The co-op space shooter Jump Space is now available for a free weekend on Steam, allowing players to try it out for free from September 17 to September 21. Developer Keepsake Games has also released an anniversary update, rebalancing the difficulty system and adding features such as autosave.
Jump Space supports single-player gameplay and allows teams of up to four players. Players need to land on planets and space stations, engage hostile forces, and search for equipment, ship parts, and other supplies, then return to their ship for upgrades and repairs before heading to the next destination. Along the way, they may encounter ship battles or explore wreckage via spacewalks.
This update changes the original five-tier "Challenge Rating" to an eight-tier "Threat Level," aiming to make difficulty progression smoother and reduce sudden spikes in challenge. Lower-level missions will be relatively easier, while the highest, level eight missions require end-game gear and effective coordination in co-op mode.
Enemies now have different levels, with colors indicating danger level and names displaying traits such as "Overclocked" or "Brawler." If players attack ground enemies from their ship, those enemies may board the ship to pursue them; enemies that enter the ship will also attack hull weak points and internal systems. However, players stationed at the pilot seat, combat station, or scanning station will not be their primary targets.
Autosaves are triggered when the ship jumps to a new area. After a game crash or unexpected disconnection, players can resume their current mission from the main menu. The inventory has also been divided into three categories: weapons, consumables, and general storage, with an increased total capacity.
The original multi-tool has been replaced by the Materia Gun, which is now included as a standard weapon in loot. Door opening and repair tasks are now handled by separate devices. The Materia Gun may come with different modules and can be used as a backup weapon with infinite ammunition; the update also includes a batch of stability fixes.
Keepsake Games plans to announce more details about the next major update in early October, with the update currently scheduled for release around December.