1. AGRONOM
  2. News

AGRONOM News

Woman's Day Sale Festival: Updated Steam page and Playtests!

Hey friends, we have some fantastic news! We’re excited to be participating in the amazing Women's Day Sale festival, and we've prepared some cool updates to celebrate the occasion.

First of all, happy upcoming International Women's Day! This holiday symbolizes equality, respect, and appreciation for everyone, regardless of any social, political, territorial, or biological differences. Our diverse team is a living example of how beautifully and effectively people of various genders, nationalities, religions, orientations, and worldviews can collaborate. Believe us — we truly know how important it is to live in harmony and celebrate each other's successes!

Game development hasn’t been a “boys-only” club for a long time now. We're incredibly proud that our team includes many talented women! Programmers, 3D artists, managers, and co-founders — our amazing colleagues fill a variety of roles. Let's send them our love, support, and tons of heart emojis! 💖✨

[h2]What's New on the Page?[/h2]
We've updated the screenshots, game description, and cover art, so make sure to check them out! Over the past few months, we've been working hard and are proud to finally share our latest results:
  • A brand-new location map — bigger and more immersive;
  • Fully redesigned buildings and game objects — we've revamped all the game's 3D assets to better reflect the storyline and atmosphere;
  • 4 new types of helper robots — useful and adorable, each with unique personalities and capabilities;
  • A peek into the storyline and setting — on our game page, we've introduced the player's character, Rusty the Robot, his mentor Gramps Makar, and their charming mission to colonize their own cozy little corner of Mars.
The game will appeal not only to fans of deep automation gameplay (hello, fans of Satisfactory and Factorio!), but also to those who cherish cozy atmospheres and engaging storytelling.

[h2]Playtest Registration is Now Open[/h2]
Our game is made for you first and foremost, dear players! It’s important for us that your experience is comfortable, enjoyable, and heartwarming. That’s why we’ve opened registration for playtests! A closed alpha version will be available soon, allowing you to be among the first to play and share your feedback with us. We genuinely look forward to hearing your impressions and discussing your thoughts!

[h2]Coming very soon 😏[/h2]
We're actively working on a brand-new game trailer! We promise — it will be something truly special. Follow our news so you don't miss this exciting and beautiful announcement!

Add the game to your wishlist now, so you don't miss out on future events — there's so much more to come! 🌟

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893250/AGRONOM/

With love,
The AGRONOM Team 🧡

Devlog #6: Automation and Robot animations

Greetings, Martian Farmers! 🌱🚀

Another brilliant month in AGRONOM’s development has passed, and we’re excited to share the highlights of our achievements! We continue to create unique automation mechanics with our robots, refine our 3D models and animations, and prepare something truly special just for you.

Visuals

[h2]Concepts of New and Updated Buildings[/h2]

[h3]Geoscanner[/h3]
Equipment designed to create a detailed 3D map of ore deposits and underground structures on a small plot. Imagine how technology can unlock the secrets of Mars!

[h3]Incubator[/h3]
A familiar structure in an entirely new form. The old Incubator used to spin and tower with multiple floors, which made it hard for helper robots to reach the upper levels. Now it’s styled to perfection and intuitively designed — get ready for a new era of incubation!

[h3]Biogenerator[/h3]
This machine will boost your energy production for automation. Feed it weeds or coal, and you’ll receive pure energy with a scientific twist!

[h3]Sulfur Powergenerator[/h3]
A device that extracts uncompromised energy from sulfur and its derivatives. Set it up outdoors, configure the production chain – and watch as the robots collect and process sulfur to power your Martian home.

[h2]3D Models and Animations[/h2]
[h3]Robot Animations[/h3]
This month, we focused on robot animations – particularly for the assistant robot. We’re excited to show you two of them. The first one demonstrates a smooth shutdown when the robot is deactivated, while the second features a combined movement: a step enhanced by dynamic motion on wheels.



[h3]Robot Movement[/h3]
We are currently working on two movement modes for the assistant robot, the builder and the worker! The loader robot is heavier and more swivelling, so its locomotion will be different from its brethren. One mode of locomotion is already shown above - combining the power of legs and the advantages of wheels to move confidently across the varied Martian landscape.

