Nested Lands News

[p]Hello, Survivors![/p][p]
As we open the gates into Norovellir for the Nested Lands demo, we’re thrilled to finally show you the results of our hard work, thorough community feedback, and relentless iteration.[/p][p][/p][p]This demo isn’t just a slice of the game — it’s a reflection of everything we learned during the Alpha. From smarter villagers and rebalanced combat to new professions and a proper home for your character, the world of Norovellir has grown darker, richer, and more alive.
[/p][p]Let’s take a closer look at what’s changed and what’s waiting for you in this plague-ridden world.[/p][h3]Visual Overhaul
[/h3][p]Our villagers have gotten a serious glow-up: new body models, animations, and updated clothing. We’re also introducing optional nudity to support the raw, grounded atmosphere of the game. This visual update makes NPCs feel more detailed, human, and immersive.[/p][p]We’ve also reworked major environmental elements:[/p]

• [p]Ruined buildings and rock formations now feel more organic and weathered.[/p]
• [p]Fire effects have been enhanced.[/p]
• [p]Mysterious, cryptic markings have appeared on some structures… any theories?[/p]

[p]
[/p][h3]Reworked Villagers [/h3][p]
[/p][p]Village life has received one of its biggest updates yet. Managing your people now feels more natural and responsive:[/p]

• [p]Villagers will automatically help to build new structures.[/p]
• [p]Their default job is now Labourer, meaning they’ll gather resources and pitch in as needed.[/p]
• [p]Social interactions are more dynamic: expect shared meals, chit-chats, and work collaboration.[/p]
• [p]Storage has been improved: shared chests and smarter item handling now provide a smoother task flow.[/p]
• [p]NPCs are more involved in the world; they can now trigger quests or events.[/p]

[p]
[/p][h3]Building Upgrades & Village Leveling[/h3][p]
[/p][p]We want your village to grow with you, so here’s what we’ve improved to do just that:[/p]

• [p]Every structure has three upgrade tiers: Basic, Advanced, and Complete, each with new visuals and unlockable features (like the repair anvil in the Blacksmith’s Shop).[/p]
• [p]The village now levels up based on your progress. For example, to reach Level 2, you have to build some key structures (like a Builder’s Hut, Carpenter, Blacksmith’s Shop, and four homes).[/p]
• [p]Higher village levels expand your building radius and introduce village stats like Protection, Warmth, Happiness, and more.[/p]
• [p]We’re also adding Player Homes, with a private bed and chest, because you deserve it.[/p]

[p]Decorative items are on the way, too: torches, warning signs, and other custom decorations to help bring some personality to your settlement.[/p][p]
[/p][h3]Crafting Improvements[/h3][p]
[/p][p]You asked, we delivered — crafting queues are now in the game.[/p]

• [p]Workbenches can now queue up multiple items, no more one-at-a-time crafting.[/p]
• [p]Every village building now has its own production queue, giving you total control.[/p]
• [p]This change streamlines village management, giving you more time to focus on exploration, building, and story.[/p]

[h3]Plague System Changes[/h3][p]The Plague is no longer just a random threat — it's now a living, evolving force that shapes the world around you. As it spreads, it introduces new challenges and rewards, with escalating consequences based on how you respond.[/p][p]The Plague has been updated with new visuals, mechanics, and evolving effects depending on which island you're on. Now it has three stages of development, each more threatening than the last. [/p][p][/p][p]
[/p][h3]Settings[/h3][p]We’ve added a range of highly requested customizable settings to improve your experience in Nested Lands. You can now remap key bindings, adjust mouse sensitivity to your liking, and toggle motion blur on or off for smoother or crisper visuals. These options aim to give you more control and make the game feel just right for your playstyle.
[/p][p]These updates are just a glimpse of how Nested Lands is evolving: deeper systems, smarter threats, and more ways to tailor the game to you. The demo now reflects a stronger foundation for what’s to come, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Your feedback helps shape the world of Norovellir, so jump in, explore, and let us know what you think.[/p][p]
[/p]

[p]Dear players,

We have fixed an issue that was preventing you from finalizing the Animal Trap quest. Also, we have added some fixes for the rain optimization - it shouldn't influence your FPS that much now.

Have a great weekend![/p]

[p]Dear survivors![/p][p][/p][p]A huge and awaited update for the demo has arrive! We’ve made tons of changes, improvements, and tweaks — all shaped by your feedback. Now it’s your turn to dive back in and let us know what you think!

