The Last Squad News

[p][/p][p]Who was able to clear all the new stages?[/p][p][/p][p]We hope everyone has had a fun time raiding each new stage in our newly renewed Demo for this October Steam Next Fest.[/p][p][/p][p]There were many changes to the game for the Last Squad members, improvements to the interface of the game and new content added. We are still receiving all the feedback that you are sending us, so we can refer to that before our next update.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you for all the big support and all the wishlists you have given us![/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]What Has Changed[/h2][p][/p]

• [p]Gameplay Adjustments: Complete rework of all 6 heroes, Rebalance for both multiplayer and single player modes, Character level-up system and hero traits rework.[/p]

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• [p]New Features: 2 new maps (total of 6 new stages), 1 new boss[/p]

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• [p]Quality of Life Improvements: New Results Screen, Enhanced Options Menu, Improved Game Entry Screen and Character Selection screen.[/p]

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• [p]Visual/Audio Updates: Improved modeling of each hero, new visual effects for hero skills, improved map visuals.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]What to Look Out For[/h2][p][/p][p]With the hero rework and new stages we would like to check how much more fun and balance the game has become. We would like you to play with your favorite character and clear the hardest stage![/p][p][/p][p]Beware it will not be easy so make sure you grow your character appropriately and train your skills.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Tips & Tricks for Surviving the Demo[/h2][p][/p]

• [p]Keep a good track of your ammo, and make sure to search for the air supplies.[/p]

• [p]Don’t be afraid of using skills, but mind their cool time.[/p]

• [p]Check the hero traits in the lobby and make your favorite hero stronger.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Known Issues[/h2][p][/p][p]We are still collecting bugs and feedback to be fixed in a patch soon. Please share any bugs with us in our Discord Channel.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Looking Ahead[/h2][p][/p][p]We are already working on new stages and more improvements in the game, as well as planning a new game mode. We welcome your ideas for future content, so feel free to jump into our Discord and share them with us![/p][p][/p][p]Before[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]After[/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]How Players Can Help[/h2][p][/p]

• [p]Please help us improve the game before its release by providing us your feedback in this form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ygPnj9UqEEWGz15DkPx91dGfdlKh5itDniDzIfyk1xBUOFFBRDY0NzI2VjdVQTlFQVZTSlI1UVU3NS4u[/p]

• [p]Don’t forget to wishlist The Last Squad to receive future notifications of Demos and the release.[/p]

[p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Thank you![/h2][p][/p][p]Thank you all for joining the Next Fest Demo, we will be meeting you at any time in the multiplayer mode, so feel free to come and join us for a few rounds. We will continue to provide access to the demo after Next Fest for a few more weeks![/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[h2]Greeting[/h2][p]Squad members, thank you for waiting.[/p][p]This update is a major patch that includes new maps, revamped hero characters, new bosses, out-of-game progression systems, a shop system, UX/UI improvements, and overall balance enhancements.[/p][hr][/hr][h2]Key Update Details[/h2][h3]1. Hero Character Overhaul[/h3]

• [p]Complete rework of all 6 hero characters[/p]
• [p]Strengthened all character skills and added new visual effects[/p]
• [p]Improved modeling to enhance each character’s uniqueness[/p]
• [p]Rebalanced roles and traits to refine job identities[/p]

[h3]2. Stages[/h3]

• [p]Added 2 new maps[/p]
• [p]Added 2 new chapters (a total of 6 new stages)[/p]
• [p]Introduced a chapter-based stage system → gradual difficulty progression[/p]

[h3]3. Boss Content[/h3]

• [p]Improved the mechanics of the existing Chapter 1 boss[/p]
• [p]Added a new boss for Chapter 2: Gutrgrinder[/p]
• [p]Adjusted overall boss balance and enhanced unique gimmicks → more strategic combat[/p]

[h3]4. Out-of-Game Progression[/h3]

• [p]Character Level-Up System: Grow your characters through play[/p]
• [p]Hero Trait System: Use earned points to build your own unique hero[/p]
• [p]Three Trait Categories: Survival, Combat, and Support for strategic build choices[/p]

[h3]5. Shop & Artifact System[/h3]

• [p]Purchase various artifacts through the shop[/p]
• [p]Introduced artifact growth mechanics → roguelite-style fun and variety[/p]

[h3]6. UX/UI Renewal[/h3]

• [p]New Results Screen: Check gameplay records and results[/p]
• [p]Enhanced Options Menu: More customizable settings available[/p]
• [p]Improved Game Entry Screen: Faster room selection and matchmaking[/p]
• [p]Updated Character Selection Screen: Better delivery of character information[/p]

[h3]7. Advanced Balance Adjustments[/h3]

• [p]Overall system and stat adjustments[/p]
• [p]Strengthened individuality and choices for each role[/p]

