The retro-styled vehicle combat game FUMES has received a major update, introducing full online co-op support. The developer has opened up multiplayer sessions to accommodate large groups, jokingly noting that while the game is balanced for 1-6 players, it will attempt to scale for as many as 250 participants—provided the host has the hardware to support it.
Quick Facts
- Co-op Support: Full online multiplayer enabled with shared progress between solo and co-op modes.
- Gameplay Additions: Six new suspensions, a new ramp for airtime, and a rebalanced weapon knockback system.
- New Achievements: Two new accolades added: "Better Together" for joining or creating a lobby, and "Ad Block" for destroying an in-game billboard.
- Platform: Available on PC via Steam, with verified support for Steam Deck.
Gameplay and Balance Changes
Beyond the addition of co-op, the update focuses on refining the game's physics and movement. The development team has reworked weapon knockback, aiming to make mechanics like rocket jumping more viable. This rebalance is currently a work-in-progress, with the team planning to iterate based on player feedback.
To assist with traversal and stunt-based gameplay, six new suspensions have been added to the game, including specific parts for the Caro, Unitrack, and Warhorse vehicles, as well as a new suspension for the Warthog-Bulldog. A new ramp has also been introduced to provide more opportunities for airtime.
In-Game Billboards
The update also introduces a promotional system featuring billboards for other indie games created by the developer's peers. These billboards are destructible, allowing players to smash through them for a new achievement. Players who find these additions intrusive can opt out by disabling them in the accessibility settings menu.
As FUMES continues its journey through Early Access, progress made during co-op sessions is now fully integrated with solo play, and players can toggle friendly fire to increase the challenge of their sessions.