Rust

The July update for Rust, 'Common Ground' is finally here, bringing with it a set of patch notes and a huge amount of new features. Now, Facepunch is looking to its Monuments, adding two brand new ones: The Apartment Complex, which lets you rent rooms when getting started with a wipe, and Rentable Shops to sell items to other players.
Read the full story on PCGamesN: Rust's Common Ground update lets you set up clans, a shop, or kick back in your apartment

[p][/p][h2]APARTMENT COMPLEX[/h2][p][/p][p]The apartment complex is a new monument that allows players getting started with a wipe to find a place to call home. Simply talk to the receptionist in the lobby to get started and rent a room.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b0111b1/rust_apartment_complex_1080-7.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/102/07/2026/7f63/rust_apartment_complex_1080-14.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 367px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/102/07/2026/4k84/rust_apartment_complex_1080-15.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 367px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][/p][p]There are options for every budget, from the basement to the penthouse. Different room types come with different perks, like more storage, furnaces and more.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b3011b1/july2026_apartment_hallways_03.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Once you've rented a room you'll need to insert scrap into the slot next to your door, otherwise you'll be evicted and all of your possessions will be seized.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b3011b1/july2026_apartmentmedium_01%20%281%29.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]There is a master key available somewhere on the island - find it and you can unlock access to any occupied room in the apartments for 5 minutes.[/p][p] 
Need a hint as to what room to burgle? There might be a guard in the basement who has more information.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]RENTABLE SHOPS[/h2][p][/p][p]The new apartment complex monument features a small marketplace of shops. Each shop can be purchased and run by players, allowing you to sell your wares to the residents of the apartment building.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b3011b1/rust_market_8_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]To get started, simply approach the shop and interact with the contract hanging out front, and you'll get a breakdown of how much it costs. This includes a non-refundable upfront scrap fee as well as a per-hour (real-time) scrap cost. You will need at least 12 hours of rent available to open the store.[/p][p]Once open, you can modify the sale listings and adjust stock levels like any other Vending Machine. These shops cannot be accessed by drone, but you can modify the sign above the shop to add some personal flair.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b3011b1/rust_market_UI_3_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]All of the shops already taken? After a shop has been open for 6 hours, you may take it over, but you will pay x2 on both the upfront scrap cost and per-hour rent. This will continue to escalate (3x, 4x, etc) if someone else takes over the shop after 6 hours until eventually someone runs out of rent and the shop (and cost multiplier) resets.[/p][p]If a shop is taken over or closes and it has your belongings in its inventory, you may return to the shop to retrieve them. Just interact with the shop to pick up your items. These items will only last 24 hours though, so be quick![/p][p]Be warned, the master key can also be used on these stores so your items could be stolen if you try and store valuable goods.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]SOFTCORE UPDATES[/h2][p][/p][p]We've made some new changes to the Softcore game mode. [/p][p][/p][h3][b]Accelerated Progression[/b][/h3][p]There's now a [b]2x multiplier[/b] on resource gather amounts. This works pretty much as you'd be used to on modded servers, giving you extra ore, wood, food and animal loot. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0211b1/july2026_softcore_treecut_02.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][h3][b]Raid Windows[/b][/h3][p]It's hard to handle raids for more casual players. To combat this, we've created pre-defined time windows where you are allowed to raid each other. By default, raids can only happen between the hours of [b]6 PM - 9 PM[/b]. This is set via your server's local time, so it's the same time zone for everyone. E.g. 6 PM local time no matter where you are. During a Raid Window, everything is fair game, it's regular rust.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b0111b1/rust_softcore_raiding_UI_2_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Outside of those times, Tool Cupboards 'project' the raid blocking system, so you need to be inside a TC radius to be protected outside of the window. During this time, building blocks and doors cannot be raided: walls, floors, roofs, doors, ladder hatches, etc. Deployables can still be attacked, as can a Tool Cupboard (if it's lying unprotected).
