From Press Release:
May 9, 2025 — BlackFoot Studios and MicroProse are proud to announce the release of the highly anticipated V1035 update for GROUND BRANCH, the tactical first-person shooter that emphasizes realism and player-driven gameplay.
This substantial update introduces a host of new features and improvements, further solidifying GROUND BRANCH‘s position as a leading title in the tactical shooter genre.
Key Highlights of the V1035 Update
AI Teammates Introduced
For the first time, solo players can experience missions with AI–controlled teammates. These AI operatives can follow commands such as “Move and Clear,” “Hold,” and “Take Cover,” and can switch between “Assault” and “Recon” combat modes, allowing for more strategic single-player engagements.
This is the first iteration of the friendly AI system, and the development team is committed to continuously improving AI behavior and functionality in future updates.
Power Station map overhaul and new map Ranch
The classic Power Station map has been extensively redesigned, featuring expanded areas, new buildings, and additional routes, enhancing tactical options. Additionally, the new Ranch map offers players a fresh and challenging environment set near the Mexico–US border, providing diverse combat scenarios against cartel forces.
Enhanced Operator Customization
The customization interface has been revamped for better usability. Players can now enjoy a more intuitive layout with categorized attachments, a search function, and support for modded content. New gear options, including updated field jackets, softshell jackets, and balaclava styles, offer deeper personalization.
New Weapons added
Expanding the arsenal, V1035 introduces the AUG A3 bullpup rifle, the G36K Custom, and the MK24 pistol. These additions provide players with more versatility and tactical choices on the battlefield.
AI Behavior and Mission Editor Enhancements
AI opponents have been improved with new animations and behaviors, including better reactions to grenades and environmental stimuli. The Mission Editor now supports day/night spawn variations and offers new tools for creating dynamic missions, enhancing both official and community-created content.
Randomized Enemy Counts
To increase replayability, players can now enable randomized enemy numbers in co-op modes like Terrorist Hunt, Intel Retrieval, and Defuse. This feature introduces variability in enemy resistance, keeping missions unpredictable and challenging.
Improved Visuals and Audio
Significant visual enhancements have been made, including refined lighting, fog effects, and color grading across maps. Audio updates bring more immersive soundscapes, with spatial audio improvements and new voice lines for enemy factions, enriching the overall gaming experience.
The V1035 update is now live and available for all GROUND BRANCH players on Steam. This update represents a major step forward in delivering a realistic and immersive tactical shooter experience.
For more information and to join the community, visit the official GROUND BRANCH website or follow the game on Steam and on Discord.
