GROUND BRANCH News

Last patch was meant to be the last update to version 1028, but we've decided to put out another hotfix to fix some lingering issues and improve a couple things while version 1029 is in the oven. Build Update #019 here will detail the changes, so keep scrolling for the highlights and raw change log ↓

› Coming from a previous version of the game? Issues with controls, loadouts, assets or settings?

We strongly recommend players coming from an older version of the game to delete all files located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\GroundBranch\Saved\Config\WindowsNoEditor (copy and paste the underlined path onto your File Explorer address bar and hit Enter to go to folder). For those who can afford it, a full reinstall isn't a bad idea either: it may fix broken/missing features introduced in this version, as well as issues with controls, loadouts, assets and settings.

› Update your server!

All dedicated servers must be updated to work with the current version. Make sure yours is updated so players can enjoy the latest version of GROUND BRANCH.

• Mouse sensitivity for the Engaged (ADS) position works again.
  
• Fixed new G33 Magnifier (3x) being off-center.
  
• You can now place most red dot and holographic sights on the closest rail slot to the G33 and still see the reticle; T-1 Micro is the exception, but we'll figure that out.
  
• Corrected issue with the A.I. being able to see through foliage at certain angles.
  
• Cleaned up the code for PvP insertion points for better stability and selection.
• Improved randomization for Team Elimination insertion points.
  
• Also cleaned up code for dead bodies and dropped items, which should now consistently stay in the map for the remainder of the game for round-based modes.
  
• Grenade throwing code has been reworked for stability and faster/more responsive throws.
  
• Rebuilt lighting on all maps to ensure everything is up to date. This is the culprit for this update's file size, if you were wondering where to point that pitchfork.
  
• Removed invisible ramp from Nature Area map and mailed it back to Rockstar Games.
  
• A lot of under-the-hood schtuff.

John has been working diligently on the rebuilt Depot, Mikson has been tweaking gunshot sounds [video], Kris has been body-slamming all kinds of code into submission as usual, and toadie2k has officially begun work on the new character poses and animations, which is heckin' excite.

Next up is version 1029 (for real this time!) and we're psyched about it. How about you?



Build version: 1028.3

Steam Build ID: 4244997
Size: 1.5 GB

Steam Build ID: 4245005
Size: 37 MB

FIXES

* FIXED crash relating to null Blackboard component
* FIXED Engaged sensitivity not being used
* FIXED binoculars not obeying selected aim mode
* FIXED G33 magnifier being off-center and not rendering reticles if too close (fingers crossed)
* FIXED NatureArea ramp by syncing Perforce depot to local depot.
* FIXED UserArena night lighting scenario
* FIXED TE-UserArena missing lighting scenarios
* FIXED URBSurfaceLinkManager::GetLinkedClass() failing due to incorrect name of physical material water (was PhysMat_Water - should have been PM_Water)
    * footsteps, body impacts etc. all work in water now.


CONTENT

* built lighting on all maps to make sure everything was up to date (been a while on some)
* City map
    * changed skylight setting to Stationary so dynamic parts of BPs (vehicle doors, for example) don't render as black
    * cleaned up some lightmap UVs on vehicles
* set Double-Sided Geometry flag on foliage meshes
    * corrects issue where AI could see through foliage at certain angles when they shouldn't


CODE

* updated AGBGameMode::GetBestLateComerInsertionPoint()
    * added IsActive() and ONSAMETEAM() checks against selected insertion points.
    * added brute force method if no selected insertion points are found
    * changed InsertionPointCounts sort to be randomised if two counts are the same
    * will now log a warning instead of randomly picking an insertion point if one isn't found with previous methods.
    * updated all affected Blueprints
* updated BP_TeamElimination
    * changed SetupInsertionPoints from an event into a function.
        * predetermines how many insertion points each team is allowed, compensating for odd amounts by rounding down.
    * randomisation now done in a more brute force method in one pass, using the predetermined values from SetupInsertionPoints().
        * insertion points within appropriate ranges are set to active with team 0 or 1.
        * the left over insertion point (if any) is set to inactive and team 255 (no team).
        * all insertion points have ForceNetUpdate() called immediately.
* updated AGBInsertionPoint::SetActive()
    * if an insertion point is no longer active, it will automatically make sure not one has us selected as an insertion point.

* added checks to AGBPlayerState::SetInsertionPoint() when selecting an insertion point to make sure it is active and on the same team.

* removed AGBGameMode::RemoveDeadBody() - redundant logic since AddDeadBody() runs the same checks before adding new dead body.
* added Max() to various AISettings in GBAIController to prevent possible divide by zero errors.
* updated AGBGrenade 
    * changed usage of GetViewRotation()/GetControlRotation() to GetBaseAimRotation() to make things more universal
    * made CheckWantsToThrow() timer value configurable 
    * renamed CheckWantsToThrow() to WindupTimer
    * changed default WindupDelay from 0.5 to 0.29 to more closely match animation and make grenade throws quicker.
    * ensured that all timers for a grenade are cleared when it is dropped or the pin is replaced.
    * changed several public functions to protected to prevent using them incorrectly.
    FIXME - logic could still be clearer. Damn industrial blindness.
* removed unused BP_AnimNotify_PostGrenade
* updated GBGameMode
    * delayed dead body / dropped item handling to improve performance when dealing with many instant calls.
    * ensured dead body isn't tracked when leaving ready room
* updated GBWaterVolume
    * disabled bPhysicsOnContact - actually needs actor inside volume before messing with your movement.
    * changed brush component collision to ensure bullet collision against water.
    FIXME - anything hit while inside a water volume will currently be **immune** to bullets :(
* updated NatureArea_Geo to correct placement of water volumes
* removed duplicate primary / secondary ammo listings from Ammunition List when editing platform.
* added icon for MP444 mag.
* changed game mode dead body handling to only worry about players/bots with valid player states.
    i.e. not AI controller NPCs/terrorists, but players and fake players.
* changed game mode dropped item handling to only worry about players/bots with valid player states.
    i.e. not AI controller NPCs/terrorists, but players and fake players.

