# Sons of the Forest Update: Over 100 Bug Fixes, New Features, and a Smarter Kelvin
The popular survival game *Sons of the Forest* has just undergone a substantial update, introducing an array of fresh features, gameplay enhancements, and more than 100 bug resolutions. Developer Endnight Games has dedicated effort to improve the player experience, creating an even more immersive and thrilling environment within the perilous, cannibal-populated woods. Here’s an overview of the key changes and upgrades in this significant update.
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## **New Features: Enriching the Survival Journey**
### **1. Water Transport and Exploration**
A standout aspect of the update is the addition of water-based transport. Players can now create and utilize three types of rafts, which can be conveniently anchored near their base thanks to a newly introduced jetty structure. This feature not only enhances navigational dynamics within the game world but also incorporates an extra dimension of strategy into survival tactics.
To support this feature, the game’s boundaries have been expanded, inviting further exploration via boat. Although the developers have kept silent about whether new threats exist in these unexplored waters, the excitement of uncovering hidden mysteries adds a thrilling new facet.
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### **2. Upgraded Construction System**
The update also introduces significant enhancements to the construction mechanics. A fresh blueprint system for defensive walls enables players to merely outline a construction task, while leaving the resource gathering and building to Kelvin, the game’s AI sidekick. Kelvin will autonomously procure resources and construct the walls, allowing players to concentrate on exploration, crafting, or confronting the game’s aggressive foes.
This enhancement not only simplifies base-building but also demonstrates the developers’ dedication to enhancing Kelvin’s capabilities and reliability.
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### **3. New Hidden Outfit**
For players who delight in scavenging and uncovering every aspect of the map, a new secret outfit has been included in the game. While its exact location is yet to be revealed, this addition is bound to thrill completionists and adventurers alike.
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## **Improvements: Refining the Gameplay**
### **1. Optimized Ranged Combat**
Avid users of ranged weapons will be pleased with the advancements made in weapon accuracy with this update. The crossbow, compound bow, homemade bow, shotgun, and slingshot have all received enhancements to their aiming systems. Moreover, players utilizing a laser sight will now benefit from a more precise projectile trajectory, making ranged combat more efficient and satisfying.
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### **2. Multiplayer Mode Enhancements**
Fans of multiplayer will welcome an eagerly anticipated update: teammates who perish while swimming can now be revived directly in the water. This modification alleviates a common irritant in co-op gameplay and promotes smoother interactions during critical moments.
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### **3. Kelvin’s Enhancements**
Kelvin, the AI assistant, has undergone several upgrades that enhance his intelligence and adaptability. He now features a quicker swimming animation, can maneuver himself out of the water onto edges, and will swim towards the player he is following. Furthermore, Kelvin’s attire now incorporates effects of blood and moisture, enhancing the realism of his look.
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## **Bug Fixes: Enhancing the Experience**
The update resolves an impressive 128 bugs, which range from trivial visual anomalies to substantial gameplay concerns. Some of the most significant fixes include:
– **Inventory Bug:** The aggravating issue that caused players to become stuck after utilizing an item has been addressed.
– **Drying Racks:** Items placed on drying racks now properly dry over a fire, rectifying a longstanding problem.
– **Projectile Trajectory:** Weapons with laser sights now follow correct projectile paths, increasing combat reliability.
– **Multiplayer Synchronization Issues:** Multiple sync issues in multiplayer mode, including disappearing items and incorrect animations, have been resolved.
– **Environmental Interactions:** Matters such as floating objects, inconsistent water physics, and errant terrain have been tackled to improve immersion.
These corrections highlight the developers’ commitment to polishing the game and responding to player feedback.
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## **Impact on the Game’s Popularity**
While achieving success as one of Steam’s top-selling early access titles in 2023, *Sons of the Forest* has encountered some hurdles in retaining player numbers and ratings compared to its predecessor, *The Forest*. While *The Forest* maintains an “extremely positive” rating and a peak of over 23,000 concurrent players, *Sons of the Forest* currently holds a “very positive” rating with approximately 19,000 players.
This update has the potential to rekindle interest in the game, drawing back both former players and newcomers. The blend of new features, gameplay refinements, and bug fixes positions *Sons of the Forest* as a more polished and captivating survival adventure.
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## **Patch Notes Overview**
### **New Features**
– Three new raft designs.
– New mooring