This update brings together changes from the current game source. The focus is clearer tactical information and more deliberate reaction fire.
Directional overwatch
Shoot On Sight now watches a 90-degree cone fixed when it is armed. Ranged Whites Of Their Eyes watches all directions at two tiles; two-handed melee weapons can use it to react to enemies entering an adjacent tile.
A clearer tactical dock
The dock now shows the selected soldier’s portrait and name, with a button to centre the map on them. Empty enemy-contact rails are hidden and contact space adjusts to the visible list.
More visible selection
The selected squad card has a stronger highlight. Battlefield selection rings are raised above transparent floor decals while remaining hidden by solid cover.
Loadout and balance adjustments
The Heavy class base AP increases from 6 to 7. When a personal scanner is unlocked but unassigned, automatic loadout assignment gives the shared module to a scout, then support, then the first deployed soldier; existing assignments are preserved.
Nightjar launch improvements
Nightjar departure now covers Missions 1 and 2. Cinematic assets begin preloading during briefing, squad and hub screens, with two low-priority requests at a time. Preloading respects the browser’s data-saving preference. The hangar and ship load in parallel.
Combat presentation
Plasma-axe effects and their light are prepared when equipment is attached, reducing work during the first strike. Reyes also has an updated “Right behind you. Go.” voice clip.
What’s next for this blog?
This space will carry dated development updates for the online game and tabletop project. Confirmed changes will be separated from plans and playtest ideas.
The base tabletop game is intended to remain free to download, with paid expansions planned later. The current test kit and wallpapers remain free, and financial support is optional.
Release note: these are summaries of changes in the game code, not claims of complete campaign regression testing. The release copy also repairs an unterminated loader string so the game can start; the source workspace is unchanged.