The Midnight Walkers News

Hello, Survivors!
We are ready to connect with you through various events and schedules this year. Check out the detailed information below!

[h3][Participation in Gamescom 2024][/h3]



The Midnight Walkers will be participating in the B2B Hall at Gamescom 2024. Since the B2B Hall is a space for industry business and media, it may be difficult for survivors to participate directly in this Gamescom. However, we will be working hard to ensure that you receive new updates about our game through industry experts and media. We appreciate all your support!

[h3][New Trailer Release][/h3]
The video below is a sneak peek of the new trailer

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Along with our participation in Gamescom, we will be unveiling a special new trailer for The Midnight Walkers. This trailer will include newly added content and will fully convey the depth and atmosphere of The Midnight Walkers to all survivors.
Be sure to check out the first look at the new trailer during Gamescom to get a preview of the current state of The Midnight Walkers' development.

[h3][Technical Test on August 21nd, PDT][/h3]

Click the image to join The Midnight Walkers Discord.

A closed technical test to optimize the game's stability and performance will begin on August 21nd (PDT). This test will be conducted with a limited number of testers and will rigorously examine the overall technical aspects of the game. The feedback collected during this test will be crucial for the improvement and development of the game.
Details on how to participate in the test will be provided through The Midnight Walkers' official Discord.

[h3][Steam Next Fest in October][/h3]



Finally, The Midnight Walkers will also be participating in the Steam Next Fest in October! During this event, you will be able to play the new content of The Midnight Walkers and interact directly with the development team on Discord.
Especially, a new class, the 'Bartender', will be introduced at the Liberty Grand Center during Steam Next Fest. Experience the new fun that the 'Bartender' brings, something you've never felt before.

Through these upcoming events, we aim to provide you with more information and deliver an even more exciting game. Please look forward to it :)

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2795540/The_Midnight_Walkers/

In this devlog, we will delve into the design process of the Walker and Runner zombies that appear in The Midnight Walkers, and explore the roles they play in the game.

Click on the image to enlarge!

[h2][The Beginning of the Zombie Virus][/h2]

As we entered the 2020s, humanity faced the challenges of overpopulation and food shortages.
To address this, the multinational corporation 'Mogenco' launched 'The Next Lyco' project to develop a genetically modified tomato that grows quickly and is resistant to pests. This tomato became a global sensation, seen as a savior in the face of food scarcity. However, five years later, it was discovered that this tomato was the cause of a deadly zombie virus that threatened humanity.
This virus ultimately brought humanity to the brink of extinction and led to the creation of the zombies in The Midnight Walkers.
There are rumors that the zombies appearing in Liberty Grand Center are actually people who once participated in The Midnight Walkers Show, but no one knows for sure.
Perhaps only those running the show know the truth.

[h2][Core Philosophy of Zombie Design][/h2]

The design of the Walker and Runner zombies goes beyond mere horror elements; they are designed to significantly impact gameplay and the strategic choices of survivors. Each zombie visually represents their background and the extent of their infection, allowing survivors to gauge their threat level just by encountering them.

[h2][Walker][/h2]

[h3]● Appearance & Design Elements:[/h3] Walker zombies are designed to move slowly. Their appearance visibly shows injuries and signs of infection on their arms and legs. These elements suggest that they were infected during an earlier stage of the outbreak.

[h3]● In-Game:[/h3] Walkers serve as minor obstacles that impede the progress of survivors. These zombies slowly approach survivors but can grab them within a certain range.
If a Walker zombie raises both hands to attack you, it’s highly recommended to dodge.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Here is a video of a Walker zombie performing a grab attack. If grabbed by a Walker, press [F] repeatedly to escape.

However, since Walkers move slowly, survivors have the option to either bypass them or take them out. Thus, Walkers require survivors to make important strategic decisions.

[h2][Runner][/h2]



[h3]● Appearance & Design Elements:[/h3] Runner zombies have a much leaner appearance compared to Walkers. The infection is more advanced, showing swollen skin and severe decay in certain areas of the body. Their slim build emphasizes that they are fast-moving zombies. Their aggressive stance immediately signals danger to survivors.

[h3]● In-Game:[/h3] Runners are aggressive disruptors that pose a significant threat to survivors. They quickly approach and attack survivors, making them difficult to shake off. In most cases, it’s challenging to ignore them, so survivors are advised to swiftly eliminate them. The presence of Runners keeps survivors on edge, requiring quick decisions and precise reactions.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Check out the speed of the Runner zombie in this video.