[/p][p]A Tool Cupboard must be at least 1 hour old to be able to block raids. This means a young TC can be raided regardless of whether the raid window is on or not. Helping prevent misuse of the system.[/p][p]Server Owners have been given a bunch of ConVars to tweak this.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]CLAN TABLE[/h2][p][/p][p]Clans are a more advanced version of teams where you can have more members with different roles/permissions. There is a separate clan chat channel and announcement/MoTD text for communicating with clan members.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/102/07/2026/6V08/rust_clan_table_3_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Clans can be created and managed at Clan Tables.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/102/07/2026/8T27/rust_clan_table_2_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]You can now see clan names on player nameplates. You'll also see your clan members' locations on the map if they're nearby.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/102/07/2026/3363/rust_clan_UI_3_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]The clan system is disabled in hardcore mode.[/p][p][/p][h2]
PLAYER ANIMATION - SPRINTING WITH RIFLES[/h2][p][/p][p]As mentioned last month, we're starting to use a [url="https://rust.facepunch.com/news/built-different#Improvedanimationsystems"]new set of animation tools[/url] to improve the player animator. This month we're rolling out new sprinting animations while holding most two handed projectile weapons/rifles. [/p][p]The player now pops their right arm up and lets the sprinting animation take over the rest of the body, looking much more responsive and less robotic.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]PLAYER ANIMATION -ONE HANDED MELEE WEAPONS[/h2][p][/p][p]We've extended last month's Torch animation system to support one handed melee weapons. We're just testing this out on the vanilla Hatchet for now, but once we're happy with the results we'll roll this out to other melee weapons. This allows for nicer movement while holding a weapon while still allowing two handed animations like throwing to play as expected.
[/p][p][/p][h2]GLOWING WALLPAPER PACK[/h2][p][/p][p]This month, we’re introducing the Glowing Wallpaper Pack. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/Jul2026_Glowing_Wallpaper_DLC_Hero_1_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Brighten up your base with this collection of 27 wall, floor, and ceiling wallpapers. Featuring luminous neon, glowing graffiti, foxfire fungi, and more. Whether you’re building the coziest crib or an industrial powerhouse, this pack has something for everyone.   [/p][p]These wallpapers look great in the day, but are even more special when the lights go out.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_08b.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_02.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_04.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_05.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_07b.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b0111b1/glowing_wallpaper_pack_blog_06b.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); min-width: 100%; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][/p][p]Included in the Glowing Wallpaper Pack:[/p][p]Walls[/p][list][*][p]Stars And Planets[/p][/*][*][p]Mushrooms [/p][/*][*][p]Firearms[/p][/*][*][p]Explosions[/p][/*][*][p]Graffiti Murals (3 variants)[/p][/*][*][p]Neon Shapes (3 variants)[/p][/*][*][p]Foxfire Fungi[/p][/*][/list][p]Ceilings[/p][list][*][p]Glow In The Dark Stars[/p][/*][*][p]Fireflies[/p][/*][*][p]Graffiti Murals (4 variants)[/p][/*][*][p]Foxfire Fungi[/p][/*][/list][p]Floors[/p][list][*][p]Directional Graffiti (6 variants)[/p][/*][*][p]Glow In The Dark Carpet (3 variants)[/p][/*][/list][p]The Glowing Wallpaper Pack can be purchased in-game or from the [url="https://rust.facepunch.com/store/pack/glowingwallpaperpack"]Rust Steam item store[/url][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]USEPLAYERJOBS CHANGES[/h2][p][/p][h3][b]Jobs 3 is now default, Jobs 2 to be removed[/b][/h3][p]This month we've added a couple more changes/improvements to [b]Jobs 3[/b] code and we've had the it active on our servers for half of the month and things looked stable. We've also done a bit of a rewrite how we pass around server player state, which will force server mods to update their code as well. This makes it the perfect time for us to promote it to default, as it would enable us to clean up a bit more code and simplify things.[/p][p]This means [b]Jobs 2 [/b]mode will become deprecated and will be removed in August - one will still be able to set it to 2, but it will run mode 3 underneath.[/p][p]As Jobs 3 has been modified over multiple months, here's the full list of improvements that comes with it:[/p][list][*][p]Use of UniTask library to avoid allocations from multithreading code[/p][/*][*][p]Speeds up per frame player snapshot sending by using new fuzzy pool and removing buffer preallocation[/p][/*][*][p]Runs portions of player network subscription updates in parallel[/p][/*][*][p]Schedules EAC and Analytics tasks earlier to avoid main thread waiting on them[/p][/*][*][p]Parallelized remaining server Anti Hack logic[/p][/*][/list][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danielprihodko/1b0111b1/paintdotnet_MmM7jy94Uc.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 183.5px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danielprihodko/1b0111b1/msedge_lV0AukOR2u.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 183.5px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danielprihodko/1b0111b1/paintdotnet_Loobakh4Mx.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 183.5px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danielprihodko/1b0111b1/paintdotnet_HvJuMT4H8w.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 183.5px; height: 150px; display: block;"][/img][/p][h3][b]New Jobs 4 level[/b][/h3][p]We've also started to explore [b]Jobs 4[/b] optimizations - our first contribution to it is parallelization of server occlusion pair gathering. We're also going to be looking what kind of more risky or breaking changes to make, so it'll likely be a couple months before Jobs 4 will have enough substance to ship it.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]NOTABLE CHANGES[/h2][p][/p][p][b]Picked Skin Grey Out[/b][/p][p]Picked Skin is now Greyed Out[/p][p][b]Auto Sorted[/b][/p][p]Vending machines and fridges now support storage adaptor auto-sorting[/p][p][b]Inventory Player Model[/b][/p][p]Player model quality now changes within the inventory to yield better performance[/p][p][b]Footstep Frequency[/b][/p][p]Adjusted the footstep frequency to be closer to the old player rig[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]BEARS FOR A BETTER WORLD - CHARITY 2026[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p]Get ready to cuddle up with a bear that’s not only adorable but also changing lives!
