Fun Dog Studios has recently unveiled an exciting update for their extraction-survival game, *The Forever Winter*, titled "The Descent to Averno is Easy". This major patch, released during the game's early access phase, brings a host of significant changes that enhance both the depth of gameplay and overall player experience.
A standout feature of this update is the revamped water system. No longer consumed in real-time, water now acts as a currency that players can use to access various regions within the game. The price for entry fluctuates daily, adding a strategic element to gameplay. Players can also trade water with teammates before matches, fostering team dynamics. To accommodate this new system, quest rewards and resource distribution across the map have been recalibrated. As a nod to those who prepared in advance, players who hoarded water prior to the update will be rewarded with a special bonus from the developers in the future.
Combat mechanics have undergone a comprehensive overhaul. Adjustments to recoil, accuracy, weapon sway, and handling, along with refined aiming mechanics, reload animations, and shotgun balance, have already been implemented for several weapons. Fun Dog Studios plans to extend these enhancements across the entire arsenal in upcoming updates, promising an even more immersive combat experience.
The enemy AI has been upgraded to offer a more realistic and challenging opponent. New detection indicators give players clearer feedback on how close they are to being spotted, while enemies now react more intelligently to their surroundings and combat situations. Furthermore, the spawn system has been revised to prevent unfair encounters, with enemies no longer spawning directly in front of or behind players.
Adding to the game's variety, two new features have been introduced: the "Stairway to Heaven" map and a night mode for the "Frozen Swamp" area. The latter brings horror-inspired elements to the atmosphere, enhancing the game's immersion. Other notable updates include an improved looting system, reworked melee combat for enemies, and a series of new quests for players to explore and conquer.