Lo-Fi Games

I've only recently started playing Kenshi so my experience is somewhat limited, but there is a clear lack of connection between characters and the world. Before I go any further, I understand that this could be a result of Kenshi's partially finished state and not intended in the final version of the game. However, I find that characters will rarely mention relevant locations, factions, or events. Dialogue functions as if the world is practically nonexistent and the linear dialogue framework in the editor hinders the ability to create dynamic, branching dialogue.

In RPGs, events are often tied to specific branches of dialogue as some player dialogue choices translate into player choices for an aspect of the world or their character. In the case of Kenshi and Kenshi 2 I believe this connection is especially important because it would become probably the most important means of meaningful progression into the endgame. Endgame gear and outposts can serve as a catalyst for larger events, narratives, and quests for the player to complete.

I have a lot of thoughts on the subject and I wholeheartedly believe that adding significant narrative depth to Kenshi 2 would make move up from a really great game to a masterpiece. Players want to experience a living, breathing world and for their character decisions to make a real impact on that world. Currently, I'm working on a mod to add those features to Kenshi with the existing modding tool and I have experience doing similar things in the past. I would love for anyone on the team, dev or otherwise, to reach out to me. I would be willing to provide a detailed, concise outline of narrative design ideas for Kenshi 2 in addition to my own dynamic dialogue and quest system for UE4. A long shot probably, but I'd rather try than not. Regardless, I appreciate anyone taking the time to read this and I wish you the best!

...there is a clear lack of connection between characters and the world. Before I go any further, I understand that this could be a result of Kenshi's partially finished state and not intended in the final version of the game...

As a player of Kenshi for several years now, I both agree and disagree with your well-worded and constructive critique, but first, AFAIK, Kenshi is finished. If you are in process of making a mod to fill a gap you perceive (and acknowledge others as well), that is wonderful! I'd be willing to play test at the very least. Perhaps consider starting a thread at Kenshi forum over at steam, it's generally a good community of players and will get more response and feedback.

RE: "clear lack of connection..." I would not say "clear" but then you say this type of connection is "rarely mentioned..." so it is there and has to be actively sought out. The game certainly could have more NPC engagement with player, both meaningful, banal, and even misleading. But it is up to the player to take the time to engage more NPCs in dialogue and work that into the player's story. The wide open world Lofi has created is there to jumpstart the player's imagination, to build an internal narrative (role play) based on events they experience. There are many posts on this topic, but a terrific example is the video linked below that got me interested in Kenshi.

However not all players do so since NPC engagement tends to be sparse, and so not an encouraging positive feedback loop to talk to more NPCs. Also, some players are simply used to being spoon fed in power fantasy games and need to adjust to a different game and play style. It is very sad for me to read so many posts and see so many mods that exploit training - I actually enjoy the early game struggle most of all, living hand-to-mouth, but I am considered a 'mature gamer' though still a child at heart ...

So ultimately, it is up to the player to explore and discover more, engage more NPCs in dialogue, pick up bounties, buy or steal more books and maps, and follow up on those sparse leads. It proves to be a very meaningful experience. Again, a mod such as the one you plan/hope to create that adds more NPC engagement would be welcome by many, including myself, as long as it keeps the sandbox a sandbox, and not force a story line. Cheers!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3u6snmQNTRQ