AGRONOM News

[p][/p][h2]Start time[/h2][p]16:00 UTC (18:00 CEST • 12:00 ET • 9:00 PT • 00:00 China Standard Time — Oct 11 • 01:00 Japan Standard Time — Oct 11) At that moment we’ll grant access to everyone who requested the playtest here on the Steam page, and the build will appear in your library.

Trailer premiere: soon enough. We’ll add the trailer link to this article the moment it’s live; the video will be added to our Steam page a little later.

[/p][h2]What’s in this playtest[/h2]

• [p]Story content: ~4–5 hours of narrative gameplay, plus freeplay with orders and rebuilding your base. [/p]
• [p]Languages: all languages currently listed on our Steam page as supported. Translations are work-in-progress (non-final); the release version will be significantly higher quality.[/p]
• [p]Build size: ~4 GB.
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[h2]Before we start[/h2]

• [p]Request access on this Steam page if you haven’t yet — we’ll grant access to everyone at start time.[/p]
• [p]Add to Wishlist — it really helps![/p]
• [p]Optional: Join our Discord for updates and chat.
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[h2]What’s new since the last playtest[/h2][p]On October 10 we’ll also publish a dev update that:[/p]

• [p]summarizes what we’ve achieved since the previous playtest, [/p]
• [p]highlights key improvements and fixes, [/p]
• [p]includes the trailer link and a direct link to our feedback form
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[p]We carefully read every response from the previous playtest — they were detailed and super insightful. Many of your suggestions are already reflected in the current build. In short, your feedback directly shapes our priorities and next updates. [/p][p]
[/p][h2]Mini-FAQ[/h2][p]Q: How do I get access?
Click “Request Access” for the playtest on this Steam page. Everyone who requests will be granted access at start time.

Q: Can I stream or share footage?
Yes! We aren’t doing a special creator outreach this time — we want to test in a cozy, friendly group — but if you stream or post videos, we’ll be thrilled to see them.

Q: Where do I report bugs and suggestions?
Use the feedback form — it’s available in-game, in this start-of-playtest article, and in Discord. Feel free to share ideas and chat directly with the dev team there.

Q: Languages & input? UI: the same set listed on our Steam page (work-in-progress quality). Keyboard & mouse; controller support is WIP.[/p][p] [/p][h2]See you on October 10![/h2][p]Start: 16:00 UTC (18:00 CEST • 12:00 ET • 9:00 PT • 00:00 CST — Oct 11 • 01:00 JST — Oct 11) Trailer: we’ll add the trailer link in a separate dev update article at launch; the video will be added to our Steam page a little later.[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[p]
What a month! We released our very first Gameplay Trailer for AGRONOM—and we’re thrilled to finally show the game in motion. If you haven’t watched it yet, now’s the perfect time:[/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h2]New on Our YouTube Channel[/h2][p][/p][h3]Automate Your Farm — Episode 1[/h3][p]We’ve launched a new series, Automate Your Farm, where we demonstrate how robot helpers streamline your Martian routine in AGRONOM. Episode 1 is a top-down timelapse: watch your robots hustle like tiny ants—from the drill to the Universal Compartment, to the Greenhouse, and then to the Cargo Station—shipping resources to fulfill corporate orders. [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]AGRONOVA Product Spotlight — 3 new episodes[/h3][p]We also kicked off the AGRONOVA Product Spotlight series with three videos, including looks at the Robot Gardener, Robot Worker, and Robot Assistant. This is a series of videos produced by AgroNova Corporation. The world of AGRONOM is full of robots. And AgroNova Corporation is the one that supplies the production plans for most of the helper robots in the solar system. Watch their commercials for the AGR series of helper robots on our Youtube Channel. And don't forget to subscribe—new videos once a week or more often![/p][p]
[/p][p][/p][h3]Five Robots, Five Personalities[/h3][p]All five robot helpers now have unique colors and extra detail, making them easier to tell apart at a glance—and those colors reflect their roles and personalities. Want a closer look at the Worker and Assistant? Check out the Product Spotlight episodes bellow! [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]Glass Blocks, Eastern Vibes[/h3][p]Glass blocks are a signature of our Eastern European mood—architectural nostalgia meets off-world pragmatism. We treated them with extra care to nail the texture, light, and vibe. How do you like them, Martians? [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Solid Foundations[/h3][p]Outdoor buildings now get proper foundations. Steep Martian terrain used to leave some structures “floating”—no more. Things should sit just right from here on out.
[/p][p][/p][h3]Plant Overhaul: Experiments in Progress[/h3][p]We’ve begun a major pass on plants. The versions you saw in the trailer and playtests were among our earliest models—now we’re experimenting with look and feel. Here’s a peek at cucumbers and an apple tree. More natural, more cozy, more AGRONOM. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]A New Jump Animation[/h3][p]We made a jump! …and we’re keeping it under wraps for now. Soon™. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Playtest Build Work Continues[/h3][p]We’ve added new quests, tuned tasks, and wrote fresh lines for characters. The tutorial is now woven into quests and dialogue—teaching through play and cutting walls of text. [/p][p][/p][h3]Greenhouse & Environment Controls[/h3][p]You’ll find dedicated UI screens for the Environment Controller and status cards above each greenhouse niche, so it’s easy to see what’s growing and how it’s doing—at a glance. [/p][p][/p][h3]World & Polish[/h3][p]We’ve integrated a wave of art updates, fully switched to a 24-hour day type (actually, on Mars, it's a cycle of 24 hours, 39 minutes, and 35 seconds, hehe), and added a flashlight for night work. New quests have passed first internal tests; next up is full team testing. We also implemented proper quest turn-in logic in the journal, alongside many smaller fixes and niceties. [/p][p][/p][p]Next month we plan to wrap up Playtest prep, begin integrating our first updated UI, and refresh the game’s music. We’ll analyze your playtest feedback and adjust our roadmap. On the feature side: automation UX improvements, new animations for the (green and lovable) Robot Gardener, finishing the plant overhaul (trees included!), and continued environment work—like adding window VFX to finalize the Greenhouse interior. [/p][p][/p]

