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Update 0.31 | Patch Notes



Hunters,

Thank you for your patience and understanding in the leadup to this patch. Update 0.31 not only brings exciting enhancements to ZERO Sievert, but it also lays the groundwork for more thrilling updates in the future. In this patch we are excited to bring you deeper connections to the in-game factions. Choose your allegiance wisely - will it be the formidable Green Army or the lucrative Crimson Corporation? Discover new quests, daily challenges and more!

As previously discussed in our dev blogs, this patch comes with a save wipe. To go alongside the save wipe, we've introduced a new save file system and numerous quality of life (QoL) improvements. We understand some players may wish to continue their journeys on their old saves, for those players, we're launching the Legacy branch today, which you can easily access from your library.

We hope you enjoy this patch, and as always, let us know all your feedback on our Discord channel (or here!).

Happy hunting!

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

Major Update 0.31 Patchnotes


[h2]Save Wipe[/h2]

A new game is required for this build. The content of old save files will *not* be migrated to the new save file format.

However, if you wish to continue your current life in Zakov, you can select the legacy build (0.30) from the Beta tab. Here are the detailed steps to do so:
  • Right Click on ZERO Sievert in your Steam library.
  • Choose "Properties".
  • Select "Betas" tab.
  • Choose "Legacy - Build 0.30" from the dropdown menu.
  • Your game should auto update to previous version for you to continue your old save.

[h2]Modding[/h2]
  • The Mod.ini file is no longer supported due to changes in the way weapons and items are stored in the backend, and that we have implemented a more powerful replacement.
    Dev notes to modders:
    Changing Existing Data
    Mod.ini is no longer supported in ZERO Sievert. Instead, we've implemented a powerful replacement! Most of ZS's game data is now stored in external JSON files, instead of being concealed within the game's code. This gives you the opportunity to adjust many different variables and values that were previously inaccessible. Not only can you alter weapon names, but you can also adjust their damage, bullet speed, magazine capacity, and almost everything else. JSON files are essentially text files that store data in a specific format, which can be edited with any text editor. However, you may need to tell your OS to open the .json file extension with a suitable program. JSON can be a bit fussy, so make sure you validate your JSON after editing, using an online tool, and always save in UTF-8 encoding.

    You can find the new database files in the game's install directory (via Steam, right-click on ZERO Sievert in your library, then select "Manage" then "Browse Local Files"). The game's base data can be found in the /ZS_vanilla/gamedata directory. There, you'll find many JSON files, covering everything from ammunition to weapon mods, to chest loot tables, to NPCs. Feel free to modify these files as you wish. For example, if we wanted to rename the Nozin Makant to the solemn and respectful "Igor4eva," we would simply open up weapon.json, search for "Nozin Makant," change the name, and save the text editor. Upon running the game, the new game data is loaded, and the Nozin's name will be different. If you wish to truly honor Igor's memory, you might want to boost the Nozin's damage - though tread carefully because this change will also affect enemies. Unfortunately, you can't change game data while the game is running, so make sure to check your work before launching the game!

    Creating Something New
    If you're looking to add something entirely new to the game, inserting it into the existing JSON files might be a bit challenging. You might have noticed a JSON file called gamedata_order.json in the install directory (and in the "ZS_vanilla" directory too). This file controls the location of JSON files and the order they are loaded into the game. Usually, gamedata_order.json uses relative paths. If you wish to add a new model of the BB 19 MOOSE, let's say a .45 ACP variant, you can create a new JSON file with only that item and then point to that JSON by adding a new file path to gamedata_order.json in the install directory.

    Extra notes and limitations
    Please be aware that if you modify files inside the Steam directory, they will fail Steam's file integrity check, and your modifications may be lost upon reinstalling. To avoid this, we've made it possible to store mod files elsewhere on your computer to prevent them from being overwritten. As mentioned, gamedata_order.json usually uses a relative path to find JSON files, but it can also accept an absolute path. We highly recommend storing your mod files in a static location on your hard drive to prevent accidental loss.

    There are a few limitations currently, however. NPC behavior and quest logic are not exposed, and many internal strings in the game are not available for editing either. At the moment, it's also not possible to change item or bullet graphics, which we know is a feature many of you are eagerly waiting for. Implementing dynamic graphics, audio, and logic into our engine in an efficient manner is a complex task that we don't want to rush.

    That's all from us for now. Over to you! We hope you enjoy experimenting with the core mechanics of ZERO Sievert!


[h2]Cloud Save[/h2]
Cloud save is now enabled for ZERO Sievert, which means you can now sync your save data across multiple platforms. However, please note that if you are in the middle of a raid on one platform and start another session on a second platform, your raid progress won't be saved, as there are no saves or checkpoints mid-raid.
  • Cloud Save feature now added to the game.
  • An option to DELETE CLOUD SAVES is now available in the settings. Please use this function with caution, as it will permanently delete all your save files, as indicated by its title.