Remember: your voice matters, and we always follow your requests, so feel free to quote on Discord and Steam.[/p][p][/p][p]Changes[/p][p][/p][p]Features:[/p]

• [p]Added naked villager models (yes, with genitals)[/p]
• [p]New NPCs footstep VFX[/p]
• [p]New VFX foot track ton for the NPCs[/p]
• [p]Added mouse sensitivity and motion blur options[/p]
• [p]Added a new heavy attack for the player [/p]
• [p]Added new voice-over and text messages on all random events and now your character speaks when interacting with dead animals for the first time;[/p]
• [p]Added new player character voice-over for day/night cycle, looting and Village Management;[/p]
• [p]Now your character consumes stamina on block and has better block detection based on attack direction.[/p]
• [p]Added torches for the NPCs[/p]
• [p]Added new items into the looting spots[/p]

[p] [/p][p]Fixes:[/p]

• [p]Localization updates[/p]
• [p]Various graphical changes and improvements[/p]
• [p]Tons of optimization and bugfixes[/p]
• [p]Updated the village management system[/p]
• [p]Various balance fixes with the Plague[/p]
• [p]Various balance fixes for the village[/p]
• [p]Changed Stone Spear damage from 130 to 80; Throwing Spear damage from 30 to 80;[/p]
• [p]Increased Plague Medicine find chance (50 to 90 in some loot places);[/p]
• [p]NPC graphics improvements[/p]
• [p]Removed some useless quests[/p]
• [p]Fixed the Plague spot interaction time so that a player could avoid catching a Plague for the first time[/p]
• [p]Changed rain and fog chances to appear[/p]
• [p]Various village immersion changes
  
  Overall, more than 150 fixes and changes were made and we will be happy to hear your thoughts about it.
  [/p]

[h2]
How can I share my feedback?[/h2][p]Join our Discord server for real-time support, updates, and more. You can leave your feedback there and seek help from the devs and fellow players.[/p][p]If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to tag our community manager @lutra_lutra for help.[/p][p]You can also post on the Steam Community Hub, where our team is actively monitoring feedback.[/p][p]After you test the game, we will ask you to complete a survey on your impressions and rate different aspects of the game. This feedback will help us improve Nested Lands and enhance your future gaming experience. You will find the link to the survey in the game menu. We will also remind you about it and post the link on our Discord and Steam accounts.[/p][h2]
A Demo Is a Work in Progress[/h2][p]The Nestled Lands Demo represents an early glimpse into the world we are building. While it's fully playable, please note that many features and systems are still under active development. For example:[/p]

• [p]Multiplayer is not available yet[/p]
• [p]Only a limited number of biomes can be explored[/p]
• [p]Some enemies are not included[/p]
• [p]Difficulty settings (easy, medium, hard, custom) are not implemented (the demo runs on a single preset difficulty)[/p]
• [p]The quest system is being actively expanded and refined[/p]
• [p]NPCs are undergoing some polish (facial animations, voice acting, etc.)[/p]
• [p]…more changes and refinements are in the works at this very moment![/p]

[p]This is just the beginning! As development continues, much more new content will be added, existing content polished, and gameplay depth enhanced. We appreciate your patience and feedback, and we are excited to share more with you in the future![/p][p][/p][h2]Thanks for Playing![/h2][p]Your support and feedback during the demo phase mean everything to us. Nestled Lands is being shaped by players just like you, actively improved with the community’s help. And we’re just getting started.[/p][p]Stay vigilant, – The Nested Lands Team[/p][p][/p]

[p]Welcome to the Nested Lands Demo, Survivors![/p][p][/p][p]Thank you for checking out the demo version of Nestled Lands! This page is here to help you get started, answer common questions, and provide guidance if you run into any issues during your playthrough.[/p][p][/p][h2]Frequently Asked Questions 
[/h2][h3]⏳ How long is the demo?[/h3][p]Depending on your playstyle, the demo offers at the very least 3 hours of gameplay. You’re welcome to play through it again and try different strategies!
[/p][p]The demo version will be available on Steam up until the very release of the game. Take your time and recommend the game to your friends!
[/p][h3]⚔️ What content is included in the demo?[/h3][p]The Nested Lands demo offers a slice of the full game, showcasing several core systems and mechanics. Here’s what you can expect:[/p][p][/p][p]Core Gameplay:[/p]

• [p]Explore one of the islands of Norovellir[/p]
• [p]Manage resources and inventory[/p]
• [p]Experience the reworked Plague system[/p]
• [p]Basic day-night cycle[/p]

[p]Combat & Survival:[/p]

• [p]Melee and ranged combat with bandits[/p]
• [p]Simple dodge/block mechanics[/p]
• [p]Needs and health systems[/p]
• [p]Basic stealth elements with stealth kills[/p]
• [p]Hunting and foraging for the respawnable resources[/p]
• [p]Plague system with two development levels [/p]

[p]Village Building & Management:[/p]

• [p]Build structures, production buildings, and houses[/p]
• [p]Improved village management system[/p]
• [p]Assign professions to villagers[/p]
• [p]Make your village run seamlessly[/p]
• [p]Grow and manage your village[/p]

[p]Narrative & Events:[/p]

• [p]Introductory quests and short story segments[/p]
• [p]Dialogue system with early NPCs[/p]

[p]Crafting & Progression:[/p]

• [p]Basic crafting (tools, weapons, healing items, and food)[/p]
• [p]Upgrading gear with materials found in the wild[/p]