• [p]Watch the Gameplay Trailer and subscribe on YouTube (set reminders for new episodes!).[/p]
• [p]Request access to Playtests on our Steam page so you’re ready on day one. [/p]
• [p]Wishlist AGRONOM to support the project and help more players discover the game.[/p]

• [p]And join our Discord server to chat with devs and other Martian farmers.[/p]

[p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink]With love,[/p][p]The AGRONOM Team 🧡[/p]

[h2]Greetings, Martian Farmers! 🌱🚀[/h2][p]
Summer’s still in full swing, but the AGRONOM workshop hasn’t cooled down. We’ve been polishing visuals, tightening core systems, and—most exciting of all—getting ready to show you the game in motion.
[/p][h2]Big News[/h2][p][/p][h3]Our First Gameplay Trailer Premieres on Monday, August 25[/h3][p]It’s finally time! Hit “Set Reminder” on the premiere page so you can be among the very first to watch: YouTube Premiere. Your comments, likes, and subscribes help this trailer travel far—thank you for powering AGRONOM’s launch with your support! [/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]New Playtests: Date Revealed Alongside the Trailer[/h3][p]We know you’ve been waiting (so have we!). With the trailer, we’ll also announce the date for our next Playtests. We’ve spent the summer making meaningful changes across visuals and mechanics. Make sure you’ve requested Playtest access on our Steam page—so you’re ready the moment gates open. [/p][p][/p][h3][/h3][h3]Robot Gardener[/h3][p]You met the Robot Gardener in concept. Now meet the finished model—a calm, plant-loving, very green companion that sows, waters, and harvests with care. He’s here to make your fields thrive (and look adorable doing it).

