Beware the roaming Barbarians, a new challenge introduced in the latest update for *TownsFolk*, Short Circuit Studio’s charming pixel-art settlement builder. Launched just last month, the game continues to evolve with its newest content drop titled “Shadows and Fortune”—a thematic update that deepens gameplay while maintaining the game's whimsical yet strategic tone.
Among the most exciting additions are new buildings and mechanics designed to enrich both campaign and Skirmish modes. Players will now have to strategize around unpredictable threats like the roaming Barbarians, which introduce a fresh layer of tension and urgency into your carefully built settlements. In addition, eight new structures are now available, including the Altar, Town Square, Blacksmith, Aqueduct, Bank, Granary, Factory, and Terraformer—each offering unique benefits and expanding your options for growth and resource management.
The update also brings life to the waters, introducing the rare Whale as a special aquatic encounter. New Special Locations such as ancient Obelisks and mysterious Shipwrecks add further depth and surprise to exploration, making every map feel more dynamic and full of potential.
To help players keep track of all these new features, the in-game Compendium has been expanded to serve as a comprehensive encyclopedia. The Exploration System has also undergone a rework, and players can now choose between two Campaign Difficulty settings—Frontier and Survival—to tailor their experience.
If you're curious about how all these elements come together, we recommend checking out our full [ttpp] review of *TownsFolk* to get a better understanding of the game’s evolving world.
Ready to dive in? *TownsFolk* is available now as a free-to-play title with optional in-app purchases on both the App Store and Google Play. Join the growing community by following the official Instagram page, visiting the official website, or watching the embedded clip above to get a real feel for the game’s distinct visual style and immersive atmosphere.