[p]This is just the beginning — but even now, there’s a lot to uncover (and survive) in Norovellir.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]👅 What languages are supported in the demo?[/h3][p]Currently, Nested Lands is available in English, Russian, Chinese, and Portuguese. More language options will be considered based on community demand.
[/p][p]Localization is also still under development, so errors and inaccuracies may occur. We will fix them by the release.
[/p][h3]📹 Can I stream or create content from the demo?[/h3][p]Absolutely! We love seeing your villages and adventures. Please tag us with #NestedLands or post your videos and shots in Discord so we can see and share your content with the community.
[/p][h3]🐞 I found a bug! How can I report it?[/h3][p]As this is a demo version, you may encounter various glitches, bugs, and technical issues. These are entirely normal and expected during testing — after all, this is part of the process! 
[/p][p]We encourage you to push the game to its limits and explore all the features, as your feedback helps us to improve the experience. Please report issues in any of the following ways:[/p]

• [p]Press F1 in-game to send a bug report[/p]
• [p]On Steam Community Forums [/p]
• [p]On our Discord server in the #bug-report channel[/p]

[p]Please include:[/p]

• [p]A brief description of the issue[/p]
• [p]Your system specs[/p]
• [p]Steps to reproduce the bug (if possible)[/p]
• [p]A screenshot or video (if possible)[/p]

[h3]💬 How can I share my feedback?[/h3][p]Join our Discord server for real-time support, updates, and more. You can leave your feedback there and seek help from the devs and fellow players.[/p][p]If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to tag our community manager @lutra_lutra for help.[/p][p]You can also post on the Steam Community Hub, where our team is actively monitoring feedback.[/p][p]After you test the game, we will ask you to complete a survey on your impressions and rate different aspects of the game. This feedback will help us improve Nested Lands and enhance your future gaming experience. You will find the link to the survey in the game menu. We will also remind you about it and post the link on our Discord and Steam accounts.
[/p][h3]💾 Will my progress carry over to the full game?
[/h3][p]At this time, demo saves will not carry over to the final release due to differences in game structure and balance. We recommend using this opportunity to experiment and explore.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]What's New in the Demo[/h2][p]The Nestled Lands Demo includes a variety of exciting updates based on your feedback from the Alpha version. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s new:[/p]

• [p]Villagers are now more intelligent and efficient, with a new backup profession ("Worker") to keep them active. You can also set automatic production quotas for crafting professions, like the Carpenter.
  [/p]
• [p]Farming has also been expanded, allowing you to set specific crop production and use larger Garden Beds for bigger harvests.
  [/p]
• [p]Villagers now have new dialogue options. Additionally, AI improvements enable better pathfinding, allowing workers to collect resources around the village in order to keep them useful in the long term.
  [/p]
• [p]Say goodbye to the tattered old Traveler Tent! The new Player home provides a private bed for added comfort.
  [/p]
• [p]Combat has been rebalanced with a focus on weapon and armor effectiveness, making each battle more tactical and rewarding.
  [/p]
• [p]The plague has been updated with new visuals, mechanics, and evolving effects depending on which island you're on. It’s now more engaging and challenging.
  [/p]
• [p]The quest system has undergone major updates, offering more freedom in how objectives are completed. These changes align better with the new game mechanics and narrative direction.
  [/p]
• [p]A range of new customizable settings will be added, including:[/p]
  • [p]Key bindings[/p]
  • [p]Mouse sensitivity options[/p]
  • [p]Motion blur toggle[/p]

[p]

[/p][p]Additionally, villagers' names are clearer, and the multi-crafting queue lets you prepare multiple items at once, streamlining your production process.[/p][p]These updates are just the beginning — stay tuned for even more improvements as we continue to develop the game![/p][h2]A Demo Is a Work in Progress[/h2][p]The Nestled Lands Demo represents an early glimpse into the world we are building. While it's fully playable, please note that many features and systems are still under active development. For example:[/p]

• [p]Multiplayer is not available yet[/p]
• [p]Only a limited number of biomes can be explored[/p]
• [p]Some enemies are not included[/p]
• [p]Difficulty settings (easy, medium, hard, custom) are not implemented (the demo runs on a single preset difficulty)[/p]
• [p]The quest system is being actively expanded and refined[/p]
• [p]NPCs are undergoing some polish (facial animations, voice acting, etc.)[/p]
• [p]…more changes and refinements are in the works at this very moment![/p]

[p]This is just the beginning! As development continues, much more new content will be added, existing content polished, and gameplay depth enhanced. We appreciate your patience and feedback, and we are excited to share more with you in the future![/p][h2]Thanks for Playing![/h2][p]Your support and feedback during the demo phase mean everything to us. Nestled Lands is being shaped by players just like you, actively improved with the community’s help. And we’re just getting started.[/p][p]Stay vigilant,
– The Nested Lands Team[/p][p]
[/p]

[p]Hello, survivors![/p][p][/p][p]We are beyond excited to finally share the Nested Lands demo with you! Your alpha feedback was absolutely key in shaping this release, and now, it's packed with fresh content and some big improvements. Ready to survive the plague-ridden wilds of Norovellir?[/p][p][/p][p]The demo will also be actively supported with updates and features! So please, if you have any feedback, don’t hesitate to share it with us.[/p][p][/p][p]We are completely open about the development of Nested Lands and want to make the game better and more enjoyable for everyone.[/p][p][/p][p]A world of excitement is yet on the horizon! But for now, we sincerely hope you enjoy the demo. [/p][p]
[/p]