Empty Gauge Demo v0.4.0 Patch Notes — Full UI Overhaul & Scarier Atmosphere

Empty Gauge (Demo) – Patch Notes v0.4.0 (Windows)
Update Date: 2026-02-21
Platforms/Stores: Steam / itch.io / Stove

Highlights

v0.4.0 is a major update featuring a full UI overhaul, stronger horror atmosphere and presentation, new NPC dialogue interactions, and a map rework. We also addressed a wide range of issues with extensive bug fixes and stability improvements.

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1) Visuals / Presentation

• The main menu background has been changed to a scarier version.
  It’s been adjusted to better match the game’s overall tone and atmosphere.[/*]
• The game’s presentation has been updated to feel more frightening and atmospheric.
  We refined staging and pacing to deliver tension and immersion more clearly.[/*]

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2) Full UI Overhaul

• The UI has been fully reworked across the board.[/*]
• Improved layout and usability for the Options menu[/*]
• Improved layout and usability for the Pause menu[/*]
• Improved UI and navigation for the Language tab[/*]
• Updated/cleaned up the Discord link button icon and related UI elements[/*]

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3) NPC Interactions Added

• You can now talk to NPCs.
  NPCs are now interactive, allowing you to progress conversations via on-screen text/subtitles.[/*]

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4) Map Rework

• The map has been heavily revised overall.[/*]
• As a result, some areas now have changed layouts and routes.
  Paths you remember from previous versions may be different.[/*]

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5) Bug Fixes / Stability

• Fixed a wide range of various bugs.[/*]
• Improved overall game stability.[/*]

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Feedback / Reports

We’d love feedback on UI usability, how the horror presentation feels, NPC dialogue flow, and navigation after the map rework.
For bug reports, please include where/when it happened + screenshots/video + steps to reproduce if possible.Thank you!