[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Airlock Compartment Interior[/h3][p]Our artist team went all-in here: dense detail, crisp textures, and a look that nails our setting. Step inside and you’ll feel the world—utilitarian, lived-in, unmistakably AGRONOM. Feel the Eastern European vibe.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Cargo Station — Model Overhaul[/h3][p]During development, our idea of the Cargo Platform evolved into the Cargo Station—now, functionally, even a Terminal. With systems for city logistics, NPC trade, the in-game shop, and quest hooks, we finally shaped a complete vision both in mechanics and in form. Look closely—the details tell stories.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]
Robot Assembler[/h3][p]An essential building that brings new helpers to life. Without it, you’re basically farming with one hand tied behind your back—now lovingly reworked for clarity and style. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Arboretum (New building here!)[/h3][p]A dedicated structure for growing trees. It won’t be in the upcoming Playtests just yet—but we couldn’t resist sharing a peek.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Technical Gateway[/h3][p]A covert entrance into AgroNova’s corridors. The “back door” ties directly into quests and narrative threads. Where does it lead? That’s for you to uncover… [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]AgroNova Space Elevator Wreckage[/h3][p]Our location is gaining history and texture. You’ve seen the Space Elevator concepts before; now its shattered remains are taking shape in-game. They add mood, help you navigate the terrain, and whisper the backstory of this place. [/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Fence Upgrade[/h3][p]A sturdier, smarter fence now keeps Rusty from leaping off cliffs after a long day’s work. Safer base, fewer “whoops” moments. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]The new Statistics menu: your base at a glance[/h3][p]We built a clean, readable Stats menu so you always know what’s going on. Buildings now show their energy, integrity, activity, and distance to you. The map inside the menu has smooth zoom/pan, clear icons for the player, robots, and buildings, and even a HUB radius so you see which containers are truly connected. There’s a dedicated Resources tab that tracks items not only in containers, but also inside machines, drills, robots, and generators. Sorting and filters help you find what matters fast—and your preferences stick between refreshes.
[/p][h3]Robots that just “get it”[/h3][p]Automation is much smarter now. The Robot Gardener follows sensible priorities, and other won’t sprint across the entire map for no reason, and nearest tasks are chosen more intelligently. Repairs and dismantling show proper progress bars, and—big win—robot jobs survive saves and loads, so your plans keep rolling when you return. [/p][p][/p][h3]Cargo Station & Martian cities: shop, quests, logistics[/h3][p]Cargo Station screens are coming to life: there’s a proper shop panel with lots and a cart, purchases work, and city shops refresh every in-game hour. We’ve also introduced blueprint licenses, visible right in the UI, so you know exactly what you can unlock. This all connects to quests and deliveries through the station terminal. We also tuned drone pad positions and console interaction so the flow feels natural. [/p][p][/p][h3]In-game Encyclopedia: learn as you play[/h3][p]The old tutorial panel grew into a proper Encyclopedia. It’s searchable, uses tidy categories, supports rich formatting, and even lets pages link to each other. Entries unlock as you progress (new/unlocked/locked/hidden states), and we optimized it so browsing doesn’t cause FPS dips.[/p][p][/p][h3] Quality of life & small wins[/h3]

• [p]Stats map icons always appear on first open; selection highlights behave after reopen.[/p]
• [p]Localization for Building Mode UI got a big pass—clearer categories and labels.[/p]

• [p]Solar panels now actually track the sun; your character has a mapped flashlight.[/p]
• [p]A pesky main-menu crash was quashed while we refined related widgets.[/p]
• [p]Cinematic capture tools (utility levels + hi-res screenshots) help us record stable trailer footage without touching the game build.[/p]

[p][/p][h3]Shooting the Trailer[/h3][p]We had a blast recording new footage for the gameplay video. Can’t wait to hear your reactions when it premieres—see you in the comments on Monday![/p][p]Link to Premiere on YouTube again here! Turn on notifications! [/p][p][/p][p]More UI/UX work, second-round Playtest prep (including finalized Statistics and Map screens), finalizing Greenhouse interiors and Universal Compartment interiors, plus interfaces for the Shop and Quests. And, of course, your feedback will keep steering the ship. [/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]With love and gratitude,[/p][p]The AGRONOM Team 🧡[/p]

[h2]Greetings, Martian Farmers! 🌱🚀 [/h2][p]Summer is finally here—vacation season even reached our indie studio! Half of our team is already relaxing by the sea, enjoying some well-deserved rest, while the other half has retreated to their cozy dachas to level up their gardening skills (gotta keep that farming authentic, right?). Even developers need to learn how to grow potatoes and carrots to inspire our Martian agriculture![/p][p][/p][p]Yet, despite the slower summer pace, we remain incredibly excited about the upcoming second round of AGRONOM Playtests. Your fantastic feedback has already helped us a lot, and we can't wait to show you how your suggestions have transformed the game.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Cargo Station: Now Even More Important![/h3][p]We've finished the detailed 3D model of our Cargo Station, and it's already looking fantastic! Texture creation is ahead, as well as visual effects: dust, bolts and nuts and such. In AGRONOM, the Cargo Station isn't just decorative—it’s your first step towards building a thriving Martian base. You'll start by disassembling some of its damaged components, repurposing them to power your earliest buildings. How cool is that? [/p][p][/p][h3]Greenhouse Interior: Soviet Cozy Vibes[/h3][p]Interiors are finally coming to AGRONOM! Here's a glimpse into our Greenhouse’s current state. Inspired not just by Eastern European brutalism and monumentalism, but also by the warmth and comfort of Soviet-era homes, we're creating an authentic, cozy atmosphere that truly feels like home—even on Mars.

