Version 1.0 launch after early access

Enshrouded, a survival action-RPG developed by Keen Games, has officially released its version 1.0 after nearly three years in early access. The game, which first launched in January 2024, has seen eight major updates that significantly expanded its open-world environment, added new biomes, enemies, and gameplay mechanics, and introduced the volcanic region "Cinder’s Cradle" with new resources and challenges.

Expansion of the open world

The game's open world, called Embervale, has grown substantially since its early access launch. New biomes like the Blackmire Marshes, the snow-capped Albaneve Summits, and aquatic environments introduced with "Wake of the Water" have added variety to the landscape and gameplay. Version 1.0 also allows players to reach level 50, upgrade equipment to level 55, and complete the main story, which now has a full conclusion.

Handcrafted world and exploration mechanics

Enshrouded features a handcrafted world rather than one generated by algorithms, with fixed geography that includes abandoned villages, ruins, hidden passages, and secrets. The game emphasizes exploration, with verticality enabled through grappling hooks and gliders, allowing players to access hard-to-reach areas and modify terrain using its voxel engine.

Key mechanic: the Shroud and progression system

A key mechanic in the game is the "Shroud," a corrupting fog that limits exploration time and increases danger. Players can progress through the "Flame" system to extend their time in dangerous areas. The game also includes a construction system called "Sparkworks," which allows players to build structures, modify terrain, and create interactive mechanisms, similar to Minecraft's Redstone system.

Combat and gameplay features

Combat in Enshrouded includes a variety of weapons, magic, and a skill tree that allows for hybrid playstyles. The combat system has seen improvements leading up to version 1.0, including new spells for mages and refined enemy behaviors. However, the combat remains relatively simple and repetitive, despite a diverse range of enemies and bosses.

Construction and multiplayer support

The construction aspect is highlighted as one of the game's strongest features, allowing for creative building and interactive mechanisms. Players can build bases, restore abandoned structures, and create underwater zones or fortresses. Version 1.0 includes ergonomic improvements such as a flight tool for complex constructions and better chest management. The game supports up to 16 players on PC and 8 on PS5, though cross-play between platforms is not available at launch.

Technical improvements and remaining issues

Technically, the game has seen improvements in rendering, lighting, and shadow effects, with smooth performance on tested configurations. However, some issues persist, including the resetting of world modifications outside of Flame-protected bases and the complexity of crafting and construction systems as players progress. The game's narrative is subtle, relying on environmental storytelling and player interactions with survivors, with voice acting for main characters and lore texts in multiple languages, though not French.

Future updates and community involvement

Keen Games has stated that version 1.0 is not the end of their work on Enshrouded, with future updates and expansions planned. The game's community, built through early access, is expected to continue supporting and expanding the game's content through player-created structures and shared experiences.