The second mode, designed for indoor environments like greenhouses and other structures, will allow robots to move smoothly and rapidly on flat, artificial surfaces using wheels only. To achieve these movement types, we use IK (Inverse Kinematics) technology — it automatically adjusts the positioning of the legs to match the terrain. Thanks to this, each step is perfectly calibrated, whether it’s a small hill, a stone, a pit, or an inclined surface. We’re confident our robots will move much faster than Curiosity Rover!


[h3]Assistant Robot[/h3]
Take a look at the high-detail view of our assistant robot. We’ve fine-tuned even more details and refined its mechanisms to ensure it’s not only charming but also technically flawless.


[h3]HUB[/h3]
The HUB is the heart of automation and one of the most prominent objects in the game. We’re currently perfecting its model because, with the HUB, you’ll be able to monitor your robots and their tasks via a mini-map, as well as customize automation for various objects in your play area.



Environment

We tested the map within our team and improved the landscape of Uncle Makar’s plot. For example, a new hill was added to improve orientation in space. We also developed a prototype fence, a relic from previous owners, that defines the boundaries of your play area — so you never get lost or take a tumble. And who knows?
We are also now designing other objects of the previous attempt to colonise this site. Perhaps Uncle Makar will let you dismantle a few if you behave yourself.



Gameplay

This month, we paid special attention to automating plant cultivation. Our robots now take better care of plants, harvest more efficiently, and correctly prioritize greenhouse tasks while not neglecting other duties. Everything is set up to create the ideal production chain for your Martian farm. We’re also continuing to integrate and fine-tune new and updated 3D models into the game, along with refining robot and building animations. All models are in place! Check out a few screenshots:



What’s Next? 😏

Very soon, we’ll share details about an important Festival that we’re incredibly proud and excited to participate in! We're preparing a brand-new trailer for you that's going to be an absolute bomb, and the imminent news with the announcement of our participation in the Festival will give great news for fans of the genre!


For more details, join our Discord server.
And don’t forget to wishlist AGRONOM — your support is priceless to us:
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893250/AGRONOM/

With love,
The AGRONOM Team 🧡

Devlog #5: Holidays, Work, Holidays, Work

Greetings, Martian farmers! 🌱🚀


Happy New Year and belated Merry Christmas to all our readers! 🎄✨ This month marks a small milestone for us: welcome to the fifth devlog for AGRONOM! Thank you for being part of this journey. We hope you had a joyful and restful holiday season — we certainly did. But don’t worry, we didn’t slack off too much. Between celebrating and reflecting, we had time to get a lot done. Stick around to see what’s new!

Visuals


[h3]Concepts of new buildings[/h3]
[h3]Robot Assembler[/h3]
A specialized machine designed to assemble helper robots for automating your farm. Below are three visuals: an initial concept by our art lead, design details outlining interactivity and animations, and progress on the 3D model.


[h3]Robot Charging Station[/h3]
This structure will serve as a recharging hub for robots. Imagine robotic vacuum cleaners heading back to their docks to recharge — except on Mars! Robots need more than just quick energy breaks — they also deserve a little recharge through five-minute dance sessions! And don’t forget to interact with them and give them a pat behind the ears. You wouldn’t want to lose that special connection, would you? Robots will automatically make their way here when their energy runs low.


[h3]Universal Compartment[/h3]
A hub for players where most crafting machines can be installed. It’s a safe haven from Martian storms and a perfect space to strategize your next greenhouse setup. Check out the external and internal concepts!


[h3]Arboretum[/h3]
Designed for larger plants like trees, this new building lets you grow and nurture Martian flora without worrying about flooding the floors. (We’re serious — no flooding here!)


[h3]Working on 3D models and updating the designs of familiar buildings[/h3]
[h3]Rusty the Robot[/h3]
In the last devlog, we showcased Rusty’s new concept art. Now we’re excited to reveal its 3D visualization!



[h3]Updated HUB Concept[/h3]
The HUB (Household Utility Base) is a crucial structure in AGRONOM, serving as the command center for helper robots and defining the boundaries of their operations. The new HUB design is taller, covering much larger areas than before.


[h3]Electric Pole[/h3]
Its design remains consistent with the previous version, featuring a birch-like trunk inspired by Uncle Makar’s memories of Earth. We’ve added variations for the top section, allowing for upgrades and expanded device connectivity.


