In this episode, the team dives deep into the development of the Alcatraz map, now nearly complete with detailed structures and custom collisions tailored for future RTS gameplay. Efrain walks through the meticulous process of refining textures, adding guard towers, and implementing high-precision UCX collisions to prevent navigation glitches and enable features like shooting through windows. The team also explores recent advancements in the game’s tactical systems—showcasing improvements to patrol and attack-move behaviors that now emphasize group cohesion and responsiveness.

Dimitry finalized turret textures and improvements to target acquisition are highlighted, along with the dynamic zone detection system for power management and AI engagement. Later, the podcast shifts to the evolving minimap—now supporting client-side drawing, filters, and real-time tactical overlays inspired by Arma. The developers stress-test the system with over 4,000 icons running at 120fps and share upcoming plans to introduce customizable tactical layers, pinging, and patrol logic based on player feedback.

The conversation wraps up with future roadmap insights, including the implementation of rally points on moving units, modding support, pandemic mode refinements, and the strategic role of Chelsea and her lieutenants in the infection system. As always, the crew shares honest, in-editor progress and unfiltered discussions, showcasing a transparent and community-driven approach to development.

https://youtu.be/AqxjNUUOGEQ

In this content-rich developer podcast, Chris announces the completion of his latest novel—an intense, survivalist follow-up to Pierce’s narrative that shifts focus to Natalie, an ex-military character navigating the outbreak in a crumbling world. The team dives into how these novels lay the narrative foundation for the campaign mode, providing nuanced perspectives that deepen player immersion.

Robert walks through massive strides in the game’s development, including reworked turrets, dynamic zone-based power systems, real-time lighting feedback, and an evolving mini-map system inspired by Halo Wars. The devs also preview future functionality, such as destructible environments, adaptive clutter generation, and meaningful environmental storytelling that reflects player impact.

They also tease deeper AI behavior for Lieutenants like Chelsea—drawing inspiration from Prototype—and outline upcoming changes like patrol/attack-move systems, co-op enhancements, and a visual weather overhaul. Meanwhile, long-term fans will appreciate discussion on player feedback integration, a detailed Q&A on design philosophy, and the candid, chaotic banter that keeps it all human.

Whether you're here for the tech deep dives, storytelling reveals, or pure zombie chaos, this episode is packed with progress and personality.

https://youtu.be/Y3qBXqOlu4Y


We'll be covering progress since the last podcast!

• Coop Progress
  
• Total Revamp Progress based on community feedback
  
• Level Design Progress

🕔 When: April 26, 2025 7 PM EST (New Time)
📺 Where to Watch:

• YouTube Livestream
  
• Discord Server[discord.gg]
  
• The Cepheus Protocol Steam Page

📺 If you Miss it :

• YouTube Livestream VOD
  
• Spotify Podcast VOD (They can take up to 24 hours to appear after the Stream ends)[open.spotify.com]

During the livestream, we’ll:

• Recap this week of progress
  
• Answer your questions during a live Q&A session with the development team.

Your participation and feedback are key to shaping the future of Cepheus Protocol, and we’re eager to share our progress with you.


With these initial refinements underway, we’re continuing to build on your feedback and enhance every aspect of the game. Stay tuned for further updates as we move forward together.

Stay Frosty,
The Cepheus Protocol Team