The latest update for Skydance Games’ Behemoth, which released this year, aims to tackle the game’s combat system, which the developers themselves described as stirring some "controversy." Since its release on December 5th for Quest 2/3/Pro, PSVR 2, and PC VR headsets via Meta’s Horizon Store and Steam, the game’s combat has sparked mixed feelings among players.
While we found the original combat mechanics engaging, many players expressed dissatisfaction. The team at Skydance has addressed these concerns with a new patch, focusing on the game’s physics-based, melee-heavy battles against human adversaries.
"Let’s get straight to the point: the combat’s been a hot topic," the studio mentioned. "While plenty of fans appreciate our initial design, we’ve also had feedback from those finding aspects like stamina depletion, parrying, and dodging maneuvers challenging." In response, they’ve refined these elements to be more accommodating, enhancing overall gameplay for everyone.
What’s more, the patch introduces a ‘Freestyle Mode’ in beta, where the Combat Stamina drain is reduced, except during climbing tasks. The update also addresses issues in boss battles, enemy AI behavior, and boosts stability across all systems.
For those wanting the complete patch details, including some minor spoilers, you can find them online. Here’s a spoiler-free breakdown:
QUEST SPECIFIC
Player Experience
- Introduced a "Shader compiling" loading screen to clear up confusion during shader-building times.
- Added tactile feedback to the Main Menu.
- Solved a crash issue in Arena Mode [BETA] that occurred during specific actions.
- Enhanced smoothness in climbing interactions and fixed certain collision bugs.
- Resolved progression issues, including problems in the Nightscraper fight and Ragnar’s disappearing act during tutorials.
Gameplay
- Improved geometry collision to stop players from unintentional phasing.
- Fixed occasional clipping with Dreddstag and Shacklehide leg climbs.
- Ensured keys properly respawn in ghost form post-save and reload.
- Enhanced enemy reactions during combat for better flow.
- Refined rope interactions for a more intuitive experience.
Art & Audio
- Boosted environmental textures and lighting, especially noticeable on Quest 3.
- Minimized visual discrepancies.
- Corrected floating objects, such as arrows and debris.
- Maintained musical atmosphere during the Shacklehide battle.
ALL PLATFORMS
Progression Blockers
- Fixed issues that prevented enemies like Kragjaeger and Shacklehide from appearing or caused unintended game freezes.
- Enabled Fast Travel after campaign completion for ongoing exploration.
Combat Updates
- Adjusted dodge mechanics to include 0.5 seconds of invincibility.
- Made headshots on basic enemies a one-hit kill.
- Enhanced parry/block angles for easier counters.
Combat Stamina Drain Adjustments
- Balanced stamina drain across all difficulty settings.
- Introduced “Freestyle Mode (BETA)” for minimal stamina drain, though achievements and trophies are paused in this mode.
Miniboss and Boss Tuning
- Tweaked miniboss difficulty and fixed glitches.
- Increased Ragnar’s health and attack pace.
Level Updates
- Improved interactions in key locations like Shacklehide’s arena, Zephyr’s Pass, and the Throne Room.
- Enhanced puzzle designs and chest access in Duskhold and more.
Miscellaneous Fixes
- Increased stability with critical crash solutions.
- Resolved lighting, visual inconsistencies, and voiceover timing issues.
- Rearranged Trophy Room items to avoid glitches.
Players will find that these updates collectively promise a smoother and more enjoyable experience, addressing many of the community’s concerns while keeping the essence of Behemoth’s original charm intact.
