Rust “Harder Core” August Update Overview

The new “Harder Core” Rust update introduces several new features, including a re-work to the hardcore game mode, changing core gameplay mechanics to make the mode more unique. A complete menu overhaul has also been introduced by the developers, along with plenty of loading of gameplay optimizations. Finally, several gameplay changes are also being introduced, such as new weather mechanics, a metal detector rework, and plenty of quality-of-life features. Get ready as we dive deep into this month’s Rust update.

Check out our blog for expanded coverage of everything added in this Rust Update

Rust Guides

Hardcore Game Mode

The hardcore game mode has been revived in a completely refreshed form. The developers have taken the definition of Rust’s hardcore to the next level by introducing several gameplay changes to weapon crafting, respawning, and upkeep this update. Guns can no longer be crafted and must be scavenged through loot and combat, while ammo recipes have increased by 500%. Bag and bed timers have been increased to 15 and 10 minutes, respectively, while upkeep costs have been doubled. Finally, fog of war has been added to the map, forcing you to discover the server on your own instead of having it already revealed to you.

Hardcore Compass

Navigation is also receiving changes in the hardcore mode in the form of a compass. The compass allows you to see your location on the map while exploring the game mode, while also granting you the Compass UI. It is important to note that this item and these changes are for and only affect the hardcore game mode.

Menu Overhaul

Rust’s main menu has been entirely redesigned from the ground up this update. This refresh modernizes Rust’s menus, adding several quality of life features such as a revamped server browser that allows you to view maps before joining, a Twitch drops tile, a much more organized store page with a skin viewer, and a redesigned settings menu.

Loading Optimizations

The way Rust loads assets has been refactored, optimizing loading times while launching the game and loading into servers by up to 65%. The changes also mean players can expect a 10-20% decrease in memory usage while playing. These optimizations replace the “Optimized Loading” experimental setting.

Quality of Life Changes

Metal Detector Rework

Metal Detectors are receiving a huge rework in the form of a buff this Rust update. Now, when players’ backpacks or weapons despawn on the ground, they will have a chance to become buried for a day. Buried items can be uncovered in a rough area around where they were dropped using a metal detector, giving the item an entirely new feature.

Atmosphere Revamp

Rust’s atmosphere has received a complete rework this update, introducing volumetric clouds and biome-localized fog. The goal of the revamp is to widen the variety of dynamic weather to give players a more immersive experience. Volumetric clouds are an experimental option that can be toggled on or off as preferred, while the new volumetric fog is something all players will experience.

Homebrewed 3 Twitch Drops

A new Rust Twitch drop event has begun with the introduction of this month’s force wipe and update. Fourteen skins are currently available to claim on eligible Twitch streams representing different Rust content creators and their communities. Remember that to be eligible to claim Rust Twitch drops, you must visit the Rust Twitch Drops Site and link your Steam and Twitch accounts.

Check out a full article on the newest Rust Twitch Drops here:

Homebrewed 3 Twitch Drops

Pilot Pack DLC

The new Pilot Pack DLC redefines Rust DLCs by introducing 4 new skins, which all come with highly detailed custom models. The DLC features an M15 Pistol skin for the Semi-Automatic Pistol, which comes with custom sounds, animations, and even glow sights, along with a custom Pilot Suit Hazmat, a Black Box wood storage box, and a Salvaged Ejector Seat Chair. The Pilot Pack also introduces a skin for an item that has never been skinned before, the code lock. The Flight Control Codelock behaves identically to the normal code lock, but with a high-tech appearance.

That sums up all the new features of Rust’s August update. As of now, the update is live and playable on all official servers. Whether you choose to hop into the hardcore refresh or enjoy Rust’s classic game mode, the Harder Core update has something to offer everyone. If you enjoyed this article, leave a comment and let us know what we should cover next. See you next time!

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