I'm afraid all I got you was some fixes and minor gameplay changes, but that's because I'm still busy working on the next big beta release. In fact, some of those changes are the reason I needed to make this standard release.

First, there was a complete rewrite of the character animation system to allow for some advanced character types in the future--I'll need your help to spot any glitches here--, then there was some precautionary code for loading saves that are newer than the release--for those who opt back out of the beta.

I also temporarily removed anchor stones (and dirt). If these tiles were in your Hoard when you last played, they will still be there, but no new anchors will appear. These (and other tile-based) mechanics are being reserved for later use in situations where they can be given adequate introduction and visibility.

It has been a busy few months preparing for the beta (I also had a baby!), but it is still on the way. In the initial release, you can expect a complete item overhaul (no more inventory), removal of the Hoard view beneath the Sanctum, and some significant combat streamlining (simpler attack readouts and more special abilities).

I am looking forward to trying these (and more!) out and seeing what you all think. Thank you, again, for all of your patience and support ːtotcordialː!

Changelog

Changes:

• Save rules to accommodate saves that are newer than the current build
  
• Massive animation rewrites
  
• Many character previews are now animated
  
• Some item graphics have been revised
  
• Improvements and corrections to many character animations
  
• Item drop rules now allow items to drop multiple times in a single session, but only if you aren't currently holding the item in your inventory
  
• Removed anchor stones and dirt tiles
  
• Eliminated excess attacks when the target character is already doomed
  
• Capped early hero levels
  

Fixes:

• Crash on some Windows XP 32-bit setups
  
• Physical damage was inappropriately listed on some character tooltips
  
• Start-up crash for outdated track overrides
  
• Sanctum capacity breach message spam
  
• Gremlin welder's healing ability was hidden