[h2][Detailed Design Process][/h2]

[h3]● Face & Skin Texture:[/h3] The face of each zombie is a key element in indicating their threat level, with each being carefully designed to match the characteristics of Walkers and Runners. Walkers have relatively less decayed faces, while Runners feature severely decayed skin and exposed muscles.

[h3]● Clothing & Accessories:[/h3] Walkers are dressed in everyday clothing, reflecting the appearance of ordinary citizens with items like belt pouches and sneakers. Runners, on the other hand, are designed with a more aggressive appearance, featuring minimal clothing that exposes their decayed bodies.

[h3]● Body Deformities & Blisters:[/h3] The zombies’ bodies show various deformities depending on the level of infection, with blisters and swellings effectively conveying their deteriorated state. These visual details powerfully express the long-lasting state of living death that these zombies endure.

[h2][Conclusion][/h2]

Each zombie has its own unique role and threat level, offering survivors a diverse and intense gameplay experience. In future development stages, we plan to delve deeper into how these zombies interact within the game and how they influence survivors’ choices. Stay tuned for the next devlog!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2795540/The_Midnight_Walkers/

Hello, survivors!
Today, we would like to introduce you to the Tank Zombie in The Midnight Walkers.
In this development log, we will delve into the design process and characteristics of the Tank Zombie.

[h2][Design Overview][/h2]
The Tank Zombie boasts formidable HP, unlike typical zombies.
These zombies possess immense strength due to their past involvement in athletic activities before infection.

[h2][Appearance Design][/h2]
The design of the Tank Zombie is very unique.
Please refer to the descriptions and images below.



[h3]Facial Scar Reference[/h3] The Tank Zombie’s face shows significant damage due to infection and abrasions, representing the severity of the infection and simultaneously displaying their pain and anger.

[h3]Exposed Infection Symptoms[/h3] Parts of the body show skin peeled away due to the virus, revealing blisters underneath.
These blisters visually demonstrate the advanced stages of the infection.
This will immediately instill fear in the survivors.



[h3]Skin Texture[/h3] The skin is lumpy and covered with scars, realistically depicting the decaying process caused by the infection. These details enhance the terror of the zombie.

[h3]Clothing[/h3] The Tank Zombie wears gym uniforms or workout clothes. This reflects their pre-infection life and tells the story of the zombie to the players.

[h3]Modeling[/h3] This zombie's modeling was created using high-resolution textures and meticulous modeling techniques. The muscle details, skin texture, and scars were enhanced by referencing the bodies of real athletes.



[h2][In-game][/h2]
The Tank Zombie poses a significant threat to survivors due to its powerful HP and strength.
Their main roles and characteristics are as follows:

[h3]High HP[/h3] The Tank Zombie has much more HP than other zombies, making it difficult to take down. This means survivors need to approach them more strategically.

[h3]Powerful Attack[/h3] They deliver slow but very powerful attacks that can cause significant damage in a single blow. They are especially threatening in close combat.

[h2][Dev Process][/h2]
Our development team conducted numerous tests to develop the Tank Zombie.
We meticulously adjusted not only the zombie's appearance but also its movements and behavior patterns.

[h3]Animation[/h3] The movements and attack animations were enhanced by referencing the movements of real athletes. Specifically, the zombie's slow and heavy gait and powerful attack motions were created using motion capture technology.

[h3]AI Patterns[/h3] The AI of the Tank Zombie reacts to the player's movements.
When the player is nearby, it relentlessly pursues them slowly and delivers powerful melee attacks when close.
Do not be complacent when the Tank Zombie is looking down.
When attacking a Tank Zombie that is looking down, it does not rise slowly and can deliver a fatal blow to the survivor with its well-trained body.

[h3]Testing[/h3] We have conducted various tests to balance the game and maximize the horror experience for survivors. We plan to continuously adjust and improve the zombie's attack power, HP, and behavior patterns based on your feedback, so please provide us with your valuable opinions.

Below is an animation video of the Tank Zombie under development.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

[h2][Future Plans][/h2]
Our development team is polishing not only the Tank Zombie but also various other zombies.
We plan to provide even more diverse experiences by reflecting the feedback from survivors.
Along with new mutant zombies, we will continuously improve the abilities and behavior patterns of existing zombies.

