My favorite new (and free) game just got a big update, and now it’s better than ever

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In late 2023, I got an early peek at Half Sword, a combat simulator set in the medieval era, which quickly became one of my favorite new games. Last year, a refined playtest version was released, making the gaming experience even smoother. However, a significant update recently has elevated the game to a whole new level of enjoyment, surpassing its previous state.

The primary modification in this update is combining the content from the 2023 demo and the 2024 playtest into a single demo version, which explains why you can no longer run the playtest on Steam. As a result, you now have access to the Abyss mode from the original demo – an engaging roguelike adventure set in an eternal, misty underworld filled with chests of random loot and enemies wielding various weapons, as well as the free play option from the playtest that includes duels and group fights.

In a recent Steam post, the developers acknowledged that having two distinct test versions created more confusion than clarity for most players. As a result, they’ve chosen to discontinue the Playtest and integrate its content with the Abyss, creating a streamlined, combined demo instead.

Additionally, this game introduces a fresh playing style called Gauntlet. Here, you engage in combat to reach the highest title, Baron. As you advance, your equipment levels incrementally upgrade by defeating opponents and unique enemies. Victories earn points towards the next level, but surrendering or being defeated results in loss of points. Deaths lead to the Abyss, where you must battle various foes with whatever resources are available, followed by a rematch against the previous level’s boss. If successful, you can resume your climb on the current tier; however, failure in the Abyss resets your Gauntlet progress and forces you to start over.

The Gauntlet isn’t just an enjoyable test of skill, but it’s also incredibly entertaining because it encourages you to interact with numerous weapons and armors from Half Sword’s extensive collection. Additionally, its physics-based combat mechanics allow for a wide range of techniques. Based on the weapon you wield and your opponent’s armor, you might need to target their head, find gaps in their armor to stab with your blade, employ the two-handed half swording technique to grapple and subdue enemies, and so forth.

Regarding the upgrade on the fight mechanism, it has noticeably enhanced with this new version, yet none of these improvements were mentioned in any patch notes. Now, attacks flow more smoothly and are easier to execute and manage compared to earlier versions. Additionally, the Half Sword game operates more efficiently overall. Despite requiring further optimization for optimal performance, there have been significant improvements – even during instances of rapid multiple deaths, the game can become a bit jerky, but overall, it’s functioning well enough for an Early Access stage.

In essence, you’re still experiencing that superb sword fighting simulation I grew fond of earlier this year, but now it offers an exciting novel game mode, smoother controls, and enhanced technical efficiency. Much like its previous free demo and playtest versions, this latest demo is not only accessible for free-to-play gaming but also under 3GB in file size. Why not explore what seems to be one of the top new PC games available today?

As an eager fan, I can’t wait to see the final release of this game later this year, though I don’t know the exact date we’ll get to play Half Sword in its entirety in 2025. In the meantime, I’m excited to share my feedback on the demo and join the discussion with other fans on social media or the official Half Sword Discord server. Let’s work together with Half Sword Games and Game Seer to shape this amazing game!

The studio assures everyone that they are determined to create an engaging, enjoyable game for all, and your input is crucial in achieving this goal. Half Sword is a continuous exploration, and you play a significant role in it. We deeply appreciate your participation, your testing, and your backing. Rest assured, we will continue to strive tirelessly to win your confidence, your investment, and your focus at every stage of development.

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2025-04-07 22:39