Cepheus Protocol

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Dev Update

Horde Co-op Mode now playable in the CERC HQ branch

We’re nearing the final stretch of Phase 1 of the rebuild — just 1–2 weeks to go — and to celebrate the milestone, we’re opening up access to the Experimental Horde Co-op Mode for all players during the Steam Summer Sale!

This is the biggest gameplay update yet for Cepheus Protocol, and it’s fully playable today.

🔥 What’s Included

  • A brand-new Horde Mode Co-op experience to serve as the “base” of our Rebuild

  • Supports up to 16 players in seamless RTS/TPS hybrid combat

  • Experimental rebuild under the new “cerc-hq-public” branch

  • Buggy but playable – we’re working on it every day, and we need your feedback!

https://youtu.be/9SsIX6t2iNA

🛠️ How to Opt In

  1. Right-click Cepheus Protocol Experimental Branch (Granted when you buy the base game) in your Steam Library

  2. Click Properties > Betas

  3. Choose cerc-hq-public from the dropdown

  4. Let Steam update the build and launch the game

🎮 New: Try Out Operator Control (RTS/TPS Hero Units)

Want to test our new Operator system?

  1. Select a unit flagged as an Operator

  2. Open the console (typically with ~ or Tab)

  3. Type:

    PossessFirstOperator

    This will instantly take control of the first free Operator in your selection.

This system is in early testing — expect jank! UI support for this feature will be added in the coming weeks as we wrap up Phase 1.

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More Operator customization will come online going into next week for Weapons. We will be adding more weapons on a per week basis as we finish phase 1.

🌁 Half Moon Bay Map & Test Recommendation

The Half Moon Bay Horde map is available in this build for early testing, but we recommend using the “Co-op Horde” test map for the smoothest experience. Monterey Bay is in active iteration and may contain incomplete elements.

📅 What’s Next?

  • Final Phase 1 polish and UI push

  • Polishing Operator Customization & Leveling System

  • Monterey Bay iteration + Horde mode balancing

  • Expanded Doctrines & DNA Research (Phase 2)

For further ahead, read here:

📘 Read about our Development Phases & Current Goals

💬 Feedback? Questions?

Join the discussion and share your thoughts:

We’re excited to open the doors on this massive new chapter. Thanks for testing, reporting, and helping us shape Cepheus Protocol’s future.

— The Halcyon Winds Team