Overview of Satisfactory’s 1.1 Update
- The highly anticipated 1.1 update will launch in the experimental branch on April 1.
- Key features include enhancements to the Hypertube system, new logistics solutions, and significant updates to the photo mode, among others.
- Controller support will be added, although the release of console versions has been postponed until after the 1.1 update.
Coffee Stain Studios has officially announced details for the upcoming 1.1 update of Satisfactory, slated to introduce a variety of new features, including crucial upgrades to the Hypertube system, enhanced logistics options, and a refined photo mode. These exciting enhancements were showcased in a developer video, which also revealed some disappointing news for console gamers.
Satisfactory’s Post-Early Access Milestone
Satisfactory transitioned from early access to full release in September 2024, after a lengthy development period of over five years. Since then, numerous minor patches have been rolled out, but the forthcoming 1.1 update marks the first significant expansion following the official launch.
The developer’s recent YouTube video provides a comprehensive overview of the update, expanding on the teaser shared earlier in March 2025. This nine-minute presentation confirmed many exciting features, particularly the revamped photo mode, which includes enhanced camera controls, various filters, character poses, and adjustable depth of field. Interestingly, all footage used for the teaser was captured with this improved photo mode, showcasing its capabilities.
Feature Enhancements in the 1.1 Update
The 1.1 update promises substantial improvements to several game systems, particularly in transportation and logistics:
- The Hypertube system will see upgrades including three-way junctions, enabling players to change directions mid-travel by pressing the “E” key. New junctions will allow players to enter from unique paths and angles.
- Logistics improvements will introduce fully functional vertical splitters and mergers, which can now be placed anywhere on lifts. This expansion gives players the ability to set input priority levels and establish “priority mergers”to better manage item flow during overloads.
Controller Support and Console Delays
In another notable development, the update also adds controller support, moving the game closer to a console-ready state. However, Coffee Stain Studios has announced a delay concerning the console versions, which were initially set for release shortly after the game exited early access. These will now debut following the rollout of the 1.1 update.
Release Schedule for 1.1 Update
The 1.1 update is confirmed for release on April 1 and will be available through the Steam experimental branch. Details regarding the length of the testing phase before the update transitions to the stable version remain unspecified.
Insights from the Developer Update Video
General Information
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Console version status:
- The 1.1 update will launch ahead of the console version.
- The console version is expected later in 2025 with feature parity starting from 1.1.
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Rain system update:
- This feature has been pushed back due to the need for complex Unreal Engine upgrades.
- The rain system may be reinstated in the future following the console launch.
New Features Breakdown
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Photo Mode Enhancements:
- Advanced camera tools that allow for movement, depth of field, filters, and poses.
- All promotional footage utilized this new mode.
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Hypertube Upgrades:
- Addition of three-way junctions for directional changes mid-travel.
- Branch connectors for alternate routing options.
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Logistics Enhancements:
- Introduction of vertical splitters and mergers.
- Priority mergers with three input levels for optimized item flow.
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Conveyor Belt Throughput Displays:
- Displays items per minute, recalibrating as items traverse.
- Indicates differing outputs on connected belt types.
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Curved Build Mode:
- Incorporation of curved belts and pipes for more aesthetically pleasing layouts.
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Additional Features:
- Personnel elevators with customizable options, including multiple floors and icons.
- New train components, such as railway buffer stops to prevent derailments.
- Architectural enhancements including beams, cables, vents, and more.
- Miscellaneous updates, such as improved animations, left-handed rail signals, and various bug fixes.