Discord / Steam Community Hub / Reddit / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

The second and final hotfix update for GROUND BRANCH Alpha v1028 is now available with general fixes, some cleanup and a little dash of content update. But before we go over this Build Update, gather around the bonfire and allow us to do a little recap.

› Not in the mood? Keep scrolling to Build Highlights ↓

August marked the first anniversary of our Steam® Early Access (EA) launch. It was far from a smooth launch, with many players feeling the game wasn't EA-worthy, turned off by the lack of polish and limited content. Others immediately became active members of the community—some even forming units for regular sessions—but, overall, not many stuck around. Regardless of player adherence, however, one word was common throughout the vast majority of reviews: potential. Whether or not players "got it" and kept playing, GROUND BRANCH's potential was clear to most fans of the tactical shooter genre that tried the game.

The decision to release GB to the general public at the time was a very risky one, but the fact that so many players shared our vision and saw the same potential we did was enough encouragement to keep working on it as hard as we could. It goes without saying that the financial support brought on by sales (even if very modest in comparison to immensely more popular games) has greatly helped us along the way, allowing us to purchase development assets, hire contractors and get a little compensation for all the effort we've been putting in. So if on the one hand we might have come out in the open too soon, Early Access has also exposed GROUND BRANCH to a much larger audience and feedback pool, forcing us forward—right out of the "closed doors" development comfort zone—and providing essential funding.

At the time of Early Access launch, we were 5 team members. A.I. programmer Phil Carlisle (aka zoombapup) has since departed the team, with A.I. work since circa October 2018 having been done by Kris. But Early Access has also brought us sound man Mikson straight from the community, and we've just recently secured the long-coveted animator: she goes by toadie2k, is based in Australia, and you might know her from the prolific Arma 3 modding scene. All in all, we feel like we've made steady progress since launch, but things should hopefully pick up pace a lot more from here on out.

In conclusion, we'd like to thank everyone who ever gave GROUND BRANCH a try—but especially everyone who stuck with it and have kept our community alive over the last 12+ months. We truly appreciate your support.

· · ·

How do you feel GROUND BRANCH has progressed over the last year? Let us know in the comments! Also…


For many players, the decision to buy or pass on GROUND BRANCH lies heavily on customer reviews. The game has changed considerably since EA launch, so make sure you customer review reflects the most recent feature set, stability and content. And, most importantly, your most recent opinion.

We currently hold a "Mostly Positive" rating for All Reviews (recommended by 78% of them), and a "Very Positive" rating for Most Recent (92% approval over the last 30 days). Your review update might make a difference!

· · ·

Are you interested in following development a little closer or interacting with us?
You can do that via our Discord, Steam, Reddit, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook presences.

· · ·

› Coming from a previous version of the game? Issues with controls, loadouts, assets or settings?

We strongly recommend players coming from an older version of the game to delete all files located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\GroundBranch\Saved\Config\WindowsNoEditor (copy and paste the underlined path onto your File Explorer address bar and hit Enter to go to folder). For those who can afford it, a full reinstall isn't a bad idea either: it may fix broken/missing features introduced in this version, as well as issues with controls, loadouts, assets and settings.

› Update your server!

All dedicated servers must be updated to work with the current version. Make sure yours is updated so players can enjoy the latest version of GROUND BRANCH.

• MP5 models and textures have been updated to be consistent across all variants.
• Added MP5A4: fixed-stock variant with 3-round burst capability.
• MP5A5 (sliding stock, 3-round burst) has replaced the MP5N.

The AN/PVS-22 UNS night vision optic has received new textures that include markings and improved materials.





A new model and textures for the G33 Magnifier have been added. It now features the EOTECH® logo and markings.

KNOWN ISSUE: The front lens has a texturing error, but please remember it's rude to stare.

The placement of optics has been further adjusted to reduce instances of clipping.

› Keep in mind that weapon builds created before this version will not be affected.

The screen overlays for the AN/PVS-15 and Binoculars should now display correctly on ultra-widescreen monitors.



Fixes and cleanup form the bulk of this update. You can read the full list in the raw change log, but here are some of the main ones:

• The sound bug where a full auto loop goes off forever should hopefully be gone. Again.
• The grenade throw arc should no longer be affected while holding Use/Interact (default [F]) + [Mouse Wheel] for incremental door opening.
• Aim / Use Off Hand (default [Right Mouse Button]) should now consistently close the top Inventory bar.
• Magazines will no longer take their skin from the pouch/vest color and should now match the weapon's skin selection—when applicable, of course.
• Fixed Shooting Range targets not dropping consistently. (Told you this f***er keeps creeping back in!)
• Power Station has two less exploits: being able to jump over fence out of bounds and being able to look through ceiling inside A tunnel.
• You will no longer go through the wall when jumping off the ladder in City. Thanks for the reports!
• City has also received a little optimization pass for textures.
• Window panes on 747's namesake aircraft no longer appear through other elements in map (e.g. the aircraft's wings).
• Hints should now always display at the top layer on the screen.
• Added hints for the Binoculars usage (zooming in/out and NVG incompatibility).
• After Grenade Throw option should again correctly follow player settings under Gameplay › Firearm; in particular, "Switch to Previous Item" should now do as it says.
• Improved foregrip hand pose and location for the MP7A1.
• Various crash fixes.
• A bunch of code and under-the-hood stuff only Kris really understands.

