Darkest Dungeon 2 Update Enhances Kingdoms Mode with Intense Strategy Gameplay Expansion

Getting through Darkest Dungeon 2 was no easy task before, but with the addition of its Kingdoms mode, players have a whole new challenge to tackle. In this mode, the essence of DD2 is transformed into a strategic tabletop-like game, dropping the familiar turn-based combat and bleak visuals into a fresh concept. Red Hook, the game’s developer, had promised more content for this mode in the form of ‘modules.’ True to their word, they’ve just rolled out the second expansion titled Secrets of the Coven.

For those unfamiliar with Darkest Dungeon 2 Kingdoms, think of a strategy game where each session is a journey across interconnected tiled paths. Your mission? To halt a malevolent force from conquering the land by navigating these tiles to the ultimate boss. Along the way, you’ll face off against troops and followers, with only a limited number of ‘days’ to defeat their leader.

Strategically placed inns serve as your havens for rest and recovery, but leave them unguarded, and they might fall to enemies. Depending on your chosen difficulty, losing a certain number of inns spells failure. Combat encounters echo the style of the original Darkest Dungeon 2, demanding smart tactical play, team synergy, and turn-based strategy.

The initial Kingdoms module, dubbed Hunger of the Beast Clan, had a gritty edge. Now, the latest expansion, Secrets of the Coven, delves into the realm of witchcraft. Red Hook teases, “Secrets of the Coven presents a new adversary in the form of malevolent witches. Witchcraft’s elusive strings are tugging at the kingdom’s fabric. Gather clues to dismantle this clandestine coven before they can corrupt everything!”

In addition to new foes and storylines, Kingdoms is seeing some welcome improvements. Players can now stow away a minimum of three items at inns, with the possibility of upping storage slots. Hoarders, rejoice—you can sell items back to merchants at a reduced rate. Plus, there’s a nifty new tool to aid in assembling powerful, synergistic teams.

On top of the free Secrets of the Coven update, the game also launches the premium The Binding Blade DLC, adding two new characters: The Duelist and The Crusader.

The Secrets of the Coven update for Darkest Dungeon 2’s Kingdoms mode is available now. If you haven’t tried Darkest Dungeon 2 yet, this might be the perfect moment, with the game being 50% off until Monday, April 21. You can purchase it here.

If this isn’t quite your jam, why not explore some of our top picks for the best roguelikes and RPGs on PC right now?

Stay current with daily PC games news, reviews, and guides by following us on Google News. We’ve also got a lively Discord community where you can chat about this story and more with us and fellow readers.