Hightown Update Pushes Gloomwood Into Its Largest District Yet

Gloomwood has received a major early access update, adding what developer New Blood Interactive describes as the game’s largest and most vertical open area so far. The Hightown Update arrived on New Year’s Day following a short delay, expanding the stealth-focused immersive sim with a dense new district, tougher enemy encounters, and a new firearm designed for longer-range combat.

Still in early access and some distance from full release, Gloomwood has steadily grown with each patch, introducing new systems and environments that build on its blend of stealth, exploration, and survival horror. Previous updates added features ranging from advanced enemy behavior to experimental consumables that alter the player character. Hightown represents the most substantial spatial expansion to date, with layered streets, rooftops, and interiors that emphasize vertical movement and long sightlines.

The update is accompanied by a release trailer that showcases the new district’s gothic architecture and introduces a new weapon. The firearm is a revolver fitted with a rifle stock and a scope, offering players more precision at range. The weapon appears tailored to the update’s new threats, particularly enemies positioned above street level or at long distances.

In a teaser published ahead of release, New Blood described the scope of the update in direct terms.

“This patch contains the largest, most vertical open area and the most sophisticated, lethal and complex enemy force yet seen in Gloomwood.”— New Blood Interactive

Enemy design plays a central role in the Hightown Update. The new district introduces constables and other foes arranged to control sightlines and elevation, pushing players to adapt their routes and tactics. The focus on verticality changes how encounters unfold, with rooftops and balconies becoming active combat and stealth spaces rather than background scenery.

The update had originally been planned for release before the holidays, but was delayed shortly before Christmas. At the time, developer Dillon Rogers addressed the delay and highlighted the practical role of the new weapon.

“The new revolver-rifle will help players tackle those pesky constable snipers.”— Dillon Rogers

Players familiar with earlier builds have noted how Hightown echoes areas shown in Gloomwood’s original demo. Comparisons shared by players point to how dramatically those spaces have evolved since the demo released in 2020, with the new district showing a denser layout, greater vertical depth, and more complex enemy placement.

Gloomwood remains available on Steam in early access. The Hightown Update continues its pattern of large, incremental expansions, offering a clearer view of how the game’s interconnected spaces and systems are taking shape ahead of its eventual full release.