New Blood Interactive is enhancing Ultrakill with a significant visual update, revamping nearly every level except the latest chapter entitled “Violence”. This update aims to bring consistency to the game’s aesthetics by refining older environments to match the quality of newer ones. Players can anticipate a more immersive and visually cohesive experience as they navigate through the intensified action sequences.
Earlier updates primarily introduced new levels and gameplay features, while the current overhaul focuses on polishing the visual elements of existing content. This shift demonstrates the developers’ dedication to addressing community feedback and ensuring that all parts of Ultrakill meet high artistic standards. The transformation echoes similar efforts seen in other indie titles undergoing visual refinements post-launch.
Extensive Level-by-Level Visual Updates
The visual overhaul involves detailed enhancements across almost all Ultrakill levels. Lead developer Arsi “Hakita” Patala explained that while programmers are engaged in substantial code rewrites, he and 3D artist Victoria Holland are meticulously updating the visual aspects.
“There will likely be some functional changes here and there, but the general geometry, layouts, and encounters will remain the same in almost all cases since they work fine as is.”
This ensures that gameplay mechanics remain intact while aesthetics receive a significant uplift.
Enhanced Environmental Details and Graphics
Certain areas, like Limbo, have undergone more intricate changes, presented in a manner that preserves the original feel. New Blood Interactive has likened the updated graphics to “Ultrakill grafix in 1999,” suggesting a nostalgic yet refined visual style. The overhaul introduces fully rendered 3D environments and richer textures, as seen in the revamped skybox of layer 2, Lust. These improvements add depth and vibrancy, enhancing the overall player experience.
Introduction of Remixed Encore Levels
The update also brings two remixed “encore” levels, offering a fresh take on existing stages.
“They don’t look anything like the levels they’re based on, they don’t play anything like the levels they’re based on, and they’re about 10x harder than the levels they’re based on,”
stated New Blood. These levels feature altered themes, such as a night version with a lava floor and an icy rendition of a Prelude level, providing challenging new experiences for players. These encore levels are set to be a post-launch feature but are now included in the current update.
The comprehensive visual overhaul in Ultrakill enhances the game’s appeal by ensuring consistency and depth across its environments. By updating older levels without altering core gameplay, New Blood Interactive preserves what fans love while introducing fresh visual elements. The addition of remixed encore levels offers players new challenges and extends the game’s replayability. Coupled with the ongoing Steam sale, this update is poised to attract both new players and longtime enthusiasts looking to experience Ultrakill’s visually enriched action.