Starting July 2nd, Rust will host a massive charity drive to raise money for two incredible causes: [url="https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/get-involved"]Cancer Research UK[/url] and [url="https://ronaldmcdonaldhouse.org.uk/"]Ronald McDonald House UK[/url].

Rust is also partnering with some of the biggest names in the Rust community! Throughout the drive, partnered creators will be hosting their own fundraising streams, with free Twitch Drops to also help raise awareness of the charities and allow players to show even more support.[/p][p]We even have a [url="https://tiltify.com/@facepunch/auctions/plushie-bear-campaign"]Charity Auction[/url]! Want a signed Displate poster?  Or to design your own Rust Skin?  Go check it out![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b2911b1/rust_charity_plushies_smallgroup_4_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]100% of sale proceeds after Steam fees and tax from the sale of these charity bears will be donated, helping support Cancer Research UK's critical work in funding cancer research and saving lives, and also supporting Ronald McDonald House UK to provide free accommodation and support to families with children in hospital. Every purchase will make a difference.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b1811b1/rust_charity_plushies_cancer_1_4k.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]These one-of-a-kind charity bears are available through Rust’s in-game item store, and players can choose from two cute, quirky, and (actually) glowing but true-to-Rust designs which represent your contribution to supporting families in need and funding groundbreaking cancer research. Every bear purchased is a symbol of the community coming together to create a lasting impact beyond the game. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b1811b1/rust_charity_plushies_ronald_hazzy_hold_4k.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Starting July 2nd, players can purchase these bears, but the clock is ticking as they are only available for a limited time.[/p][p]
Whether you’re surviving the wilds of Rust or just want to spread some good vibes in your base, these bears are a perfect way to help others while you play.[/p][p]Charity Bear Plushies can be bought [url="https://store.steampowered.com/itemstore/252490/"]here[/url]![/p][p]
You can donate directly to the charities through Rust's drive [url="https://twitch.facepunch.com/"]here[/url].[/p][p]
And you can see creators and drive progress [url="https://tiltify.com/tif/facepunch-studios"]here[/url].[/p][p][/p][h2][b]Twitch Drops! [/b][/h2][p]Also starting July 2nd - we will have 5 drops you can earn watching any Rust stream on Twitch![/p][p][url="https://twitch.facepunch.com/"][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Errn/1b0111b1/Rust%20x%20Bears%20for%20a%20Better%20World%20-%20Values.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2);"][/img][/url][/p][p]Over the course of the next few weeks you can help unlock more drops as we meet donation goal milestones![/p][p]Sync your Steam and Twitch accounts to claim your drops! [/p][p][url="https://twitch.facepunch.com/"]https://twitch.facepunch.com/[/url][/p][p][/p][p]If you're a content creator or a community group and you want to help fundraise with us you can make your own Tiltify team [url="https://start.tiltify.com/?supportingFactId=5cf75471-1792-483e-a0d0-65cd1da57dd8"]here[/url]!  Just select the Quick start option and publish your team page!  Your teams progress will go towards the main campaign.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]DEMO COMPATIBILITY LAYER[/h2][p][/p][p]Every Rust update has the ability to break older demos. On our end its incredibly simple to do so, more than it should be. To this end: I've introduced a compatibility layer into the demo system. This layer will try and get old demos working on your new Rust version. [/p][p][/p][p]When opening an old demo you will be asked if you want to use the compatibility layer (should it be applicable). When enabled the layer will attempt to remap changed item names to what they used to be in order to get the demo to run. It's important to note that this is only likely to work provided the demo has been taken within the last few months, the older it is, the less likely it is to work.[/p][p][/p][p]The one catch is that this system wont work for demos taken on older Rust builds than now. Eg: this layer only works for demos taken from now onwards. Demos taken on older builds of rust don't have the information required to be able to turn on this layer[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]NEW WORKSHOP SKINNABLE: METAL SHOP FRONT[/h2][p][/p][p]This month’s workshop skinnable is the Metal Shopfront.