Let's talk about the other major feature coming in the next update.
GAUNTLET
Gauntlet is an endgame activity that serves as a less time-consuming alternative to Endless runs. A condensed repeatable quest that gets harder each time you complete it, quickly ramping up from manageable to near-impossible.
Here's the kicker, though. While Gauntlet levels are procedurally generated, they are also persistent and stay the same until completed. This means that even seemingly impossible scenarios can eventually be overcome with tailor-made strategies. Got swarmed at the stage with several summoners? Bring a more AoE-oriented loadout and party composition next time.
This encourages experimentation and successful tactics can also be shared with other players.
NEW DANGERS
The introduction of Skill Trees significantly ups the relative power of heroes, so if any endgame activities are to work, new dangers are necessary to put that power to the test
As you can see from the thumbnail, several new enemy types are coming in this update, each bringing a unique tactical twist. This is partially just us moving towards our final content target, however. Balance-wise, we're focusing on Miniboss vaiants and Elites, with both adjustments and fresh additions.
We want these encounters to feel truly special and challenging even for late game parties.
RELEASE DATE
Initially this update was meant to focus just on the Gauntlet and new enemy content, but ultimately we decided that based on your feedback Bonfire really needs finalised character progression. So essentially we're merging two updates into one (for a while we considered three, but let's not go there...), especially as their systems are closely intertwined balance-wise and require a lot of playtesting together.
Our current release goal is either the end of August or mid September.
As always, if you have any questions, feedback or just want to chat, drop by our Discord server.
-Tom