ACQUIRE has rolled out a new update for its real-time RPG Scars of Mars, introducing a tougher Challenge Mode and a series of feature improvements. The update refines gameplay mechanics, expands customization options, and enhances usability across the board. Players on Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam can now experience these upgrades.
Challenge Mode Raises the Stakes
A new Challenge Mode is now accessible, but only after completing the game. This mode isn’t just a harder difficulty—it fundamentally changes how the game plays.
- Enemies are significantly stronger, making battles more intense.
- Safe Rooms are completely removed, forcing players to strategize with limited resources.
- Best Clear Time records track how quickly players complete levels.
- + Equipment Blueprints offer upgraded versions of previous gear as rewards.
- Research Level Cap increases with each level cleared for the first time.
Challenge Mode is split into ten levels (Lv. 1 to Lv. 10), which can be accessed via the “Deploy” screen after completing the main story.
Blueprints and Upgrade System Get a Major Overhaul
Managing equipment has been streamlined with a “Convert All to Upgrade Points” feature. Players no longer have to convert blueprints one by one—everything can be processed instantly.
This change makes it much easier to focus on upgrading essential equipment rather than juggling unused blueprints.
New Customization Options for Humanoids
The update brings new Mask options for humanoid characters, available after clearing the game on different difficulties:
- Normal Mode completion unlocks a new Mask
- Hard Mode completion adds another unique Mask
- Extreme Mode completion grants an exclusive Mask
Additionally, Class icons and other elements can now be displayed on Humanoid Masks, improving clarity during battles.
Expanded Research and Upgrade Point Limits
A much-needed improvement comes in the form of increased capacity for Research Points and Upgrade Points at the base. This change allows players to stockpile more resources before spending them on upgrades, making progression smoother.
New Settings and UI Tweaks for a Smoother Experience
A “Remaining Item Notification” has been added to General Settings in the Options Menu. When turned on (default setting), this notifies players about any items left behind during deployment.
Several user interface elements have also been adjusted:
- Equipment level display now shows “Current Level / Max Level” for better clarity.
- Number displays for acquired items during deployment have been refined.
Steam Achievements and Bug Fixes
For those chasing Steam achievements, there’s good news—clearing Extreme difficulty will now also unlock the achievement for Normal difficulty.
Additionally, several bug fixes have been implemented, including:
- Fixed an issue where certain animations couldn’t be skipped.
- General stability improvements for a smoother gameplay experience.
Available Now on Switch and PC
The Scars of Mars update is live for Nintendo Switch and Steam players. Whether you’re tackling Challenge Mode or enjoying the new quality-of-life features, this update offers plenty of reasons to revisit the game.