Version 1029 will be a big gear-oriented content update. Expect a lot of new and updated attachments, a remade Depot map and maybe a taste of the new character assets.

The groundwork for the new character skeleton—which will allow for new, clean animations—continues to be implemented in a separate development branch and is still set to have its first working iteration ready for the big v1030 update.

Stay tuned!


Build version: 1028.2

Steam Build ID: 4171971
Size: 258 MB

Steam Build ID: 4171975
Size: 32 MB

FIXES

* FIXED spawn protection actor not removing its "ignore use input" entry
* FIXED GBPlayerController not resetting the ignore use input array when reset on map change
* FIXED ZooKeeper server settings not updating without restarting server when changed at runtime by admin
* FIXED Shooting Range targets not falling consistently
* FIXED Power Station – view through the ceiling when on top of the box in the A tunnel nears the stairs to A hallway
* FIXED Power Station – being able to jump over the fences into the areas considered outside of the map
* FIXED 747 – invisible obstruction in front of car that blocks way forward
* FIXED little crack on the wall on Power Station stairs (east side)
* FIXED distorted texture on Power Station wall near stairs
* FIXED binocular overlay ultra-widescreen support
* FIXED night vision overlay ultra-widescreen support
* FIXED calling switch items on an item you're already switching to
* FIXED grenade switching to primary firearm instead of last used item
* FIXED binoculars not scaling sensitivity
* FIXED hints being displayed behind other widgets
* FIXED being unable to holster sidearm
* FIXED UseOffHand not hiding inventory bar
* FIXED log spam about invalid player states in WBP_GameInfo
* FIXED order in which night vision post process is enabled and overlay is faded in/out.
* FIXED incorrect target hands for dropped firearm and magazine
* FIXED PrevEquipped[X] being cleared incorrectly as item was put away
* FIXED AGBCharacter::PlayNextSwitchItemStage() called equip montage if item still in target hand.
* FIXED AGBCharacter::PickupItem() not clearing equip hand targets
* FIXED possible usage of nullptr in UGBItemDragDropOperation::CreateTargetProxyFromItem()
* FIXED crash in lambda used by AGBPlayerState::OnRep_InReadyRoom() to delay event call
* FIXED crash in IUWorks::StartupModule() due to SteamGameServerUtils() returning nullptr
* FIXED bad logic in AGBGameMode::HasReachedTimeLimit()
* FIXED looping full auto sound when firearm is destroyed while full auto sound is playing
    * changed PostEvent calls to set stopWhenAttachedToDestroyed to 'true'
    * added C++ code to call UAkGameplayStatics::StopActor() when firearm is destroyed
* FIXED AlaskaCedar_Desktop_Branch_Mat blocking bullets
* FIXED Next/Prev Position input working on door even if Use/Interact isn't held down due to overlap not resetting last Use/Interact time
* FIXED grenade showing arc on Next/Prev Position input even if door was being interacted with
* FIXED placement of flashlight handguard on MP5A4 and A5
* FIXED incorrect icon for MP7A1
* FIXED clipping through wall when jumping off ladder in City map
* FIXED 747 windows and doors rendering through wings and other geometry in map
* FIXED gap in City map pub area wall
* FIXED grass showing through City map street
* FIXED MP7A1 grip pose and location
* FIXED magazines taking skin from pouch/platform instead of related firearm (at least with modular pouches)
* FIXED BP_MP5SD5_SuppressorRail bottom rail acting as top rail
* FIXED UGBSightComponent::GetMatchingFrontSightPost() finding the lowest front sight post instead of the front sight post with the closest matching height to the rear sight post
* FIXED grenade arc being adjusted while Use/Interact key is held down
    * stops arc changing while opening door incrementally 


CONTENT

* exposed shootable target's take hits variable so can be set per placed target in maps by level designers
* finished off AN/PVS-22 textures
* City map
    * texture usage optimizations 
    * downsized a lot of 4k textures that were being used
* reworked flashing light setup on SWAT truck to look a lot better… and actually flash 
* adjusted blocking socket on ACOG 6x and M233 scopes to stop clipping
* adjusted AK-74 sight rails to be a bit more forward
* removed development version of User Arena map
* adjusted placement of various optics
* updated MP5 models to be consistent in design, scale and material usage
    * no longer have the MP5_Navy
    * added MP5A4 and MP5A5 versions
* updated G33 Magnifier mesh and materials 
 

