What will happen to projects Rich was working towards, such as the increase to Overland difficulty? When asked about it Rich acknowledged that Overland is difficult for some players and they were looking to make any changes optional so that it doesn't become more difficult for those players. Will this still be the goal or will it all depend on what direction Nick now takes things?
Overland Difficulty is still actively being worked on (talked to some team members about a few weeks ago). Rich and Nick have been working in lockstep over the last several months, so Nick is involved in everything Rich was working on. And Rich is still around for advising. So no worries about anything Rich is working on. He is still here to carry immediate things through. And anything mid to long term, Nick has been involved.
You'll hear a bit more from Nick soon and over the coming weeks.