CI Games has released a transformative update to their soulslike RPG, bringing significant changes to nearly every aspect of the game. Lords of the Fallen 2.0 represents the culmination of more than 50 post-launch updates, addressing community feedback while introducing innovative features that may attract new players to the challenging action RPG.
The Definitive Edition
Lords of the Fallen 2.0 has been positioned as the definitive edition of the game that launched in 2023. CI Games CEO Marek Tyminski emphasized that this substantial update reflects the company's commitment to their community, stating that the game has grown way beyond what we first imagined when we launched. The update is completely free for existing owners, while new players can purchase the game at significant discounts across all platforms, with prices reduced by up to 72% during ongoing spring sales.
Current Sale Prices:
- PlayStation (April 9-23): Standard Edition 72% off at USD $19.60
- Xbox (April 17-May 1): Standard Edition 70% off at USD $20.99, included in Game Pass
- Steam (April 17-May 1): Standard Edition 67% off at USD $19.80
- Epic Games Store (April 10-24): Standard Edition 67% off at USD $19.80
Combat and Movement Overhaul
The combat system has received a comprehensive rework, featuring more accurate weapon handling and refined lock-on mechanics. Players will notice improved mobility with quicker evasion moves and more responsive controls. A dedicated jump button has been added to enhance the platforming experience, addressing one of the common complaints about the original release. The update also includes enhanced weapon audio that amplifies every swing, parry, and block, creating a more immersive combat experience.
Revolutionary Co-op Features
Perhaps the most innovative aspect of the 2.0 update is the introduction of the Free Friend's Pass system. This feature allows anyone who owns the game to invite a friend to play through the entire adventure in co-op mode without requiring the friend to purchase the game. The invited player gets free access to the character creator and the entire tutorial area, and can then join their friend for the complete adventure.
Shared Progression System
The co-op experience has been further enhanced with fully shared progression. Both players save all mainline story progress when on the same New Game playthrough (provided they've killed a similar number of main bosses). Character progress and loot are saved between sessions, though only the host retains world progression. Defeated bosses and lit beacons persist in both worlds, and players can revive each other and collect 100% vigor and all loot during co-op sessions.
Visual and Interface Improvements
Lords of the Fallen 2.0 also brings visual enhancements to the character creator, including improved facial options, skin textures, and body shapes for both male and female models. The user interface has been completely overhauled to be cleaner and easier to navigate. A new guidebook allows players to reference previous tutorial prompts at any time, making the game more accessible to newcomers.
Navigation Assistance
To help players find their way through the complex world of Mournstead, a brand-new Umbral Lamp guidance mechanic has been implemented. This feature highlights the path forward, addressing another common criticism of the original release. New grievous strike button prompts have also been added to improve combat feedback.
Lords of the Fallen 2.0 Key Features:
- Free Friend's Pass: Play co-op with friends who don't own the game
- Fully shared co-op progression
- Improved combat with refined lock-on mechanics
- Enhanced mobility and dedicated jump button
- Overhauled UI and character creator
- New Umbral Lamp guidance system
Timing and Availability
The Lords of the Fallen 2.0 update is available now on Epic Games Store, Windows Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X. The Steam version faced a small delay due to technical issues. The game is currently available at discounted prices across all platforms, with the standard edition available for as low as USD $19.60 on PlayStation during their Spring Sale.
A Second Chance
While Lords of the Fallen didn't receive universally positive reviews at launch, the 2.0 update represents a significant effort by CI Games to address player feedback and improve the overall experience. With the soulslike genre continuing to grow in popularity ahead of upcoming titles like Elden Ring Nightreign, this comprehensive update gives Lords of the Fallen a chance to redefine itself in an increasingly competitive market.