Hello everyone. After a long month of refinement during our Public Beta, we are happy to conclude and release the ‘Heavy Duty’ update. While we have plenty more in store for the 14.X lineage, we have decided to begin by releasing a redux of 2023’s Anniversary update alongside the full release. We’ll continue refining the last few remaining features in preparation for a festivity-free Facility.

We will briefly revisit what you can expect within this update. For a more detailed changelog of how the game iterated over the beta process, you can read more here.[docs.google.com]

As mentioned in the previous update notes, a primary cornerstone of the ‘Heavy Duty’ update is our changes to Heavy Containment Zone (HCZ). With ten new layouts and massive modifications to level design, we are happy to consider this the first proper ‘zone rework’ we have accomplished.

Following feedback regarding HCZ’s layout, we have opted to proceed with a few adjustments from the beta. We noticed that structures were spawning slightly less than intended, leading us to update our randomisation system. You can now expect an increased number of doors, clutter objects, and improved bulkhead consistency. Also, keep your eyes out for the newly finished Alpha Warhead room!

Another core feature of ‘Heavy Duty’ is the newly improved Respawn Overhaul systems. With a goal for gameplay decisions to feel more impactful in-game, players will have the ability to observe how actions directly affect the flow of the game.

The firearms within SCP:SL went through many iterations during the public beta. Overall bullet accuracy has been improved across the board for every gun, with reduced recoil also leading to a more user-friendly gunplay system. Much has changed since the start of the beta, so be sure to experience the new gunplay systems if you have not done so already..

We have reworked the 3-X Particle Disruptor and experimental weapon spawning systems during the beta. Alongside this, we will be showing off the new Micro-HID with the full release of this update. We hope you enjoy it.

SCP-1344 is the new SCP item released in this update. As our first item that directly toys with body horror, we are happy to release the ‘eye-catching goggles’ within this update.

This update also contains a massive amount of fixes, technical changes, and more for the game community at large. From new achievements, to a ton of bugs being fixed, and the addition of the new Speaker Toy, there are plenty of changes, the details for which can be found in the previously linked Beta Changelog.




The Christmas tree is back and ready to spread more cheer. This year, we have made adjustments to its available loot pool, meaning that players should expect helpful gifts more tailored to their current situation.

The Chaos Insurgency has also kept themselves off of the naughty list this year, meaning they can now receive gifts as well. How exactly they accomplished this is still to be determined.

We have heard your pleas, the Flamingos are back. Last year when we first introduced them to the public, we felt we accomplished our festive goal of bringing people together. This year we will be achieving the same, alongside some improvements and balancing changes. Here is what you can expect:

• As a whole, the possibility of SCP-1507’s tape recorder being a possible gift will be decided upon round start. The biggest downfall of SCP-1507 was the fact that they existed nearly every single round. Now, you can never truly expect when the horde may appear.
  
• SCP-1507 instances must stay together to have their maximum potential speed.
  
• Flamingos now deal reduced damage to SCPs. They are still capable, but it requires more planning and teamwork!
  
• The Flamingos are in your walls. They now spawn inside the HCZ vents.

The Piñata and cake are also making their return. Having been our first true wildcard seasonal feature, we have also found the time to be able to bring them back as well. Keep on the lookout, as SCP-956 moves twice as often!

We have been hard at work in getting this update out to you folks, and while we have certainly been busy, we are beyond happy to celebrate another year of SCP: Secret Laboratory with the community. From each and everyone at Northwood — thank you all for the unique opportunities you have given us!

Have fun, and see you in the dark.

- Northwood Studios