!!I IMPORTANT: Customs have not yet been finished - it's taking a bit of time due some fixes needed but don't worry if you haven't received any preview yet, the rest of the customs that haven't been sent out yet should be finished in the next week. I'm trying my best to catch up!
After the long December holidays and an even longer January, development on Tailside is back with further updates!
While the holiday season served as a rest period for the team, progress continued with new features and further work on the first private alpha version, to be tested together with fundraiser participants. The project remains on track to release the alpha version in Q1 of this year. As of this writing, the alpha version is approximately 60% complete. Here's an overview of the latest progress:
☕️ Completed Bedroom Addition
The bedroom area has been completed, featuring its own soundtrack. This will be the place to relax and prepare for a new workday. And yes, it can be decorated too!
☕️ Completed Day & Night System
Alongside the bedroom, the day & night system is now fully implemented. At the end of each day, a summary will display key statistics and bonuses earned throughout the work hours.
☕️ UI and Game Animation Polishing
Between other tasks, additional polishing touches are being tested for the UI and game animations to improve responsiveness and overall usability.
☕️ Completed Save & Load System
A save & load system is now fully functional, offering three save slots for creating different café experiences.
☕️ Ongoing Work on NPC Customer System
One of the largest features currently in development is the NPC customer system. While tiny customers were already present, friendly villager NPCs will soon begin visiting as well!
☕️ Localization Volunteering
Though not initially planned, localization may be added with the help of volunteers. Efforts are underway to make Tailside more accessible to non-English-speaking players.
The first set of soundtracks featured in early access has been completed, and the soundtrack DLC is now ready for setup. Fundraiser participants will receive the soundtrack before the game's release.
☕️ Custom Character Import
The main character is fully customizable! The alpha version will allow testing of the custom character import system, enabling players to personalize their protagonist for a more unique experience.
🛠️ Other edits & fixes:
Fixed zoom issues on UI elements
Fixed zoom in/out functionality in windowed mode when the mouse is not over the game
Latte art mini-game now supports controllers and full keyboard input
Fixed an NPC not appearing when "Skip Introduction" is activated
Fixed orders not being enabled after dialogue ends
Recipe book now opens automatically when introduced for the first time
Fixed "End of Playtest" and the final task of the game
Added a text UI animation displaying money increases and decreases
Added a text UI animation showing experience gain
Placing items now includes a small bounce animation
Improved level-up UI animations to showcase new unlocked items one by one
Fixed an issue preventing empty cups from being cleaned after the café closes
Fixed some inventory items not displaying their quantities
