shotgun which features an alternative fire mode with deadly crystal shards. When it comes to the Dagger, it is magically infused with poison as well as phantom slash attack upgrade - which gives the player a chance to deal a wide slash attack damaging multiple monsters.
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[h3]WHAT’S NEXT?[/h3]

That’s all for the magical revelations today and at the same time we’re wrapping up the list of content for Chapter 2.

Our team is still polishing various aspects of the new adventure as well as still improving the first chapter. In the next update we will explore this topic a little more, including various aspects from the original Project Warlock that return in the sequel.

Till next time!