Chains on Sand News

[p][/p][p]New Trailer[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]We cut a tight trailer that shows more of the gameplay — build, choose, fight, recover. If you dig it, adding the game to your Wishlist really helps.[/p][p]Demo Update (what’s new)[/p]

• [p]First-time tips: clearer and smoother.[/p]
• [p]Animations & gore: improved, with new decapitations.[/p]
• [p]Visual pass on gear: full rework — each armor/weapon type and quality now has a unique sprite.[/p]
• [p]Combat rules: refined for readability and feel.[/p]
• [p]Stability & UX: overall experience improved.[/p]
• [p]Bug fixes: lots of them.[/p]

[p]We’re in Steam Next Fest! Play the updated demo during Steam Next Fest. We’ll be around for feedback and questions.[/p][p]How you can help[/p]

• [p]Play the demo and tell us where you got stuck or surprised.[/p]
• [p]Wishlist to follow development and boost visibility.[/p]
• [p]Share the trailer with a friend who likes tactical, timing-driven combat.[/p]

[p]Store link (UTM): [/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p][/p]

[p]Chains on Sand has now reached the feature complete stage. All of the core systems that define the game are in place.[/p][p]Combat is at the heart of the experience: a brutal, grid-based system where every blow matters. Fighters can bleed out, be knocked to the ground, or even lose limbs in the heat of battle. Opponents don’t cheat the rules — they fight by the same mechanics the player does, each guided by distinct archetypes that shape their style and tactics.[/p][p]But survival isn’t only about the fight itself. Life inside the arena means preparing carefully, managing your inventory, and choosing the right gear before stepping onto the sand. After each match, the crowd’s judgment determines whether you are celebrated, scorned, or forced to deliver a fatal blow. Over time, your victories and choices forge a reputation — merciful or ruthless, cowardly or bold.[/p][p]Not every foe is a nameless fighter. Special bosses, both hand-crafted and drawn from the legacies of past contenders, await in the dust. Defeating them is not only a test of skill, but also a step toward something greater: the chance to win your freedom.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]What’s next?[/h3][p]With all features in place, development now turns to:[/p]

• [p]Fixing bugs and tightening the systems.[/p]
• [p]Polishing visuals, sound, and animations so every strike feels heavy and clear.[/p]
• [p]Balancing the economy, skills, and AI to keep each fight tense but fair.[/p]

[hr][/hr][p]“Feature complete” means no more major systems will be added before release. From here, the focus is on sharpening what’s already built — making every duel memorable and every decision matter.[/p][p]Thank you to everyone who has followed the journey and tested the demo. Your feedback has been essential in shaping the game.[/p][p]Chains on Sand is getting closer to launch. The sands are thirsty. Will you rise in glory… or fall forgotten in the dust?[/p]

[p]We’re thrilled to announce that Chains on Sand has been officially selected for Steam Next Fest, taking place October 13–21! Our updated demo will be featured during the event—giving thousands of new players a chance to dive into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat.[/p][p]Even bigger news: The full game will launch on October 28th, just one week after Next Fest! Mark your calendars![/p][p]Being part of Next Fest is a huge milestone for us as a small team. We’re preparing a polished new demo for the event, with bugfixes, UI improvements, and new features based on your feedback.[/p][p]Thank you so much to everyone who’s played, wishlisted, or sent in suggestions. Your support makes all the difference.[/p][p][/p][p]Wishlist Chains on Sand today so you don’t miss the Next Fest demo and the full launch![/p]

[p]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.[/p][hr][/hr][h3] Core Combat Changes[/h3]

• [p] 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.[/p]
• [p] Offhand Attacks Introduced
  Fighters with the right training can now perform offhand attacks, allowing true dual wielding or shield bashes.[/p]
• [p] New Maneuvers[/p]
  • [p]Riposte – A defensive stance that counters incoming attacks.[/p]
  • [p]Illusive Attack – A feint that lowers defenses.[/p]
  • [p]Defensive Attack – Attack while staying safe and focused.[/p]

[hr][/hr][h3] Character Building Overhaul[/h3]

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

[hr][/hr][h3] Bug Fixes & Stability[/h3]

• [p]Many long-standing bugs were squashed.[/p]
• [p]AI behavior is now more responsive and fair.[/p]
• [p]Loot transfer and display are now reliable.[/p]
• [p]Major systems were refactored to prepare for polish phase.[/p]

[hr][/hr][h3] Leaderboard Reset[/h3][p]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![/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h3] Legacy Bosses[/h3][p]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.[/p][p][/p][h3] Demo Roadmap[/h3][p]This version likely reflects the finalized combat rules for Chains on Sand. However:[/p]

• [p]A final demo version will follow later, focused on visual polish, better animations, and presentation improvements.[/p]
• [p]Minor bugfixing updates may still appear before that final demo.[/p]

[hr][/hr][h3] We Want Your Feedback[/h3][p]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.[/p]

[p]
We’re excited to announce that a new and improved demo version of Chains on Sand will be released next week![/p][h3]What’s New & Improved?[/h3][p]Over the last week, we’ve been hard at work based on your feedback and our roadmap. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect in the upcoming demo:[/p]

• [p]\[Bugfixes & Combat Improvements]
  Cleaner, smoother tactical fights, with better enemy AI, bugfixes, and smarter behavior across all archetypes.[/p]
• [p]\[Quick Slots, Belts & Swapping]
  A fully functional belt & quick slot system: Equip potions, poisons, or tools and use them instantly in combat.
  Weapon swapping and item use is now more intuitive![/p]
• [p]\[Consumables Update]
  Poison coating, potion use, and better healing/antidote logic—let your creativity flow![/p]
• [p]\[UI & Experience Tweaks]
  Several improvements to stats display, clearer feedback, and overall polish for a more readable and satisfying experience.[/p]
• [p]\[More Balanced Fights & Smarter Opponents]
  Enemies make better use of their gear, potions, and positioning for a real tactical challenge.[/p]
• [p]\[Leaderboards Reset]
  We will be resetting the Steam demo leaderboard to ensure a fair competition for everyone!
  This is your chance to fight to the top with the new features and claim your spot.[/p][p][/p][h3]Special Thanks & Coverage[/h3][p]Big thanks to everyone who has played, streamed, and given feedback. Chains on Sand was recently featured on TurnBasedLovers—check out the article if you haven’t yet![/p]

[hr][/hr][p]The new demo launches next week.
We hope you’ll jump in, break the game, and let us know what you think.
Get ready to test your mettle (and maybe see your name on top of the leaderboards)![/p][p]Stay sharp and see you in the arena![/p]