CODE

* updated handling of switch items, pickup item and drop items
    * more unified approach that is more brute force in its handling
* added hints for binocular usage – zoom and not working when night vision goggles are down
* updated GBGameMode to make it wait until round stage is WaitingForReady before ending game based on time limit
* added TimeLimit > 0 check to AGBGameMode::HasReachedTimeLimit() to stop it thinking we've hit a time limit when none was ever set (oops)
* changed usage of DetachFromComponent() to ensure UActorComponent::Modify() is NOT called
* removed erroneous usage of TWeakObjectPtr in various classes
    * replaced them with UPROPERTY() versions
    * added additional checks when required
    * should fix crash related to TWeakObjectPtr - can't crash if it doesn't exist
* ensured UniqueId.ToString() uses same logic
    * created UGBGameplayStatics::GetUniqueIdAsString() for those that use PlayerState
 for all others, made sure they followed the same logic
    * should fix crash related to IsValid() error in UniqueId somewhere…
* updated BP_ANPVS_15
    * rearranged logic to fix bug introduced by animation change
    * cleaned up turn on/off play raise/lower animation events
* updated GenerateBuildNumber.bat to use P4_Tickets as password if defined for both login check and change list info
* updated C++ & Blueprints to change references to RoundLength and RoundDuration to RoundTime
* changed "roundlength" entry in DefaultGame.ini to RoundTime
* updated DefaultZooKeeper to add "roundtime" as a valid command
* updated BP_TacLight_MP5 to look for socket on potential parent rather than at the class of the potential parent
* updated GBRailComponent to use different colors to show rail face
    Blue = top
    Orange = bottom
    Green = side
    Cyan = angled
* created AGBGameState::CanChangeLightingScenario() event to allow/disallow lighting change mid-round
* removed unused WBP_StunOverlay
* updated BP_StunAffect to disable itself when destroyed
* changed CanChangeLightingScenario() from BlueprintImplementableEvent to a BlueprintNativeEvent and created native implementation in GBGameState C++
* removed ExampleDeviceProfileSelector from EnabledPlugins array in DefaultGame.ini
* removed additional Tilde (~) key from ConsoleKeys array in DefaultInput.ini
* removed support for MouseSensitivityMagnified2-8 – no longer needed
* added bDisableInputScaling setting to GBPlayerSettings
    * allows you to disable the 2.5 scaling that is done to all input by default
      NOTE: may simply scale mouse/controller sensitivity to compensate later
* added ControllerSensitivityScale variable to GBPlayerController
* scales controller input based on the sensitivity change caused by aiming/using magnified optics
* removed hint time limit constraint
    * hint manager now supports multiple hints and removes any hint of a similar class if another one is added
* moved grenade hints to same location as all other hints
* updated all hints to flow same format
    * heading, then description with button usage, if any
* added support for TeamKillWarning 
    * uses hint system to warn the player when they have teamkilled
      NOTE: means it only comes up 3 times before not showing up anymore

Discord / Steam Community Hub / Reddit / Twitter / Instagram / Facebook

Build Update #017 will cover this small hotfix update for v1028, which is mostly focused on quality-of-life improvements for scopes—or magnified optics, as we pedantically call them.

Read on for highlights and raw change log at the bottom—and don't forget you can stay in touch with us via Discord, the Steam® Community Hub, Reddit, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

› Coming from a previous version of the game? Issues with controls, loadouts, assets or settings since the update?

We strongly recommend players coming from an older version of the game to delete all files located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\GroundBranch\Saved\Config\WindowsNoEditor. For those who can afford it, a full reinstall isn't a bad idea either and may fix missing features introduced in this version, as well as issues with controls, loadouts, assets and settings.

› Update your server!

All dedicated servers must be updated to work with the current version.

We've reworked the PiP (picture-in-picture) scope rendering to correct a few issues, including:

• Lack of sync between scope sight picture and the original scene outside of it (e.g. your weapon's forearm "lagging behind" when seen through the scope).
  
• Optics displaying different magnification (at the same power) depending on scope placement along the rail.
  
• Recoil at higher magnifications not appearing to "scale up" correctly from lower magnifications.
  
• Scope reticles no longer move along with the scope shadow. This is based on real-life behavior (and is a work in progress).
  

Mouse sensitivity is no longer set individually per magnification level. It now scales automatically, proportionately to the magnification: the more magnified your optic is, the less sensitive your mouse movement will be.

• Added reticle brightness change sound effect for non-magnified sights.
  
• PM II scope now has variable 5–25x magnification.
  
• The Specter DR 1x/4x's lever switch (on the left-hand side) and the AccuPower 1–8x's rear ring now reflect the current magnification setting, which is dope.
  
• AccuPower 1–8x now has an additional 1.5x zoom step.
  
• Lasers beams now follow weapon recoil.
  
• Red dot reticle sizes were reduced by roughly 35%.
  
• Updated Specter DR 1x/4x model.
  
• Fixed being able to kick/ban server admins (sorry it happened, FUBAR).
  

• Aiming down sights may default to secondary sight (offset or piggybacked) if one is equipped.
  
• Some optics still cause clipping when placed too close to the camera, particularly when shooting and reloading while Engaged (ADS).
  
• We've fixed the floating RMR on the AccuPower 1–8x, but the scope's top adjustment turret now obscures it. Derp.
  
• PM II 5x56's display name doesn't reflect the variable magnification (5–25x).
  

We might do a small gear-oriented update within the next couple of months while character work—new skeleton, character assets and animations—is being done on a separate branch for the next big update. We'll keep you guys posted!


Build version: 1028

Steam Build ID: 4113861
Size: 98 MB

Steam Build ID: 4113864
Size: 35 MB

FIXES

* FIXED placement on Defaults button in WBP_Settings_Gameplay
* FIXED warning in BP_M1014 & BP_SDASS_Martial about bad reload tags
* FIXED being able to kick/ban an admin
* FIXED not seeing kick/ban message as a client that is kicked/banned
* FIXED slightly off-center AK-74 MI iron sights
* FIXED excessive scope shadow when Specter DR was attached too close to camera
* FIXED floating RMR on AccuPower 1–8x


CONTENT

* Reduced red dot reticle size roughly 35% (closer to true MOA)
* Added functionality for magnification indicator ring to rotate based on what magnification is set on the AccuPower scope
* Added 1.5x magnification for AccuPower
* Updated Specter DR to new model
    * 1x–4x lever moves based on setting
* Added variable magnification level handling to BP_Optical_PMII_5_25x


