[Update #2]: Project Zomboid's Build 42 update is aiming to massively expand the world map.

[Update]: Project Zomboid's Update 41.73 has added scores of small but highly welcome changes.

Despite only just releasing the massive Build 41 update that brought with it online multiplayer, improved visuals and a boatload of gameplay changes, Project Zomboid devs are already setting their sights on the next big feature. As you might guess from the title, it will be the long-awaited addition of NPCs!

While the work on NPCs has already begun, it's important to temper your expectations as the full implementation of the NPC system will require quite a few major updates to complete. In other words, once the NPCs arrive alongside Build 43 they will likely still be unpolished and a bit rudimentary. The good news is that the subsequent major updates will all be focused around them, so the system should get fleshed out sooner rather than later.

As for the previously announced introduction of hunting and pets, that has been slightly pushed back in order to make room for the NPCs. After all, both hunting and pets revolve around there being actual animals in the world, so it makes sense for the team to first create a basic NPC system before going for something a bit more involved.

Once the big NPC update goes live I'll make sure to let you know. Until then, you can read a little bit more about Project Zomboid's roadmap and plans for the next bug-fixing update over at the official website. Enjoy!