The highly anticipated Satisfactory 1.2 update is officially on its way, bringing a mix of exciting and perhaps unexpected changes from developer Coffee Stain Studios. As Satisfactory celebrates its successful first year since full launch, solidifying its place among top building games, the team is now gearing up for a significant console release. Coinciding with this, the next big PC update promises substantial improvements, particularly for players struggling with large, complex factories.
“Our dedicated developers are continually striving to enhance and optimize the game, both technically and in terms of features,” explains Satisfactory community manager Mikael Niazi. He adds, “We have an announcement for 1.2 concerning pipes, because we’ve heard your feedback loud and clear regarding fluid transportation challenges. We’re thrilled to confirm that 1.2 will deliver the perfect solution.” For seasoned players of this automation sandbox, this might spark intense speculation, but a slight adjustment of expectations is advised.
Upon viewing the reveal, it quickly becomes clear that Niazi’s statement might be a playful bit of teasing from Coffee Stain. While many players were hoping for fixes to the challenging physics of fluid behavior—such as the notorious ‘sloshing’ issue where liquids flow inefficiently due to overflows or dead ends—the 1.2 update addresses a different aspect entirely. The video showcase reveals new features.
The “perfect solution” turns out to be a brand-new method for fluid transportation: a tanker truck, complete with a dedicated docking station. While perhaps not addressing the core fluid mechanics many anticipated, this addition is still exciting. It introduces a more dynamic and less rigid way to move liquids like water, oil, and fuel across your factory, enhancing the vibrant activity of your industrial complex.
For those more interested in the technical improvements, Coffee Stain has reactivated its experimental branch on Steam and Epic Games Store to test a “spline collision method refactor.” This system, which manages player interactions with belts, pipes, and hypertubes, can consume significant memory resources. To combat this, the update introduces a feature that temporarily disables hitboxes on distant objects, significantly reducing their memory footprint.
This change holds immense potential for memory savings, particularly in sprawling and intricate factory worlds. Niazi reports impressive results: “In some cases, we’ve seen numbers as high as 60GB of RAM usage halved thanks to this refactor.” If you’ve been grappling with performance issues in the game, exploring the experimental branch is highly recommended, and all player feedback is eagerly awaited.
While a specific release date for Satisfactory 1.2 remains unannounced, it’s expected to follow the game’s console launch on November 4. In a thoughtful gesture, Mikael Niazi also shared that Coffee Stain has permanently reduced prices on most of its official Satisfactory merchandise, responding to the rising cost of living.
Looking to enhance your game experience right away? Many community-created Satisfactory mods are available. If you’re seeking a break, there are also numerous other relaxing games that can help you unwind.
What are your thoughts on the new fluid trucks? Is there another feature you’re hoping to see in Satisfactory 1.2? Share your feedback with the community – and don’t forget to convey your ideas directly to Coffee Stain Studios!