The Settlers: New Allies' Blessings of the Elders update is here, bringing a host of changes to the strategy game, including a new game mode, new hardcore missions, a new building, an update to the existing production chain, and more.
A Sandbox Mode is available now, allowing players to explore islands and expand their settlements without facing the pressure of scenario objectives or AI opponents, though Bandit Camps and Places of Interest are still present. In Sandbox Mode, players can play The Settlers: New Allies however they want, at whatever pace they prefer. For those who thrive on the pressure of in-game challenges, The Settlers: New Allies also adds two new hardcore missions. These scenarios add restrictions to regular mission objectives, such as a time limit or buffed enemies. Elder's Tomb requires you to defeat all enemies in just 45 minutes, and in Widow's Peak, you must defeat the enemy with no time limit - but players start with no military units and a pre-placed Academy.
The Forester building has been upgraded, and more closely resembles the Forester from previous Settlers installations. Now, the building will plant trees in its vicinity, which can then be used as natural wood forests discovered during exploration. The game has also added a Charring Kiln, which is a new production building that converts logs into coal.
The Settlers: New Allies is also adding the long-awaited Skirmish map selection. Now, instead of randomly being assigned a map, players will be able to launch games with their choice of map during matchmaking, allowing them to be matched with other players with the same preferences. Additionally, the content update introduces the Elder's Tomb map, a 1v1 PvP experience.
The update also brings several improvements to existing content, as well as bug fixes. The Settlers: New Allies is available now on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Luna, and PC through Ubisoft Connect. A Ubisoft+ subscription includes access to the Deluxe Edition, which includes the Deluxe and Explorer packs as well as the main game.