Thank you!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2795540/The_Midnight_Walkers/

[h2]Dev Log #1[/h2]

Welcome to the first dev log of "The Midnight Walkers." This time, we're introducing the Escape Pod Tracker.

Escape Pod Tracker Concept Art

This device is the only means to survive in Liberty Grand Center, allowing you to track escape pods. If you don't want to use an activated escape pod immediately, you can extract and store the escape code from the activated escape pod. Stored escape codes can be used to activate inactive escape pods.

[h2]Device Design and Functionality[/h2]
The Escape Pod Tracker features a retro design reminiscent of classic handheld gaming devices.

Escape Pod Tracker Modeling Image

Key features and design elements are as follows:

[h3][Visual Design][/h3]
This device has a compact, handheld design with a digital screen that displays crucial information. The unique antenna and tape-fixed battery case give it a rugged, makeshift feel, enhancing the game's apocalyptic atmosphere.

[h3][Display and Interface][/h3]
The use of tape and anchoring clips for securing components reflects the urgency and resourcefulness in an apocalyptic setting. The UI is simple yet functional, featuring a radar-style interface that easily visualizes nearby escape pods.

[h3][In-Game Functionality][/h3]
The main display shows the number of nearby escape pods and the distance based on your location. The circular meter darkens as you approach an escape pod. As mentioned earlier, you can extract and store the escape code from activated escape pods. These stored codes can then be used to activate other inactive escape points. This feature allows you to strategically use escape routes, enhancing your chances of survival during crises or when obtaining high-tier items.

[h3][References][/h3]
The design draws inspiration from classic handheld devices, merging nostalgic charm with modern gameplay mechanics. The layout and button configuration, inspired by the Game Boy, brings vintage appeal to the gameplay experience.

[h3][In-Game Video][/h3]
[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

As the development of "The Midnight Walkers" continues, the Escape Pod Tracker will undergo further testing and refinement. Our goal is to ensure that this device not only seamlessly integrates into our world but also provides intuitive and essential gameplay information, enhancing the overall player experience.

We will continue to share more updates and insights in future dev logs. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2795540

Hello, survivors!
This is Ray, the director of The Midnight Walkers.

It's been a while since I last greeted you. Our development team has been hard at work on the next milestone development right after the closed pre-alpha test ended on May 11.

While we have occasionally shared development updates, please understand that we couldn't disclose everything due to the sheer volume of content in development.

We are accelerating our development with the goal of the October Steam Next Fest, but we also want to quickly share an intermediate version with you and show you what we are focusing on.

Therefore, starting from August 22, we plan to release a mid-development version for about 2-3 days for you to play together. (The testing may proceed faster than scheduled depending on the development speed.)

The version we plan to test in August will be about 60% developed compared to the October Steam Next Fest version.

[h2]August Test Version (Technical Test):[/h2]

[h3][Newly improved zombies][/h3]
🔹Combat experience with zombies featuring updated animations

[h3][Trade System Prototype][/h3]
🔹Experience basic trading functions
🔹Check out the unique concept of the exchange prepared by The Midnight Walkers

[h3][Improved escape system][/h3]
🔹Extraction pod functionality applied
🔹Experience tracking extraction pods with the extraction pod receiver

[h3][Container system][/h3]
🔹Use containers to bring important items to your warehouse

[h3][Character appearance changes based on armor][/h3]
🔹Express different personalities based on the worn armor

[h3][Improved solo and duo/trio matching][/h3]

[h3][New maps (e.g., parking lot, lounge pub)][/h3]
🔹Experience a different atmosphere in the dark, damp parking lot and the luxurious lounge pub

[h3][Completely revamped farming experience and environment][/h3]
🔹Enjoy various themed loot boxes and fun farming experiences

[h3][New class: Bartender prototype][/h3]
🔹Play as the Bartender, which is about 60% developed

[h3][Other classes being revamped][/h3]
🔹Perks and skills of Assaulter and Trapper are being renewed, and Technician is renamed to Crow

[h3][New weapons][/h3]
🔹Molotov cocktails, daggers, monkey wrenches, etc., are added

[h3][Purpose of the Test][/h3]
🔹Field test to verify the changed server structure and many development items for a stable October Steam Next Fest test

We should be able to share detailed schedules with you again in July.
Our development team is working really hard to showcase our work as soon as possible.
We are focusing on delivering the best results and look forward to the day we can enjoy playing together with you.

Thank you.