AUDIO

* Added reticle brightness sound effect for non-magnified sights


CODE

* Added check to prevent disabling night vision as a spectator while following
* Updated bullet warn functions to take use a cached subsonic value from the bullet movement component instead of trying to calc it on the fly
* Changed AccuPower reticle mipmap generation to "no mip maps" to hopefully prevent pixelation issues
* Hid Tutorials menu option from front end menu manager
* Removed night vision option from spectator controls when following (no longer doable)
* Reduced AI sight distance from 150 m to 100 m
    * temp fix
* Removed friendly check from bullet cracks/whizzes - watch your fire
* Removed impact check that prevent bullet cracks/whizzes - should hear both apparently :shrug:
* Change bullet warning to be both whizz and crack if crack is an option
* Updated ZKBan class 
    * will reload the ban list next login if it hasn't been updated in more then 10 minutes
    * added DefaultBanDuration option to use instead of permanent ban if no ban duration specified
    Defaults to 12 hours if not already set
* Updated the network failure, travel failure and save failed overlays to look glaringly out of place and official to really get the players attention
* Updated all alert/notification messages to be based on WBP_ServerBrowserMessageOverlay at request of Scopey
* Improved server/client mismatch message
* Updated UGBSightComponent::GetMagnificationSensitivityLevel() to return the highest sensitivity level instead of 0 if magnification level is greater than the number of sensitivity levels
* Updated BP_TargetViewer – way old Blueprint
* Removed BP_TargetViewCamera – unused Blueprint
* Magnification levels to calc FOV instead of manually setting FOVs
* Cleaned up sight C++/Blueprints after switch to magnification FOV
* Removed 2–8x magnified sensitivity UI entries from WBP_Settings_Controls – not use in current dev test
* Cleaned up and recompiled BP_FenceMaster Blueprint
    * rebuilt nav meshes and cover on maps using it
* Changed tick update time on BP_AN_PEQ_Master & BP_AN_PVS22 to PostUpdate
* Updated M_OpticalSight_Master to handle scope shadow via material rather then external calculations
* Adjusted scope shadow values used by MI_PMII_Lens

Mondays, huh?

Well, at least we got Build Update #016 with everything you need to know about v1028 of GROUND BRANCH. This is a big one, so sit back and read on for all the highlights and deets. The raw change log didn't fit here on Steam, so head over to our Dev Blog if you wanna check it out.

Remember you can stay in touch with us via our Discord, the Steam® Community Hub, Reddit, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook!

› Coming from a previous version of the game? Issues with controls, loadouts, assets or settings since the update?

We strongly recommend players coming from an older version of the game to delete all files located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\GroundBranch\Saved\Config\WindowsNoEditor. For those who can afford it, a full reinstall isn't a bad idea either and may fix missing features introduced in this version, as well as issues with controls, loadouts, assets and settings.

› Update your server!

All dedicated servers must be updated to work with the current version.

This build brings the first iteration—Phase 1, if you will—of the new damage model that generally ramps up lethality. Kris explains it better than the rest of us ever could, so let's quote him:

[Initially] We added a method that took penetration, internal organs, bleeding and such into account. Unfortunately, it was pretty horrible due to lack of feedback, i.e. it lacked decent reaction animations, bleeding effect, on-screen "messages" for the player.

Quickly replaced it with a temporary measure that bases the damage on the kinetic energy of a round, scaled by how much it penetrates and in what location.

This value is not the correct way to do damage from a bullet, but it ended up with values for the handgun that were similar—2 to 3 shots to the chest—while making everything else more powerful, e.g. one-shots with a decently placed 7.62 mm, shotguns ruining your day etc.

So while the approach we arrived at is not final by any means, the one we're aiming at for the future requires visual feedback in order to work. Nonetheless, this new stand-in damage model beats what we had before, which was essentially a 3-body-shots or 1-headshot affair with no caliber differentiation.

It is important to note that armor has not yet been implemented, so the higher lethality brought on by this new damage model will be partly offset by working armor somewhere down the road.

You can now increase and decrease the brightness of most illuminated reticles. Use [Home]/[End] respectively to increase/decrease brightness. These key binds can be changed under Settings › Controls; they're listed at the bottom of the command list, under "Other".

Known issues

• Brightness settings aren't optic-specific and are set to 10 levels that may be inconsistent across different sights.
  
• Depending on lighting conditions, the lowest brightness setting on some optics may display a dark dot rather than an illuminated one.
  

We've moved the NVG toggle from the Equipments Menu ([4[] key) to the [N[] key. You can change that bind to something else under Settings › Controls.


Now when you press Fire (default [LMB]) while in High Ready or Low Ready, your primary weapon position will be changed to Ready (shouldered, sights not engaged; aka the "point-shooting" position). This makes it easier for some players to change to Ready, as previously you had to gauge how much you scrolled up or down from an off-target weapon position. It also prevents the silly firing into the air/ground allowed by the previous control scheme. Nothing has changed otherwise: scrolling up once from Low Ready (or down from High Ready) will still bring your weapon to Ready.

Holding the Fire key while in High/Low Ready will ready the weapon and start firing as soon as the weapon and view are aligned.

Handgun obstructed while aiming down the sights? Your character will now automatically switch to the Close Ready position (pistol held close to the chest and pointed forward) so you can still fire, making sidearms more useful in very close quarters.

Incremental opening
Incremental door opening is now done by holding Use/Interact (default [F]) and scrolling up/down, so you can now change weapon positions without accidentally interacting with that stupid door you're getting ready to crack open.

