Megagon Industries, the developer behind the delightfully serene (and occasionally frustrating) downhill experience that is Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders, has achieved a significant milestone. The game has officially surpassed one million players across its available platforms (PC and Xbox Series X|S), a figure undoubtedly bolstered by its presence on services like Xbox Game Pass.
To mark this notable achievement, and presumably to thank the million-plus individuals who have embraced the call of the lonely slopes, Megagon has released a free update. This isn`t merely a minor patch; it introduces two entirely new game modes designed to offer fresh challenges and alternative ways to engage with the game`s meticulously crafted mountainsides.
For those who view the mountain less as a simple descent and more as an opportunity for structured performance assessment, there is the new Trick Mode. Unlocked upon reaching player level 20, this mode presents players with a series of over 100 specific challenges. Success hinges on executing particular maneuvers or navigating scenarios precisely to accumulate points. It appears even in the solitude of nature, performance metrics and bureaucratic scoring systems find a way to permeate.
Alternatively, for players who prefer unadulterated speed and freedom over predefined objectives, the Free Ride Mode has been added. Accessible after reaching player level 35, this mode liberates players from checkpoints and designated routes. The core objective is simple, albeit demanding: descend the mountain as rapidly as possible. It`s a test of line choice, technical skill, and sheer nerve against the clock.
Both new modes come equipped with dedicated leaderboards, allowing players to compare their best times or scores with others (or simply admire the dedication of the global elite). Achievements are also available, providing digital accolades for mastering these new downhill disciplines. Crucially, for players who prefer not to delve into competitive online multiplayer, engaging with these new modes contributes sufficient experience points to progress towards the maximum account level.
Beyond the gameplay additions, the update also includes a suite of valuable accessibility features. Players can now utilize options such as auto-brake, auto-accelerate (a perhaps counter-intuitive but welcome addition for some), toggleable buttons for actions that previously required holds, and comprehensive button mapping. These features broaden the game`s potential audience, ensuring more players can experience the thrill of the descent.
The developers indicate that support for Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is set to continue. An expansion is currently in development and anticipated for release in the fall. Furthermore, a PlayStation 5 port of the game is also planned for a fall debut, bringing the unique mountain biking (or in this case, skiing) physics and environments to a new console audience.
In summary, hitting the one million player mark is a significant achievement for an indie title like Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders. The accompanying free update with two distinct game modes and improved accessibility features demonstrates a commitment to the player base, while the announced future content promises that the journey down the lonely mountains is far from over.
Callum Darby 
Finley Holt