Skydance’s Behemoth Update: Combat Rebalanced Following Mixed Reactions, Read the Patch Notes

Skydance Games’ 2024 title, Behemoth, has just received a significant update aimed at addressing player feedback, especially concerning its combat system, which the developer acknowledges sparked some controversy.

Initially, we found the combat mechanics quite satisfying, but it turns out not everyone shared our enthusiasm. Since its December 5th debut on platforms like Quest 2/3/Pro, PSVR 2, and PC VR (accessible through the Meta-only Horizon Store and Steam), the game has had its fair share of critiques.

In response, Skydance has rolled out a comprehensive update across all platforms to refine the game’s mechanics, with a particular focus on its melee combat against human opponents.

“Let’s get straight to the point: the combat stirred up quite a bit of debate. Many players enjoy it the way it is, so we’re not looking at an overhaul,” noted the developers. “Nonetheless, some players found aspects like stamina drain, the difficulty of executing parries, and tight dodge windows a bit vexing."

To enhance the gameplay experience, Skydance has tweaked systems to make stamina management, parrying, and dodging more accommodating. This rebalancing effort aims to elevate the experience for every type of player.

Adding to these improvements, the update introduces a beta version of ‘Freestyle Mode,’ which significantly reduces combat stamina drain—except during climbing challenges. The patch also tackles issues previously reported with boss battles, enemy AI pathing, and stability improvements across all gaming platforms.

For those keen on diving into the full details, the complete patch notes are available—be warned, they contain some spoilers. Below is a spoiler-free summary of the changes made.

Quest-Specific Updates

Player Experience

• A "Shader compiling" loading screen has been added at launch to clear up confusion during shader re-creation.
• Haptic feedback has been integrated into the Main Menu.
• Resolved crashes in Arena Mode [BETA] triggered by striking the gong under particular conditions.
• Climbing interactions and collision handling have been improved in key areas.
• Fixed progression blockers like the Nightscraper fight and Ragnar disappearing during the tutorial.

Gameplay

• Enhanced collision to prevent players from accidentally passing through game geometry.
• Fixed rare clipping issues concerning leg climbing interactions with Dreddstag and Shacklehide.
• Post-save and reload, keys now respawn correctly in ghost form.
• Enemy combat reactions and state transitions have been enhanced.
• Improved grip mechanics and IK handling for ropes.

Art & Audio

• Texture and lighting optimizations, particularly for Quest 3.
• Visual popping issues have been reduced.
• Fixed floating assets such as arrows and debris.
• Music now continues seamlessly during the Shacklehide battle.

Updates for All Platforms

Progression Blockers

• Resolved issues with enemies like Kragjaeger and Shacklehide either not appearing right or causing soft locks.
• Fast Travel is now available post-campaign for ongoing exploration.

Combat Updates

• Tuning Adjustments:

  • Dodges now feature 0.5 seconds of invulnerability.
  • Standard enemies with exposed headshots are now susceptible to one-hit kills.
  • The parry/block forgiveness angle has been made more lenient for easier execution.

• Combat Stamina Drain Adjustments:

  • Adjusted for balance across all levels of difficulty.
  • “Freestyle Mode (BETA)” dramatically reduces stamina drain (achievements/trophies are disabled in this mode).
• The Tenderfoot difficulty setting has been further adjusted to decrease enemy damage.

Miniboss and Boss Tuning

• Difficulty levels and glitches for minibosses have been addressed.
• Increased Ragnar’s health and attack rate.

Level Updates

• Fixed interactions in critical areas such as Shacklehide’s arena, Zephyr’s Pass, and the Throne Room.
• Enhanced puzzle mechanics and access to chests in Duskhold and other locations.

Miscellaneous Fixes

• Significant improvements in stability with multiple crash fixes.
• Resolved issues regarding lighting, visual popping, and VO timing.
• Adjusted the Trophy Room collectibles to avoid glitches.

Overall, Skydance Games is doubling down on its commitment to improving Behemoth based on player feedback, ensuring every player gets a more polished and enjoyable experience.