[/p][p]Supporting customisation on both the front and back, you can finally sell your collection of severed wolf heads on brand. We’re looking forward to seeing some incredible submissions by the community. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b0111b1/Jul2026_Skinnable_Metal_Shopfront_4_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]To make your own Metal Shopfront skin, head over to the in-game workshop and locate the Metal Shopfront deployable item. From there, you can download the model file and add your own materials.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]RUST X CAN BE - BACKPACK AND WEAPON CHARMS[/h2][p][/p][p]The Rust x Can Be backpack will begin shipping this month.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/lewis/1b3011b1/Rust%20x%20Canbe%20Backpack.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Every backpack purchase includes exclusive free in-game weapon charms.[/p][p][/p][h2][b]What are Weapon charms?[/b][/h2][p]Weapon Charms are fun cosmetic weapon accessories that can be attached to almost any ranged weapon. There are over 55 ranged weapons that currently support Charms with more to be added as we continue to develop Rust. [/p][p]To add a charm to your ranged weapon simply open up the inventory, select the weapon and use the Change Accessory button to select from available charms. You can set the charm during the crafting phase, or when dropped into a repair bench. There is no crafting cost. You can even do this with looted ranged weapons that have charms already affixed. The selected charm is tied to the individual weapon, so if you pick up someone else's weapon with a charm attached it will still be there unless you remove or change it.  [/p][p]Weapon Charms are viewable both in first and third person, so other players will be able to see your selected accessory. [/p][p]Check out the full collection over on the Can Be [url="https://can.be/collabs/rust-x-can-be"]store[/url].[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]RUST X MAN AT ARMS - IRL AUTO TURRET[/h2][p][/p][p]We've teamed up with the talented ASH Entertainment and The Baltimore Knife & Sword Crew behind the YouTube series, Man at Arms, to bring to life one of Rust's most iconic items: the Auto Turret. [/p][previewyoutube="ffOj11WXj8Y;full"][/previewyoutube][p]The team of expert fabricators and blacksmiths set out to recreate a 1:1 replication of the infamous base and safezone protecting Turret, with auto-tracking and a bespoke gun slot with firing mechanisms![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b1811b1/ManAtArms_Rust_AutoTurret_Preview-2.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b2611b1/5.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 359px; height: auto; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b2611b1/7.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 359px; height: auto; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b2611b1/13.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 359px; height: auto; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; display: block;"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b2611b1/10.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-height: 250px; max-width: 100%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center center; flex-grow: 1; margin: 16px auto; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); width: 359px; height: auto; aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; display: block;"][/img][/p][p]This custom, one-of-a-kind build was exclusively created for Facepunch. [/p][p]Check out the full build over on the [url="https://www.youtube.com/@AweMe"]Man at Arms channel[/url] now.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]DISCORD ORBS[/h2][p][/p][p]Purchase official Rust items in the Discord Shop and earn Discord Orbs.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/kaantasan/1b2611b1/rust%20x%20discord%20-%20orbs%20announcement%2016x9.png" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Orbs can be used on eligible items in the [url="https://discord.com/channels/560127830160048128/game-shop"]Discord Shop[/url]. Offer ends 16th July![/p]

The Rust 'Built Different' update has just landed, bringing with it the most substantial upgrade to its player models in years. Sporting fresh animations to boot, characters are far more realistic, though I always found their kinetic jank to be part of the Rust experience. Alongside the revamp, Facepunch has brought a new top-tier armor set and a classic assault rifle to the fore.
