Press release

​​​​​​​DayZ Update 1.21: Unleashes Medieval Mayhem in the Apocalypse

Prague, 23rd May 2023 – DayZ, the renowned post-apocalyptic survival game, invites survivors to embark on a transformative journey with the highly anticipated release of Update 1.21. Available across all platforms, this latest update immerses players in a captivating medieval world, introducing the formidable crossbow as a powerful addition to any survivor's arsenal. Accompanied by a host of enhancements and thrilling features, this update promises to revolutionize gameplay and deliver an unparalleled user experience.

You can watch the DayZ 1.21 update trailer here.

The highlight of update 1.21 is the arrival of the crossbow - DayZ's first ever spring-powered weapon. This lethal ranged weapon will give survivors a unique edge in their encounters. With the ability to shoot deadly bolts and accommodate various sights and scopes, the crossbow offers a thrilling new playstyle for those who prefer a stealthier approach. While the bolts are recoverable, bear in mind that each hit will diminish their durability. Fear not if you lose your bolts, however, as improvised ones can be crafted to replenish your arsenal.

In addition to the crossbow, a myriad of replicated medieval items and clothing have been scattered throughout Chernarus and Livonia, thus unveiling a richness of possibilities. Survivors will discover an assortment of armor, including chainmail tops, leggings, coifs, and Norse helms. Equip yourself like a valiant knight ready to lay siege to enemy fortresses and don't forget to keep an eye out for the elusive sword and mace.

But that's not all! Update 1.21 also introduces the winning flags and armbands from last year's exhilarating Lights Out event. Players can celebrate the triumphs of their fellow survivors as they stumble upon these victorious symbols while exploring Livonia’s unforgiving terrain.

 

One of the highlights of this update is the implementation of a server log-in delay for console players which occurs while switching between multiple accounts. Developers are introducing this delay with the aim of creating a healthier gaming environment by discouraging the use of multiple accounts on a single server during a game. This change ensures fairer gameplay and fosters a more balanced experience for all survivors.

Another highlight involves fall damage, which has been recalibrated and provides more readable and predictable outcomes. Survivors can now navigate their surroundings with greater confidence and strategic awareness.

DayZ creators understand the importance of a player’s user experience (UX), which is why they have introduced the option to adjust the brightness of the in-game UI. Now survivors have the power to adjust their visual experience and tailor it to their preferences. Additionally, we have fine-tuned the lighting of the inventory camera, making the inventory management process more visually appealing and intuitive.

In yet another exciting development, survivors are provided with the ability to spawn bushes, trees, and rocks through the server-side object spawner and script. This opens up new creative possibilities and allows players to shape their environment to suit their strategic needs and preferences. Dev team looks forward to witnessing the unique landscapes and fortifications players create using this innovative feature.

Key features of DayZ Update 1.21 include:

  • Crossbow in 5 variants

    • Bolts

    • Improvised Bolt variants

    • Chicken Feathers

  • Sword

  • Mace

  • Chainmail 

  • Chest Plate

  • Medieval Boots

  • Norse Helm 

  • Wool Gloves and color variants

  • Fingerless Wool Gloves and color variants

  • Loading screen game hints (new and old)

  • Smoother movement of thrown items and vehicles on high refresh rate devices

  • Status icon for mild leg injuries

  • UI brightness can be adjusted in the settings

  • Characters now spawn with items pre-assigned to their quickbar

 

DayZ Update 1.21 is available now on all platforms (Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation), inviting survivors to embark on an unforgettable medieval adventure in the post-apocalyptic world.

 

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About DayZ

The post-Soviet country of Chernarus is struck by an unknown virus, turning the majority of the population into frenzied infected. Fighting over resources has bred a hostile mentality among survivors, driving what’s left of humanity to collapse. You are one of the few immune to the virus. How far will you go to survive?

For more information, please visit www.dayz.com.

About Bohemia Interactive

Our story began with our first game, Arma: Cold War Assault, released back in 2001. Developed by just a handful of people, this PC-exclusive title became a massive success. It sold well over a million copies, received numerous industry awards, and was praised by critics and players alike. Since then, we've grown from a ragtag bunch of garage devs to an international family of over 350 professionals – working on Arma 3, DayZ, Ylands, Vigor, the Enfusion engine, and various other projects. Our ambition: to make games that act as platforms for people to explore, create, and connect. 

For more information, please visit www.bistudio.com.