[h3]Greenhouse Interior[/h3]
Here’s a sneak peek at the ongoing work on the greenhouse interior! The design team is collaborating with 3D artists to define lighting sources and identify interactive elements. It’s all coming together beautifully, wouldn’t you agree?



[h3]Wind Generator[/h3]
This concept has undergone further refinements since its last iteration. The updated design is more recognizable and fits seamlessly within AGRONOM’s aesthetic.



[h3]Solar Panel[/h3]
Sunflowers were something Uncle Makar knew well. He used to sit on the bench in front of the house and chew seeds, enjoying the simple pleasure of the moment. Take a look at our 3D workup on this model.



Environment


We’ve been hard at work bringing life (and rocks) to the surface of Mars! This month, we integrated ore deposits into the new map. These deposits don’t just look good — they’re inspired by real photos from the Curiosity rover, ensuring they feel natural and believable.

On top of that, we’ve begun testing and balancing the map with our updated buildings. Our focus? Ensuring there’s plenty of room for smooth and stress-free base building. After all, a Martian colony should be as efficient as it is enjoyable to construct — so you can focus on building your dream Martian base without stress!



Gameplay

Our programming team has been busy this month with updates and fixes to improve your gameplay experience. Here are the highlights:
  • We introduced a new quest: “Automation Training,” which unlocks after completing “Mars, Farm, and Robots” This quest will teach you the basics of setting up automated workflows, a crucial skill for running an efficient Martian base.
  • Specialized Robots are here! Each robot, except for assistants, now sticks to its primary task, making your automation workflow more streamlined and predictable.
  • We’ve doubled the build radius of the HUB, giving you more freedom to expand your colony.
  • Conducted experiments to improve user experience with automation and customisation of our robotic pipelines.
  • Large structures like compartments and greenhouses now have temporary lighting to make your base feel alive even in its early stages.
Narrative

This month, we focused heavily on testing new quests and models, ensuring they integrate smoothly into the overall experience. We’ve also been fine-tuning the balance of automation systems and farming mechanics on the new map. Our universal compartment saw a major update — it’s now a central hub for all crafting machines, creating a cohesive and functional workflow for you.

On the audio side, we began working with sound engineers to define the game’s auditory identity. From mechanical whirs to the soothing hum of greenhouses, every sound will contribute to the immersive Martian farming experience. We’re compiling references and creating a detailed list for our first round of sound integration.

[h2]Coming Soon 😏[/h2]
Here’s what’s next for AGRONOM:
  • We are continuing to optimize the most complex algorithmic aspect of the game — the automation of robots and how HUBs distribute tasks. Our goal is to ensure the gameplay remains intuitive and comfortable for you. Robots should assist with every task because, let’s face it, managing Mars solo is a bit much!
  • Wrapping up the development and integration of new models: from buildings to robots with animations.
  • Creating sounds and music. Special mention goes to their integration into the game, where we’re implementing procedural sound adaptation technologies to enhance the experience.
  • Conducting testing and balance optimization. Feedback constantly reveals new opportunities for improvement, pushing us to refine quests and rewards, building schemes, resource creation, and more.

That’s all for this month’s devlog! We’re thrilled to keep sharing our progress with you. Your feedback, suggestions, and support mean everything to us. Let us know what you think about these updates — drop a comment below or join the discussion on our Discord. Until next time, keep farming those Martian dreams! 🚜✨ And remember, even Mars can feel like home with the right crops!

And don’t forget to wishlist AGRONOM if you haven’t already:

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893250/AGRONOM/

With love,
The AGRONOM Team 🧡

Devlog #4: Rusty, Quests, and Drones

Greetings, Martian farmers! 🌱🚀

Welcome to the fourth chapter of our devlog series! This month, we’ve focused on refining systems, expanding gameplay features, and adding exciting new tools to your future Martian colony. While AGRONOM is still in development, we’re thrilled to share a glimpse of the improvements we’ve been working on.

Your continued support through wishlisting and feedback means the world to us! 🧡

[h2]Visuals[/h2]
We’re continuing to push the boundaries of visual design and are thrilled to share this month’s updates with you! Our team has been refining models introduced earlier and creating exciting new concepts and 3D models.

[h3]Rusty’s Updated Concept[/h3]
Meet the robot farmer you’ll play as in AGRONOM! Rusty now has legs instead of wheels, plus more functional arms and body. Rusty's model is already in production, so we're excited to share a render of the main character soon too! What do you think of the new design?



