'An absolute behemoth': Wildly ambitious FPS Selaco is getting a massive update that doubles its size and adds 'a heavy machinegun that fires literal explosions

Selaco: The Machines of War, a first-person shooter built in the Doom engine, will release its second chapter on November 13, expanding the game’s scope significantly. Developed by Altered Orbit Studios, the update doubles the game’s length by adding 19 new campaign maps, equivalent to 6–8 hours of additional content. The expansion also introduces a persistent enemy described as an unstoppable machine that actively hunts the player throughout the campaign.

The update brings new weapons, including a minigun and a heavy machine gun that fires explosive projectiles, along with deployable tools like mini-turrets and sentinel drones. A heavy ordnance system allows players to pick up and use large, disposable weapons scattered across levels, similar to mechanics in Gears of War. Existing content is also being enhanced, with the FEAR-inspired enemy AI rewritten to improve tactics and decision-making, and a new rally system introduced to give players more control over combat pacing.

Altered Orbit Studios has overhauled the entire first chapter with improved set pieces and new surprises, alongside broader technical upgrades. A new lighting system, revamped particle effects, and enhanced level navigation aim to deepen immersion, while new voice lines and music further refine the experience. Controls have been refined, and enemy communication has been made more lifelike to heighten realism in combat scenarios.

The scale of changes means saves from the previous version will no longer be compatible, though players can start fresh at the beginning of Chapter 2 if they prefer. Selaco launched in Steam early access in 2024, with the first chapter already noted for its length and ambition. The studio’s track record suggests these updates will deliver on their promises, building on the game’s sci-fi mercenary narrative set in a vast, city-sized space station.