Hell, let's recap that for good measure:

INCREMENTAL DOOR OPENING

› HOLD Use/Interact (default [F]) + [Mouse Wheel]

Pushing doors
Walking into doors that aren't fully shut will swing them open/closed.


You can now take the magazine from a dropped weapon by looking at it and holding Use/Interact (default [F]). So tap key to pick up weapon, hold key to pick up magazine. Easy. Intuitive.


When facing a Ready Room locker or training area workbench, hold Use/Interact (default [F]) to re-equip your loadout and restock your ammo and grenades.





Suppressed gunshot sound effects for the M416Ds, M4A1s, MP7s, MP5s, AK-74M and MK 14 Mod 2 EBR were updated. New suppressed weapon tails were also added for assault rifles, submachine guns/PDWs and sniper rifles/DMRs. Be sure to try them out!


Supersonic rounds now produce a characteristic "crack" sound when flying past you. Scary, but what did you expect in a firefight?




We have teased the model on Instagram way back in January, and now the Specter DR 1x/4x (the DR is for Dual Role) is finally here with variable magnification (you can switch between 1x and 4x on the fly), as well as a Picatinny rail mount on top for secondary red dots. The center reticle dot can also be illuminated and has adjustable brightness.

The Specter DR 1x/4x, seen here with the new RMR model mounted on the top rail

Here's the sight picture:

Left: 1x and no dot illumination; right: 4x and max dot brightness

With the quick zoom switch and illuminated dot that assists target acquisition—plus a top rail to boost—the Specter makes for an incredibly versatile sight. We recommend mounting it close to the eye for better reticle clarity and optimal field of view.

You can alternate between 1x and 4x with [Page Up] and [Page Down]. Increase dot brightness with [Home] and decrease it with [End].

These controls are valid for every sight with similar functionalities. The key binds can be changed under Settings › Controls—they're at the bottom of the command list.

Our first true LPVO (Low-Power Variable Optic) is the Trijicon® AccuPower 1–8x. It offers 1x (no magnification) all the way to 8x.



While the real thing offers "fluid" zoom (i.e. you can analogically set it to any magnification between 1x and 8x), our current version offers 1x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, 6x, 7x and 8x in steps—at least until we figure out a more faithful approach.

The reticle's red sections (a center cross and 4 semi-circumferences) can be illuminated with 10 brightness settings. Let's take a look at the sight picture:

Left: 1x with max brightness; right: 8x with illumination turned off

The 1–8x variable magnification makes the AccuPower more versatile and capable of longer ranges than the Specter, but all the different zoom levels you're able to cycle through also make it less agile than the DR's quick 1x/4x switch. To offset that, however, you can mount an RMR (ACOG) on the front scope ring's integrated RMR mount.

Hint: Try binding the increase/decrease magnification commands to [Mouse Wheel Up] and [Mouse Wheel Down] respectively, making sure you add [Alt] as a modifier key for both. That will make [Alt] + [Mouse Wheel] your go-to bind for zooming in/out with all your variable power optics.

Known issues

• On first use, the AccuPower reticles may appear at a low resolution and require a second or two to load correctly. Once you have cycled through all zoom levels, they will remain at full resolution.
  
• At higher brightness settings, the illuminated sections of the reticle may bleed/glow through.
  
• The RMR (ACOG) doesn't visually touch/connect with the scope ring mount and will appear to float a few millimeters from it.
  

Sick of trying to shoot through a scope in a night map and having your NVG's fixed focal range blur out your entire sight picture? We got you covered with the AN/PVS-22 UNS (Universal Night Sight).

See the mystery tube in front of the PM II scope?

If mounted right in front of your preferred magnified sight, this "clip-on" night vision optic essentially turns it into a night vision scope. Pretty damn sweet, right? It is a rather large optic, however, so make sure you have the rail space for it and your magnified sight too.

Here's the PVS-22 in action:

https://youtu.be/AQAhdtgHKb8
Prowlaz quickly demos the AN/PVS-22 in co-op Terrorist Hunt (while sounding clearly aroused, which we can't blame him for)

Notes

• The PVS-22 will not work with non-magnifying optics like red dot and holo sights. This is intended and based on how the optic works in real life.
  
• The PVS-22 is not a standalone sight. It is only usable in conjunction with a magnifying sight.
  

In real life, clip-on night vision optics are typically used in sniper and designated marksman roles due to their size and weight. It is likely to follow suit in GROUND BRANCH when stamina and other such mechanics are implemented.

Known issues IR laser beams (as emitted by the AN/PEQ-15) and the Marker Strobe's IR flashing light aren't visible through the PVS-22 when they should. We'll have to figure out how to mask out the effect as it's currently a full-screen "rule" that makes it visible through NVGs.


We've replaced the old ACOG 4x32 model with a new one that can fit the new RMR (ACOG) optic on top. Sweet.




The Trijicon® MRO (Miniature Rifle Optic) is a small red dot sight with a large FOV for quick target acquisition.




The SRS (Sealed Reflex Sight) is another red dot sight by Trijicon®. Go check it out.




The Battle Belt can now be selected in the Platform slot of the Operator Customization screen. Don't worry: it will be made an add-on to the actual vest platforms in the near future, so you won't have to pick one or the other. The Battle Belt can hold up to 7 item pouches.



Because we have no functional armor yet, the Battle Belt has no real disadvantages in relation to vests other than pouch capacity. But we think it might be a helpful hostage/VIP asset to you role-players out there experimenting with custom game modes, plus everyone gets to look a little more casual on the range.

