Don’t Miss 2025’s Best Shooter’s Free Christmas Update
▼ Summary
– Cultic is a standout “boomer shooter” that was highly praised as one of the best shooters of 2025 for its high-quality execution.
– The game received a major holiday update called “Cultmas,” which included a new bonus map with unique weapons and a new enemy type.
– This new map, “I’ll Be Home For Cultmas,” features a snowy aesthetic and pays homage to the classic shooter *Blood*.
– Key gameplay changes in the update include a complete rework of burn damage to deal direct damage, making it more effective.
– Cultic and its Complete Edition are available on Steam, with the Cultmas map accessible without needing the second chapter DLC.
The boomer shooter genre is enjoying a remarkable resurgence, with standout titles like Cultic leading the charge. Praised by critics as a top-tier release, this game has carved out its own identity with exceptionally polished mechanics and a compelling atmosphere. For players looking to dive in, the recent free holiday update provides a perfect opportunity, adding festive content and significant gameplay refinements just in time for the season.
This special “Cultmas” update introduces a brand-new bonus map titled “I’ll Be Home For Cultmas.” The snowy environment offers a fresh setting complete with a unique set of weapons and a new enemy type to encounter. Fans of classic shooters will appreciate the map’s clear homage to titles like Blood, evident in its chaotic combat featuring dynamite and visceral melee attacks. A release trailer showcases the action, highlighting the seasonal twist on the game’s signature gritty style.
Alongside the new map, the update includes a substantial list of technical improvements and balance changes. One of the most notable revisions is a complete overhaul of the burn damage system. Previously, this mechanic relied on a hidden ignite meter that needed to empty before damage was applied. The new system is much more direct and impactful, causing immediate damage that allows players to eliminate burning enemies more rapidly. This change, along with various optimization tweaks, makes the combat feel more responsive and satisfying.
The sheer volume of excellent throwback shooters can feel overwhelming, but that’s a testament to the genre’s vibrant health. Even amidst fierce competition, Cultic manages to distinguish itself through its high level of execution and consistent post-launch support. The game is available on Steam in two forms: the base Cultic experience and the Cultic: Complete Edition, which bundles both released chapters. Importantly, accessing the new Cultmas map does not require ownership of the second chapter DLC; it’s available directly from the main menu for all players, making this festive addition a generous gift to the community.
(Source: PC Gamer)