Read the full story on PCGamesN: Rust is having a Face Off moment with its new update, introducing new and improved character models

It's time to say hello to your new face! This would be a creepy as all hell a sentence in just about any other context (perhaps it still is), but I am not a plastic surgeon, I am a person that writes about video games and the things they do. This time, in things that video games are doing, is brought to you by Rust, as it's received an update that gives the player character model a bit of a glow-up.
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Rust's character customization options have always been a bit unusual in that… well, you don't get any. Your character's looks are generated by a random seed and you don't have any say over them. Whatever you get, you get, from face to race to gender to the size of your dong or boobs...
Read more.

[h1]PLAYER UPDATE[/h1][p][/p][h2][b]New Player Model[/b][/h2][p]We’ve overhauled the player model from the ground up.[/p][p]This includes improved meshes and materials, more realistic proportions on a new rig, expanded head and hair seeds and a much needed pass over almost everything player-related.

[img src="{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/5377070/8578b78d634e17a0b04141e1b60161f1d95f03a9.png"][/img]The old player model has served us well for almost 10 years, but it’s lagged behind the rest of the game for some time. Visually, it was showing its age, but just as importantly it was holding us back from making bigger improvements to characters, animations and implementing future features. Prior attempts to improve the player model has always ended up feeling like band-aid fix, there was only so much we could do while working around the limitations of the old proportions and skeleton. At some point it became clear that the only real way forward was to rip it out and rebuild it properly.[/p][p]Alongside the new base model, we’ve also:[/p][list][*][p]Expanded the number of heads in the game, with each head now having unique materials and additional details such as eyelashes and improved eye lighting.[/p][/*][*][p]Reworked and expanded hairstyles and beards, using new anisotropic shaders to make hair feel more natural.[/p][/*][*][p]Updated all clothing to work with the new rig and proportions, giving a lot of older assets a much-needed refresh and fixing some long-standing issues.[/p][/*][*][p]Modernised the art pipeline behind the player model, making future fixes and improvements much easier to ship.[/p][/*][/list][p][img src="{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/5377070/a703220b06fc8df4a271d95e543ddffcf567d98a.jpg"][/img]Your face will change, but race and gender seeds have been kept intact, so we’re hoping it won’t be too much of a shock for those of you who have grown attached to your random seed over the years. We’ll be continuing to improve on the player model after release, and we also have a player customisation update planned for the future.[/p][p]It’s been a huge amount of work, especially as we’ve been doing it alongside regular development and monthly updates. Performing open-heart surgery on one of the most interconnected parts of Rust, while continuing to ship patches, has certainly come with its challenges.[/p][h2][b]Performance[/b][/h2][p align="start"]We know “improved visuals” and “additional details” can be worrying to hear when it comes to performance. It’s something we’ve been watching closely throughout development. Alongside the visual improvements, we’ve also done a deeper pass on our tooling and pipelines, which has allowed us to make optimisations we couldn’t make with the old setup.[/p][p align="start"]Our internal metrics are looking positive so far, and we’ll continue to monitor performance closely after release.[/p][p][/p][h1]BALLISTIC ARMOUR[/h1][p][/p][p]For the first time in a very long time, we're adding a new top-tier armour set to Rust.[/p][p]The Ballistic Armour set offers increased protection over existing craftable alternatives, but there's a catch. It cannot be crafted. If you want your hands on it, you'll need to find it. This armour is comparable to existing metal armour with plates. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0311b1/Jun2026_BDU_Ballistic_Armour_1_1080.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]We're also introducing the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU). Like the Ballistic Armour, the BDU is loot-only and cannot be crafted. It offers slightly improved protection over existing clothing options, while making a few trade-offs elsewhere.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0311b1/Jun2026_BDU_Ballistic_Armour_2_1080%20%281%29.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Both sets are intended to expand late-game gear progression and create more valuable loot opportunities. If you're looking for the best equipment available, you'll need to get out there and fight for it.[/p][p][/p][h1]NEW WEAPON: M16A2[/h1][p][/p][p]The M16A2 is a military-grade rifle found through end-end loot and cannot be crafted. Designed around a three-round burst fire mode, it offers excellent accuracy and a high rate of fire, making it particularly effective at medium-range engagements.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/103/06/2026/1685/june2026_m16a2_04.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]To help balance the burst damage potential, the M16A2 deals less damage per shot compared to the LR-300.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Alistair/103/06/2026/9Q64/june2026_m16a2_05.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3) 0px 5px 15px; border-radius: 8px; border: 1px solid rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.2); transition: 0.2s; transform: scale(1); max-width: 100%; display: block; margin: 16px auto;"][/img][/p][p]Like the Ballistic Armour and BDU, the M16A2 is another valuable loot-only item you'll need to get out into the world and fight for. You'll see a theme here. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h1]PSA: PERFORMANCE ISSUE WITH HIGH POLLING RATE[/h1][p][/p][p]The Unity 6 update changed how mouse inputs are processed. High polling rate mice (1000Hz+) are now causing significant CPU overhead issues and frame drops.[/p][p][b]Lower your mouse polling rate [/b]to

Facepunch Studios may have only just released S&box, but the launch of its spiritual successor to Garry's Mod has done nothing to slow down its monthly Rust update. It is as predictable as the tide, or having your base raided by your half-naked neighbours. This month's "Upgrade hard, raid harder" patch brings a major overhaul to one of Rust's key systems, though personally I'm more interested in the addition of mortars, sicko for explosions that I am...
