Last night’s highlights from the Game Awards 2023 showcased Ready or Not, the tense SWAT simulation from VOID Interactive. After a lengthy Early Access phase marked by widespread praise, the title has released its 1.0 update on PC. The launch brings a substantial content expansion, including new levels, a complete overhaul of SWAT AI, a dedicated Commander mode, fresh weapons, and a roster of unlockable customization options. The following overview breaks down what players can expect.
SWAT Team Quality Improvements
Ready or Not drops players into high-stakes missions that mirror real world SWAT deployments, from hostage rescues to bomb threats and barricaded suspects. A key focus this update is a comprehensive AI overhaul designed to deliver a more authentic and responsive unit. The SWAT teams now display enhanced tactics, improved formation control, door breaching strategies, room clearing procedures, and coordinated movement. By completing a set number of missions with the same NPC agents in single player mode, players unlock special agent features that boost overall team effectiveness once earned.
Commander Mode: Single Player Experience
In this facet, players assume the role of the new commander for the Los Sueños Police Department. The commander, known as David Beaumont, guides the team by selecting NPC agents, issuing tactical orders, and planning each operation with precision. The system emphasizes responsibility, including the mental and physical well-being of officers between tasks. Acknowledging the human factor, officers facing stress or health challenges may not perform at peak levels and could choose to step back from duty. In some scenarios, compromised agents may be unable to continue missions, underscoring the reality of loss in high-stakes operations.
New Missions and Revisions
Whether returning players or newcomers, the mission roster now totals 18 scenarios with many past missions revised for clarity and balance. Expect actions such as managing a hostage situation in a multi-unit residence, disrupting a meth operation in a resource-strapped housing block, and intervening against a group involved in illicit activities. The 1.0 update also introduces a redesigned onboarding experience to help new players learn weapon handling, mission briefings, and room-entry tactics from the start.
Equipment and Customization
The update delivers a realistic SWAT experience through an expanded arsenal and gear set for each mission. At launch, players gain access to ten new weapons, while progression unlocks allow access to a broad customization catalog. Through teamwork and milestone milestones, players can unlock up to ninety customization items, including clothing, watches, and tattoos that modify the appearance of characters and NPCs.
Additionally, Ready or Not supports user-created content via mod collections, with all SWAT AI features functioning on custom maps. This ensures new maps carry the same strategic depth and data generation as official scenarios.