Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults News

[p]Greetings, Pathfinders![/p][p][/p][p]This month, we put the early game and overall user-experience to the test with two focused playtests diving deep into both singleplayer and multiplayer experiences. We wanted to see how differently the game feels depending on how you jumped in and gather targeted insights on how the onboarding, pacing, and overall sentiment shifted between solo and co-op play.[/p][p][/p][p]Responses were good, too! We’re already seeing areas of improvement reflected in the total score for how people felt overall. But what really mattered to us were things like the controls and how easy it was for first-time players to pick up the game. We collected even more insights this round, analysing over 20 players per group and generated 300+ data points, including detailed info on how each hero was played. [/p][p]Here is a quick progress update to show you what we learned![/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]First Time User Experience (FTUE)[/h3][p]These tests were designed very intentionally on having fresh players who hadn't played the game before. That gave us a clear view of the first-time experience. As devs, that perspective is invaluable because it gives us an unbiased and unfiltered look at the true first-time experience.  We want players to feel confident from the moment they pick up the sticks, so it was great that they could jump in easily without needing directions on how to play and were able to drive straight into swinging weapons and crushing monsters.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Controls[/h3][p]Controls were another critical area for the test. Our testers consistently managed to perform actions like casting spells, switching heroes, and navigating the level as intended. There are still areas we’d like to make refine, such as improving targeting so spellcasting feels fluid, precise and intentional, particularly at long-range enemies. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Overall Experience[/h3][p]We were thrilled to see so many exciting moments when we reviewed the gameplay footage, particularly during the multiplayer test where testers teamed up, adapted and overcome challenging encounters together. Watching the cooperating and excitement has been incredibly rewarding for our team. We’d like to give a huge thanks to everyone who jumped in, shared their thoughts and helped shape the game experience![/p][p][/p][h3]Get Involved![/h3][p]If you would like the chance to join future playtests, you can sign up to our newsletter and keep an eye in the Discord server for more opportunities![/p][p][/p][p]Thank you as always for your support! Join our official Discord server and follow us on social media to stay up to date on news about the game.[/p][p][/p][p]Onward, to glory!
 
~ The Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults Team  
 
Discord | Twitter | Twitch | Facebook | Instagram| Bluesky | TikTok | Sign up to our Newsletter | Wishlist [/p]

[p]We're excited to share that Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults is part of the Quebec Games Celebration 2026! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Like us at BKOM, many studios from across the province of Quebec have come together to show off more than 300 games designed or published in Quebec. [/p][p][/p][p]Thanks to Indie Asylum for including us in this event![/p][p][/p][p]Make sure to check out the event page and see all the other amazing games included, before it ends February 23rd![/p]

[p]Greetings, Pathfinders![/p][p][/p][p]We hope you’re having a fantastic January. The team here at BKOM are continuing to work hard at bringing the Abomination Vaults to life. This month we’re sharing environment progress on Floor 6, new UI for selecting Floors, and a new animation for one of Amiri’s special attacks![/p][p][/p][h3]The Fleshwarp Laboratory [/h3][p]Deep into the Vault on the sixth floor lies the Fleshwarp Laboratory. Here, the Seugathi Fleshwarpers perform horrifying experiments on their subjects. Some come willingly, seeking ways to augment their strength, while others are reduced to living corpses for wicked research into the art of crafting perfect soldiers. [/p][p][/p][p]In the further depths of the laboratory, Jafaki toils in his chambers, refusing visitors until his dark work is complete. Until then, the Warped Brew Tarven welcomes those seeking refreshment as they await their turn on the operating table... [/p][p][/p][p]Here are a couple previews into how the Fleshwarp Laboratory environment is shaping up. We hope you’re as excited as we are to see Floor 6 in its final form![/p][p][/p][h3]Floor Selection UI [/h3][p]Between ventures down into the Vaults, you can ready the party of heroes at Otari. Whether you’re sharpening equipment at the blacksmith or gossiping in the tavern, this is your time to rest and prepare. [/p][p]Once you've gathered the nerve, you can head back into the Vaults to face the next challenge. Here’s a look at the Floor selection UI, including parchment maps of all the Vaults and floor plans.  [/p][p][/p][h3]Bonus Preview: Amiri’s Spirit Wall Attack [/h3][p]Our team have been experimenting with this Wall of Spirits attack. Let us know what you think about the animation and give us your best guesses as to what the in-game effects might be! [/p][p][/p][p]Our artists and animators continue working closely with the design team to bring fun and exciting abilities like this to each of the heroes. Stayed tuned to hear more about their effects and how they are unlocked.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you as always for your support! We’d love for you to join our official Discord server and follow us on social media if you don’t already. We’re often posting additional content and news, so it’s the perfect way to stay up to date.[/p][p][/p][p]Onward, to glory!
 
