Book of Hours Beta Update (August 26, 2023) – Review, Patch Notes, Download

 In the world of gaming, few experiences match the satisfaction of a well-crafted update to a beloved game. The Book of Hours, known for its captivating gameplay and intricate mechanics, has once again delighted its player base with a brand new update as of August 26, 2023. This latest patch introduces a plethora of exciting changes that promise to enhance the gaming experience for both existing players and newcomers alike. From improved zoom features to optimizations for better performance, this update is a testament to the developers' commitment to delivering excellence.

Enhanced Zoom Functionality

One of the standout features of the August 26 update is the enhanced zoom functionality. Players can now enjoy a smoother and more intuitive zoom experience as the mouse seamlessly moves towards the cursor. This improvement not only adds a layer of convenience but also enhances the overall immersion, allowing players to explore the game's intricate details with ease.

Moreover, the update introduces a fourth zoom level, providing players with even more control over their perspective. Whether you're admiring the stunning landscapes or inspecting minute details, this additional zoom level caters to diverse gaming preferences and ensures that every player finds their sweet spot.

To further customize the zoom experience, the developers have thoughtfully included a configuration slider. This slider enables players to adjust the zoom speed using the scroll wheel or designated keys, allowing for personalized comfort and precision.

Optimizations for Better Performance

The Book of Hours update doesn't just focus on visual enhancements; it also aims to optimize the game's performance. Players using lower-end machines can rejoice as the update brings about memory requirement optimizations and improved frame rates. This means that even those with less powerful hardware can now enjoy a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.

Additionally, the development team has performed an optimization pass on textures. This noteworthy enhancement means that the game can now run on machines with as little as 2GB VRAM. While the team continues to work on further improvements, this optimization is a significant step towards ensuring accessibility without compromising on the game's quality.

Immersive Audio Enhancements

A captivating gaming experience goes beyond visuals, and the Book of Hours update acknowledges this by revamping its audio features. Daybreak and nightfall sounds now boast distinct variations, adding a layer of authenticity to the in-game environment. The subtle yet impactful addition of soundscapes enhances the sense of immersion, making each moment in the game world feel more tangible and alive.

Exciting Gameplay Additions

The August 26 update introduces exciting gameplay additions that are sure to delight players. The Boathouse and Crane locations now offer the ability to release beasts, a feature that adds an extra dimension of interactivity to these areas. Notably, these locations no longer have extraneous ability slots, streamlining the gameplay and ensuring a seamless experience.

Moreover, a 'NOPE' marker now elegantly informs players when an item cannot be placed in a slot. This feature not only prevents frustration but also streamlines decision-making, allowing players to make more informed choices in their gameplay.

Visual and Artistic Refinements

Visual and artistic refinement is a hallmark of the Book of Hours, and the August 26 update continues this tradition. The update addresses visual inconsistencies, ensuring that markers, wall art, and other elements no longer confuse players. Players can also expect updated shrouded images, workstation timer displays, and even a more suitable cover for Kanishk's book.

In conclusion, the Book of Hours August 26, 2023 update is a testament to the dedication of its developers in providing a remarkable gaming experience. With enhanced zoom functionality, optimizations for performance, immersive audio enhancements, exciting gameplay additions, and visual refinements, this update elevates the game to new heights. Players can expect a more engaging, seamless, and visually stunning experience as they delve into the captivating world of the Book of Hours. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, this update offers something truly special – a chance to explore a meticulously crafted virtual world like never before.

• When you change zoom level, mouse moves towards cursor
• Added a fourth zoom level
• Added a config slider for zoom speed with scroll wheel / keys
• When using BACKSPACE to cycle to a recent workstation, zoom is not horribly close on external workstations
• Another optimisation pass - memory requirements and frame rate should be better on lower end machines
• Daybreak and nightfall sounds are now (again) different!
• Boathouse and Crane now allow you to release beasts, and no longer have currently-extraneous ability slot (run an item through to refresh and update in existing saves)
• Save and Quit disabled as well as Load and Save in ToW
• Fixed bug where you sometimes had to ESC not [x] out of windows (when you dropped a card on a stack instead of in a tray)
• 'NOPE' marker when you can't put something in a slot (and hotfixed them getting sticky when you dropped a card on a stack)
• Some card autosorting options
• A genealogical chart is no longer fixed in place
• Lengthened some workstation timer displays
• Snow displays on top of beehive in winter
• SFX play on workstation close as well
• Optimisation pass on textures! which means the game can just about run on 2GB VRAM now, but we're still working on it.
• Kanishk's book has a more suitable cover
• Windlit Gallery shrouded image updated
• Clearer hint about brewing tea
• 'NO RAIN BEHIND STAR'
• Marked fixed wall art so it didn't confuse people
• Disallowing invalid save characters again
• Cats may now be placed in niches in the Grand Ascent (also any other tame beasts, though some may look odd)