[h3]Robot Models and Animations[/h3]
We’re excited to reveal the 3D renders of our assistant and loader robots, as well as their first animations. The assistant demonstrates its manipulator extension, while the loader showcases the folding and unfolding of its crane. These models are still in progress, with more details coming in future iterations.



[h3]Cargo Platform and Drone[/h3]
We teased its concept in the previous devlog, and now we’re ready to share the 3D model. The platform evolves through four stages, starting with a basic platform and expanding with up to three compartments for larger shipments. Check out the GIF and renders. You can see the texture map behind the model renders, more on that below.



[h3]Resource Packages[/h3]
These serve as the physical representations of all dense and liquid materials in the game. From water and ores to ready-made meals, they’re how resources are transported in AGRONOM. Below, you’ll see a concept that highlights the differences between containers for solid and liquid materials. The final reference has evolved, along with the 3D model. Take a look at both the concept and the final render!



[h3]New Garden Bed[/h3]
A new garden bed design is ready for its greenhouse! With enhanced dimensions and an updated look, it’s perfect for growing your Martian crops.



[h3]Dirty Details[/h3]
To create an authentic Martian sand dust mud, we studied a lot of photos and videos from the Curiosity rover, watching how dirty it gets. And then we worked out a pattern by which we add sand to all the buildings and robots. Look at the dirty robot and the comparison of a clean and dusty furnance!



[h3]Optimized Textures[/h3]
To ensure smooth performance, we use temporary color codes to simplify texturing processes before applying the final textures.



[h3]Solar Panel Concept[/h3]
While not drastically different from earlier designs, the updated concept fits better with AGRONOM’s overall style and setting.



[h3]Environment[/h3]
In addition to modeling detailed areas like the iconic archway, we’re optimizing the map for high-quality textures and smooth performance. So that as many of you as possible can play our game and with maximum high quality textures.



[h2]Gameplay[/h2]

[h3]Crafting and Automation[/h3]
Last month, we made significant updates to the mechanics of automation, and this month we focused on improving the player experience through thorough testing. While testing, we identified collisions between robot workflows and crafting machines. To address this, we updated the crafting machine logic to allow robots to seamlessly execute long-term plans. However, we also noticed that robots sometimes interfered with manual crafting. To resolve this, crafting machines now work more intuitively:

  • Recipes are added to the plan only when required for automation.
  • Machines in manual use temporarily ignore robot interactions, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay.

[h3]Quest System Enhancements[/h3]
The quest system, first introduced in our technical demo, is growing into a richer experience. We’ve added an introductory quest chain designed to guide you through the basics of Martian farming. New mechanics like quest markers make it easier to track objectives without getting lost.

Standard disclaimer about game screenshots: Screens are not a representation of the final result. The map, 3D models, quests, and interface may change during development 💅



[h3]New Resource: Concrete[/h3]
Say hello to Concrete, your new go-to resource for advanced construction and upgrades. Unlockable through the "Learning Electricity" quest, Concrete adds a fresh dimension to your colony-building strategies.

[h3]Energy Network Simplification[/h3]
Energy management has been streamlined — no more “charging mode”! Your power networks now operate continuously as long as a generator or battery is connected, ensuring smoother gameplay.



[h2]Story[/h2]
Our narrative design has reached new heights this month, expanding the world of AGRONOM with interconnected stories and engaging characters.

You’ll begin your journey by landing on Mars and constructing a Cargo Platform, your lifeline to Uncle Makar — your creator, who remains in Mars’ orbit — and a host of other characters, including your neighbors on the Martian homestead.

We’ve crafted quests that are not just side activities but integral to the game’s heart. Parallel quest lines let you interact with characters and get to know them better. Forming a Martian farming community allows you to get unique schemes that only certain characters can share. The story embodies the cooperative spirit of rural life, where neighbors help one another, solve problems together, and celebrate shared successes.

Take a look at our quest relationship map, which shows how quests interconnect, creating a dynamic and evolving narrative experience.