• The RMR mini red dot sight has a new model and is available in 3 versions: RMR (standard Picatinny mount), RMR (ACOG) (flat mount for mounting on the ACOG 4x32 and AccuPower 1–8x) and RMR (Raised) (raised Picatinny mount for AR-15-type rifles). At the moment, they work interchangeably. We'll hotfix it so each version only fits where it's supposed to.
  
• The MK 14 Mod 2 EBR has received a small accessory rail under the handguard especially for foregrips.
  

In addition to the loading screen tips—which we've added to—pop-ups now show hints for basic gameplay functionalities that players are often left wondering about in GB.

Hints are enabled by default to assist new players. To disable them, look under Settings › Gameplay › Other › Enable Hints and select "No" from the drop-down list.

Usage prompts and highlights have a new look, and both elements can be toggled on/off. Usage highlights can be edited for size and color as well. Usage UI customization settings are under Settings › Gameplay › Other.

Quick reminder that you can now take magazines from dropped weapons by holding the Use/Interact key (default [F]).

The HUD arc showing the grenade's trajectory has been altered and can now be customized under Settings › Gameplay › Firearm. You can pick individual color and alpha (transparency) values for both the arc itself and the predicted impact point marker.

To make either the arc or the impact point marker invisible, simply turn the alpha value to 0 (zero).

Editing your current weapon, vest or headgear build should be a little easier with this update. Once you click your current selection, the list should automatically open the relevant category and scroll down to the correct section of your item on the list. Much better.





Some attachments have received limitations in order to prevent issues with animations, performance and other underlying systems:

Foregrip placement Foregrips can now only be placed down to a certain position on bottom accessory rails. This was done to prevent the wobbly "spaghetti arm" effect that resulted from the character's support arm being stretched out too far, as well as the issue where he would grip an invisible foregrip placed out of reach. The restriction ensures your character will always grip properly. We may adjust or remove this limitation in the future as we improve character poses and animations.

Sight placement
We have limited how far back you are allowed to mount certain sights on certain weapons' top accessory rails. This restriction should prevent sights from clipping through the character's eyes/camera. As with foregrips, this may be changed as new poses, animations and systems make their way into the game.

No more offset scopes
You can no longer mount a magnified optic onto an offset rail. A lot of players were reporting sight pictures being tilted when aiming through offset scopes and, because scopes aren't meant to be mounted offset (and wouldn't function correctly in such a configuration), we simply got rid of the ability to do that. See, you ain't gotta fix it if you throw it away. *wink*

• Multiple crash and server issues were purged.
  
• Mouse sensitivity can now have a separate value for each magnification level from 2x to 8x.
  
• First pass on Terrorist Hunt mode for the User Generated Arena map.
  
• Fixed flashbangs double-dipping local player. Looking away should also reduce the effect by up to 25%.
  
• Red dots have generally been increased in size and adjusted for better visibility.
  
• The MK 4 10x40 scope has been removed due to its model being too old. An updated version will be added at some point.
  
• Fixed burst fire mode getting "stuck" when clicking rapidly.
  
• 747 gate insertion has been reworked to reduce bottleneck.
  
• Some general map cleanup—especially on Tanker Ship and 747.
  
• Tanker Ship's bridge now has glass on the windows. Yeah, they're breakable.
  
• AKs should now have the fire selector in the correct position.
  
• … and a whole lot more you can check out in the raw change log below.
  

· · ·

We hope you enjoy this update! Make sure to let us know what you think in the comments below or in any of our official channels (links at the beginning of this post!). Feedback is very appreciated.

As always, thank you all so, so much for your continued support of this passion project. It means a lot to us.

See you on the next one!

· · ·




Build version: 1028

Steam Build ID: 4098294
Size: 1.7 GB

Steam Build ID: 4098305
Size: 68 MB

Raw change log in our Dev Blog post

This is Build Update #015 bringing you the full patch notes for the second—and last—v1027 hotfix before we move on to v1028. (You can check out the previous v1027 patch notes here and here.)

We'd like to take a few lines to thank everyone who got on board the GROUND BRANCH train in the last couple weeks during Steam® Summer Sale 2019 and all the fantastic feedback. Seeing players enjoy the game we've been putting so much hard work into is immensely encouraging, so thanks everyone for keeping the community (and the dream) alive! Rest assured we'll keep doing our part.

And if you're new to the GB community, be sure to stay in touch with us via our Discord, the Steam® Community Hub, Reddit, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. See you there!

› We strongly recommend players coming from an older version of the game (pre-v1027) to delete all files located in %LOCALAPPDATA%\GroundBranch\Saved\Config\WindowsNoEditor. For those who can afford it, a complete reinstall isn't a bad idea either. If you have control, loadout and other such issues, be sure to try these options.

› NOTE: All dedicated servers must be updated to work with the current build.

Kris has taken care of the last few new crashes reported since v1027. We appreciate all the reports and patience!


The first-person player camera has been moved forward slightly in order to provide more realistic "eye relief" and a better sight picture, particularly for magnified optics (scopes). This is a temporary solution while we aren't able to tackle the more fundamental issue with character postures/poses not having a sufficiently "tight" shooting stance and thus keeping the camera too distant from the sights, while also avoiding an artificial FOV shift to zoom things in.

The camera should also pull back when free-looking (default [Tab]) to make up for the loss of peripheral vision caused by the adjustment.

This is only a first iteration, so we may tweak things further based on further testing and feedback!

› You can read about the more in-depth changes in the raw change log at the end of this post.

We've finally replaced that millennia-old Vertical Grip model, which was based on the venerable SOPMOD vertical foregrip by KAC.

