Preview - K.A.R.S. Framework

I've paused the development for Valhalla combat because it is nearly finished, with only one thing I want to implement: a proper stun system.

Before making the system, I realize how unreliable and limited Skyrim's vanilla stagger behavior is: it only has 4 different magnitudes for 2 directions : front and back; that's it. Industry standards have dozens of reactions per swinging direction: For example , in Elden Ring, a leftward swing leads to different reaction than a rightward swing. A downward slam of a hammer realistically knocks the enemy to the ground. I really wanted those reactions in Skyrim; this is what makes your swings feel truly impactful, on top of hitstops and screen shakes.

This is why ADRI(BOTUser99) and I started this new project that will hopefully serve as an universal framework for future stagger overhauls/poise mod/combat mods: Kickass-Accurate-Reaction-System a.k.a. K.A.R.S. Framework. 

Unlike immersive impact, poise, and project impact, K.A.R.S. is not a stagger overhaul by itself. Instead, it provides an API for modders to conveniently trigger dozens of reactions of different magnitudes. You can think of it as the Skysa/MCO of enemy reactions&staggers that will serve as a base for future stagger mods.

What makes this system different is that animators and combat mod authors both have precise control over reactions. Animators can force a reaction for specific animations, and comabt mod authors can take control of enemy reactions entirely through this framework.

Another feature that I really like about K.A.R.S.(and Skyrim really lack) is the accuracy of reactions. Thanks to Ersh and his precision, on-hit reactions in Skyrim are now truly accurate depending on your real swinging direction. In the video for example, the enemy launching into the air isn't scripted or achieved using some spell workarounds. The enemy launches because he was hit by a powerattack uppercut from a greatsword. Every weapon, every moveset, every attack will have their unique reactions naturally builtin with K.A.R.S..

Further details about this system will be revealed soon; Valhalla Combat will be the first mod to use K.A.R.S framework. 

On a side note: valhalla combat should soon be AE ready.