[hr][/hr][h2]Future Plans[/h2]

• [p]Add 3 new hero characters[/p]
• [p]Add the Abandoned Military Base as the 3rd stage[/p]
• [p]Introduce 1 new boss[/p]
• [p]Further enhance zombie combat strategy systems[/p]
• [p]Add new game modes, including custom user stages[/p]

[hr][/hr][h2]Feedback[/h2][p]Your feedback is invaluable to our development.[/p][p]Please share your experience with the new maps and boss battles on Steam Community and Discord — we will continue to improve based on your input.[/p][hr][/hr][h2]Closing[/h2][p]Your voice shapes the future of The Last Squad.[/p][p]Squad, assemble. Let’s fight to the very end — together.[/p]

[p]Hello Squad! [/p][p]
The Last Squad’s demo has recently had a big update and the start of our visual overhaul. With these significant changes, we thought it was about time to dive deeper into what you can expect in The Last Squad’s future and the mechanics coming down the line. [/p][p][/p][p]Starting with one of our most important mechanics yet. [/p][p][/p][h2]Rainbow Time[/h2][p]
[/p][p]Rainbow Time is a system that accumulates points obtained when critical damage is dealt. The Rainbow Gauge is filled by 1 every time critical damage occurs, dropping what’s called a Rainbow Soul item to fill the gauge. The more you crit, the faster the gauge will fill. [/p][p][/p][p]Once the Rainbow Gauge reaches 100, Rainbow Time is automatically activated, lasting for 10 seconds. During this time, all regular attacks become 100% critical shots and deal massive damage, plus stamina is not consumed when using skills. [/p][p][/p][p]If you and your squad ever find yourself in a challenging situation, Rainbow Time may be exactly what you need to get the upper hand against the zombie horde.[/p][p][/p][h2]Characters and Roles.[/h2][p]Of course, a vital part of The Last Squad is the Squad.[/p][p][/p][p]There are currently 6 playable characters, each with their own abilities and roles to help your Squad survive the night.[/p][h3]Tanks[/h3]

• [p]Chris - a real hero type, Chris is armed with a metal baseball bat and a manhole cover as a shield. If you want to get up close and personal with zombies while protecting your squad, he’s a perfect choice. [/p]
• [p]Gustav - A bit more gruff-looking, Gustav is equipped with a fireman's axe, perfect for taking down zombies at very close range. [/p]

[p]Both characters are excellent for players who want to be in the heart of the fray and make sure they remain the target so their Squad can survive.[/p][h3][/h3][h3]Damage Dealers[/h3]

• [p]Veronica - This gun-loving gal is all about the spray and pray. Wielding fast, high-powered guns, she excels at taking out multiple zombies at a time. If things get too hairy, try using her shotgun to get out of attack range while doing damage.[/p]
• [p]Logan - A military-minded man, you won't find Logan without his tactical gear. Using his weapons training to deliver devastating and accurate attacks against the Zombies. [/p]

[p]These two characters are for players who want to deal a high amount of damage and take out as many zombies as possible. As they say, a good offense is a good defense.[/p][h3]Healers[/h3]

• [p]Leo - A classic doctor. Leo excels at quickly healing the Squad. Not just in small amounts, he can provide a massive boost to health. Keeping everyone up and alive for the next wave of enemies. [/p]
• [p]Meilin - is a healer who breaks the rules using unauthorized medical gas. She can mass heal the squad briefly and restore them completely with her trusty gas gun.[/p]

[p]The healers are excellent for players who want to play support. Ensuring damage dealers and tanks remain alive is essential to the Squad, so they all survive another night.[/p][p]
[/p][p]You can play The Last Squad with 4 of your friends during a Day cycle and a Night cycle.[/p][p]Mix and match roles to maximize survivability and find the playstyle you enjoy most. With each surviving night, you’ll return to your base to buy upgrades, change your characters, and adjust what you need to take on the night.[/p][p]Prepare by day and fight by night until you defeat the final boss and restore peace to the city.[/p][p][/p][h2]The Future of The Last Squad[/h2][p]We are currently working on many features in The Last Squad. Below are just a few of the new features you can expect later in the demo and as part of the Early Access release later this year.[/p]

• [p]Easy/Normal/Hard Mode + Random Debuff Map[/p]
• [p]New Stages[/p]
• [p]New Enemies and Bosses[/p]
• [p]Out-game growth element: A system that strengthens character traits by obtaining out-game experience points according to the number of gameplay sessions[/p]
• [p]Complete overhaul of the shop buff sales system[/p]
• [p]A full Tutorial[/p]

[h2]Visual Updates[/h2][p]In addition to new game mechanics, we are changing the game's entire look, including characters, maps, powers, and enemies.[/p][p]
[/p][p]We wanted to give The Last Squad a more unique look going forward and are very excited for these changes over the next couple of months. With these changes, you’ll see character size improvements and better visibility for character abilities and battle effects.[/p][p]
Our studio looks forward to getting all these changes and improvements into your hands! Keep an eye out for these in future demo updates and Early Access. If you have feedback or run into a bug in the demo, please let us know in our Discord. [/p][p]We couldn’t do this without you! [/p][p]Thanks for reading, and enjoy![/p][h3]-STOIC Inc.

