Deadside Version 1.8 Public Test Launch - Major Overhaul of Weapons and Crafting
Date: January 31, 2026
Subject: Deadside New Release - Public Test of Version 1.8 Begins
Overview
Deadside returns with a substantial update that reshapes its core gameplay loop. The open‑world survival shooter continues to blend hardcore PvP and PvE action, letting players secure precious loot in safe zones or build sprawling fortresses in the wild. With intense gunfights, stunning visuals, and performance optimized for any system, the challenge is back-and now more balanced than ever.
Key Highlights of the 1.8 Public Test
- Public test of version 1.8 is live - major overhaul of weapon balance and crafting systems.
- All existing player progress is retained (no global wipe).
- Potential base deletion only for bases located on the new G4 industrial POI in Mirny (north‑west of the sawmill POI).
- Complete weapon rebalance: higher accuracy, higher muzzle velocity, reduced bullet drop, and a new damage‑over‑distance fall‑off system.
- Weapon durability increased 2‑3 × on average.
- Repair system revamped - each weapon now requires its own specific parts plus machine oil; machine‑oil consumption for vehicle upkeep halved.
- All weapons now have durability values; most attachments (suppressors, muzzle brakes, extended magazines) also have durability (scopes/optics excluded).
- New attachment category - SMG and AR suppressors (non‑repairable, burn out with use).
- Introduction of a craftable “bottle suppressor” (plastic bottle + duct tape + rags).
- New R‑12 revolver (5‑round .50 caliber “assault revolver”) added.
- Mosin rifles now accept stripper‑clip animation for faster reloading.
- Three new dedicated workbenches (Painting, Dismantling, Repair) plus an Advanced Workbench and an Ammo Bench.
- Base building enhancements - sloped roofing, hanging carpets on walls, and mannequins for displaying clothing/armor.
- Two new industrial zones added to the Mirny map (plus a remodel of the sand‑quarry zone).
- Rebalanced loot spawning and crafting recipes to improve progression.
- New red‑dot sights (including pistol‑specific red dots) and two new 6× optics added.
- Extended magazines for IZH‑70, TTk, C1911 now craftable.
- All weapons’ stats and prices have been adjusted (see full patch notes for details).
New Features in Detail
- R‑12 revolver - a 5‑round .50 caliber assault revolver.
- SMG suppressor attachment.
- AR suppressor attachment.
- Craftable bottle suppressor (plastic bottle + duct tape + rags).
- Two new pistol red‑dot sights.
- Two new 6× optics.
- Extended magazines for IZH‑70, TTk, C1911 (craftable).
- Mosin stripper‑clip reload animation.
- Painting Bench - applies skins to items.
- Dismantling Bench - disassembles items for parts.
- Repair Bench - repairs items using individual weapon parts and machine oil.
- Advanced Workbench - unlocks advanced crafting recipes.
- Ammo Bench - crafts ammunition from gunpowder, scrap metal, etc.
- Sloped roofing structure for bases.
- Mannequins (crafted from mannequin parts) to display clothing and armor.
- Carpet‑hanging capability on walls.
- Two new industrial‑zone POIs in Mirny.
- Remodeled sand‑quarry industrial zone.
- Rebalanced loot spawning and crafting recipes.
- Damage distance fall‑off system - bullets lose damage over range, calibrated by caliber.
- Increased weapon accuracy, higher muzzle velocity, reduced bullet drop.
- Headshot damage now applies a crit multiplier per weapon.
How to Join the Public Test
Players can access the 1.8 public test through the Deadside launcher. No additional download is required beyond the standard game client. Existing accounts will retain all progress, but be aware that bases located on the new G4 industrial POI may be subject to deletion.
Further Information
For a full breakdown of the patch notes, weapon stat changes, and crafting recipes, visit the official announcement:
https://steamcommunity.com/games/895400/announcements/detail/510729949093561029
Deadside’s development team thanks the community for its continued support and looks forward to seeing how players adapt to the new balance and expanded crafting system.