[h2]Faction Relations & New Questline[/h2]
  • You can now join the Green Army or the Crimson Corporation once you grow your reputation among the factions.
  • Completing main quests and daily quests will increase the reputation with that faction.
  • Daily quests given by the Networker NPC are now separated based on the different factions.
  • Added new quests and tweaks to existing quest.
  • Items sold by the trader of a faction now require a minimum amount of reputation with that faction to be bought.
  • Members of either the Green Army or Crimson Corporation will have access to exclusive quests as part of the chosen faction.
  • Each faction will have their own daily quest, including Loner and Scientist factions.
  • You will lose reputation with a faction in two ways:
    - When you shoot the first bullet to an NPC of a faction
    - When you actually kills an NPC
  • The game will now pause automatically when the window loses focus.

[h2]Performance Improvement[/h2]
  • Improved loading times in game.
  • Multiple memory leaks sealed up.
  • Total memory usage significantly reduced.
  • Fixed an issue where weapons flickered upon loading.
  • Fixed an issue where the main menu could be interacted with during the boot screen.
  • Fixed a bug where the "EC74 Iron Sight" attachment would disappear after being removed from some weapons.
  • Fixed an issue where the "Suppressor 9x19" was not compatible with the BB 19 Moose 9x19 weapon.
  • Fixed a crash that would occur when accessing the crafting station while the scope was active and an attempt was made to remove it.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur when the space bar was spammed in the loading screen menu during numerous map runs.
  • Fixed an issue causing FPS drop when passing through gas on Low-Spec Machine.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur after hitting the Go button to the Industrial Area in the Travel Menu.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur while attempting to divide a stack in inventory.
  • Fixed an issue where the teleport menu would become non-functional for several seconds after being spammed.
  • Fixed a problem with hit registration that could sometimes become corrupted while attempting to shoot against enemies.
  • Fixed an issue causing corrupted behavior when the game window was being dragged using a laptop trackpad.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur after placing a scrap weapon/material in the weapon slot and attempting to travel on any map.
  • Fixed a bug where creating a new save using “Equipment 5” wouldn't give 0 Roubles.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur after pressing "O" in the Bunker.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur while standing in a high radiation level zone on the Makeshift Camp.
  • Fixed an issue where only one Extraction Point was sometimes present on the Industrial Area Map.
  • Fixed an issue where a "Task" menu placeholder was present on multiple NPCs when being interacted with.
  • Fixed a bug where in-game days were not progressing after time passed 00:00.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur when pressing the "Skip" button in the "Survived" screen after being extracted.
  • Fixed an issue where traders' inventories did not refresh after 7:30AM.
  • Fixed an issue causing random FPS drop in the Bunker.
  • Fixed a problem with corrupted map generation near the Motel on the Makeshift Camp.
  • Fixed a crash that could occur after closing Debug while the Free Camera was active.


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Developer Update 2023 Vol.6 - All Aboard for Patch 0.31



Hello, Hunters!

It's time to hop on the train for another exciting update journey with the upcoming release of Patch 0.31 for ZERO Sievert. So grab your gear, and let's dive into the details of what's coming next Wednesday.

[h2]Faction Relations, Quests and Reputation - The Ticket to Success[/h2]

First stop - faction relations and quests. After completing initial tasks for the barman, you'll unlock quests for the Green Army and Crimson Corp. Then comes the pivotal decision: which track will you take? You boost your reputation with a specific faction by fulfilling the bids of that faction through either main or daily quests. This increased reputation unlocks new gears from the faction quartermaster and presents the opportunity to join their ranks, as rewards for your dedication. Conversely, firing at an NPC will tarnish your reputation with the faction that NPC belongs to, and killing one will cause even graver consequences. So, aim wisely! Check out the screenshot below - it's one of our dev's choices... No judgement, please!



Faction leaders serve as your main contact within each group. You'll already be familiar with the leaders of the two primary factions, Green and Red. For the Loners and Scientists, the barman and the doctor take the lead, respectively. However, the daily tasks come not directly from these leaders but from the Networker, an independent entity orchestrating the operations. Each faction provides a unique set of tasks, like the Scientists' distinct quests for collecting crystals or analysing anomalies.

Life in Zakov is always hanging by a thread, and your choices truly matter. Joining the Green Army grants access to formidable equipment, but at the cost of making a permanent enemy of the Crimson Corp. Remaining neutral allows you to unlock a variety of gear from both sides, but the highest-end items remain elusive. It's a delicate balance to strike - so choose your path wisely.

[h2]Performance Improvement[/h2]

We're also thrilled to share that we've implemented some significant memory usage improvements in Patch 0.31 for ZERO Sievert. We've sealed multiple memory leaks and significantly reduced total memory usage, enhancing game performance and stability. This progress is key to ensuring a seamless gaming experience for all our Hunters. We thank you for your feedback, which continues to drive our development efforts.

