🌱 Devlog v0.0.3 – Clarity in the Chaos

The production of Sod & Steel continues to move forward! We’re honing in on a solid alpha build, and the core gameplay loop is shaping up nicely. This week was all about polishing up player feedback, specifically, how readable the player’s attacks are in the middle of combat. With a game like ours, where dodging, striking, and reacting all happen fast, every animation and visual cue has to speak loud and clear.

The Problem

During playtesting, I noticed something frustrating: it was difficult to tell exactly when and where the player's sword would strike. The old sword was too short and too visually subtle to stand out in the middle of a fight. This led to moments where players would swing and either miss or not even realize they hit something. In a game that demands fast decisions and sharp reactions, this kind of visual just doesn’t cut it.

The Solution

I approached this from two angles: scale and style. First, I lengthened the sword slightly. This made the weapon feel more readable, not just in combat but also in motion. Suddenly, attacks felt like they had purpose and weight. But visibility isn’t just about shape, it’s about presence.

To give the sword some flair and clarity, I swapped out its old mesh for one with emissive materials. Now, when the player swings, the blade catches the eye with a glowing edge that makes the attack stand out, especially during fast-paced encounters or darker levels. It's not just prettier, it’s practical.

The result is a sword that not only looks cooler, but helps the player feel more connected to their strikes. Every swing is easier to track, and combat flows more intuitively.

Thanks again for following along with Sod & Steel! We’re incredibly excited to announce that the playable alpha drops tonight. If you've been waiting to get your hands dirty defending the grass, now's your chance to jump in and start swinging.

Until next time, keep your blades glowing and your roots unshaken. 🌾

Scott Wollbrink / CTR+ALT+DELinquents