update · June 11, 2025
RimWorld Update v1.6 Unstable Beta Previews Odyssey Features
Ludeon Studios has detailed RimWorld update 1.6 and the Odyssey expansion on the unstable Steam branch, introducing performance overhauls and planning tools.
Ludeon Studios opened public beta testing for RimWorld update 1.6 on the unstable Steam branch, offering a first look at mechanical changes arriving alongside the Odyssey expansion. The update overhauls pathfinding performance, map generation, base planning tools, and combat balancing.
Performance and Technical Overhauls
Update 1.6 targets late-game stutter by shifting pathfinding and lighting calculations to multithreaded systems. Calculations for caravan foraging, animal pens, and hauling are streamlined, and startup times are reduced. The patch also fixes underlying memory leaks.
Building, Planning, and Designators
Base design is overhauled with a nine-color planning system supporting copying, pasting, and naming layouts. Designators include angled lines and ovals alongside traditional rectangles. Players can place new material blueprints directly over existing walls, doors, and conduits to upgrade them automatically without manual deconstruction.
Caravans and World Generation
Caravans gain the ability to pitch temporary camps to treat bleeding or sick colonists before enemy pressure mounts. Map generation produces organic features, including curving rivers with walkable banks, canyons, and caves detailed in the tile inspect pane. Chickens, ducks, and geese can also fly over terrain obstacles and fences.
Combat and Equipment Balance
Combat balancing adjusts several weapon and armor classes. Plate armor scales better with expensive materials, while flak jackets and pants offer improved sharp protection. Ranged weapons receive targeted buffs, including faster firing sniper rifles, increased range for charge lances, and higher accuracy for revolvers, miniguns, and LMGs.
Why this patch matters
Update 1.6 brings technical improvements and deep building quality-of-life upgrades that modernize RimWorld's core gameplay loop.