The latest update for early-access indie title The Forest has been released, adding multiple new features and fixing a number of bugs and game issues.
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Endnight Games has posted the full list of changes on its website, highlighted by the anticipated addition of peaceful mode, which will allow you to build and survive without being savaged by marauding cannibals.
There is a running countdown on the game's main menu, the developer's way of letting players know when the next update is coming. The title has been patched now with the changes, starting the timer over again--only 18 days until the next update!
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To activate peaceful mode, you need to type "veganmode" (without the quotation marks) on title screen. In addition to the new pacifism, there are new items and buildable structures available, including the house boat. There's also a new, simpler effigy, as well as a stick holder.
Endnight has also fixed and added some sounds, including randomized thunder and rain sounds (presumably replacing more canned effects that were in the previous build). These are accompanied by several bug fixes, which address some collision detection and item issues. Again, the full patch notes can be found on the website at the link above.
I've enjoyed my time with The Forest, even if it can be frustrating at times. These updates are making it run more smoothly and boast an increasing number of features and mechanics, undoubtedly leading to a better game.
I'd like to see some gameplay balancing done, the difficulty seems to ramp up very quickly, throwing enemies at you (in groups of at least two or three while you're relatively defenseless) within the first day or two. I've hardly had time to set up a base to give myself a chance before getting attacked, but perhaps it requires better starting tactics. Given that the game doesn't do much to guide you, though, it often feels more unfair than anything.
The Forest is still in alpha, however, and is clearly continuing to improve with patches such as these. You can join the early access build now for $14.99.