[/p][p][/p][h3]Universal Compartment: Comfort Without Plants[/h3][p]We're also detailing the Universal Compartment interiors, striving to bring the same cozy feel, just without the plants. Expect atmospheric lighting, thoughtful details, and a special vibe that blends nostalgia and futuristic function perfectly. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Technical Gateway: A Link to AgroNova’s Secrets[/h3][p]Last Devlog, we revealed concept art for the Technical Gateway. Now you can see it starting to come alive in 3D. This structure is crucial—it connects you directly to the deeper narrative, allowing you to uncover what AgroNova Corporation has been hiding. Intriguing, isn't it?[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Space Elevator Wreckage: History in the Landscape[/h3][p]Remember the concept art for the Space Elevator wreckage? We’ve begun integrating it into the game’s environment. These pieces will not only enhance the visuals and atmosphere but also guide you around the map and reveal fascinating history about your Martian plot. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Smarter Robot Automation[/h3][p]We've made significant improvements to robot automation based on your feedback from the first playtests: [/p]

• [p]New Gardener Robot: Calm, nature-loving, and very green, this bot carefully plants, waters, and harvests crops, making your farm efficient and vibrant.[/p]
• [p]Improved Robot Assistant Priorities: Robots now find tasks more logically, no longer running across the map or standing idle.[/p]
• [p]Detailed Statistics Screen: Quickly track your robots' locations, tasks, and battery statuses. Already, it's helped us identify and fix robot charging imbalances. Expect shorter charge times and better battery efficiency soon![/p]

[p]Automation is becoming smoother and smarter—and you'll have even more ways to optimize it further![/p][p][/p][h3]Fresh New UI for Building Mode[/h3][p]Our user interface is getting a complete overhaul, starting with the Building Mode. It’s cleaner, clearer, and friendlier—check out our progress below. Let us know how it feels to you! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Here's a quick look at our upcoming tasks for next month:[/p]

• [p]Continuing our comprehensive UI/UX redesign.[/p]
• [p]Finalizing the second round of Playtests with completed Statistics and Map screens.[/p]
• [p]Finishing detailed textures for the Cargo Station, Greenhouse, and Universal Compartment interiors.[/p]
• [p]Developing new interfaces for the Shop and Quest systems.[/p]

[p]Your ideas, suggestions, and encouragement are the very fuel that drives our development. Your comments, likes, wishlists, and discussions motivate us daily—we’re truly grateful for each and every one of you. So please, keep sharing your thoughts and suggestions. We promise: every single voice is heard and appreciated![/p][p][/p][p]What features or updates excite you the most? Let us know in the comments below—we’re always listening![/p][p][/p][p]Join our Discord Server to chat directly with the AGRONOM Team and fellow players. And don't forget to wishlist AGRONOM—your support means everything to us: [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink]With love and gratitude,[/p][p]The AGRONOM Team 🧡[/p]

[p][/p][p]Thanks to your incredible support and thoughtful feedback, we have tons of exciting news to share from the AGRONOM universe. Grab your tea, buckle up, and let’s dive right into the latest developments! [/p][p][/p][p]But first—important news! We're actively preparing the second round of Playtests for AGRONOM. You can already apply to participate, and we'll happily accept everyone! The exact Playtest dates will be announced soon. And along with the Playtests, expect to see the very first Gameplay video of AGRONOM—stay tuned![/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Meet Your New Robot Gardener[/h3][p]By popular demand, here’s our Robot Gardener’s concept art. This green-thumbed robot loves plants and specializes in maximizing your crop growth rates and harvesting efficiently. Excited to see it in action? We sure are! [/p][p][/p][h3]Concept Art: Technical Gateway[/h3][p]Our Technical Gateway isn’t just an environment detail—it’s your window into the secrets of AgroNova Corporation. Expect bold, imposing architecture deeply inspired by Eastern European monumentalism and brutalism. Pretty atmospheric, right?[/p][p][/p][h3]Concept Art: New Fence[/h3][p]Remember the quick fences from earlier Playtests? They've been transformed! Check out these beautiful concept arts—tell us your thoughts! [/p][h3]Cargo Station: 3D Model Progress[/h3][p]Last Devlog featured the Cargo Station concept art. Now we're excited to share its 3D-model progress. We’ve enhanced details and visual storytelling—what else should we add? [/p][h3]Greenhouse and Airlock Models Detailed[/h3][p]Take a closer look at the near-final versions of our greenhouse and airlock. We're particularly proud of the meticulous detail. What catches your eye most? Share your feedback! [/p][h3]Robot Helpers: Builder & Loader[/h3][p]Meet your robot friends again: [/p]

