Patch Hotfix #28 for Dark and Darker introduces a series of critical bug fixes and performance optimizations. Key issues addressed include abnormal damage from creatures like the Centipede, and various environmental glitches, particularly in the Goblin Caves. The update also fine-tunes the audio, adding new sound effects and adjusting volume levels to enhance the game’s auditory experience.

In terms of gameplay, the patch significantly alters equipment stats and attributes, such as the primary stats for the Brave Hunter Pants and the mechanics governing interaction speeds. Notably, a new ‘Demon Armor’ perk for Warlocks allows them to wear heavier armor at the cost of reduced magical healing. Weapon dynamics have also been refined, with changes to attack multipliers across various weapons.

The update boosts the game’s balance and player experience by improving the loot system, including increased drop rates for key items. The reintroduction of the Spectator Mode in High Roller dungeons adds a social element, allowing players to observe gameplay post-elimination. Overall, this patch aims to enhance the stability, fairness, and enjoyment of the game.

Changes:

• Fixed a bug with the Centipede poison doing abnormal damage.
• Fixed a bug where spider mummies would get stuck in their spider pot.
• Fixed a bug with indestructible spider pots.
• Fixed a bug in the Goblin Caves where certain static exits would never open.
• Fixed a bug where portals would appear inside the ground.
• Fixed a bug with the smoke pot effect.
• Fixed several bugs with the Hydra and its projectile.
• Fixed several sound bugs where the sound would not disappear properly.
• Normalized sound volumes for sounds that were too loud.
• Various performance optimizations and updated several visual effects.
• Added a sound for thrown torches hitting an object.
• Changed the primary stats for the Brave Hunter Pants from STR+AGI → DEX+AGI.
• Updated the amount of true physical damage gained for the higher grade Frost Amulets.
• Regular Interact Speed and Installation Speed now uses AGI+RESC instead of DEX+RESC.
• Item equip speed is now based on DEX instead of AGI.
• Updated the innate magic resistance rating curve gained based on your WILL attribute.
• Magical Interaction Speed and Magical Installation Speed now based on WILL instead of KNOW.
• New ‘Demon Armor’ perk added for the Warlock. The perk allows the Warlock to wear plate/chain armor but must sacrifice a large amount of their magical healing.
• Updated primary stats for the Golden crafted items.
• Updated the amount of Magic Resistance gained per rarity for Dark Plate Armor, Dark Leather Leggings, Dashing Boots, Ornate Jazerant, and Runestone Gloves.
• Updated the amount of projectile damage reduction gained per rarity for Fine Cuirass, Heavy Gauntlets, Plate Boots, Plate Pants, and equivalent crafted versions.
• Bardiche’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60% → 100%/70%.
• Battle Axe’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60% → 100%/70%.
• Double Axe’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60% → 100%/70%.
• Felling Axe’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60% → 100%/70%.
• Flanged Mace’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/70% → 100%/80%.
• Halberd’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60%/40% → 100%/70%/50%.
• Morning Star’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/70% → 100%/80%.
• Spear’s attack multiplier for each hitbox has been changed from 100%/60% → 100%/70%.
• Recovery from Surgical Kits is now treated as physical healing.
• The Howling Crypts has now been removed from the map rotation and has been replaced with another instance of the Ruins.
• Several performance optimizations for the Goblin Caves.
• Reduced the monster density for the Goblin Caves.
• Updated the overall health of the Cyclops.
• Healing from Lich’s Curse is now treated as system healing.
• Improved the drop rate of the Troll Pelt.
• Improved the drop rate for Mimics.
• Improved the drop rate for items from breaking barrels.
• Return of Spectator Mode for High Roller dungeons. Players will be able to spectate other players for up to 1 minute after their party has been eliminated from the High Roller dungeon.