"It is kind of bulbous." —John

› Not your favorite grip? Don't worry—we have more coming, and what we don't make, we'll let you.

We've setup the Engaged Run (holding Run [Shift] while aiming down the sights [RMB]) to use the walk animation once again so it's a stable "combat glide" rather than a wobbly jog.

• A.I. are once again able to use doors, so be on the lookout.
  
• Enemy placement, navigation and cover use have been improved on both City and 747.
  

• 747 and City have received another art pass and further cleanup.
  
• Fixed Server Browser displaying "Ground Branch" under Game Mode instead of the actual mode being played. The game mode now also shows up in the loading screen.
  
• Collision box height for the crouched stance has been increased from 40 to 60, fixing the issue with characters getting under objects they shouldn't be able to and having their heads clipping into them.
  
• Server admins can now allow different Spectator settings (e.g. allow spectating enemies and/or free cam) via command line:
  
  • SpectateFreeCam
    
  • SpectateEnemies
    
  • SpectateForceFirstPerson
    

• Lighting seems to be acting up with certain character items, which appear very dark-textured or lit up depending on lighting conditions. We're investigating.
  
• We've had one tester report an issue with online grenade throws not conforming to player settings to revert to the previous item. Changing the related setting had no effect, but it worked normally offline. If you experience the same bug, please make sure you report it!
  

We have a lot of exciting stuff planned for the next batch of updates. Although it is too early to officially confirm what will be in v1028, we're starting work on character model and animation updates, environmental sounds and a functional wrist device that will help provide some much needed navigational and team awareness while playing—just to name a few highlights. Hopefully those will be ready for a first iteration soon enough!

—

As usual, thank you all very much for your continued support. Version/file info and raw change log below:


Build version: 1027(.2)

Steam Build ID: 3993411
Size: 563 MB

Steam Build ID: 3993415
Size: 34 MB

FIXED

* FIXED misaligned large reflex sight with G33 magnifier
* FIXED falling through world in Aircraft_Takedown map due to getting out of playspace
* FIXED wrong PhysMat on road line decals (Was playing metal sound)
* fixed game mode not showing up in server listing
    * added a 'gm' game tag to the Steam server listing which is compared to known game mode classes to find the correct display name.
* FIXED bad LOD setting on Shooting Range terrain that made it deform incorrectly
* FIXED City - falling through scaffolding
* fixed AI not using doors
* fixed nav and cover issues on TH-747
* fixed nav issues on TH-City
* fixed collision on S_Airport_CateringTruck_Raised.
* fixed collision on S_EntryStairway
* fixed crash related to null game mode class / casting in AGBPlayerController::PreClientTravel()
* fixed possible nullptr in GBGrenade
* fixed crash from potentially null AssociatedItem in AGBDroppedItem::OnRep_AssociatedItem().
* fixed crash due to possible nullptr in AGBGameMode::TimeLimitReached().
* FIXED 747 trees not properly setup to block AI LOS
* fixed items that should be hidden in first person showing up when spectating
* fixed not seeing items on your own dead body
* fixed crash caused by sight component being null in sight group
* fixed crash in AGBGameMode::GetReadyRoomStart() due to null ready room start.
* fixed crash/potential crash in UGBFunctionLibrary::GetMatchingSocketNames() by adding nullptr check to SceneComp.
* fixed crash/potential crash in AGBDirectSight::CanBeAddedAsChild() by adding nullptr check to PotentialParent->GetRootComponent().
* fixed errors/warnings related to DonMeshPainterGlobalActor copying a meshes ChildAttachment array.


CONTENT

* replaced very old and very broken Vertical Grip model with a new one
* 747
    * built out stairs in main building
    * Cleaned up some navmesh errors
* City
    * Changed some level lighting settings that were not properly set to give more consistent character lighting throughout map
* Replaced old map images for Storage Facility and City
* Cleaned up some bad geometry on M16 model
* Widened top sight rail on MI AKs to proper size
* More work on finishing up art for areas inside 747
* Changed PhysMat for wood part of killhouse wall so it using the wood hit effects
* Adjusted G33 collision to keep sights at least 2 rail slots away to solve reticles not being rendered (hopefully fixes it)
* Added proper Physical Materials to a few rock types used in 747
* New map images for 747 and SmallTown maps
* City
    * Remade the bus stop to be more solid for better cover and have some breakable glass
* Cleaned up a few navmesh issues around Depot radio tower spawn


CODE

* added game mode to loading screens.
    * uses the set game mode class, prefix of map. If both fail, falls back to current class set by game state.
* adjusted HEAD_Eyes location to be in line with bridge of nose
    * should make optics generally more usable without the need to artificially adjust the FOV while aiming with an optic.
* adjusted the on-target curves for the AK-74 MIs and MK 48 to correct position for stock length.
* modified animation blueprints to take pitch into account and adjust the position of a rifle when aiming up/down to prevent optic clipping through skull
* updated GBPlayerCameraManager to pull camera back when free-looking to compensate for camera being farther forward and compromising peripheral vision

* added support for setting spectate options via command line
    SpectateFreeCam 0/1
    SpectateEnemies 0/1
    SpectateForceFirstPerson 0/1
* added AI-specific functions to GBUseInterface.
* improved AI placement on City and 747.
* changed size of characters crouched collision height from 40 to 60.
    * fixes issues with characters getting under things they shouldn't and having their head clipping into the meshes.
* updated TH-TerroristHunt to automatically start the round editor is simulating.
    * allows debugging of AI more easily.
* adjusted the FastWalkSpeed used by GBCharacter to force use of non-wobbly walk animation when running while engaged.