• [p]Robot Builder: Equipped with specialized tools to construct your base quickly and efficiently.[/p]
• [p]Robot Loader: Strong and sturdy, it loves hauling heavy cargo across long distances.[/p]

[p]Which helper is your favorite?[/p][h3]Rusty’s Latest Animations[/h3][p]Rusty, your main robotic hero, got new animations! More animations will debut in our upcoming Gameplay Video—stay tuned! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Cargo Drone: Your Interplanetary Courier[/h3][p]Cargo Drones deliver produce from Gramps Makar’s farm across Mars—cities, neighbors, and even back to Makar himself! Players can also use drones to request essential supplies from friendly NPCs. What else should our drones carry? [/p][h3]Eco-Friendly Tech: Sulfur Powergenerator & Bio-Generator[/h3][p]These advanced power sources generate significantly more electricity than solar or wind-based tech. You'll be able to set up intricate production chains, mining and refining ore, and crafting complex products to power your Martian base. Eco-friendly never felt so powerful! [/p][h3]Behind the Scenes: Robot Headlights Inspired by Classic Cars[/h3][p]Our charming robot helpers are directly inspired by iconic Eastern European and Soviet-era cars. Selecting just the right headlight shape and glow was crucial in finalizing their lovable look—blending nostalgia and futurism seamlessly. [/p][p][/p][h3]Robot Automation Improved[/h3][p]We've heard you loud and clear—the robots needed better clarity! Here’s what we improved: [/p]

• [p]Smarter Robots: Robots now have clearer priorities and more logical behavior patterns.[/p]
• [p]Detailed Info Window: Production buildings now display detailed information about robots assigned to specific tasks, helping you stay on top of your automation.[/p]
• [p]Color-coded Robots: You mentioned difficulty distinguishing between robot helpers, so we’ve acted immediately! Our new Robot Gardener will be green, and we're considering unique colors for other robots as well to help with easy recognition. Any suggestions for colors? Let us know below![/p][p] [/p]

[h3]Introducing the Martian Day-Night Cycle[/h3][p]Our team is already coding an authentic Martian day-night cycle, complete with Mars's moons—Phobos and Deimos—clearly visible in the sky.[/p][p]Gameplay-wise, this new mechanic brings significant changes: [/p]

• [p]Solar panels shut down at night, demanding smart energy planning.[/p]
• [p]Exclusive night markets appear once every two in-game weeks, with rare deals and special items. We’re even crafting a custom Martian calendar—expect frequent dust storms during Martian summers![/p]

[p]What other nighttime events would you love to see on Mars? Tell us in the comments! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Graphics and Performance Optimization[/h3][p]Your feedback from Playtests highlighted FPS drops despite the game running on many video cards. While the major optimization pass will happen closer to release, we’ve already conducted several improvements in lighting and landscape optimization. Moreover, our streamlined 3D-modeling pipeline ensures high visual quality without heavy impacts on performance. Expect smoother gameplay—even in the early builds![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Here’s a sneak peek into our plans: [/p]

• [p]Adding essential gameplay features and preparing for the next round of Playtests.[/p]
• [p]Developing the Cargo Station systems: refined orders and in-game shop.[/p]
• [p]Integrating the Space Elevator and Technical Gateway into our main location.[/p]
• [p]Creating the Robot Gardener’s detailed 3D model—stay tuned for updates![/p]
• [p]Finalizing integration of Martian day-night cycle featuring moons Phobos and Deimos.[/p]
• [p]Enhancing visuals on all game models, adding extra details and authentic Martian dust.
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[p]Are you excited yet? We definitely are! What feature are you most eager to see next? Drop your comments below—we read each and every one! For more details, join our Discord Server[/p][p][/p][p]And don't forget to wishlist AGRONOM—your support truly means everything to us: [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink]With love, [/p][p]The AGRONOM Team 🧡[/p]