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Shards of Azuria News

Build 7 - Multiplayer, Halloween & More

Multiplayer (Online Co-op)


Finally! The Halloween festivities return this year, but this time with the new Multiplayer game mode available! This version of Multiplayer is Online Co-op for 1-5 players. It works by using a Steam lobby system. One player chooses to act as the server by hosting and playing. Then joining players can view a list of available servers on the Multiplayer browser. For this build, the only game type available for Multiplayer is Co-op. This means that you will be playing cooperatively together and not attacking each other.

In terms of save data, the host takes ownership of the World and the players keep their own Character data. You can play through the game in the same way you would Singleplayer, including accepting quests and talking to NPCs. Servers can also be password protected and when viewing available servers, you can filter them to show only servers hosted by your Steam friends.



Please be aware that Multiplayer development is still on-going and you may experience some bugs. If you encounter any issues, please see the Steam Discussions for bug reporting. This kind of development is rather problematic, so I am expecting a certain amount of code fixing to do.



Character Profile Re-Design




The profile images shown for NPCs during dialogue have been changed to a pixel style aesthetic. We feel this better suits the style of the game, compared to the previous illustrated look. You can click on the image above to see the new profiles at the size they appear in game.


Sound Re-Vamp


Most of sound effects have have been recreated and finalised for a more consistent sound style. Many of the abilities and monster sounds have been changed, some drastically different, or others less so. Overall, the quality is definitely better and I think certain things are given the quality they deserve now. In particular the Sentientpede sounds a lot more intimidating and now matches it's stature. Many thanks to Chris Dain, who was drafted in to perform the mighty task of revamping.


Halloween


Medea the Witch has returned to Azuria. This follows a return of last year's festivities. Azuria is aglow with Halloween decor. Take part in Trick or Treat (now with friends!).




Other Notable Changes


During big builds like this, I'll often forget to mention little tweaks/changes that get lost in everything else.

However here are a few things to note:

  • 10 more Hair Styles have been added
  • Some HUD GUI elements have been redesigned in line with multiplayer changes.
  • A costume item slot has been introduced. This is to allow for players to equip whole outfits that change the appearance of the character, but do not effect the combat statistics.
  • The Paint Blaster is now classified as a costume item, but still provides the ability to paint.
  • New costume item Blue Maid Outfit has been added.



Most of all, I hope you all enjoy Multiplayer and I hope you all have a great Halloween!



Thanks!
Phill

Future - Multiplayer (Online Co-op)


It is still in the early stages of development, but I wanted to share that this is now in progress. I want to share this, so that the community is informed as to what is happening behind the scenes for the time being. Multiplayer development can be problematic and time consuming, so I'm not able to give an ETA just yet.

The first form of Multiplayer is likely to be a Co-Op game type with possibly 1-4 players.
It will use a Lobby system to help with browsing a list of available games to join.
Servers are player hosted through the game itself.
Choose an option in game to host and then play while hosting.

Please be aware that the above may change during development.
But I look forward to being able to share more ヽ(・∀・)ノ

Thanks,
Phill

Future - Multiplayer (Online Co-op)


It is still in the early stages of development, but I wanted to share that this is now in progress. I want to share this, so that the community is informed as to what is happening behind the scenes for the time being. Multiplayer development can be problematic and time consuming, so I'm not able to give an ETA just yet.

The first form of Multiplayer is likely to be a Co-Op game type with possibly 1-4 players.
It will use a Lobby system to help with browsing a list of available games to join.
Servers are player hosted through the game itself.
Choose an option in game to host and then play while hosting.

Please be aware that the above may change during development.
But I look forward to being able to share more ヽ(・∀・)ノ

Thanks,
Phill

The Official Shards of Azuria Wiki


I'm pleased to share that the official wiki solution for Shards of Azuria is now live!

Many thanks to Gamepedia for providing such an excellent wiki service.

The site can be found at the link below:

https://shardsofazuria.gamepedia.com/Official_Shards_of_Azuria_Wiki

In terms of content on the wiki, there is already a great start.
I hope in time it becomes an invaluable resource for any players of the game.

If you feel inclined to contribute, then feel free to create an account and perhaps
start with the Gamepedia Help Wiki:

http://help.gamepedia.com/Gamepedia_Help_Wiki

Thanks!
Phill

The Official Shards of Azuria Wiki


I'm pleased to share that the official wiki solution for Shards of Azuria is now live!

Many thanks to Gamepedia for providing such an excellent wiki service.

The site can be found at the link below:

https://shardsofazuria.gamepedia.com/Official_Shards_of_Azuria_Wiki

In terms of content on the wiki, there is already a great start.
I hope in time it becomes an invaluable resource for any players of the game.

If you feel inclined to contribute, then feel free to create an account and perhaps
start with the Gamepedia Help Wiki:

http://help.gamepedia.com/Gamepedia_Help_Wiki

Thanks!
Phill