Welcome back to New Eridu, Proxies! It is 2026, and I am still clocking in like this city owes me rent. The Amplifying Test is the update that really set the tone for how we grind, fight, and explore today. If you are new, think of it as a glow-up patch with extra Bangboo, extra story modes, and extra reasons to ignore your real-life responsibilities. Let us dive in, no cap.
Combat Commissions: Keep Busy, Stay Free
Combat commissions are a new type of side commission that is now available to Proxies. If you are the kind of player who sees a red marker on the map and thinks, finally, something to punch, these are for you. They are highly recommended for Proxies who want to focus on combat. Whether you are a fighter or an explorer, there are commissions for everyone. I love that this gives us more reasons to test our builds outside of the main story. It is basically a buffet for battle-hungry Proxies. 🥊
Monitor Array: Accelerated Playback Is a Time Saver
The new Accelerated Playback function is now available to help you explore. It also assists Proxies to speed up their progress. Press any available tile in the Monitor Array to move rapidly to that location, saving you time and energy. This is the quality-of-life juice we needed. No more clicking through every single tile like you are filing taxes in the Hollow. Just zip, zap, done. If you are a busy Proxy in 2026, this feature is low-key a lifesaver. ⚡
Story Modes: Casual vs Challenge
Proxies can choose between Casual Mode and Challenge Mode when playing the main story. While Casual Mode is for Proxies who wish to simply relax and enjoy the story, Challenge Mode is for those who are after a challenge and some more intense combat. I appreciate that the game lets you pick your vibe. Some nights I want to soak in the lore like a sponge. Other nights I want to get sweaty and prove my squad is not just for show. Here is a quick breakdown:
| Mode | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Casual | Chill story time | Lore lovers and cutscene enjoyers |
| Challenge | Intense combat | Players who want a real test |
Our goal is to be an Inter-Knot Master, and these modes help every type of Proxy get there. 🎯
All-New Proxy Growth System
When Proxies reach a certain Inter-Knot Level and meet all the Rank-Up requirements, they can rank up their Reputation and unlock more difficult challenges. That means more progression, more bragging rights, and more content that actually respects your time. I am a sucker for a good rank-up screen. It hits different when you see your Reputation climb and know the game is about to throw harder enemies at you. Bring it on. 📈
Hollow Zero Rehaul: Rewards, Bangboo, and Chaos
Hollow Zero got a serious rehaul, and I am here for it. Proxies can start exploring Hollow Zero when they pass the HIA Qualification Assessment. There are multiple areas in Hollow Zero with different exploration mechanisms. You can obtain Investigation Points by repeatedly exploring these areas, which will earn you corresponding rewards. So yes, the grind is real, but at least the loot is real too.
Bangboo Here to Help
Proxies will soon meet new companions called Support Bangboo. Support Bangboo will randomly appear in Hollow Zero. After inviting them into your squad, they will fight alongside you in battle! You can invite up to two Support Bangboo. That is squad goals right there. Two little mechanical gremlins backing you up? Sign me up.
Bangboo Chain Attacks Now Available
Apart from Support Bangboo, some Combat Bangboo now also have a Bangboo Chain Attack. They can execute special Chain Attacks in coordination with yours, helping you take down enemies on the battlefield. This is the kind of synergy that makes combat feel like a fireworks show. If you love big numbers and chaotic screen effects, you are eating good.
Free Combat Bangboo
Proxies can use Bangboo Coupons (placeholder) to obtain Combat Bangboo from Signal Search for free. Bangboo Coupons can be earned for free through Hollow Zero, Rally Commissions, events, etc. Free is my favorite price, and free Bangboo is even better. This makes the Hollow Zero loop feel way more rewarding. 🤖
Unknown Data Now Revealed!
New Maps Coming Soon
All-new shopping district Lumina Square will soon become available to Proxies! Walk through the bustling commercial district and savor the unique charisma New Eridu has to offer. I am ready to window-shop, people-watch, and maybe accidentally start a fight in a food court.
New Faction Incoming
Stay tuned for the Sons of Calydon, a faction active in the outer ring of New Eridu! Hollow Special Operations Section 6 and New Eridu Public Security will soon also welcome new members. New factions mean new personalities, new stories, and probably new characters I will spend way too many resources on. My wallet is already nervous.
A Whole New Chapter Is About to Unfold
Chapter 2.5 is coming soon, and with it, Officer Zhu Yuan's official debut! Chapter 3 will soon be available — mysterious messages, towers devoured by the Hollow, and what does this all have to do with the members of Victoria Housekeeping? I am not saying I need answers immediately, but I am saying I will clear my schedule. The story is cooking, and I am hungry for it.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, Proxies. The Amplifying Test is not just a patch; it is a whole vibe. Whether you are a casual story enjoyer, a Hollow Zero grinder, or a Bangboo collector, there is something here with your name on it. Keep your Inter-Knot level climbing, keep your squad stacked, and keep busy, stay free. See you in Lumina Square. 👋
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