Headware Games has announced the release of a new free content update for its tech-noir survival horror game, Hollowbody. The update, titled Restoration, adds new puzzles, locations, and lore that were initially cut from the game’s launch. Players who wish to purchase the game can take advantage of a 10% discount, available until November 4.

As a solo developer based in the UK, Headware Games focuses on creating narrative-driven experiences with an emphasis on atmosphere and art direction. Everything about their games, from the art to the animation, to the sound design would be fantastic coming from a AAA studio, let alone a solo dev. Headware Games previously released the acclaimed psychological horror game Chasing Static before launching Hollowbody, which pays homage to classic survival horror games like Silent Hill and Resident Evil.

Restoring Hollowbody’s Original Vision

The Restoration update aims to enhance the game’s pacing and narrative flow based on player feedback. While reflecting on this feedback, the developer looked back on their original design notes. There were a number of aspects that were originally cut due to time constraints. Headware Games had to lock-in on the core game structure and design to make sure Hollowbody made it through to release. It seems that what players were missing pretty much aligns with what Headware Games had to pare down. However, all of that gets to be remedied now.

This content update provides more context about the character Echo, tying them into the grand scheme of the story. Several new optional puzzle sections in various locations, such as High Street and the Underground Station. This is also a multi-stage puzzle that spans several areas, which should clear up some confusion about the city’s restoration efforts and its eventual decline.

Alongside this, Headware Games implemented a variety of quality-of-life improvements. The update tweaks the layout and camera in existing locations and enhances performance in outdoor settings. Players will notice an increase in run speed and adjustments to the follow camera’s recentering time across all locations. Restoration also introduces four new small interior locations. Other improvements involve tweaking the pistol ammo drop rate, fixing issues related to shotgun ammo saving, and correcting a text error in the inventory where the makeshift axe was misidentified.

Hollowbody is currently available for PC on Steam and GOG. If you didn’t get to play it before, now is a great opportunity to see the full vision.