~ The Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults Team
 
Discord | Twitter | Twitch | Facebook | Instagram| Bluesky | TikTok | Sign up to our Newsletter | Wishlist [/p]

[p]Greetings, Pathfinders![/p][p][/p][p]This week we’re delving into the never-before-seen concept behind the Gladiatorial Arena and Barracks on Floor Five! Dare you pass through the tunnel into the stadium and face some of the toughest enemies yet?[/p][p][/p][p]We are also revealing design concepts of alternate outfits for each of the iconics, and the results from our recent closed playtest! [/p][p][/p][h2]Floor Five: The Arena [/h2][p]Long ago, Belcorra constructed a mighty arena for her army. What might appear on the surface as a place for her troops to test their mettle or settle their differences, hides a deeper truth. It would be a proving ground, where the scheming Seugathi could test their latest creations in action... and gain ever more meat for their endless experiments in flesh. [/p][p] [/p][p]For our heroes, floor five is centred around brutal pit fights in this very arena. To venture deeper into the Vaults, you must enter the arena and become its grand champion. [/p][p] [/p][p]Fights take place over several deadly rounds with each battle presenting new challenges and surprises to overcome. Expect ever-changing arena layouts, with hazards, traps, and environmental tools changing with each fight. Some fights might swarm the heroes with endless foes, while others will pit the heroes against powerful elite warriors or horrifying Fleshwarp monstrosities shipped in from the mysterious laboratory which awaits the heroes, just below the arena’s grounds... [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The barracks outside the arena entrance [/p][p] [/p][p]Between fights, heroes can rest in the barracks to recover from their wounds, gather information on the next fight, and adapt or rethink their strategy. Choosing the right abilities, tactics, and equipment will make the difference between success and utter annihilation! [/p][p] [/p][h2]Outfit Concepts [/h2][p]Meanwhile, the art team is working on alternate unlockable outfits over the course of the game!  These designs are possible thanks to the additional social stretch goal reached during the Kickstarter campaign, so thank you for the support in making this possible! Note that all designs are a work in progress and may differ from the final versions. [/p][p] [/p][p][/p][p]Alternate outfits for Harsk, the Ranger [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Alternate outfits for Ezren, the Wizard [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Alternate outfits for Kyra, the Cleric [/p][p] [/p][p]We’re excited to continue iterating and polishing these concepts until we’re ready for the final picks.  We can already picture choosing an outfit to match the build/playstyle you’ve chosen for each character! What do you think of these designs, and which are your favourites? [/p][p][/p][h2]Playtest Learnings [/h2][p]We’ve recently had our latest private playtest, this time focused on combat. Let's go through what testers have said, what we learned and what we're doing! [/p][p] [/p][p]We took players through a few test levels where they fought tons of various monsters and even had a chance to face off with an early version of the Blood of Belcorra. So, what did we learn? [/p][p] [/p][p]It was exciting to see testers get their hands on the controls and start swinging a massive sword around as Amiri. At first, some of them took a little bit of time to learn the controls and figure out their moves, but we loved watching the use of the abilities from the Iconics. We learned that even if players enjoyed these heroes, we want to make it a smoother experience going from one ability to the next. Similarly, we want to have players spend less time worrying about controls and get them straight into the action! [/p][p] [/p][p]We also want to make sure the rest of our squad feels equally as powerful. Players tended to use Amiri the most, followed by Harsk. Our goal in the short term is to work extensively on Kyra and Ezren, to ensure all four iconics feel just as exciting to control. [/p][p][/p][p]Speaking of the party, another focus for this test was our squad play system. We're excited to see the characters interact with one another, letting you switch between them, use abilities and even combo off each other. We've had great moments when we're playing in co-op, but there's work to do when it comes to non-player-controlled party members. Even if it’s not quite the same as delving into the vaults with your friends, we want to make sure that these bots have your back. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Now let's get to the biggest part of the test: Blood of Belcorra. We don't want to spoil too much, but this boss is meant to be a tough encounter that's just as satisfying to beat. We're early in tests and it's clear we made her a bit too powerful! Many brave adventurers tried to beat the odds and take her down, but we're going to make sure the next time they fight this boss it's fairer (while still being a challenge worth overcoming). [/p][p] [/p][p]These are just a few highlights of the test, and frankly, we had mountains of great feedback to read through! Every time a player was excited it felt great, but we want to continue improving and make sure everyone has that same level of enthusiasm. We're going to make important changes and get ready for another round of playtests! [/p][p] [/p][p]Didn't make it into this test? There will be other opportunities in the future! Be sure to sign-up for a chance to be a part of them. We'd love to hear your thoughts. [/p][p] [/p][h2]Meet the Iconics Devlog Video [/h2][p]Our latest devlog dives into each of the iconics and their place in Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults. We recently released the video version, so watch now to learn about their in-game progression, abilities and how we took these beloved characters from tabletop to video game! [/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p]We hope you enjoy these insights into how each of the four heroes are coming along! [/p][p][/p][p]Thanks as always for your continued support! We’d love for you to join our official Discord server and follow us on social media if you don’t already. We’re often posting additional content and news, so it’s the perfect way to stay up to date.[/p][p][/p][p]Onward, to glory! [/p][p]
~ The Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults Team  
 
