​Editor Note:A previous version of this post stated that Sparklet would be automatically burned when spent. This was incorrect. Sparklet used in upcoming features will be moved into a community-controlled pool. The community will then vote on how that Sparklet is used next burning is one possible option, but not automatic.​

We’re excited to bring you the second installment of our Developer Update series, a look behind the scenes at the systems and features currently in development. Each update is a window into how we’re evolving Upland to offer deeper gameplay, greater community involvement, and new utility for in-game assets.

At the core of it all remains Upland’s foundation: property ownership, development, and an economy shaped by its players. This update covers major progress across three areas,Resident scoring and neighborhood data, expanded Sparklet utility, and powerful new tools forNeighborhood Mayors.

These aren’t isolated features; they’re interconnected systems designed to make owning, managing, and improving property in Upland more dynamic and rewarding than ever before.

Laying the Groundwork for Residents

As we get closer to the official arrival of Residents in Upland, we’re excited to begin sharing a deeper look into some of the behind-the-scenes data we’ve been monitoring. Starting next week, we’ll begin regularly publishing key metrics from the upcoming resident algorithm, offering a snapshot of what neighborhood scores might look like if the feature were released today.

Our goal is to give the community greater visibility into how we’re shaping the experience, from how neighborhoods are ranked to how Resident and Influence scores are calculated. This transparency will also help Uplanders better understand the moving parts behind residency as we continue refining the system. The algorithm itself will soon begin running in the background, setting the stage for future Resident activity.

Stay tuned, our first data drop is coming next week.

Sparklet Utility Is Expanding

We also want to highlight our continued progress in bringing more utility to Sparklet. Since the announcement of Residents, Uppies, and Service Structures, we’ve seen increasing demand for Sparklet across Upland. That demand is only going to grow as we begin introducing new gameplay loops that actively require Sparklet to unlock and use.

This marks the first time Sparklet will be spendable in Upland, and it’s only the beginning. Each of the upcoming features below will require Sparklet to activate, creating meaningful utility and contributing to a deflationary ecosystem:

Generating Seeds

Special nurseries will allow players to generate seeds for the upcoming “Life” feature. As previously announced, this process will require a small Sparklet spend.

Merging Uppies

Upgrading and merging Uppies will also require Sparklet. This adds depth to the Uppie economy and further connects it to in-game property dynamics.

Living Unit Blueprints

Creative Uplanders will soon be able to design and sell their own Living Unit Structures. Sparklet will be required to create these Blueprints, giving builders a new outlet for both creativity and entrepreneurship.

We remain committed to making Sparklet a core part of the Upland experience, one that supports real utility, drives engagement, and reinforces the foundation of Upland: property development.

Mayors & Abandoned Properties

Finally, let’s talk about Mayors. As you know, we’re currently preparing to test Mayor accounts and their ability to develop shared community spaces like parks. These early tests will help shape the future of neighborhood leadership, collaboration, and governance in Upland.Stay tuned for the next steps coming soon.

Looking ahead, we’re developing a new feature that will give future elected Neighborhood Mayors even more tools to improve their communities. One of the first abilities we’re exploring is the power to initiate development on abandoned properties, parcels owned by players who haven’t logged in for a specified period.

These inactive properties often pose challenges for neighborhoods working to increase their Resident Scores. With this new system, Neighborhood Mayors will be able to place structures and start development working with their communities on those lots. Importantly, the original owners will retain ownership and, if they return, will have the option to remove any new construction placed on their property.

We believe this system strikes a balance between honoring player ownership and empowering active communities. As always, your feedback is critical, please share your thoughts with us on theUpland Feedback Board.

Building the Future, One Property at a Time

Everything shared in this update, from the rollout of Resident scores, to Sparklet’s expanding in-game utility, to the growing powers of Neighborhood Mayors, comes back to Upland’s core: property ownership, development, and a thriving player-driven economy.

These features aren’t just new mechanics, they’re building blocks that strengthen the fabric of Upland. By giving players more control, more tools, and more meaningful ways to shape their neighborhoods, we’re ensuring that property in Upland is more than just a plot, it’s potential.