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Steam News22 July 202511mo ago

Chains on Sand Demo – Combat Overhaul Update (v1.3)

This latest update brings massive improvements to the combat system, character builds, and tactical options.

In this update7

Full notes

Full Chains on Sand update

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What changed

4 fixes6 additions2 changes0 removals
  • Gameplay
  • Performance
  • Balance
changedThis latest update brings massive improvements to the combat system, character builds, and tactical options. After weeks of iteration and community feedback, the demo now reflects what is likely to be the final version of the combat rules for Chains on Sand.
addedCore Combat ChangesNew Stun Mechanic A successful blow can now stagger your opponent , denying them actions. Use it to break momentum — or suffer it when you drop your guard.
addedCore Combat ChangesOffhand Attacks Introduced Fighters with the right training can now perform offhand attacks , allowing true dual wielding or shield bashes.
addedCore Combat ChangesNew Maneuvers Riposte – A defensive stance that counters incoming attacks. Illusive Attack – A feint that lowers defenses. Defensive Attack – Attack while staying safe and focused.
addedCharacter Building OverhaulConsumables Introduced Healing salves, thrown flasks, and other limited-use items are now in the loot pool. (They may appear more frequently in later fights.)
fixedBug Fixes & StabilityMany long-standing bugs were squashed.

Chains on Sand changes

changedThis latest update brings massive improvements to the combat system, character builds, and tactical options. After weeks of iteration and community feedback, the demo now reflects what is likely to be the final version of the combat rules for Chains on Sand.
addedNew Stun Mechanic A successful blow can now stagger your opponent , denying them actions. Use it to break momentum — or suffer it when you drop your guard.
addedOffhand Attacks Introduced Fighters with the right training can now perform offhand attacks , allowing true dual wielding or shield bashes.
addedNew Maneuvers Riposte – A defensive stance that counters incoming attacks. Illusive Attack – A feint that lowers defenses. Defensive Attack – Attack while staying safe and focused.
addedConsumables Introduced Healing salves, thrown flasks, and other limited-use items are now in the loot pool. (They may appear more frequently in later fights.)

This latest update brings massive improvements to the combat system, character builds, and tactical options. After weeks of iteration and community feedback, the demo now reflects what is likely to be the final version of the combat rules for Chains on Sand.

Core Combat Changes

  • New Stun Mechanic A successful blow can now stagger your opponent, denying them actions. Use it to break momentum — or suffer it when you drop your guard.

  • Offhand Attacks Introduced Fighters with the right training can now perform offhand attacks, allowing true dual wielding or shield bashes.

  • New Maneuvers

    • Riposte – A defensive stance that counters incoming attacks.

    • Illusive Attack – A feint that lowers defenses.

    • Defensive Attack – Attack while staying safe and focused.

Character Building Overhaul

  • Universal Skill Costs All skills now cost a flat 5 XP per level — simplifying planning and balancing character builds.

  • Consumables Introduced Healing salves, thrown flasks, and other limited-use items are now in the loot pool. (They may appear more frequently in later fights.)

Bug Fixes & Stability

  • Many long-standing bugs were squashed.

  • AI behavior is now more responsive and fair.

  • Loot transfer and display are now reliable.

  • Major systems were refactored to prepare for polish phase.

Leaderboard Reset

Due to the new combat rules and balance changes, the leaderboard has been reset. All contenders must now prove themselves under the new rules. Here is the last one for the records - congratulations to the champions!

Legacy Bosses

Some legacy bosses may now appear again in the arena. Enemies that kill your characters may be upgraded to legacy bosses and appear on future runs.

Demo Roadmap

This version likely reflects the finalized combat rules for Chains on Sand. However:

  • A final demo version will follow later, focused on visual polish, better animations, and presentation improvements.

  • Minor bugfixing updates may still appear before that final demo.

We Want Your Feedback

Your victories, deaths, and feedback are what shape this game. If you played an earlier version, now is the time to return — the arena is more brutal and rewarding than ever.

Source

Steam News / 22 July 2025

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