Hey everyone!

I'm excited to share the latest prototype update for Nix, The Last Songborn. This build (V0.1.3) introduces a brand new area to explore, improved game systems like saving and options, and several quality-of-life additions. As always, your feedback is incredibly valuable — thank you for following along this early journey!

Prototype Build V0.1.3 – Fixes & Updates

New Content:

• New map area accessible by jumping off the cliff on the east side of the sample scene.  
  •   Introduces object persistence between scenes, preserving music, ambient sounds, the health system, and more.  
  •   Localized map entry points, allowing re-entry into a map from multiple directions.

• New pass-through platforms: the player can now jump through or fall willingly from certain platforms.  
  •   Branches from trees are now walkable when they align with the playable plane.

• New Options menu to adjust audio volume and game settings.  
  •   Preferences are saved and persist across playthroughs.

• Save file system implemented:  
  •   Save progress by sitting at a campfire.  
  •   Resume your game from the main menu or delete your save via Game Options.  
  •   Saving includes: Last checkpoint (campfire) , Time of day, Number of elapsed days
  •   Dying will respawn the player at the last saved checkpoint.
• Time Dial added to the Item Selection screen, showing time progression throughout the day.

• New localized zones that fade out or change background music dynamically.
• New character animations: Nix can now sit and sleep.
• Procedural tail animation added to Nix, paving the way for more dynamic animations for enemies and NPCs.  
  •   Uses multi-layered, synchronized animators, enabling additional animated sprite overlays in sync with core animations.

Updates:

• The character now briefly flashes when taking damage or healing.  
• A particle effect appears on the HUD when Nix is in a regeneration zone.  
  • Regen zones include being under sunlight or near a campfire.  
• Improved camera control, including the ability to lock the camera in certain areas (e.g., when near a campfire).
• Adjustments of attack speed for more responsiveness.

Fixes:

• Fixed an issue where items would not render when starting a new game.  
• Resolved a bug where color values would persist from gameplay to the main menu.  
• It is no longer possible to accidentally exit map boundaries.  
• Fixed an issue causing a second attack animation to play when hitting the ground mid-attack.  
• Opening the Pause Menu now automatically closes the Item Selection Wheel.

That’s it for this update!

I’m continuing to build the world of Whisperlight one piece at a time, and each bit of support — comments, shares, and feedback — helps bring Nix closer to its full potential.

Feel free to reach out with thoughts, bug reports, or just to say hi. 
See you at the next campfire!