Cepheus Protocol HQ – April 19th #47
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.
This week’s update dives deep into the evolving tech and art driving the Alcatraz map and RTS systems. Efron continues refining the 3D environment with intricate details like stairways, storm drains, and the iconic water tower—painstakingly modeled and remade multiple times to match its real-world counterpart. He also tackled modular assets like doors, figurines, and even the island bookstore, working toward a highly immersive and navigable space.
Meanwhile, on the programming front, massive progress was made on the turret foundation and AI squad management systems. A new turret base platform has been implemented to support modular SAMs, MGs, and anti-armor cannons, with real-time tests on tracking, firing, and multiplayer compatibility. The AI systems now incorporate smarter zone recognition, dynamic base targeting, and sector-based power tracking—laying the groundwork for larger maps and more tactical infected behavior. Debug lines, visual markers, and gameplay loops were showcased in depth, illustrating the complexity and modularity being built into the framework.
The episode also teases major future gameplay elements: rooftops as buildable zones, dynamic procedural infection growth, and more immersive campaign interactions. Rounding out the episode, Chris shares progress on his novel’s latest chapters—expanding Nie’s character with nuanced moral conflict and survival themes—while the team discusses playtest timing, weapon customization via Patreon, and the tech roadmap ahead.
We’ll be covering progress since the last podcast!
- Coop Progress
- Total Revamp Progress based on community feedback
- Level Design Progress
🕔 When: April 19, 2025 5 PM EST
📺 Where to Watch:
- YouTube Livestream
- Discord Server
- 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)
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