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The May Rust update is here, delivering on developer Facepunch's promise of mortars to put rooftop campers in their place. There's far more on offer here, with nine rare workbench upgrades headlining the new Rust patch notes. Steam's most beloved survival game also now boasts a refreshed vending machine UI to make trades smoother, along with improvements to the likes of tin can alarms and grenades. To round things out, Facepunch Studios has also launched a new Discord shop, and it's running a sale to mark the occasion.
Read the full story on PCGamesN: May's big Rust update adds new, rare workbench upgrades, if you can find them
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Rust's Spring Clean update nerfs the shield meta and boosts early game energy
Rust's new boats just got a lot more customizable, with longer days to build them

[h2]WORKBENCH UPGRADES[/h2][p][/p][p]Workbenches have received a whole new upgrade system - along with nine upgrades to find and customise your benches with!
Each upgrade provides a different bonus effect, and you can mix and match them to find your favourite combos.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_workbenchupgrades_01.jpg"][/img][/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_workbenchupgrades_05.jpg"][/img][/p][p]These upgrades are not craftable and will not be commonly found, so keep them safe!
Open the workbench's inventory to add your upgrades. They each have their own visual, which will alter the way the workbench looks.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_workbenchupgrades_02.jpg"][/img][/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_workbenchupgrades_UI_01.jpg"][/img][/p][p]If you get lucky and collect 'em all, you'll have a fully upgraded workbench - both in terms of bonuses and visuals![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]MORTAR[/h2][p][/p][p]We're adding a new anti-personnel/raiding deployable weapon: Mortar![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danieltyler/1b0711b1/rust_mortar_1_1080_jpg.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Functionally really similar to cannons, but is instead placed on flat land and allows for launching projectiles over long distances. Firing a mortar requires mastery through trial & error as there is no visual guide to help you land shells exactly where you want them. Instead, you'll need to pair it with binoculars to estimate how high to aim the mortar for it to land on your target.[/p][p]To prevent repeated shots, the mortar has recoil that slightly bumps the mortar up on every shot, as well as a small inaccuracy that changes how far each shell lands. [/p][p]You can choose between two mortar shells, one aimed to deal high damage to players while the other focuses on destroying structures.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/danieltyler/1b0711b1/rust_mortar_2_1080_jpg.jpg"][/img][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]TIN CAN ALARM CHANGES[/h2][p][/p][p]The tin can alarm is getting a small update. You can now trap them with a bunch of different items.
[/p][p]How it operates has not changed, crossing its wire will trigger the trap and cause a loud clatter, alerting anyone nearby to your presence.[/p][p]And you can deploy it anywhere from your base to inside monuments. Use it strategically to cover access points and defend your positions.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_tincan_01.jpg"][/img][/p][p]When triggered, it'll throw the loaded item in place.

It supports:[/p][list][*][p]F1 Grenade[/p][/*][*][p]Molotov[/p][/*][*][p]Bee Grenade[/p][/*][*][p]Beancan Grenade[/p][/*][*][p]Flashbang[/p][/*][*][p]Smoke Grenade[/p][/*][*][p]Supply Signal[/p][/*][*][p]Flare[/p][/*][*][p]Firecrackers[/p][/*][/list][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_tincan_02.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Watch your step![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]VENDING MACHINE UI REFRESH[/h2][p][/p][p]The vending machine UI was in need of a refresh and some improvements.
