For a sneak peak at the upcoming client patch, here is the patch message from the AO test server: - Optimized resource management to reduce amount of loading. - Optimized lookup of items, to process incoming characters faster. - Reduced message size for character updates, when entering new zones. - Included a server-side option to reduce observation range in cities and other crowded areas. - Enabled stream compression to reduce bandwidth. - Eliminated some small memory leaks in the client. - Eliminated several resource leaks. - Fixed an exploit allowing players to select the same mission several times. GUI and controls: - Removed “Trade Canceled” flooding if you ignore someone who wants to trade with you. - All playfield names should now displayed correctly. - The “skill available” message should now be written in a different color, and thus be easier to identify. - Chat channel settings saved. - Fog settings saved correctly. - Client position is now updated correctly on the world map when you change playfield. AI: - The humanoid vendors will now be able to deal with more than one customer at the time. - The monsters should stop attacking when you have “initiated” a playfield change, but the servers fail to complete it. - Nano Formulas run by monsters will from now on be aborted when the monster reach zero health. - NPC's should no longer be able to attack each other in 100% suppression gas areas. - “Debuffing” NPC stats will be more effective from now on. This also means that low-level NPC's should no longer use nano programs out of their level range. - Aggressive “Grey” monsters will no longer “always” attack you unprovoked. - Line-of-sight battle indoor and outdoor enabled. This applies to both players and monsters. RPG Tweaks, Bugs and changes. - Mission Tokens: The mission tokens have always been supposed to be a special reward given for “heroic” actions. From now on you will get your token if your side “deems” you worthy. Tokens will no longer be shown as a reward in the mission description. - In PvP when the master dies, pets will turn into ordinary monsters. When the master gets close to it again, he regains control - You should now look OK after zoning with your trench coat on. - Poison and Heal over Time formulas should still be active on your character after zoning. - You should no longer be able to “use” items in chests without using their charges. - Team Nano programs and area of effect Nano programs can now be aborted. - Ammo should be displayed correctly after play-field shifting. - Cleaned up special attack requirements. Now you only need to meet the requirements of the right-hand weapon to be able to use the attack. - Worn and equipped items will no longer be included in the encumbrance calculation. This applies to items inside worn backpacks too.