Neon Machine’s upcoming blockchain-based first-person shooter Shrapnel is entering the final stretch before release. The studio has kicked off a new monthly developer blog series aimed at keeping players updated on gameplay improvements, technical tweaks, and production progress as it approaches its Q1 2026 launch.
The first post, covering updates from September, gives a detailed look at weapon balancing, hit detection improvements, interface and sound changes, and early work on the in-game economy.
Shrapnel Fine-Tuning Gunplay
Fine-Tuning the Gunplay
Weapon handling has been one of the biggest focuses for the development team. Shrapnel’s new recoil system replaces random horizontal movement with a fixed, curve-based pattern unique to each weapon. This adjustment lets players predict and master weapon behavior through practice, giving firefights a more consistent and skill-driven feel.
The update also changes how weapon spread responds to player movement and stance. Shooting from the hip, crouching, or aiming down sights now results in different accuracy levels. The first bullet from every burst lands directly on target, though shotguns continue to function with their traditional spread mechanics. Developers say the system is still being tuned, with feedback from internal tests shaping the final balance.
More Reliable Combat Feedback
The Shrapnel team also rebuilt its hit detection and bullet logic, addressing feedback about inconsistent shot registration. The revamped system improves how the server and client communicate, helping reduce latency and improving the accuracy of bullet tracking.
To further optimize performance, the team implemented bullet pooling, which reuses bullet objects during combat instead of generating new ones. This technical change reduces the load on the network and makes gameplay smoother during intense fights. Live testing is ongoing to confirm that the updates hold up under real-world conditions.
Shrapnel Fine-Tuning Gunplay
Sharper Visuals and Clearer Audio
Visual and sound design continue to evolve alongside core gameplay. The September update adds new in-game voice announcements (such as warnings for incoming storms) and refines how sound cues are mixed during team events. These changes aim to make important information stand out during chaotic matches.
UI feedback also received attention. Crosshair alignment was fixed to match actual bullet trajectories, and new reticle and hit marker designs are being tested. Loot icons and markers now fade when centered on screen to reduce clutter. Additionally, a cleanup system automatically removes unused dropped loot after a short period, improving overall performance during longer sessions.
A New Operator Joins the Roster
Neon Machine introduced a new Operator named Doug, or “The Rookie,” who will serve as the default character for players without a purchased or earned Operator.
Map updates were also part of this development cycle. The team adjusted lighting on the night map for better visibility, refined interior layouts, and fixed several collision issues. Future updates are expected to introduce new weapon skins, charms, and cosmetic items, as the team prepares for live service operations post-launch.
Shrapnel Fine-Tuning Gunplay
Testing the Player Experience and Economy
A full new-player simulation was conducted to assess onboarding, mission flow, and progression pacing. This internal test helped identify areas where players might feel stuck or confused during early gameplay. Doug, the new default Operator, is now confirmed as the character all first-time players will start with.
The game’s in-world economy is also evolving. Neon Machine reworked how METAL points are earned and used and tested how fiat payments interact with in-game purchases. Extraction Pack contents are being revised, and the team is preparing for an external audit to validate the game’s blockchain economy before release.
Upcoming adjustments include refined mission structures, Operator unlock pacing, and updates to the Recycler system, which governs reward distribution. The team is also reviewing the Genesis Operator NFT collection for integration with the new system.
Expansion Through GalaChain
Beyond gameplay, Shrapnel has seen major structural changes this year. In July, Neon Machine announced it would move from Avalanche to GalaChain, supporting expansion into the Chinese market. A bridge between GalaChain and China’s government-regulated blockchain is being built, with completion expected in early 2026.
The SHRAP token, now hosted on GalaChain, remains the game’s main in-game currency, with players using GALA for transaction fees. Neon Machine confirmed that up to 10% of revenue from China will go toward buying back SHRAP tokens from the open market, maintaining token stability.
Earlier in the year, Shrapnel also became the first foreign web3 title approved for sale on China’s Trusted Copyright Chain, giving it legal clearance to offer tokenized in-game items.
Shrapnel Fine-Tuning Gunplay
Funding and Leadership Updates
In August, Neon Machine raised $19.5 million in funding led by Gala Games, with participation from Polychain Capital and Griffin Gaming Partners. The investment is set to accelerate development and support global release plans. A localized version of Shrapnel is expected to launch in China by the end of 2025, followed by the global release in Q1 2026.
Leadership changes have also reshaped the studio. In late 2024, industry veteran Ken Rosman took over as CEO, replacing co-founder Mark Long, who remains with the company as an advisor. Rosman brings experience from projects like Halo Wars and Sunset Overdrive, and his appointment followed internal disputes with the studio’s primary investor, 4D Factory.
Looking Ahead
With the introduction of monthly developer updates, Neon Machine appears committed to maintaining transparency as Shrapnel moves toward launch. The updates show steady progress on gameplay mechanics, performance optimization, and blockchain integration. If development continues on schedule, players can expect a public release in early 2026 - along with a deeper look into how Shrapnel will merge competitive FPS gameplay with web3 ownership systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Shrapnel? Shrapnel is a blockchain-based first-person shooter developed by Neon Machine. It combines traditional FPS gameplay with player-owned assets powered by web3 technology.
When will Shrapnel launch? The global launch for Shrapnel is scheduled for Q1 2026, with a localized version for China expected by late 2025.
What blockchain does Shrapnel use? Shrapnel is transitioning from Avalanche to GalaChain to support its international rollout and compliance with Chinese blockchain regulations.
What is the SHRAP token used for? The SHRAP token serves as the game’s in-game currency, used to buy, sell, and trade assets. Players will also use GALA, Gala Games’ native token, for transaction fees.
Who is developing Shrapnel? The game is being developed by Neon Machine, a studio led by CEO Ken Rosman. The company includes veterans from major titles such as Halo Wars and Sunset Overdrive.
Will Shrapnel be free to play? Neon Machine has not yet confirmed if Shrapnel will launch as a free-to-play title, but early tests suggest it will support a mix of free and paid Operators and cosmetic items.
