Darkest Dungeon 2 Update Enhances Intense Strategy in Expanded Kingdoms Mode

Darkest Dungeon 2 has always been known for its tough and demanding gameplay, but the introduction of the Kingdoms mode has undoubtedly taken the challenge to a whole new level. This unique addition blends the essence of DD2 into a strategy-like setup, complete with a tabletop board game vibe. While maintaining the distinctive turn-based combat and grim aesthetics, it introduces a refreshing new twist. Developer Red Hook had originally made a promise of additional content drops, referred to as ‘modules,’ specifically for the Kingdoms mode—and they’ve kept their word. Their latest offering, called Secrets of the Coven, has just launched.

If you’re unfamiliar with what Darkest Dungeon 2 Kingdoms entails, let’s catch you up. Imagine a strategy game setup with a series of tiled pathways. Your main objective is to thwart a sinister force from overtaking the land by navigating these tiles to confront a final boss. Along the way, you’ll face off against their menacing soldiers and dedicated followers, all within a limited number of ‘days’ to locate and eliminate the leader.

Scattered throughout the board, you’ll find inns—these are more than just resting places. They’re crucial sanctuaries where you can regroup and heal. Yet, if not protected properly, these inns can fall into enemy hands. Depending on your chosen difficulty, losing a certain number of inns can end your campaign right there. Combat encounters will test you just like in the original Darkest Dungeon 2 experience. You’ll need to focus on strategic team composition and make smart tactical choices during turn-based battles.

After the gritty first module, Hunger of the Beast Clan, Red Hook has shifted to a witchcraft theme for this expansion. “Secrets of the Coven introduces a brand new challenge as you confront a treacherous gathering of witches,” the developer explains. “The unseen forces of witchcraft are manipulating the Kingdom. Follow the clues, unravel the mystery, and eliminate the coven before they can weave their influence too deeply!”

In addition to this exciting new narrative and compelling enemies, the Kingdoms mode is also receiving some much-appreciated quality of life updates. Each inn visit now lets you stash three items at minimum, and with upgrades, you can expand this capacity. You can sell items back to Hoarders, though at a reduced price from what you paid. Plus, there’s a new tool to help you assemble effective and complementary team combinations.

Alongside the free Secrets of the Coven expansion, there’s also a premium DLC called The Binding Blade that just became available. It introduces two new characters for you to utilize—the Duelist and the Crusader.

Darkest Dungeon 2’s Secrets of the Coven update for its Kingdoms mode is out now. If you haven’t dipped your toes in the world of Darkest Dungeon 2 yet, this might be the perfect moment, as it’s currently available at a 50% discount until Monday, April 21. You can grab your copy here.

If your preferences lean elsewhere, consider checking out our top picks for the best roguelikes and RPGs on PC right now.

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