Join the community on Discord![/h3][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[p]Hello Survivors![/p][p]
We got news bigger than a new bunker upgrade![/p][p]
The Last Squad just got its biggest demo update yet! This update focuses on adjusting the battle flow, adding individuality to each hero, and allowing players to immerse themselves within the game.

You can play now and check out the start of a new art direction, visual updates, mechanics, and hero updates.[/p][h3]
🌈 Rainbow Time System Added[/h3][p] Deliver a Game-Changing Blow and Experience thrilling comeback moments with the newly introduced 'Rainbow Time,' and unfold your own strategies with the completely renewed hero skills![/p][p]
Before[/p][p][/p][p]After[/p][p][/p][p]Collect Rainbow Points with your teammates to activate the powerful 'Rainbow Time,' which paints the world in rainbow colors and gives the player a massive boost in combat. This will provide a thrilling opportunity for a comeback in moments of crisis.[/p][h3]
🖼️The Beginning of New Visuals[/h3][p]
We have also begun to visually update The Last Squad. Adding more details to some of our heroes, new visuals for abilities, and Rainbow Time.
[/p][p]Gustav got a glowup![/p][p][/p][p]Our team will continue working on these changes for the upcoming Early Access release and Demo updates, so watch for more news! To report bugs and feedback, don’t forget to join our community Discord[/p][p]
Thank you for reading, and we hope you enjoy the latest update!

  - STOIC Ent[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[p]Hello Survivors![/p][p]
Welcome to our very first devlog, one of many as we develop the co-op survival game The Last Squad. Thank you for taking the time to read a bit about us and, of course, the game we’re working on.[/p][h3]
Who are we?[/h3][p]We are STOIC Ent, an independent studio behind The Last Squad, founded in 2014 in Seoul, South Korea. We are a small but mighty indie studio of 23 strong, consisting of artists, developers, and planners, all led by our awesome producer. [/p][p][/p][h3]The inspiration behind The Last Squad[/h3][p]The original idea behind The Last Squad came from our team's shared love for co-op games and survival games. [/p][p]
There’s a constant tension when a single decision can mean life or death, and the cooperation between teammates often makes all the difference. We wanted to create a game that emphasized that theme.[/p][p]
Considering that, The Last Squad draws inspiration from co-op shooters, roguelites, and zombie survival games we’ve loved. Shout out to Killing Floor 2 and Apocalypse Party, to name a few![/p][p]
More than just the action, our goal was to create an immersive experience where every player feels like the hero.

Everyone on the team matters in survival. [/p][p][/p][p]With these ideas and themes in mind, we began planning in October of last year. Development officially began in January 2025.

Even though we’ve worked on The Last Squad for less than a year, we already have a demo available (link to demo) so you can try the early features today. See, told you we had a mighty team![/p][h3]
The Last Squad Features (yes, we do have favorites!)[/h3][p]
In The Last Squad, there are a lot of features to enjoy, such as co-op, roguelite elements, preparation and leveling during the day, while fighting for your life during the night.

There is, however, one core mechanic that has been our team's passion: [/p][p][/p][p]The Rainbow System[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Rainbow System amplifies that thrill we discussed earlier, which comes from cooperative gameplay and the exhilaration of mowing down hordes of zombies with your friends. We’ve worked hard to make that one of the most polished and finished parts of our game early on.

Here’s how it works. Players fight together to land critical hits, and as they do, they’ll build up a shared Rainbow Gauge. Once filled, it triggers a guaranteed critical attack that wipes out enemies in a dazzling, storm-like burst of action. The result is a visually and emotionally satisfying moment that captures the chaos and glory of battle.

Just like a rainbow cutting through the storm.[/p][p][/p][p]From the very beginning, we’ve prioritized the fun of playing together, and that philosophy is deeply woven into every aspect of our game’s design.

The Last Squad is being developed to be more than just a zombie-slaying game. We want players to experience the thrill of teamwork and the intensity of immersive combat as they fight to survive together with their friends.

It may not be perfect yet, but with your feedback, we’re committed to improving it. Even after release, The Last Squad will continue to evolve and grow. We wouldn’t want to do that without you! [/p][p]Join our community Discord (link) to give feedback and bug reports, and follow closely with The Last Squad news and development.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you for reading and for being part of this journey with us! 

- STOIC Ent. Dev Team 💙 [/p]