Dark and Darker just got a fresh hotfix that’s all about balancing the feel of combat and loot variety while adding some neat quality-of-life features. If you’ve been frustrated with how fast you get taken down or wanted more control over chat, this update might catch your interest.
First, the devs noticed that the previous hits to kill (HTK) were a bit too quick, so they’ve slightly improved character durability. This means you’ll probably survive a few more hits in the dungeons. They’re also bringing back random modifiers on equipment to spice up looting. These modifiers have been adjusted to align with the new HTK balance; however, since this change amplifies item differences, the team will closely monitor the situation to determine if any further adjustments are necessary.
On the migration front, some players who were unable to transfer their accounts previously will now be able to do so, thanks to a collaboration with ChafGames. If you missed it earlier, check your email from July 7, 2025, for the migration guide.
Bugfixes:
- Fixed Sorcerer’s Mud Shield VFX and orb size issues.
- Blocked unarmed spear attacks now produce proper sounds.
- Corrected stats display for Frostlight Lightfoot Boots, Riveted Gloves, Gravewolf gloves, Cobalt hat, and Frostlight wizard hat.
- Sound effect for Cursed Bandage no longer metallic.
- The Pit module ceiling now visible.
- Mountain Pass module fixed so players can ascend uphill paths properly.
- Lobby now shows more than 2 party members correctly.
- Worship Seals display issue reversed.
- Ruins Golem attacks can be blocked properly.
Game Updates:
- ChafGames account migration restarted. Details: https://darkanddarker.com/support/search/39082397522964
- Gem socketing for the Goldsmith resumed.
- Added “Clear All Chats” feature.
- Added toggle for party chat on/off.
- Last 3 chat messages now show on the in-game HUD.
- Item Quick-link feature added, usable by clicking the mouse wheel button, with key binding support.
- Arena Test 5 Rank starts from 07/11 00:00 (UTC) with MMR reset, no item loss on defeat if using only Self-Found and Self-Crafted gear, and entry allowed up to Legendary grade.
Balance Updates:
General
- Some monster balance changes.
- MaxHealth graph reverted to increase health scaling from Vigor and Strength.
- Hitbox damage ratios adjusted: Body 125% → 100%, Arm 100% → 90%, Hand 100% → 90%, Leg 75% → 80%, Foot 75% → 80%.
Items
- Random modifiers added to equipment based on rarity.
- Occultist Hood now has dual stats: Magical Power and Magical Healing.
- Falchion weapon damage increased by 1.
- Longsword riposte damage ratio raised from 125% to 150%.
- Flute riposte damage ratio raised from 110% to 150%.
- Zweihander damage increased by 1, scaling adjusted, secondary attack damage ratio from 115% to 130%.
- War Maul damage decreased by 2.
- Felling Axe damage increased by 2, scaling adjusted, animation speed increased.
- Battle Axe damage increased by 1.
- Double Axe damage decreased by 1.
- Bardiche damage decreased by 3, scaling adjusted.
- Halberd damage decreased by 2, scaling adjusted.
- Longbow damage decreased by 2; armor penetration reduced by 5%.
- Recurve Bow damage decreased by 4.
- Survival Bow damage decreased by 2.
- Crossbow damage decreased by 3.
- Windlass Crossbow damage decreased by 4; armor penetration changed from 35% to 40%.
- Francisca Axe damage increased by 1 and now increases by 2 per rarity.
- Throwing Knife damage increased by 1 and now increases by 2 per rarity.
What do you think about random modifiers coming back? Will the durability changes make your dungeon runs less frustrating? Let me know your thoughts down in the comments!