Discord | Twitter | Twitch | Facebook | Instagram| Bluesky | TikTok | Sign up to our Newsletter | Wishlist [/p][p] [/p]

[p]Hail, Pathfinders![/p][p][/p][h3]Who are the Iconics?[/h3][p]Beneath the haunted depths of Gauntlight Keep, four of Golarion’s iconic heroes make the leap from tabletop to video game, ready to fight, explore, and forge their own legends. Amiri the Barbarian, Harsk the Ranger, Kyra the Cleric, and Ezren the Wizard are the beating heart of your adventure. Each hero features unique powers, personalities, and playstyles that combine to create a symphony of steel, spellcraft, and tactical opportunity.[/p][p][/p][p]In this blog, we’ll introduce these iconic heroes, explore what makes them special, and reveal how their teamwork can turn even the darkest dungeon into an unforgettable adventure.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Why were they chosen?[/h3][p]When we set out to bring Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults to life, we wanted players to live the story as they fought through the dungeon with characters whose personalities, histories, and archetypes would shine through in every battle. That’s why we turned to the Pathfinder Iconics; heroes that experienced Pathfinder players will recognize, and with archetypes that will instantly feel familiar to new players.[/p][p][/p][p]Amiri, the fierce barbarian, who you may recognize from Kingmaker, is an easy pick for anyone who seeks power, aggression, and the satisfaction of hitting hard with a (literal) giant sword.[/p][p][/p][p]Kyra, our devoted cleric, balances the mercy of a healer and the wrath of the Sun Goddess - perfect for those who like to protect and support their allies, or want to smite the darkness with golden fire and scorching sunlight.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]We also needed an arcane spellcaster to round out the team, and Ezren, the ever-curious wizard, was a natural choice. A fan-favorite whose broad mastery of magic opens rich tactical possibilities... if you can keep him out of harm’s way.[/p][p][/p][p]Finally, we debated long and hard between Merisiel and Harsk for the final slot. While we love Merisiel’s roguish impulses, we knew that the game’s vision didn’t suit the stealth-centric experience that a rogue would deserve.[/p][p][/p][p]Harsk, on the other hand, brought something essential: a guide to lead the party through the unknown, a versatile warrior who is adept in both ranged and melee combat, and much needed dwarven representation. We know how beloved the “archer” and “ranger” archetypes are and feel Harsk rounds out the party perfectly.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Together, these four form a balanced and adaptable party. Each hero is powerful on their own, but even stronger when their abilities work in harmony. Having access to the entire team at any moment offers the tactical opportunity to unleash devastating combos that rapidly turn the tide of battle. Some are quick 1-2 punches where timing is everything, like Harsk weakening foes with poison before they face Kyra’s slashing scimitar. Others let heroes create something entirely new: Ezren’s Wall of Fire becomes a Flame Vortex when Amiri spins her sword, a Flame Wave when Harsk cleaves into it with his dual axes, or a Fire Nova when Kyra smites it. Mastering these combo effects rewards your precision and teamwork with lethal results.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Amiri is a fierce tribal warrior who left behind the lands of her tribe to escape the bonds of tradition. Her oversized bastard sword is a trophy from when she was sent on a suicide mission by her tribe’s elders.  When Amiri learned of the opportunity to plunge into the dangerous ruins of Gauntlight Keep, she grabbed her massive sword and set off for adventure. Never one to back away from a challenge, Amiri infuses her natural strength, agility, and ferocity with the mystical power of her barbarian rage, to overcome even the direst of fiends.[/p][p][/p][h3]Current Upgrade Path Vision[/h3]

