FIELD NOTE 09 // PROGRESSIONUPDATED SEP 01, 2026
Upgrade protocol

How upgrades work

Make the next choice solve a real problem. A bigger number is useful only when it helps the run stay alive.

Confirmed: official material describes permanent character upgrades, Intel, active abilities, perks, Boons, and modifiers as parts of progression and run-building.

What the official material says

The store description presents each run as a chance to enhance the arsenal through upgrades. Xbox Wire describes permanent possibilities that expand as the player progresses, while Steam Community news discusses Intel, abilities, and perks.

A reliable upgrade method

CHECK / 01

Fix the failure point

If the squad is losing to crowd pressure, choose a solution for crowd pressure. If a boss is ending the run, preserve a plan for the boss window.

CHECK / 02

Build a coherent layer

Weapons, Boons, Intel, perks, and modifiers should be read together. The best choice is the one that makes the rest of the run easier to execute.

Upgrade mistakes

  • Picking a reward without reading its role.
  • Changing direction every room with no reason.
  • Assuming a playtest-era balance value is still current.
  • Using a tier list without a game version or source.

Upgrade FAQ

Official material distinguishes run choices from permanent possibilities, but the exact permanence of each upgrade type should be checked in the current game.
Start with the problem currently ending your runs and choose a clearly described improvement. There is no verified universal order in this guide.
SOURCES / VERIFIED INTEL

Steam store page — run upgrades and game systems.
Xbox Wire — progression and permanent expansion context.
Steam Community news — Intel and perk updates.