1. Grounded’s Challenges & Xbox Games 2. Grounded on PS5/Switch Issues 3. Nintendo Direct Show Announcements 4. Xbox Exclusives on PS5/Switch 5. Microsoft’s Xbox Game Launches
Obsidian’s charming and compact garden survival adventure, Grounded, has made a spectacular comeback with its significant 1.2 update. This time, it brings along an array of exciting additions, such as wasps, a unique construction gnat (just as the name suggests), and Steam Deck verification, resolving several previously bothersome issues on Valve’s handheld.
Beginning with the Steam Deck verification, the 1.2 update addresses a variety of problems. Now, the initial loading and log-in processes should operate smoothly. Prompts will no longer flicker between gamepad and mouse/keyboard controls, and the virtual keyboard will appear precisely when needed. Moreover, Obsidian has optimized and fine-tuned Grounded’s default graphics settings on Steam Deck to ensure a more delightful gaming experience.
Elsewhere in the update, Grounded’s 1.2 version introduces new adversaries in the form of wasps. These wasps can be discovered guarding their mini-hives around the yard or stationed in more challenging Wasp Nests. Here, players may also encounter the new Wasp Queen boss. Defeating Grounded’s latest enemies will unlock the ability to craft new items, including armour.
Other enhancements include corner stairs, crafted from various materials and available in different configurations. Additionally, the turrets have been thoroughly revamped, and a new Base Coziness system has been introduced, featuring over 100 new crafting items. The update also brings mutation loadouts, allowing players to configure and rapidly recall up to four loadouts. By using the right on the d-pad, a new radial menu can be summoned.
Furthermore, Obsidian has incorporated several new game settings. Players now have the option to unlock all mutations immediately or start the game with the active mutations limit maximized to five, among other choices. This includes the ability to enable the new Handy Gnat. This adorable construction companion essentially grants players the freedom to build without being constrained by gravity. Players can fly the gnat around to blueprint, construct, and customize bases as desired. The Handy Gnat is enabled by default in the Creative and Creative with Bugs game modes.
To commemorate Grounded’s fresh 1.2 update, Obsidian is hosting a free weekend on Steam from April 27th to May 1st. Additionally, the game is currently available at a 25% discount on Steam, reduced from £34.99 to £26.24, as part of Microsoft’s Xbox publisher sale.
