Schedule 1 has finally launched its long-awaited major update — the Rival Cartel patch. This new version brings in the Benzies Family, along with new features, gameplay improvements, and many bug fixes.
Update Arrives After Delay
The game’s version 0.4.0 landed about a month later than first planned. According to the post on Steam, solo creator Tyler (TVGS) explained that the delay was due to several factors that disrupted the development. More clearly, he had underestimated the time required to implement new features. His last-minute additions also pushed the timeline back. Likewise, his personal schedule was packed due to personal stuff and college work.
“I’d just like to apologise for my lack of timeliness with this update…safe to say it’s been a hectic couple of months!” wrote Tyler on a Steam post.
Despite the setbacks, the new update for Schedule 1 brings exciting new content and quality-of-life enhancements that players have been eager to try.
Meet the Benzies Family
The biggest inclusion of the update is the Benzies Family. This group is a powerful new rival cartel based in Hylan Point. Once players unlock the required number of customers in Westville, they can encounter the family. Based on the official patch notes on Steam, interactions with the family include ambushes, cartel-customer negotiations, cartel-player deals during truces, dead drop thefts, and dealer robberies. Also, this family increases the depth and complexity of Schedule 1. Similarly, the interactions create fresh challenges and ways to play for gamers as they face an opposing force.
Additional Features and Items
As part of version 0.4.0, there is a new place to buy called Hyland Manor. However, players can do it only after finishing the storyline of the Benzies Family. Likewise, a ride named the “Hotbox” is now in the game. Weapon options have expanded with a pump shotgun and shotgun shells. Tyler also added a graffiti system that lets players spray paint on surfaces. This feature allows players to lower cartel influence and gain experience points. Players can buy the spray cans and a special cleaner item at Gas Mart to remove the graffiti.
Gameplay Improvements and Safety
Gamerant says players can now pickpocket cops and knocked-out NPCs. On the other hand, player actions now have consequences. In particular, a customer will not place new orders for 72 hours after being attacked.
To help protect player progress, the developer added a tool that auto-saves games.
For the complete list of the new patch notes, visit Steam. Meanwhile, fans can look forward to further improvements, as Tyler promises that Schedule 1 will continue to grow.
