Dear Console Players

Since the release of Trailmakers 2.3 some console players have been very upset about the changes to the builder UI. 

First of all, it is very important for us to underline that console players are just as important to us as PC players. We spend a lot of time and effort on trying to make the console experience as good as possible. 

Secondly, we are sorry that the changes have not been to everyone’s liking. We love our players and our main goal is to keep them happy.

The main concerns we have encountered have been:

• The radial menu has been replaced with d-pad and button shortcuts.

• Some functions are harder to find.

• Fatigue over changes to UI/UX of existing functions almost every update.

• A lack of understanding as to why we keep updating the UI.

So why these changes? First of all, we can see through user testing that a lot of new users are struggling with getting to know the controls. This update made the different inputs in the builder way more visible and thus the game more accessible. Secondly, many of the functions in the builder - especially using a controller were old and buggy and in dire need of an update.

When that is said, we also acknowledge the concerns raised over the changes in 2.3 and want to stress that we take them very seriously. We will be gathering the feedback and consider which adjustments should be made both short and long term. More about that in the coming weeks. 

What we can say already now is that outright bugs are already being fixed and that we are setting up a dedicated console user tester group which can inform us earlier. During 2.3 we had a few controller-testers involved. This group will expand significantly for the next update. 

We have also been working hard on a virtual cursor in both the builder and menus. This is due to be released this spring. This means: No more weird jumping between buttons when using a controller. Just a simple cursor.

While we understand that these constant changes to our beloved builder can be annoying, we have a sharp focus on making a top quality game and when we see new users struggling with understanding basic functionality, we need to address the issues while also making sure that Trailmakers can stand the test of time. We are in this for the long run, and you should expect more changes to the builder in the future. 

Our players mean the world to us and we take feedback very seriously. Please keep it coming and let's work together to make Trailmakers the best building game out there!

Lots of love,

Flashbulb Games