Since Avcon, we've been hard at work to bring the Closed access playtest a new update which overhauls and adds more content to pivotal systems (if you don't have access to the live playtest, read till end of post for more info there). While this update contains no new additions to our first map, we'll be rolling out another update later this year with a significant focus on new level content.
Currently in the playtest, only 3 abilities have been available to use. This update will bring 5 new ones (with some small visual updates to the older ones). All of the abilities below will be unlocked from the time of the update so that everyone can experiment with what's new.
Utilities
Time Splitter: Split time using a haunted watch that slows demons.
Bartov's Writ: Enchant yourself with a madman's ambition and push your weapons to their limits.
Blood Splicer: Mix your blood to gain a demon's ferocity, increasing your reaction time and agility.
Lethals
Demon's Fang: Torn from a feral demon's maw, use this fang-like blade to turn your blood into a lethal weapon.
Centrifuse: An invention that combines demonic blood and gunpowder into a powerful bomb!
Calcifer's Flame: A strange flame trapped within the confines of ornate glass. Beware its ethereal power or be burned.
Ultimate
The Guardian: A magnificent weapon that unleashes a ceaseless torrent of bullets infused with blood at hordes of enemies, they say one of these is equivalent to a whole other reaver.
Sanguine Reaper: A final swan song from a great inventor, mow down the endless assault of demonic forces with this deadly tool, just be wary that it doesn't gain a mind of its own.
These names are not final, so please, if any aren't hitting, let us know by giving a suggestion in our Discord server!
In addition to the new abilities, the system itself has received a minor update in that you can now have 2 different utilities equipped at the same time (which you can toggle between using the D-Pad for controller and [G] for Keyboard and mouse). We hope this allows for more loadout diversity.
As we prepare for the push to give players access to multiplayer, we've updated the menus to reflect this. When starting up the game, you'll be able to preview how we're structuring lobbies and what you may be able to do while waiting for your friends to pick their equipment (though multiplayer is still on the way). While mentioning that, you can now select your loadout from the lobby menu and select which abilities you want in each session, along with some descriptions of what they do. Use this to find the playstyle that suits you the best.
We know that other games have delayed their releases due to Silksong coming out today, but regardless, we've decided to update Blood Reaver right now! So if you're one of the unfortunate few still having issues with Steam's servers, why not give Blood Reaver another go?
We would love to hear your thoughts on the new systems. If you havn't already had the chance to dive into the playtest we drop keys in our Discord server every few week!