[Update #2]: Darktide will be getting RPG-like talent trees and an Xbox version on October 4th.

[Update]: Darktide's August update is looking to fix long-standing issues like crafting locks.

While not quite as exciting as the previous update that brought with it two lengthy new maps to explore and a boss to square off against, Darktide's freshly released Patch 11 is still an important one due to it finally adding crossplay. As such, Steam and Game Pass players are now able to matchmake together, become friends and make parties. Unfortunately, there is a slight catch - there is no cross-progression. In other words, you currently aren't able to move your progress, DLCs or in-game currency from one platform to another.

Besides crossplay, you can also look forward to a new mission modifier called Elite Resistance. As the name might imply, Elite Resistance makes it so fewer enemies spawn throughout the mission, but most of the ones that do spawn are going to be far tougher than usual. Additionally, Specialists are going to be a lot more opportunistic than usual, so expect them to attack you specifically during the most hectic of moments. I haven't had a chance to try the new modifier just yet, but it definitely sounds like a fun little challenge!

That's pretty much it as far as new content goes, though I'm happy to say that Patch 11 has also brought in a couple of buffs to some of the nearly useless weapons: Recon Lasguns and the Ogryn Slab Shield. The Lasguns have received a relatively straightforward change - their damage has been greatly increased which should hopefully make them a more competitive option.

As for the Slab Shield, that one has undergone a whole series of changes. It does more damage across the board, the silly cleave target limit has been removed while the cleave damage has been increased, and perhaps most importantly of all, the hit zone priority has been changed so the weapon will favor headshots over bodyshots when hitting multiple parts of enemies. Best of all, this is only the beginning as the Slab Shield will be getting a full rework at some point in the future!

Once that actually happens, I'll make sure to let you know. Until then, you can check out the full list of changes for Patch 11 over at the official website. Enjoy!