Empty Gauge Demo v0.4.0 Patch Notes — Full UI Overhaul & Scarier Atmosphere

Empty Gauge (Demo) – Patch Notes v0.4.0 (Windows) Update Date: 2026-02-21 Platforms/Stores: Steam / itch.io / Stove

Highlights

v0.4.0 is a major update featuring a full UI overhaul, stronger horror atmosphere and presentation, new NPC dialogue interactions, and a map rework. We also addressed a wide range of issues with extensive bug fixes and stability improvements.

1) Visuals / Presentation

• The main menu background has been changed to a scarier version. It’s been adjusted to better match the game’s overall tone and atmosphere.

• The game’s presentation has been updated to feel more frightening and atmospheric. We refined staging and pacing to deliver tension and immersion more clearly.

2) Full UI Overhaul

• The UI has been fully reworked across the board.

• Improved layout and usability for the Options menu

• Improved layout and usability for the Pause menu

• Improved UI and navigation for the Language tab

• Updated/cleaned up the Discord link button icon and related UI elements

3) NPC Interactions Added

• You can now talk to NPCs. NPCs are now interactive, allowing you to progress conversations via on-screen text/subtitles.

4) Map Rework

• The map has been heavily revised overall.

• As a result, some areas now have changed layouts and routes. Paths you remember from previous versions may be different.

5) Bug Fixes / Stability

• Fixed a wide range of various bugs.

• Improved overall game stability.

Feedback / Reports

We’d love feedback on UI usability, how the horror presentation feels, NPC dialogue flow, and navigation after the map rework. For bug reports, please include where/when it happened + screenshots/video + steps to reproduce if possible.

Thank you!