Hero Dev Update — SOS Closed Beta
Hey Performers,
The chill of Winter has finally hit Outpost Games, so it’s up to us on Hero to heat things up with our brand new homepage. Sure, you might ask yourself, “how could a homepage redesign possibly slow my impending hypothermia?” And that’s certainly a valid question, but keep reading and we think you’ll get an idea.
Center Stage
We’re excited to roll out a feature that gives some of the most amazing performers out there time to shine. It’s no big coincidence that the first new feature that you may notice when visiting the all-new Discover page is the Center Stage. This feature allows our team to spotlight entertaining or engaging content from across the Hero community and put it front and center for all to see.
This allows the most entertaining performers to take Center Stage and become the Star of the show. Hop between the other Featured Contestants and put your favorite performer on Center Stage.
Discovery Channels
So, you’re watching a match on Center Stage, and you’re flipping between Stars and Featured Players. If you run into a lull in the action (although, with matches like this, how could you, right?), the new categories on the Discover page will help you find something entertaining to watch.
On the Rise
This is for trending performers. These performers may not already be on your radar, but they certainly deserve to be.
In Demand
These performers are determined by big moments that shock and delight audiences. We use feedback intensity to designate performers that are currently putting on amazing shows.
Most Popular
We’re pretty sure we don’t have to tell you what this means, but if you’re confused by what qualifies, please consult the wisdom of mid-90s alternative rock one-hit wonder Nada Surf for a little insight.
Voter Turnout
After SOS Closed Alpha 2, we came away with a flood of ideas about how best to visualize the voting feature that has recently turned La Cuna island on its head. When you return to the island for the SOS Closed Beta, you’ll find some distinct changes designed to make votes even more engaging for all performers and their audiences.
After a vote is triggered, the performer HUD will now display the associated hero url so that you or your audience knows where to go to cast a vote. Additionally, while a vote is active, your emote will become a timer, indicating how long until the vote closes. This way you know exactly how long before you get that fresh batch of stone axes. Incoming votes are also visualized as they appear in real time so you can have a read on how active your audience is.
One of Us
You can witness all these changes to Hero by tuning in to hero.tv/discover this weekend (December 9th — 10th) from 1–5pm PST for SOS: Vets vs. Threats. Veteran performers take on up-and-coming threats in the battle for La Cuna Island.
To get your hands on these latest updates and potentially find yourself on Center Stage, join us on La Cuna Island December 11–17 9am-9pm PST for the SOS Closed Beta.
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates and join in on the discussions on Reddit and Discord.
