The Crust: New Horizon Closed Beta Testing Has Started

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Independent developer VEOM Studios has announced that the highly anticipated New Horizon update for The Crust is now live in exclusive closed beta testing, introducing a major expansion of features, systems, and gameplay mechanics.

Players can now construct Outposts that not only extract Helium-3 but also refine regolith, store resources, and support colonist activity for scientific progress and productivity. These outposts require stable power, which can be provided through solar panels, fuel generators, RTGs, or advanced modules like the Thermonuclear Generator and Biogenerator.

Territory selection for Outposts is now done using the Transport Cannon, which can launch Resource Probes and Anomaly Search Probes. Anomalies act as location modifiers, enhancing outpost effectiveness based on their color-coded buffs or debuffs.

A variety of new modules expands your strategic options:

• The AI Center generates research points passively using scientific data.
• The Data Processing Node turns excess power into Credits by serving blockchain networks.
• A new Harvester is available to extract Helium-3 in Outposts.

The conveyor system has been overhauled for better performance, smoother animations, and more flexibility. Players can now cross belts carrying different resources, set resource limits in storage units, and use programmable distributors to prioritize input and output logistics. This optimization improves game performance by up to 90%, even in large moon-based factories.

Packed with balance tweaks and bug fixes, the New Horizon update offers a richer, more streamlined experience for lunar base management and exploration. Dive into the closed beta today and be among the first to explore what’s next for The Crust.

Additional features and improvements include:

• A Custom Sandbox Mode with full control over starting conditions, resource generation, colonist behavior, and more.
• The ability to construct and sell drones, now smarter with a new digging algorithm.
• Demolition and expedition cancellation options to prevent accidental actions.
• An upgraded research tree with improved structure and search functionality.
• Overhauled contract system with resource filters, better balance, and a time-saving “Fill All” button for cargo pods.
• Preferred resource settings for Cargo Docks for better logistics control.
• A fully expanded in-game encyclopedia for instant access to production recipes.
• The addition of Moon Radio allows players to choose background music or view currently playing tracks, along with new soundtrack additions.