Ara: History Untold News

Have you ever wondered what it takes to ensure a vast game like Ara runs smoothly?

You're in for a behind-the-scenes treat as we dive into the latest episode of our Dev Diary series. This time, we’re covering the complex task of QA testing grand strategy games and sat down with QA Analyst Zai Jeffries to learn more about the world of playtesting.

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Zai gave us an exclusive look at the sheer scale of Ara and how testing is divided among the team. From sound design to ensuring citizens behave properly, there's a lot that goes into making sure each component runs smoothly.

We also learned external testing and player feedback are absolute game-changers in the development process. Zai emphasized how crucial it is to have fresh eyes on the game, pointing out issues and sharing their experiences. It's a critical part of what he calls the “golden path” of game development.



But it's not all serious business. Zai also shared some of the strange bugs he's encountered while playtesting. "Land Shark" is just one of the gems you won't want to miss! 🦈

If you're ready to take a journey through the world of QA testing in Ara: History Untold, head over to our YouTube channel, hit that subscribe button, and don't miss this inside look at the making of a grand strategy masterpiece!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2021880/Ara_History_Untold/

We've got some strategic wisdom fresh out of the oven!

In case you missed it, we dropped a hot new episode of our Dev Diary series earlier this week, and it's all about managing your cities and Nation in Ara! Our host, Steven Bell (you might know him as @Stakuyi), sat down with none other than Creative Director, Brian Wade, to learn more about the sprawling cities and Nations you’ll be leading through history.

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In the episode, Brian guides us through the intricacies of building cities and shares valuable tips on keeping your citizens happy and productive. But what’s a city without a few Improvements, right? We also get an exclusive look at some of the Improvements players can build to make each city feel unique in Ara's Living World.

Additionally, we learned about some of the available Leader traits for each Nation, which can have a significant impact on your playstyle. And we cover the difficult choice between building up your capital or expanding your Nation's influence as far as possible.



If you're ready to improve your city management skills, head over to our YouTube channel, subscribe, and watch the full Dev Diary. And don't forget to let us know what topics you'd like to see in future episodes!

Stay tuned for more exciting topics in the coming weeks!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2021880/Ara_History_Untold/

We've got some exciting news to share with you, and it's music to our ears – literally!

Last week, we dropped a fresh episode of our Dev Diary series, and this time, it's all about the mesmerizing Music and Sound Design of Ara: History Untold. Our host, Steven Bell, sat down with the Audio Director himself, Michael Curran, to take you on a journey through the audio wonderland that makes Ara’s Living World come alive!

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Michael shares with us how the magic of Ara’s audio mix is generated from the very fabric of the game world, including the Improvements, citizens, and animals. All of these elements are woven together to create a complete and immersive soundscape that makes you feel like you are stepping right into history.

But there's more! Ara's musical scores are a masterpiece in themselves. Each score is recorded in five layers, which automatically adjust to provide players with a unique mix based on their choices. It's an auditory experience tailored to your gameplay, and it's bound to leave you in awe.



To top it off, we've got a preview of Ara's soundtrack available right now on Spotify and other music streaming platforms. It's the perfect way to get a taste of the auditory masterpiece that awaits you in-game.

And as always, we want to know what gets your curiosity buzzing. What topics would you like us to tackle in future episodes? Head over to our YouTube channel, hit that subscribe button, and watch the full Dev Diary episode. Your support keeps us going, and together, we're shaping the soundscape of history – one note at a time!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2021880/Ara_History_Untold/

Hey there, history buffs and Ara enthusiasts!

Last week, we released a new episode of our Dev Diary series, focusing on Ara's intriguing progression system. In this episode, our host, Steven Bell (aka @Stakuyi), interviews Michael Califf, Ara's Lead Designer, about the game's three main Acts and the unique Eras that take players on a journey through human history.

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So, what's the scoop? Each Act in Ara: History Untold covers a substantial span of human history, and they come with their own set of technological Eras. Let's break it down:

🏛️ Act 1: From the Ancient Era to the Antiquities. Here, you'll be laying the foundation of your nation, setting the stage for the epic journey ahead.

⚔️ Act 2: Enter the Middle Ages through the Enlightenment. This act throws challenges your way in managing your citizens, making sure they're happy and thriving.

🏭 Act 3: The Industrial Revolution all the way to the future age. This act focuses on end-goal objectives for your Nation as you steer it towards a bright (or not so bright) future.



But that's not all – The full video on our YouTube channel is packed with tips and insights on Act Transitions, Prestige, and more!

Now, here's where you come in! We're all about making content that you want to see, so let us know what topics you'd like us to tackle in future episodes. Head over to our YouTube channel, hit that subscribe button, and watch the full Dev Diary episode. Your support keeps us going, and together, we'll shape the course of history – one era at a time! 🌍

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2021880/Ara_History_Untold/

Hey Ara: History Untold Fans!

The rumors are true! We're gearing up to host another Technical Alpha, with more details coming soon.

For now, here are the ways you can ensure that you're considered to participate:

1. Join the Insider Program if you haven't already! Insiders will receive news about our Technical Alpha before anyone else.
   
2. Complete your Insider Survey. This is important as only Insiders who have completed this can be considered to participate in the Technical Alpha.
   
3. Upload your updated DXDIAG information to your Insider Profile. For Insiders who have participated before, upload an updated one in case you've since made hardware changes (new videocard, anyone?) This information enables us to provide the best testing experience.
   

We're excited to share more soon! If you have any questions in the meantime, ask us on the Insider Forums!

-The Ara: History Untold Team

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2021880/Ara_History_Untold/