The Miner is slowly digging its way forward, and I’m super happy to share what’s been done in the latest version 0.5.0, what’s coming soon in 0.5.1, and what lies ahead in future updates. Let’s take a look! :D

✅ What’s New in v0.5.0 (Already Done!)

This update focuses on making the game feel smoother, cleaner, and more immersive:

• Oxygen mechanic removed: It no longer added to the experience, so it’s been cut to give you more freedom and a better pace.

• New movement system: Movement has been rebuilt from the ground up for more control and responsiveness:

  • A to move left

  • D to move right

  • H to hide

• UI and instruction improvements: Clearer visuals and better guidance make it easier to understand what to do, especially if you’re new.

• New and updated sounds: Audio has been polished for a better sense of space and danger.

• Main menu  $ Loading screen changes: Several elements were added and adjusted, you’ll notice new options and a refined style when you start the game + a new loading screen.

• Generator failiure: Now the generator can get a failiure and cause the lights to set off. If you don't repair it in time, you'll die for the fear.
  

• Pixel-art shader fix: Cleaner visuals with no more blur or strange lighting effects.

🔧 What’s Coming in v0.5.1 (Currently in Development – Part 2 of the 0.5 Update)

This update focuses on structure, usability, and content:

• Short visual tutorial: A basic, image-based tutorial will guide you through the main mechanics. It’ll be quick and simple to understand!

• Tablet-based mission system: Tasks will now be added and managed from the tablet, giving a more full and hard gameplay because you'll make your tasks while watching for the monster.

• 15-minute time limit: Each game session will have a 15 minutes timer to complete tasks, adding pressure and intensity (and a end)!

• New shaders and visual effects: Lighting and shadows are getting an upgrade to build atmosphere and make the environments better.

• Mini-story introduction: A bit of narrative will be added to set the scene and give more purpose to your exploration.

• New enemies: Fresh monsters will be added to increase variety, danger, and challenge + new mechanics to escape from them.

🌟 Future Plans

These ideas are still cooking, and may arrive in later versions:

• Multiplayer mode: Coop gameplay is something I’d love to explore—imagine mining together (or running from monsters) with friends!

• Free movement system: Thinking about giving players more freedom to move around beyond the current system.

• More rooms and environments: New zones will bring variety and extend the game’s replayability.

🧪 Alpha Testers Wanted!

I'm currently looking for players to help test the game early and give feedback!
If you'd like to play test builds and help shape how The Miner evolves, check out this post:
Alpha Release – Tester Join the Test Phase

Your feedback makes a huge difference, and I’d love to have you along for the ride! :D