Hunt Grounds
Steam News 19 March 20262mo ago

Update v0.98: Fear system

This update reworks one of the core systems of the game: Fear system among other changes. After watching players and gathering feedback, it was clear that Fear wasn’t always understood or impactful enough. This update a…

Update log

Full Hunt Grounds update

The complete published notes, normalized for clean reading and source attribution.

Extracted changes

1 fix1 addition6 changes0 removals
  • UI and audio
  • Gameplay
changed❤️ Improved FeedbackUpdated Heart UI with dynamic speed and color.
added❤️ Improved FeedbackNew visual effects that intensify as Fear rises.
changed🧠 AI & Gameplay ImprovementsBots can now barricade doors
changed🧠 AI & Gameplay ImprovementsBots can now use the Lantern when needed
fixed🧠 AI & Gameplay ImprovementsFixed an issue where the run animation would not trigger
changed🧠 AI & Gameplay ImprovementsThis update is an important step toward making Hunt Grounds more readable, more tense, and more strategic.

This update reworks one of the core systems of the game: Fear system among other changes.

After watching players and gathering feedback, it was clear that Fear wasn’t always understood or impactful enough. This update aims to make it more readable, more meaningful, and more dangerous.

🔥 Lantern System (New)

The flashlight has been replaced with a Lantern.

  • The Lantern reduces Fear while active.

  • It consumes Oil over time.

  • When the Lantern runs out, you’re left in the dark.

Managing your light source is now a key part of survival.

🛢️ Oil Resource (New)

  • Oil cans can be found and used to refill your Lantern.

  • Each refill restores a portion of your fuel.

  • Resources are limited, use them wisely.

💀 Fear System Rework

Fear now behaves more consistently and is easier to understand:

  • Fear builds over time and increases faster under threat.

  • High Fear can reveal your position to Hunters.

  • The Lantern is now the primary way to reduce Fear.

  • Standing near another player with a Lantern on also reduces Fear.

❤️ Improved Feedback

  • Updated Heart UI with dynamic speed and color.

  • New visual effects that intensify as Fear rises.

  • Clearer indication of when you are in danger.

🎯 Hunter Detection Changes

  • High Fear can reveal survivor position.

  • Detection now uses a directional screen indicator instead of outlines.

  • Information is temporary and requires Hunters to react quickly.

🤝 Other changes

  • Staying close to a teammate using a Lantern can reduce your Fear

  • Fear builds faster when standing near a hunter

🧠 AI & Gameplay Improvements

  • Bots can now barricade doors

  • Bots can now use the Lantern when needed

  • Fixed an issue where the run animation would not trigger

This update is an important step toward making Hunt Grounds more readable, more tense, and more strategic.

As always, feedback is welcome!

The hunt continues.

Source

Steam News / 19 March 2026

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