[2022] My CAT FOOD looks like TOAST

This is largely a consequence of the game being in development, rather than a finished product getting updates. For example, you mention the character and clothing art lagging behind zombie and world art. They’ve been forecasting an overhaul to armor/clothing, and by extension updates to the non-zombie character art for a long time, and we now expect that change to come in the next alpha.

We’re all driving the car while it’s being built so to speak, which makes the unfinished parts of the car more conspicuous. But this is how Early Access is supposed to work.

As for the food in hand models, I can see how it feels like a step backwards. Though I have to say, complaining that the cat food doesn’t look good, of all things, doesn’t make the most convincing argument. Those were consolidated for a reason: to reduce the texture/memory footprint. But I also don’t like all foods looking like toast, and I hope as they continue adding high def furniture and other decor, they can re-introduce separate models for in-hand food.

Originally posted by Mr. Storm: Im no game dev but its not like the old models were super complex or anything there's probably other ways they could have cut back on the memory usage. Personally, I would have preferred a more even set of textures (even poorer quality ones) rather than making some high definition at the detriment to many others. I think it would have made a smoother transition if they just left the old ones there for now and rolled out all the new ones when the game is better optimized. I enjoy the game still its just a little critique of the devs process. Just my opinion though.

That hasn't been my understanding. The devs have said the redone, higher quality zombies are actually more performant than the old versions they replace. So rather than sacrificing art in one area to allow better art in another, the zombies at least have been a win-win. One might be optimistic that they could do the same thing for the food art, although it also seems clear they have higher priorities.

Originally posted by Crashtian: Update character models would be cool, But do we want to take bets on whether or not you'll still have the one pair of Caucasian hands no matter what color your characters skin is?

Those first person arms were redone not long ago, in both male and female versions. So I'd predict they're unlikely to re-do them again if they can help it. I suspect whatever character customization or lack thereof we have in A21 will be considered final. We'll have to see.