We first reported on Bloodgrounds back in October, when the retro-styled tactical title was getting ready to enter early access on Steam. Since then, the game has been released and has been receiving feedback, with the first major update now live.  The new “Masters of the Arena” update offers new difficulty options and more control over combat encounters. As well as refining the turn-based cut-throat combat, the update also offers players new, bigger arenas and new obstacles.

To celebrate the update, developer Exordium Games has added a 25% discount on Bloodgrounds that runs until January 5th, 2026, for the Steam Winter Sale. The game is due to leave early access in 2026.

The main features of Bloodgrounds‘ new Masters of the Arena update include:

Bigger arenas – a variety of arena sizes challenge players to better consider their surroundings in the heat of battle.

Controllable camera rotation – players can now see the action from different angles, enhancing strategic options and understanding.

New arena obstacles – exploit or avoid a range of new surprises in the bloody environment, increasing improvised and tactical options.

Three new game difficulties – Initiate, Warrior, and Champion options let players tweak their combat, giving more control to the player under the pressure of their enemies.