[h2]Coming Soon 😏[/h2]
Here’s what’s next for AGRONOM:

  • Creating animations for robots, including actions, idle states, and interactions.
  • Designing concepts for remaining structures, detailing robots, buildings, and greenhouses, and developing compartments and interior finishes for greenhouses.
  • Integrating and fine-tuning most of the updated and new models on the new map.
  • Starting work on sound effects and music with a professional studio, with plans to integrate the first part next month!


We’d love to hear from you! Tell us what you think about the new updates and features. Drop your thoughts in the comments or join us on Discord. Your feedback helps shape AGRONOM into the best game it can be! 😊

Stay resourceful, stay inventive, and keep dreaming of Mars! 🚜✨

Wishlist now!
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893250/AGRONOM/

With love,
The AGRONOM Team 🧡

Devlog #3: Automation Kicks Into Gear!

Greetings, Martian farmers! 🌱🚀

Welcome back to the third chapter of our devlog series! We've been powering through a ton of exciting updates this month, getting deeper into automation, refining visuals, and even setting up a storm for Mars. From updated landscapes to expanding character stories, there's a lot to unpack. And as always, your support by wishlisting AGRONOM keeps our engines running! 🧡

[h2]Visuals[/h2]
Our art team has been busy crafting essential models for the game, giving Mars its industrial charm and farming capabilities. We’re tackling everything from production stations (like a furnace and cooking station with their industrial upgrades) to resource processors, including a seed extractor and composter.

This month, we focused on the initial blockouts, giving these structures a strong visual foundation. We also experimented with concepts for the interiors of greenhouses and the layout of a cargo platform, setting the stage for more functional and visually cohesive environments. Each model is crafted to feel right at home on Mars, yet designed to maximize efficiency.

And as a special behind-the-scenes treat, we’re including a render of one of our models straight out of Maya! Let us know what you think in the comments or on our Discord.



[h2]Gameplay[/h2]
New Map, New Opportunities
Our team made a major move this month — we migrated to a brand-new map! We’re talking expanded terrain, fresh resource nodes, and optimized paths to ease navigation across rugged Martian landscapes. This new map layout opens up exciting possibilities for exploration and automation, and we can’t wait for you to experience its secrets. Here’s a sneak peek:



Enhanced Automation
In the spirit of bringing Martian farming to life, we’re improving the automation system to let you control your bots with even more precision. We prepared a time-lapse showing how your bots will farm, gather, and produce resources, turning raw Martian soil into productive farmland. From gathering to delivery, automation is becoming more dynamic, offering more flexibility and control for the perfect Martian setup.



[h2]Environment[/h2]
Our level designer focused on creating one of the game’s most crucial visual effects — Martian sandstorms. You’ll need to stay alert and protect your assets, especially your greenhouses and robotic companions, when the storm hits. Mars might be harsh, but we’re making sure it’s worth the struggle! They’re a dynamic force, bringing an immersive challenge that impacts visibility, equipment functionality, and your ability to safely navigate.
  • Sandstorms can damage most surface structures. Robots must repair damaged buildings to keep them functional.
  • The Solar Generator shuts down, but the Wind Generator's efficiency increases.
  • Cargo Platforms are temporarily offline, and any resources left outside are lost to the winds.
Get ready to navigate these challenges and see how storms add an extra layer of strategy to your Martian operations.



[h2]Story[/h2]
Our narrative team has been hard at work expanding the quest system and dove into the backstory of minor characters. From tutorial quests to storyline missions, you’ll assist friends, colleagues, and family of Uncle Makar. Players can ship resources via Cargo Platform to distant outposts on Mars, orbit, or beyond! In return, you’ll receive new blueprints, licenses, items, and currency to use in the Martian marketplace. Uncle Makar’s network is ready to make your efforts worthwhile.



Coming Soon 😏

Here's what we’re gearing up for:
  • Finalizing the new landscape as the main level, incorporating smoother paths and expanded build zones.
  • Integrating the new greenhouse structure, updated robot models with movement animations, and enhanced building models.
  • Implementing our first quest system iteration to bring Uncle Makar’s extended network of friends into the fold.
As always, we LOVE hearing from you! Tell us what you think about the new constructions, share your thoughts on Discord, or drop a comment below. Your feedback really makes a difference and could even influence the final game! 😊

Stay cozy, stay curious on Mars! 🚜✨

To support us, please Wishlist a piece of our hearts!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2893250/AGRONOM/
With love,
The AGRONOM team 🧡