• [p]With Giant Instinct, you can build Amiri as a tough, sturdy physical-focused frontliner that shrugs off powerful blows and pulls the attention of enemies onto herself to keep her team out of harm’s way.[/p]
• [p]With Spirit Instinct, Amiri can tap into the power of her ancestors to deal valuable spirit damage to quickly dispatch undead and void enemies, while locking down the battlefield with controlling powers and protective boons.[/p]
• [p]With Dragon Instinct, Amiri can harness the power of dragons to access new damage types, covering the battlefield in dangerous fields and slowing down her foes while keeping herself agile.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Harsk is a gruff and driven dwarf following a vow of justice to avenge his brother's death at the hands of giants. He prefers tea to ale, wanting to keep his senses sharp. To a ranger like Harsk, the underground is just another frontier, full of secrets, dangers, treasures, and fiends. With his dual axes in each hand and his trusty dwarven crossbow strapped to his back, Harsk is ready to meet any challenge Gauntlight can muster up.[/p][p][/p][h3]Current Upgrade Path Vision[/h3]

• [p]Harsk can follow the path of the Slayer, gaining access to a range of powerful close-range abilities that turn him into an agile melee specialist who darts into battle to rapidly cut down his foes.[/p]
• [p]If Harsk follows the path of the Sharpshooter, he gains abilities that fortify his role as a ranged damage specialist who keeps foes aways and dispatches them from anywhere on the battlefield.[/p]
• [p]Following the path of the Trapper, Harsk further explores his passion for dwarven crafting, gaining access to a range of traps, bombs, and attacks that hinder enemies, and support allies, and give access to new damage types.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Standing in the burned ruin of the temple in which she grew up, young Kyra swore her life and sword arm to the Goddess of Sunlight, promising mercy to the deserving… and death to those too evil to be redeemed. While the darkness may be terrifying to some, it is a mere fact of life for Kyra. With the power of Sarenrae at her disposal and an unflinching courage to face any evil in the name of life and light, Kyra ventures toward Gauntlight to protect her allies and dispatch the vile creatures who lurk within.[/p][p][/p][h3]Current Upgrade Path Vision[/h3]

• [p]Mender expands Kyra’s role as a healer and protector who specializes in keeping her allies on their feet so that they can charge into combat with confidence.[/p]
• [p]Warpriest pushes Kyra’s capabilities as a frontliner, giving her new powers to pull aggro, fortify herself, and dispatch enemies in close-range.[/p]
• [p]Sunspeaker expands Kyra’s repertoire of Sarenrae’s sun magic, giving access to powerful ranged options that melt enemies from afar with focused sunlight.[/p]

[p] [/p][p][/p][p]After years lost trying to clear his father's name, Ezren abandoned his old life and became a wizard after his research revealed that his father was indeed guilty of heresy.  Ever in search of hidden truths and forgotten secrets, Ezren brings the utility and power of the arcane to bear for his allies. Whether conjuring up defences or simply blasting his enemies with the power of the elements, Ezren is a fearsome foe and a capable ally.[/p][p][/p][p]Stay tuned for more info on Ezren’s paths in the coming months, while we explore the possibilities. Let us know: what types of roles or kits would you like to see for Ezren?[/p][p] [/p][h3]Combos[/h3][p]As mentioned previously, teamwork is the key to survival. Combos allow you to link heroes’ abilities for devastating results, chaining a setup move from a character into a heavy follow-up from another. Each hero brings a unique array of combo fields and combo effect generator abilities, thus creating a wide array of interactions between these moves.[/p][p][/p][p]For example, Harsk could perform a heavy attack into Ezren’s Wall of Fire to create a cone of fire that rips across the battlefield to hit many approaching foes... or loose his crossbow bolts through the flames, alighting them with flame to gain a boost of powerful elemental damage from afar. And if Amiri spins through the Wall of Fire with her Whirlwind Attack, we see her launch a flurry of fiery tornadoes.[/p][p][/p][p]Every successful combo strengthens the team’s Party Bond, a system that represents the trust forged in battle. Performing combos, covering allies, and executing team plays all grant Party Bond XP, advancing the group through Tiers 1 to 10. As the bond deepens, the entire party gains lasting benefits, from boosted combo damage and faster revives to stronger healing and longer support effects. The more your heroes fight together, the stronger their connection and the more unstoppable your party becomes.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Master your team, conquer the vaults, and write your legend in Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults. Join our community on Discord and follow us on socials for more behind-the-scenes insights and updates![/p][p][/p][h3]Have Your Say![/h3][p]We’re running a quick one-minute survey to hear your thoughts on our news and updates. Sharing your feedback will help us shape the way we deliver content to the community, so let us know what you think![/p][p] [/p][p]~ The Pathfinder: Abomination Vaults Team[/p][p][/p][p]Discord | Twitter | Twitch | Facebook | Instagram| Bluesky | TikTok | Sign up to our Newsletter | Wishlist on Steam[/p][p] [/p]