Q: What is different from the original Blue Shift?
A: As well as bringing the graphics up to par with Black Mesa, we've expanded Blue Shift with new content such as additional and expanded/improved areas, enemies, scripted sequences, characters, writing, lore, and more.

Q: How many chapters are complete?
A: We currently have 5 out of 8 chapters finished, including the epilogue of Blue Shift.

Q: Does the game have achievements?
A: No, that's only possible if Blue Shift gets released on Steam.

Q: Will Blue Shift ever be released on Steam?
A: We are uncertain if we will ever release on Steam.

Q: Why not remake Opposing Force instead?
A: Opposing Force added gameplay elements not feasible to add with a simple mod, and creating an adequately faithful remake would require access to Black Mesa's source code, which isn't currently accessible, and may never be.

Q: Is this the same thing as O:BM? (Operation Black Mesa)
A: No, O:BM is by a separate team, Tripmine Studios. While they are also working on a Blue Shift remake, dubbed Guard Duty, they have different creative visions and goals than we do.

Q: Are you affiliated with Crowbar Collective?
A: Crowbar Collective has offered us good support by advertising our mod, playtesting some of our chapters, and helping with technical issues that have arisen. Some of their voice cast have also reprised their respective roles and then some for Blue Shift.

Q: Will you let Barney use the HEV Mark 3?
A: No. Adding the HEV suit as a feature does not align with our goals, as it would not add anything of substance to the gameplay or story, and ultimately would need to be taken away in the end to keep with continuity. There are too many limiting factors and inadequacies in any implementation that we don't have control over that we think would lead to an overall lesser experience because of it.

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Q: How do I install Blue Shift?
A: Please see: How to install

Q: Can I install Blue Shift on Linux/Steam Deck?
A: Several users have noted success loading Blue Shift on Linux.
This is done by manually moving the bshift content folder to your Black Mesa folder, and running the game with -game bshift .
However, results may vary as we do not offer official support. Please ensure you are booting with Proton, and we recommend you use DXVK.
Linux support discussions

Q: Can I use workshop addons with this?
A: Yes, but you will need to manually install them by moving their content files to bshift/custom. Results may vary depending on addon compatibility.

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Q: Where can I report bugs / make suggestions?
A: Please see: General Feedback and Bug reporting

Q: Can I help?
A: We are always open to talented volunteers who would like to join our team and contribute to the development of the Blue Shift remake project. As the project is non-commercial, we are unable to offer a salary, but we welcome your support and collaboration. If you believe your skills can significantly contribute to the development and you have an impressive portfolio, please send it to our email hecucollective@gmail.com

Q: Who should I talk to about making a translation?
A: Please see: Want to translate Black Mesa: Blue Shift

Q: Why are the graphics bugged and lighting weird?
A: This could be a number of causes, but is mostly attributed to low end, older systems, or systems that rely on integrated graphics, or chipsets with low support. If your system can handle it, keep dynamic lighting quality to at least Low to prevent problems. Unfortunately there is very little else we can do to help and recommend you look up guides for your situation online.

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Q: When will the rest of the chapters release?
A: It is much too early to give a tentative date at this time. We currently plan on releasing the final 3 chapters in one package, however this may be subject to change, as we hope to up the ante and bring these next chapters up to spec with Focal Point, after we optimize our processes.

Q: What are you doing after Blue Shift is chapter complete?
A: We will continue to polish our chapters and go back to freshen up the rest of Blue Shift with the new knowledge and skills we've acquired over the years.

Q: What about after Blue Shift is totally done with?
A: We currently have no development plans after completion and will cross that bridge when we get there. We will continue to provide support for the mod as long as we are able.

Q: Will you ever remake Opposing Force?
A: We have no plans to remake Opposing Force with the present situation.

Q: Will you ever remake the Blue Shift Hazard Course?
A: We currently have no plans to remake the Hazard Course. We use Black Mesas hint system to teach the player new mechanics, making a tutorial level redundant.

Q: Will you finish Azure Sheep?
A: Since AS's release, several key and long-standing members of HECU Collective disbanded to seek other projects. Unfortunately, with the arrival of new team members, there was little interest in continuing AS.
As we are developers of passion, there is little motive to continue work on AS.

Q: Will you release an HD Weapons pack?
A: We have plans to include the Colt 727 and M9 Beretta as addons in a future release with their own animations.

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Q: Can I use Blue Shift assets in my mods?
A: So long as our assets are not used in the process of monetary gain, and proper attribution is given, of course!