Bloody Hell, Lords of the Fallen Just Got a *Proper* Co-Op Upgrade – Right Before PS Plus!
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
Just in time for its PlayStation Plus debut in April 2026, *Lords of the Fallen* has received a massive co-op update (v2.5.338) that significantly expands guest player freedom and streamlines sessions, turning what was once a restrictive experience into a genuinely shared adventure.
Right, so you know that feeling when you're about to dive into a new game, maybe even drag a mate along, and then BAM! The developers pull a rabbit out of their hat just for you? Well, *Lords of the Fallen* has done just that, delivering a game-changing co-op update that’s landed with suspiciously perfect timing, just as it's set to join the ranks of PlayStation Plus freebies for April 2026.
Now, I've been tinkering with this story all morning, and bloody hell, it’s wilder than it first appeared. On one hand, it’s a brilliant move, a bit like a wizard casting a 'buff' spell just before a big boss fight. On the other, you can't help but raise a gently skeptical eyebrow and wonder if Hexworks knew a thing or two about its upcoming PS Plus debut when they lined up this patch. Either way, for us, the actual players, it’s a win.
For ages, co-op in games, especially the more epic, dark fantasy kind, has often felt a bit... restrictive for the guest player. You're there, you're helping, you're slaying, but you're also kinda just *there*. Like a sidekick with training wheels, always beholden to the host's whims. You couldn't upgrade your gear, couldn't chat to a vendor, couldn't even proper-wobble-warp between checkpoints without asking 'mother, may I?' every five minutes. Not in *Lords of the Fallen* anymore, mate! Hexworks, the wizards behind the game, have apparently decided we've all had enough of being glorified pack mules and have pushed out update 2.5.338. And fair dinkum, it’s a proper glow-up.
This isn't just a minor tweak; we're talking about a fundamental shift in how co-op feels. In the 'Shared Progression' mode, guest players now have vastly expanded freedom. Imagine this: you can now upgrade your Sanguinarix (your health flask, basically), your Umbral Lamp, and your weapons. You can socket upgrade items, interact with vendor NPCs, use Chrysalis Rebirth (because who doesn't love a good reset?), and even rest and warp between Vestiges (those lovely bonfires). Oh, and you can plant Vestige Seeds, initiate boss encounters, and skip cutscenes. No more feeling like you're stuck in a digital holding pattern while your mate makes all the decisions. This makes the experience genuinely shared, transforming what could be a slightly frustrating support role into a true partnership against the darkness of Mournstead.
But wait, there's more! For those playing 'Non-Shared Progression' sessions – maybe you're helping a new friend without affecting your own save, or just want a bit more control – hosts now have the option to choose between 'Full' and 'Limited' guest permissions. It’s a smart move, giving players the flexibility to tailor their co-op experience. Whether you want a fully collaborative adventure or prefer to keep a tighter leash on progression, you’ve got options. It’s the kind of quality-of-life improvement that tells me the devs have been listening to player feedback, which is always a good sign in my book, especially for games in this genre.
Speaking of the PS Plus arena, *Lords of the Fallen* isn't flying solo into the freebies lineup. It's joined by *Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream* and the shiny *Tomb Raider 1-3 Remastered*. A solid trio, I reckon, dropping on April 7th for all PS Plus tiers. But let's be fair, the real head-turner this month, especially with this news, is *Lords of the Fallen*. This update isn't just a minor patch; it's a statement, making the game a much more attractive proposition for anyone thinking of diving in with a friend. And let's not forget the previous month's goodies – *Monster Hunter Rise*, *Slime Rancher 2*, *PGA Tour 2K25*, and *The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road* – are still up for grabs until the new ones arrive. So, plenty to keep us busy, eh?
Beyond the headline co-op magic, Hexworks also waved their wand over a bunch of technical niggles. Remember those infuriating bugs where clients couldn't socket Umbral Eyes into the Umbral Lamp or runes into weapons during co-op? Gone! That bizarre issue with your character's level getting multiplied after using Rebirth Chrysalis? Poof! Even our PC brethren get some love with PS5 DualSense support on the Steam version and improved Steam Deck performance. It’s always good to see devs ironing out the creases, especially when a game is about to get a fresh wave of players. Nothing ruins the enthusiasm of new blood like stumbling into an immediate bug-fest, right?
And it seems Hexworks isn't done yet. In their announcement, they subtly hinted they're 'still updating the game,' which, to my cleverly observant eye, means we might see more patches by late 2026 or early 2027. It's an optimistic sign that they're committed to the long haul, even with *Lords of the Fallen 2* reportedly still on course for a 2026 release (though details on that sequel are still sketchier than a treasure map drawn by a drunk goblin).
So, what's the takeaway here, beyond the obvious 'go grab *Lords of the Fallen* on PS Plus'? It's a prime example of a studio not just patching, but *evolving* their game, especially when it matters most. Is the timing a little too perfect, making you wonder if it's a cunning PR spell? Absolutely. Am I complaining? Not a jot, mate. It’s a smart move, and more importantly, it makes the game genuinely better for players. And in the chaotic, often bewildering world of gaming, especially where co-op can make or break an experience, that’s a win in my book. Now, who's up for a proper delve into Axiom and Umbral with me?
Tags: PlayStation Plus, Lords of the Fallen, Co-op Gaming, Game Updates, Action RPG
Original article: Game Rant