The “Tokyo Game Show 2026” was held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture for five days, from September 17 to 21, 2026 (on the 21st, the on-site event was canceled, and only a livestreamed event took place). This year’s game show was once again a huge success, featuring a variety of exhibits and events.
At the Fireshine Games booth, visitors could try out “Core Keeper,” a mining sandbox adventure developed by Pugstorm.
Set in an underground world, *Core Keeper* released its latest update, “The Underground Rider,” on September 21, 2026. At this year’s TGS, Fredrik Präntare, CEO and Game Director at Pugstorm, was also present at the booth.
In this article, we bring you an interview with Fredrik Präntare about the latest update, “The Underground Rider”!
Mounts & Hookshots Make Their Debut!
In the latest “Underground Rider” update for *Core Keeper*, a new secondary biome called “Moss” makes its debut. This biome, added to the Ruins of Oblivion, is home to a new livestock animal: the Oryx.
As for new in-game features, “Saddles” have been added, allowing players to ride all livestock. Additionally, the “Hookshot” has been introduced as a left-hand equipment slot, enabling players to use walls to jump over pits. Numerous other new items related to map navigation and the new biome have also been added.
Other additions include a change that allows minions to remain permanently rather than for a limited time, a new weapon type called the “Royal Scepter,” and new pets such as Azeos Jr. Adjustments have also been made to boss equipment drop rates and equipment balance. Please check the patch notes for details.
Development Interview on the Latest Update, “The Underground Rider”
――The Hookshot was added in this update. Could you tell us why you decided to introduce this unprecedented movement system?
Fredrik: Through multiple updates, the world of *Core Keeper* has continued to expand. As the world grows, we wanted to introduce changes to the movement mechanics to offer players new and exciting experiences.
While we’ve had vehicles like boats and mine carts in the past, adding the grappling hook and mountable creatures this time really adds some variety to the game.
――The grappling hook seems like it will enable more aggressive movement. Will there be combat or bosses that utilize it?
Fredrik: As of this update, we haven’t planned any combat that uses the grappling hook yet. It’s currently under consideration, so it might be implemented in a future update.
――I think many players have been eagerly awaiting the ability to ride animals. When did you start planning this feature? Could you also tell us about any challenges you faced during development?
Fredrik: The concept of riding animals itself existed even before Early Access. We had a list of things we wanted to include in the game, and riding was always at the very top.
We put a lot of thought into which creatures players could ride. As a result, players can now ride domesticated animals, but we also explored the possibility of riding other animals.
――It would be interesting if you added the ability to ride monsters and bosses in the future.
Fredrik: That’s right. Those are definitely elements we’d like to aim for.
――Could you tell us what you’d like players to pay attention to in “Riders of the Underworld”?
Fredrik: We’ve implemented a major rework of minions in this update, so I’d like players to pay close attention to that.
Also, we’ve expanded the mod features, so I hope players will enjoy those as well.
――Could you also tell us about your plans for future updates?
Fredrik: As mentioned in the roadmap, Update 1.4 (“Trial of the Abyss”) will introduce challenging and rewarding content unlike anything we’ve seen before.
The subsequent 1.5 update (“Beyond the Rift”) will serve as a sort of culmination of the game so far. I think it will feel more like a milestone or a natural break rather than an actual ending.
――Finally, please share a message for our readers!
Fredrik: To everyone playing *Core Keeper*, thank you so much as always. We love you!
The latest *Core Keeper* update, “The Underground Rider,” is now available. Updates will continue to roll out!
