We are releasing the new experimental version of Space Station Manager!
The time has come!
Space Station Manager Remake, from now branded as Space Station Manager 2048 is available, and you can try it out right now!
Due to the experimental nature of the release, any feature is a subject to changes, and not all features are fully functional just yet. To access the experimental version, enter the secret branch activation code: ssm2password
How do I use the "secret branch activation code"? Right-click the game in your library, and select Properties > Betas. There you can enter the code, and click "Check Code".
However, there are few more things to say about this.
Firstly, I want you to keep in mind that this is a very early version of the game, and that it might lack some features, which will be added in the next updates.
Even the implemented features may not work flawlessly at the moment, as they are still being built. if you do find something that looks non-intentional, is difficult to get around, or any idea in general, do not hesitate to start a discussion thread right here: Experimental Version Forum
It is also worth a note, that most of the development resources went into research, and building a reliable architecture for the game, and not into features themselves. As the base of the game is close to being finished, the speed of development will only increase from this point onward.
At the moment, the main goal is to make a copy of the old version, but in a new, more flexible way. Those plans however don't end there. After all of the features from the old version are implemented, we will start implementing features that were planned, but never implemented. And even after that, there are completely new features and game mechanics that are planned, and are coming your way.
If you have any further questions, comment them below this post, or on our new forum for the experimental version: Experimental Version Forum
I would also like to give thanks to everybody who contributed to the making of the project, as well as the community that has gathered around this game. Without you all, this game would not be what it is now, and it would not be possible to make it what it can be in the future.
We wish you Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!
Experimental Version Release Date
Hello there station managers!
After a year of continuous work, I am happy to announce that
We will be releasing a new experimental version of Space Station Manager this Christmas
This experimental version of the Space Station Manager rewrite will be available on an "experimental" branch on Steam, released on 24. December 2021.
Just as in the old version, you will be tasked with setting up and running your very own Space Station. In this Experimental version, updates will be made to fix bugs and improve the game as we move to full release with a new branding and more things to explore than ever before. Take on the challenge of deep space and grow your empire.
Due to the experimental nature of the release, any feature is a subject to changes.
I am hoping to push out into an alpha release in the first half of 2022, and with some luck, it may be by the beginning of said year.
Even after release of an alpha version, full version, and the experimental version, there will be more updates coming, including a few major features, and several content updates. Those features will include mechanics from the old game, as well as some new mechanics, such as map exploration, and maybe even multiplayer.
I would also like to give thanks to everybody who contributed to the making of the project, as well as the community that has gathered around this game. Without you all, this game would not be what it is now, and it would not be possible to make it what it can be in the future.
Thank you all, and happy holidays wherever you may be.
Game Remake still in progress
Game Rewrite is still in progress
However, we want to share some news with the community!
The new version of the game is under development for a long time now, and it still will be for some time. Despite that, we can still share some news, changes, and major decisions regarding the game.
New features
With the new version, there will be new features and game mechanics, which will expand the gameplay with new possibilities. New major features are:
Procedurally generated world
Exploration
Multiplayer
Note that not all features will be implemented with the first release
Old features
There has been made changes to all of the old features as well. Most of them are minor, but there are some big changes, such like:
3D Map
New graphics
Upgraded research
And there will be more to come!
Release date?
Unfortunately, the development is a very bumpy ride, and it is very hard to predict when the game will be released, therefore, the only expectation is somewhere within 2021. I will post more updates, which will hopefully bring more exact release date.
Thank you!
And we would also like to say big thanks to the community! This project has changed someone's life, and made it better, however, this project would be nothing without you! I am giving my personal thanks, and I will do my best to not disappoint you with the new version.
Questions & Answers
Do I have to pay for the new version?
The new version is completely free for current game owners, and will replace the old version.
Will the new version be fundamentally different from the old version?
There are some major changes in how the game is controlled, however apart from some changes, the game is fundamentally the same.
Can I still play the old version?
The old version will still be available in an alternative branch 'obsolete', you can switch to in the game properties on Steam right now, however development of the old version is discontinued.
Can I load old save in the new version?
Unfortunately no, there is no support for opening old saves for now. This may change in the future.
Will the game price change when the remake is released?
No, the price will remain the same.
When will be the new version released?
Currently there is no set release date, but it should be within the year 2021
Will the new version be released as a final version?
The new version will be released to catch up with the old version, and updates will continue from there until the game comes out of Early Access. After Early Access there may still be content updates or bug fixes.
Content related questions
How big will the map be?
The new world will contain at least 3 galaxies, with the central one holding over 120,000 star systems. In total, the map will contain roughly 230 thousand stars. The world can also be generated with a seed.
How will the exploration work?
The exploration mechanics will mainly consist of 2 parts: Locating an object, and mapping the object. There are few approaches, and more steps you can take to find yourself something valuable. You will either be able to explore an object from afar, or send a recon vehicle directly to the place. Each approach will have it's advantages and disadvantages.
How will players interact in a multiplayer session?
The interaction of players will come in many forms. Players will be able to see each other, trade, combat and steal from each other, or even co-operate. This is completely up to the players, as companies can be created grouping players together.
In what way is the research different?
The new research mechanics will now begin with research from items, and things such as observatory is now in the early-mid game. It will also take some time to unlock the tech nodes themselves.
Combat?
Yes, there will be combat and warfare in the game. This feature was already planned for the old version, however it was not implemented yet. It will be implemented in the new version. You will be able to weaponize your ships, or even your stations, manage a fleet, plan an attack, or use some advanced defensive technologies, such as shields, or point defense. Do you not like loud combat? That's fine! You can take alternative stealthy approach to combat! You will be able to snipe enemies from distance, go undercover, or even make your station completely undetectable.
Any other questions may be answered in the discussion below