[h2]Save Wipe and Legacy Build[/h2]

As we've mentioned in our previous dev blogs, a save wipe is coming with the new patch. But don't fret – if you wish to continue your current journey, you can select the legacy build (0.30) from the Beta tab. Here are the detailed steps to do so:

  • Right Click on ZERO Sievert in your Steam library.
  • Choose "Properties".
  • Select "Betas" tab.
  • Choose "Legacy - Build 0.30" from the dropdown menu.
  • You game should auto update to previous version for you to continue your old save.

[h2]Catch Up with Luca[/h2]

Did you catch our recent 'Behind the Scenes' session? Our very own Luca took centre stage to reveal the new features in Patch 0.31. If you haven't seen it yet, it's well worth a watch. You'll hear directly from Luca as he illuminates the upcoming changes. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get the inside scoop directly from the development floor!

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

[h2]Preview Streaming[/h2]

If you're curious to see what's coming in patch 0.31, we invite you to join us on our Twitch channel on Monday the 17th at 4pm BST for an exclusive sneak peek of the new content. And remember, our dedicated Modern Wolf content creators are also preparing to share fresh and engaging content. So keep an eye out, you wouldn't want to miss their updates.

[h2]Your Feedback Matters[/h2]

And finally, Hunters, as always, we're eager to hear your feedback on this update. Your thoughts and experiences fuel our work, so don't hesitate to share them with us.

So there you have it - the road ahead for ZERO Sievert. Thanks for being on this journey with us, Hunters!

Onward and upward! We look forward to seeing you in Zakov!


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☀️ Summer Sale 10% OFF ☀️



The sun is scorching the ground on Zakov, remember to stay hydrated and a be sure to grab a cool 10% OFF ZERO Sievert this Steam Summer Sale.

ZERO Sievert is a tense top-down extraction shooter that challenges you to scavenge a procedurally-generated wasteland, loot gear, and explore what’s left of a devastated world. When the odds are stacked against you, you’ll need to do more than just survive...

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[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]


Developer Update 2023 Vol.5



Hello Hunters,

We trust you're battle-ready and have your bunker prepared for the exciting challenges ahead. As we lay the foundations for new features, we've encountered a minor setback, which has caused a slight delay to patch 0.31.

In light of this delay, we now anticipate the patch release in July. As a reminder, this patch will bring a save wipe. But don't worry, as mentioned in our previous devblog, Hunters keen to continue their current journey through Zakov can do so on a Beta branch we'll set up.

We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate this bump. Our aim is always to provide you with the best gaming experience and ensure each new patch arrives in the strongest possible state.



We also want to thank you all for all the poems submitted for the 'Poems of Zakov' competition, it's been great to see your creativity flourish in the unforgiving wasteland. We have selected our top five poems and it's now your turn to vote for the winner! Vote now in discord for your winners.

Head out and explore the wastelands,
Remember to share your tales,
For new adventures are on the horizon,
Including the steam Summer Sale!

We look forward to sharing more soon, - and as always, stay safe in the wastelands!

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Developer Update 2023 Vol.4 & Roadmap Update

In the heart of Zakov, where Hunters brave the fray,
Echoes of resilience, in the ruins' array.
An invitation calls, a tale yet to convey,
Join us in our Discord event, right this way.


For those unaware, we are hosting a 'Poems of Zakov' competition on our Discord server, with a chance to have your poem featured in the game!


Hunters,

Welcome to our latest dev blog. A month has slipped by since we released patch 0.30, and we trust you've been making the most of it in the harsh, unforgiving wastes of Zakov. Rest assured, we've been far from idle, working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you more exciting experiences.

Recently, we all had a fantastic time at our company's quarterly meeting in London. The laughs, the brainstorming, the lively discussions – we enjoyed every moment. Sharing such camaraderie, we are more inspired than ever to deliver the best for ZERO Sievert.



Let's now turn to the crux of this blog post. Our energy and dedication are currently channelled towards introducing fresh quests, refining existing ones, and ushering in the long-awaited faction relations feature in the forthcoming patch 0.31. These enhancements are pivotal, but there's more. We're also carving out the foundation for something phenomenal, a feature that we can't reveal just yet, but can assure you that it's going to be worth the wait.

However, to make this leap, to truly elevate the world of Zakov, we need to carry out a save wipe in the next update. We understand that a save wipe might seem a bit unsettling, but it's a necessary step and a step forward for ZERO Sievert to grow and evolve. We appreciate your understanding as we make these necessary adjustments.
*For those of you who want to keep your current progress, we will provide an option to stay on a beta branch for the old build.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, but we firmly believe that these updates will make your journey in Zakov even more thrilling. We are excited for you to experience these new features and enhancements.

The patch 0.31 is expected to drop at the end of June or early July. We will share more details on the patch in our next dev blog in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we are thrilled to present the latest update to ZERO Sievert roadmap.

To all you brave hunters in Zakov,
Your patience and dedication, we do laud.
As for the future, keep your eyes on the track,
Exciting times are coming, that's our pact.


Stay tuned, Hunters, and as always, stay safe in the wastelands!


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