Hello, Soul Seekers! 👋
Welcome back to another Into The Fire Gameplay Deep Dive!
In our previous devlog, we talked about what a successful expedition can look like. This time, we're getting a little more practical, since our playtests are starting in less than 10 days!
Before you step into the catastrophe zone, you need to prepare. The environment is unpredictable, your inventory space is limited, and you never really know what you'll encounter along the way.
So, what should you actually bring with you?
Today, we're taking a closer look at some of the essential tools and equipment that can make the difference between a successful expedition and a very quick return to the Camp. Without further ado, let's get started! 🔥
What Should You Bring To Your Expedition? 🤔
First things first – there is no single perfect loadout in Into The Fire.
Every item takes up valuable inventory space, so preparation is always about deciding what you expect to encounter, what your current needs are, and what you're willing to leave behind.
Some tools will help you reach previously inaccessible places. Others will keep you alive when things go wrong. And sometimes, bringing the right piece of equipment can open opportunities you wouldn't have otherwise.
Here are a few things you should definitely consider before heading out.
The Axe 🪓
Simple, reliable, and extremely useful. The Axe is one of your basic tools for getting through obstacles during an expedition. Locked or blocked doors, environmental obstacles, and even rocks can stand between you and your objective, and sometimes the fastest solution is simply to break through. But the Axe isn't only about traversal.
Various elements of the environment can be destroyed to drop additional resources, giving you another reason to explore your surroundings instead of simply following the fastest route toward your objective.
Just remember that with every swing, your character loses stamina and, most importantly, the axe loses durability, so keep those two things in mind while entering the cataclysm zone. You don't want to know how many times I went on a mission only to discover that with just a couple of swings my axe was broken and I couldn't even access most of the buildings in the city.
The Fire Extinguisher 🧯
You are running directly into a volcanic catastrophe. Of course you're bringing a Fire Extinguisher.
Fire can block your path, surround valuable resources, or stand between you and someone who needs help. Your extinguisher allows you to clear a way through the flames and deal with some of the basic Fire Spirits you'll encounter during your expeditions.
Of course, a fire extinguisher needs a water tank to function properly, but on the other hand, it can be refilled once it uses all of the water available in the water tank, which makes it a huge advantage.
The Backpack 🎒
It might not sound as exciting as an Axe or a Fire Extinguisher, but trust us, you'll be thankful you brought one.
Your Backpack increases both your carrying capacity and available inventory space, allowing you to bring more resources and equipment back to the Camp. While you don't have one from the beginning, it should be your #1 priority when it comes to crafting gear on a workbench.
And there's another important reason to keep an eye on how much you're carrying. Weight matters.
Overload your character and you'll start moving slower. That might not seem like a huge problem while peacefully searching an abandoned building, but it becomes much more serious when the volcano erupts, fire starts spreading, or you suddenly find someone who needs to be rescued.
Sometimes a little extra carrying capacity can literally save your life.
Medical Supplies 🩹
You never know what awaits you during an expedition.
Danger level rising quickly, fire spirits, explosions, storms, and other dangers can turn the tide against you. That's why bringing medical supplies is always worth considering especially if you consider the fact that they might not be used just for you.
Some survivors you encounter may require medical attention before you're able to safely extract them. Finding someone is only the first step. You still need to make sure they're in a condition to make it back.
That extra medical item taking up space in your inventory might be exactly what someone needs.
Join the Soul Seekers Camp
Want to be the first to hear about new features, updates, playtests, and behind-the-scenes development?
Join our official Discord community!
Our Discord members often get access to news before anyone else, participate in discussions with the developers, and help shape Into The Fire through early feedback. We'd love to have you with us.
Meet Us at Gamescom 2026! 📅
Before we proceed to the end of this announcement there is one more thing we would like to share with you. Into the Fire is heading to Gamescom in Cologne! You can find us at the Polish Indie Booth in Hall 4.1 (booth no. C041g/D050g).
Make sure to plan your route carefully, because the game will be presented only on Friday, August 28th, all day long. Drop by, test your survival skills in the disaster zone, and chat with our team in person. We can’t wait to see you there! 🔥
See You Among the Flames 🔥
That's everything for today's Gameplay Deep Dive! Hopefully, you now have a slightly better idea of what to pack before heading out on your next expedition. Of course, these were just some of the tools that will be available in the game, and you're more than welcome to come up with your own favourite loadouts before heading out on the mission.
The equipment you choose is ultimately up to you, and figuring out the right loadout for different situations is part of the experience in Into the Fire.
Last but not least, our next open playtests begin on August 31st, so if you haven't signed up yet, there's still time! Make sure to sign up for the playtest, wishlist Into The Fire on Steam, and follow our page to stay up to date with future development updates. See you among the flames! 🔥
View game page~Starward Industries Team