Expeditions: Samurai is making room for a couple more swords. Campfire Cabal has released the game’s first Early Access update, expanding parties from four to six characters across ten levels while introducing companion dialogue skill checks, smarter enemies, and new equipment.
Released September 30, the update draws heavily on player feedback, with the full patch notes spanning ten pages.
Six-Character Parties Bring More Options to Missions
Ten levels, including Nagasaki Harbour, Kanseido Village, and the Derelict Carrack, now support six-character parties. Enemy numbers have increased on those maps to account for the extra help, so bringing more companions also means facing more opposition.
Characters can now carry barrels, opening up another way to prepare for a fight. Found a gunpowder barrel near a guard’s patrol route? You can move it into position and arrange an explosive welcome.
Companions also have a bigger role in conversations. They can now handle most dialogue skill checks for you, giving you more opportunities to use their Insight, Persuasion, Manipulation, and Authority skills.
Smarter Enemy Patrols and New Gear
Enemies on high alert have received some tactical adjustments. After clearing an area, they can spread out into more aggressive patrols or gather at chokepoints. Anyone who witnesses a takedown will immediately enter combat, adding another consideration when planning an approach.
The update also adds new heads and hairstyles to character creation, a Ronin outfit, five unique items, and 16 new armor and weapon variations.
Other changes include a reworked introductory cinematic and a merchant trade-value display. According to the update announcement, an overhaul of UI rendering also makes it run over 50% faster.
Early Access Update 1 Is Available Now
Campfire Cabal has also released a developer video discussing how player feedback influenced the update and its recent changes.
Expeditions: Samurai Early Access Update 1 is available now. You can read the full patch notes, find the game on Steam, or visit the official website for more information.