We've totally redesigned the administration page and given the purchase page a new lick of paint.
[/p][p]The new administration page comes with a few features: being able to quickly setup vending orders via its in built inventory, selling skins individually, and being able to reorder your existing sell orders without deleting and recreating them.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0211b1/rust_vending_machine_UI_4k.jpg"][/img][/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0211b1/rust_vending_machine_UI_2_4k.jpg"][/img][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]CRYPT STONE BUILDING SKIN[/h2][p][/p][p]We’re launching a new much-requested building skin to the permanent store this month; the Crypt stone building skin. [url="https://rust.facepunch.com/store/building/crypt"]Available now[/url] from the Rust store, this building skin allows you to change the visuals of your stone tier base. [/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b2811b1/May2026_Crypt_Building_Skin_DLC_2_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Your new home for eternity, or at least the next wipe.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b2811b1/May2026_Crypt_Building_Skin_DLC_1_1080.jpg"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b2811b1/May2026_Crypt_Building_Skin_DLC_7_1080.jpg"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b2811b1/May2026_Crypt_Building_Skin_DLC_4_1080.jpg"][/img][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b2811b1/May2026_Crypt_Building_Skin_DLC_9_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Purchasable from the in-game store or Steam item store. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]NOTABLE CHANGES[/h2][p][/p][h3][b]Computer Station now requires power[/b][/h3][p]Time to put that power supply to use[/p][h3][b]Grenade throw consistency[/b][/h3][p]Fixed some issues with 3rd person grenade throw animations[/p][h3][b]Floating City Vendor[/b][/h3][p]Floating City Boat Vendor now sells modular boat parts to get you back on your feet if you lose your boat (and a cheaper DPV too!)[/p][h3][b]Monument Building Radius[/b][/h3][p]Monuments which feature multiple no build zones now correctly display each one[/p][h3][b]Monument Road Signs[/b][/h3][p]Road signs are now correctly spawning in Outpost, Junkyard and Water wells[/p][h3][b]Boat Bow Drag[/b][/h3][p]Drag has been greatly increased for boats with a flat bow. Build accordingly[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]DISCORD X RUST SHOP[/h2][p][/p][p]Starting today (May 7th), we’re launching the official [url="https://discord.com/channels/560127830160048128/game-shop"]Rust Shop directly inside Discord[/url].

We’re actually only the second game to do this (shoutout to the Marvel Rivals team for going first), and the goal is pretty simple: making it easier to grab the skins and DLC you want, while you’re already hanging out with your team, browsing the goods right where you coordinate your raids.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/RUST-Shop-blog-1800x720.png"][/img][/p][p]To get things moving, we’re running a launch celebration for the first two weeks.[/p][p] 
From May 7th to May 21st, every single piece of Steam Item Store DLC released before 2026 will be 20% off. [/p][p]If you’ve been eyeing that specific building skin or hazmat suit for the last year, this is the time to snag it - or gift it to that special team mate.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/RUST-item-blog-1800x720.png"][/img][/p][p]It’s pretty seamless - anything you buy through the Discord Shop links straight to your Steam inventory. You can find the shop via our [url="https://discord.com/channels/560127830160048128/game-shop"]Official Discord[/url] or through the Discord Shop.
[/p][p][url="https://discord.com/channels/560127830160048128/game-shop"]Check it out[/url] and let us know what you think in the #feedback channels![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]RESKINNING DLC BARRELS[/h2][p][/p][p]We've now released several variants of the horizontal and vertical storage barrels but due to the fact that they don't have a common vanilla item (as opposed to something like the Tool Cupboard skins) they weren't compatible with the Spray Can/Repair Bench for swapping the skin.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_reskinnable_barrel_storage_2_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]We've fixed that this month, allowing you to freely swap between the barrel skins. This will also be fixed for future versions of other DLC items we've released (eg. single and half height shelves).[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]NEW ACHIEVEMENTS[/h2][p][/p][p]We're adding a new set of achievements related to the recent Naval Update. There are plenty of easy ones you should be able to get by just exploring the deep sea, as well as some more complicated hidden achievements that are a lot rarer in comparison - but should still come up within normal play.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0511b1/may2026_deep_sea_achievements_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Can you spot them all?[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]FIX HELD ANIMATIONS STOPPING EARLY[/h2][p][/p][p]There has been a longstanding issue where if a player uses the last item in a stack, the viewmodel and player animations for using that item will stop immediately upon the item having been spent. Without affecting the timing of when items are determined to have been used (as changing this would have gameplay/balance implications), we now have a means of setting up animations to stick around after the item has been spent so they can be play out nicely before stopping.

