Squadron 42 Monthly Report: May 2019

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The Squadron 42 development team made significant progress across multiple areas in May 2019. Key highlights include:

AI Improvements

The AI team began work on allowing players and NPCs to interact with usable items without needing to be in an exact position. This will enable higher-fidelity interactions in spaces with multiple usable items. They also continued optimizing and fine-tuning FPS combat tactics, including fighting from cover, searching behavior, and first reactions. The Posture Manager system for understanding AI visibility and shooting directions when in cover saw further improvements.

Animation Updates

The animation team focused heavily on the new player jumping system, creating more fluid animations for jumping forwards, backwards, sideways, and while running. They also made progress on setting up usables like beds, seats and consoles. Work began on pre-visualization for different human AI enemy types and weapon sets. The team is now creating female animation sets alongside male versions to ensure parity.

Character Art Progress

Character artists continued polishing characters, with a focus on chapter 4. Work continued on exploring alien designs and improving the material library to enhance visual quality across all armor and outfits. New tools for the hair pipeline are being developed to allow creation of higher-quality hair assets.

Environment Art Developments

Environment artists made headway on the Javelin's skybox, working through the ship exterior to support the "push & pull" mechanic. With the organic shader nearing completion, asteroid set creation can begin in earnest. Significant effort went into Archon Station's traversable areas, aiming to highlight the station's massive scale. A key communications array seen in the campaign also saw substantial development.

Engineering Advancements

Engineering teams made progress across multiple fronts. The reworked jumping mechanic now provides much more fluid animations when running and jumping in any direction. The "head look" system was improved to prevent clipping issues. Melee takedowns now use inverse kinematics to work correctly on slopes and steps. The AI team implemented channel routing for usables and area slotting to allow more dynamic interactions.

Gameplay Story Implementation

The Gameplay Story team implemented a record 18 scenes to a high standard in May, including one on an Idris bridge. They are excited to begin testing new tech for blending in and out of cinematic sequences.

Graphics Enhancements

The Graphics team completed work on the organic shader, allowing better asset reuse and texture control. Gas cloud tech saw final touches and optimizations. Volumetric shadows were integrated into the fog system.

UI Development

The UI team created logos, signs and background screens for Archon Station to enhance the industrial facility feel. They also continued work on the central flight HUD, with new velocity, g-force and other indicators that will debut in Star Citizen Alpha 3.6.

This report highlights the ongoing progress across all aspects of Squadron 42's development. The teams continue to push forward on core gameplay systems, art assets, AI behaviors and cinematic elements that will bring the single-player campaign to life. While much work remains, steady advancements are being made toward delivering an immersive and engaging Squadron 42 experience.

A 30K Adventure in the Stanton System

Captain Jenna Lee leaned back in her pilot's seat, gazing out at the vast expanse of space before her. She had just joined the 30K.fun Star Citizen Referral Club, a group dedicated to having fun despite the occasional hiccups in the 'verse.

"Time to put our new recruit to the test," she muttered, glancing at her co-pilot, a fresh-faced cadet named Alex.

Alex fidgeted nervously. "Captain, I'm not sure which referral code to use for my friend. There are so many options."

Jenna chuckled. "No worries, kid. The Star Citizen Referral Code Club has got you covered. But first, let's see how you handle a little turbulence."

As if on cue, the ship's systems began to flicker. Warning lights flashed across the console.

"30K incoming!" Jenna shouted, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

Alex's face paled. "What do we do?"

"We have fun, of course!" Jenna laughed, pulling up the ship's communication system. "This is Captain Lee of the RSI Referral Code Club, calling all nearby vessels. Who's up for a pre-disconnect dance party?"

To Alex's amazement, several ships appeared on their radar, their pilots responding enthusiastically. As the 30K error loomed, the impromptu fleet performed an impressive series of barrel rolls and loops, turning a potential frustration into a moment of pure joy.

Just before the disconnect, Jenna turned to Alex with a wink. "Remember, kid, it's all about the attitude. Now, about that referral code club..."

The screen went black, but Alex couldn't stop grinning. He had a feeling his adventures with the 30K.fun crew were just beginning.

Another Star Citizen Fan Fiction from 30KFUN Accessible Gaming Community!