The RETRORONTO Report #2
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Monday, November 18, 2024
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Sunny, High 12C
📅 Monday, November 18, 2024 ☀️ Sunny, High 12C
This is The RETRORONTO Report, your go-to source for all the latest happenings and updates in the evolving city of Retroronto!
Long-Awaited District Unveiled
After months of anticipation and several delays, Retroronto’s new district has finally opened to the public today. This release marks a significant milestone in the city’s development journey, and both developers and city officials are breathing a sigh of relief.
One city councilor expressed her excitement about this new district: “This is a big moment not just for the city, but for our community. It showcases out dedication to fostering creative projects that capture the spirit of our city”
“We’ve faced numerous challenges along way,” noted several developers, “but it’s been gratifying finally seeing the culmination of our hard work.”
The team behind this district is now focused on monitoring and maintaining the region's infrastructure to ensure a seamless experience for residents and visitors alike. They are also assessing marketability and target audience alignment, exploring what strategies the district can implement to enhance its appeal and engagement.
However, not all initial reactions have been positive. Some local residents have reported issues with traffic flow and audio glitches that detract from the experience.
One commuter shared his frustration, saying, “I’ve been cut off more times than I can count today! It feels like drivers are still figuring out how to navigate these new streets.”
Another resident echoed this sentiment, mentioning how the noise pollution seemed amplified in the newly developed district, and the loss of sleep that’s followed.
As the city team works to address these concerns, officials emphasize the importance of community input in refining the district. “We’re committed to listening to our residents and making the necessary adjustments,” reassured a city spokesperson. “This is just the beginning, and with everyone’s help, we can create a vibrant and functional space for all.”
Developers are asking citizens to provide any feedback regarding bugs and/or suggestions on the associated Discord group online.
City Update: ID Cards Are In
In an exciting development, the Retroronto team has unveiled the city’s first identification card for it’s citizens, allowing users to customize their characters in a variety of ways.
The feature emerged from extensive refactoring of pedestrian and NPC generation, resulting in a vibrant array of customization options. Player can choose from a selection of hair styles, facial features, and clothing colours.
“I spent hours just trying out different looks,” exclaimed one enthusiastic teenager. Another young adult chimed in, “I feel like I can finally be myself in the city!”
Looking ahead, the ID Card system is being considered for expansion as the cards run their course until they’re expiration date, in which citizens will be asked to visit their local civic centre to update their ID cards.
Minimum-wage, Minimum Expectations
Local residents are voicing their worries and anxieties about the lack of job opportunities in Retroronto. While some maintain that the unemployment rate remains low and that the economy is healthy, others argue that the availability of good jobs is dwindling. “I’ve been looking for work for months, and all that’s available are these low-paying gigs,” another local expressed. “I hope the city will consider how important it is to create jobs that support families and help the community thrive.”
In response to these concerns, city officials and developers are committed to creating more avenues for employment to tap into the city’s growing workforce. They believe that by diversifying job options within the game, they can stimulate the economy and attract a wider range of customers. As they work to introduce new businesses, there is hope that this initiative will ultimately lead to a more vibrant and economically sustainable Retroronto.
City Enters Strategic Pause Post-Demo Release
With the recent launch of Retroronto’s new district, and city’s development team is stepping back to recalibrate. Following months of intense work, the focus now shifts from rapid development to promotion and research. This includes quality assurance, gather feedback/data, updating our promotional material, and refining the project’s direction.
“This isn’t just a break,” said one of the lead developers. “It’s a crucial phase, where we listen, learn, and plan for what’s next. With the district available to the public, it’s our priority to engage with a community that can grow within it.”
The slowdown is expected to last until the end of the year, providing the team with the space needed for a comprehensive review of market potential and administrative planning. As 2025 approaches, there’s a shared anticipation among the team and community alike towards the city’s future.
Classifieds
HELP WANTED: STORE CLERK
Seeking to fill a part-time store clerk position at a standard convenience store downtown as soon as possible. Shifts are flexible. If interested, drop by the store to apply.
MISSING WOMAN, 29Y/O
Police are asking for assistance in locating 28-year-old Selena Morris, last seen leaving the Smirkin Bar late Friday night. Selena is an African American woman wearing a green sweater, blue jeans, and a ponytail. Family and friends urge anyone with information on her whereabouts to contact authorities immediately.
NOTICE: COYOTE SPOTTED IN PARK
Recent reports have indicated an increase in coyote sightings within city parks. For your safety, please stay alert, keep pets leashed, and avoid feeding wildlife. If you spot a coyote, please contact Animal Control.
Obituaries
IN MEMORIAM: CAPTAIN SAMUEL WHITAKER (1955 - 2024)
The city of Retroronto mourns the loss of retired firefighter Captain Samuel Whitaker, who passed away due to respiratory complications. Captain Whitaker dedicated 35 years to protecting and serving the community.
He is survived by his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. The family invites those who knew him to join a memorial service at the station this weekend, celebrating the life of a man who exemplified courage and community spirit.
ONE YEAR ON: REMEMBERING TIMOTHY REYES
Today marks one year since the tragic passing of Timothy Reyes, whose life was lost in an altercation that remains the subject of ongoing debate and reflection. The incident sparked protests and calls for justice throughout the city, highlighting the urgent need for greater accountability and reform in public safety measures.
In Timothy’s memory, local advocates and non-profit groups continue their work to push for change and ensure that his story brings awareness and progress to the forefront.
Rest in peace, Timothy. Your impact lives on.
Events
JOIN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD SOUND SUPPORT GROUP
Tired of the noise complaints around town? Come together with others who believe in the importance of the city's lively atmosphere. The Neighborhood Sound Support Group is gathering to discuss how we can preserve the sounds that make Retroronto unique. All are welcome to share their thoughts and help make a difference!
CITYWIDE DONATION DRIVE - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Looking to give back? Volunteer for the Citywide Donation Drive during the city’s upcoming events. Help collect donations across the city and make a difference—your time can support local initiatives!
BREAKING CAKE AT ST. JOSEPH’S
Support your local church this weekend! Come for homemade treats and help raise funds for essential repairs to the church. All proceeds benefit church renovations and local causes—join us and make a difference!
EDITOR’S NOTES
Hello again! Thanks for reading the 2nd edition of The Retroronto Report. I really wanted to make sure this one was the one with the demo launch as it’s main story, as it’s quite monumental!
It’s about time I once again temporarily leave game development and return to business development; to take this time to reflect on all this past work we’ve done, to ensure business things are settled, and to start following through on plans for 2025.
Development won’t quite stop as there’ll always be much to do. But you can count on us to do our to best to deliver! Go play Retroronto right now and directly tell me what you think after, I dare you.
Cheers,
- Sean Browning