This update introduces major new combat mechanics and battle variety, bringing powerful lasers, homing orbs, and interactive event nodes to the game. Here's everything new:

🔥 New Weapon System: Laser Beam

• Laser Core Added: A high-energy beam weapon now available to players. (SCRUM-258)

• Upgrades Include:

  • Overcharge: Increases damage and width after continuous fire. (SCRUM-256)

  • Overdrive: Boosts fire rate and burn potential for a short duration. (SCRUM-255)

  • Laser Guided: Enhances targeting precision for single-target burn builds. (SCRUM-254)

  • Mitigation: Adds shield penetration effects to the laser. (SCRUM-257)

  • Spectrum Arc: Allows laser to chain between enemies. (SCRUM-241)

💠 Orb Combat Mechanics

• Orb Attack System: Added Rasengan-style homing orbs that track and damage enemies. (SCRUM-243)

• Focussed Orbs: Orbs now home in more intelligently, prioritizing high-threat targets. (SCRUM-247)

• Basic Blast Orb: Added a functional orb type for early-game use (non-card). (SCRUM-253)

❄️ New Status Effect: Frost

• Frost Effect: Slows enemies on hit. Pairs well with laser and orb builds. (SCRUM-264)

⚔️ Dynamic Battle Events

We’ve introduced mid-run events that bring more variety and tactical choices:

• Monster’s Lair: Encounter powerful minibosses with rare rewards. (SCRUM-163)

• Rest Site: Restore health or upgrade cards between battles. (SCRUM-166)

• Dark Pact: Risk-reward choice with permanent buffs and hidden downsides. (SCRUM-165)

• Packed Lunch: A low-risk node offering small utility boosts. (SCRUM-167)

• Merchant Ship Wreckage: Scavenge for loot or trade with a stranded merchant. (SCRUM-168)

• Epic Asteroid Field: Dodge environmental hazards or use them to your advantage. (SCRUM-159)

🛠️ Other Improvements

• Enemies Added to Project System: Enemies now properly integrated for dynamic use across game systems. (SCRUM-236)

• AI Tools Researched: Workflow improvements through AI-assisted coding. (SCRUM-235)

This patch sets the foundation for high-skill, high-reward builds with layered upgrade paths. Expect more status effects, weapons, and mid-run choices in future updates!