I would agree. I know about the upcoming release because I visit Gitea from time to time, but you can't expect that from everyone. I'm not sure if there's a better way to communicate this than by announcing it on the forum and perhaps on social media. The only other thing I can think of is informing players in the bottom right-hand corner when launching the game that they could help test a new release version.

Thank you for the information. Regards.

https://gitea.wildfiregames.com/0ad/0ad/issues/8446 Release process. It's a shame there's no coherent communication system. People don't know what's happening with the game because it doesn't happen outside of the development community or this forum. I don't know how to prepare people to expect a release.  No expectation no hype.

I think this might answer your question.

Discord is good for chat , not for plan or open topic