M.A.S.S. Builder – WIP: 0.9.0 New Tech Nodes Functionality – Steam News

As a continuation of things to be seen aside from Multiplayer, we’re here to show some new functionalities to PvE tech nodes.

I mentioned it this in the comment section of this post, but I rarely remember that Quantum Break is even a thing. It’s a useful mechanic, so I’d like to remember it’s there while I’m actually in a fight.

Any tailoring that can make these mechanics more useful and reliable is going to be well received. I might even remember to start making use of them. Currently, my approach to every mission in M.A.S.S. Builder is dedicated ranged builds. I only tend to fall back on melee when it’s almost time for the boss fight and I’m trying to conserve ammo for that, or I’m feeling cheeky.

Now that I look at it, base QB is pretty slow. I’m not sure I’d risk it during certain boss fights. Not until I got really comfortable with the timing at least. Alternatively, why not just use the node upgrades? It’s something I need to check out when 0.9.0 is finally released. For now I’m pretty committed to the run and gun style of combat.

Here’s something I found especially interesting about Vermillion’s post today, though.

Thus sub-units that can modify the number will come into play in 0.9.0. As much as we wanted these type of nodes to exist before, we did not have the time to code them into our game until now, and we’ve added a few 10% here and 20% time reduction there to a lot of nodes focusing on defenses while also providing a choice to lower it by 50% with drawbacks as well.

I like the idea of demerits showing up as you begin to ‘overspecialize’ in a given area. It’s very Armored Core-esque and balanced, at least when it’s done right. Whatever these drawbacks are, they should be something that some players will want to avoid, while others will want to lean into it for the extra challenge.

This is also going to be available in PvP, so I think it’s important for people to be able to decide whether they want to cover up their weaknesses with more balanced builds or lean heavily into their niche and embrace the danger.