This has been applied to all grenade types, as well as the bandage and medical syringe, and will be applied to the other held items over time.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]SERVER BROWSER UPDATE[/h2][p][/p][p]We've made some changes to the server browser.

It was possible in the past for server owners to be able to spoof ping information through various means. This would make servers show lower in ping that were actually higher in ping to you, possibly picking a server which would end up feeling laggy when your intention was to pick a local server.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0511b1/rust_server_browser_1.jpg"][/img][/p][p]We're rolling out a new system: country mapping. Based on the servers IP we get an estimate of what country the server is in, as well as its coordinates. We use those coordinates to sort servers close to you. This means that servers can no longer spoof where they are located. [/p][p]
For the above system to work we also need to estimate where you are located (in order to show your servers nearby). This is located at the top left of the play menu and can be overridden by you. This override is saved between sessions if you'd rather have it done manually.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0511b1/rust_server_browser_4.jpg"][/img][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]BINOCULAR REFRESH[/h2][p][/p][p]Binoculars have had a whole refresh![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0211b1/rust_binoculars_2_4k_tweaked.jpg"][/img][/p][p]The model, animations and UI have all been updated to feel more modern.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ianhenderson/1b0211b1/rust_binoculars_3_4k.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Right click to peer through the binoculars and Left click to cycle the three zoom levels.
And it pairs nicely with the new mortar![/p][p]Crafting cost has been reduced too![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]SALVAGED CLEAVER REMAKE[/h2][p][/p][p]Last month we revisited the Salvaged Axe, with a full visual and animation overhaul. This month, we’ve given the same treatment to another legacy favourite — the Salvaged Cleaver ![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/alfiebirch/1b0111b1/may2026_salvagedcleaver_01.jpg"][/img][/p][p]The Salvaged Cleaver has received a complete remake, featuring a brand-new high-quality 3D model, updated HD textures, and an entirely new animation set.[/p][p]The result is a weapon that looks like it was lovingly rebuilt from junk… and still very much wants to live in your enemies’ ribs.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]NEW WORKSHOP SKINNABLE: ELECTRIC FURNACE[/h2][p][/p][p]This month’s workshop skinnable is the Electric Furnace[/p][p]There are so many possibilities with skins for this item, especially as it lights up. We can’t wait to see what the community cooks up![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/matti/1b3011b1/may2026_workshop_skinnable_electric_furnace_1_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]To make your own Electric Furnace skin, head over to the in-game workshop and locate the Electric Furnace deployable item. From there, you can download the model file and add your own materials.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]TWITCH RIVALS - BASE INVADERS[/h2][p][/p][p]Twitch Rivals - Base Invaders is back!
[/p][p]Watch and earn an exclusive Twitch Rivals [b]HMLMG[/b] skin for [b]one day only[/b]! 
This drop will be tied to the [url="https://www.twitch.tv/twitchrivals"]Twitch Rivals channel[/url] and only active during the broadcast window. [/p][p]20 teams of 5 will battle it out, while 5 general Twitch Drops are available for 5 days only![/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/Errn/1b0711b1/td_50-blog-image.jpg"][/img][/p][p][b]Drops start:[/b] May 13th - 11AM PT/ 2PM ET/ 7PM BST 
[b]Drops end:[/b] May 18th - Midnight PT / 3AM ET / 8AM BST

Connect your accounts to claim your drops! [/p][p][url="https://twitch.facepunch.com/"]https://twitch.facepunch.com/[/url][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]PERFORMANCE: BATCHED PLAYER PROCESSING[/h2][p][/p][h3][b]Removal of UsePlayerUpdateJobs 0/1[/b][/h3][p]Last [url="https://rust.facepunch.com/news/spring-clean#PerformanceUsePlayerUpdateJobsUpgrade"]update[/url] I mentioned that I was planning to remove old player processing code. The vanilla (UsePlayerUpdateJobs 0) and our first version of batching (Jobs 1) mode code has been removed. You can still set UsePlayerUpdateJobs to lower than default 2, but it won't have any effect and it'll run as if it's set to 2.[/p][h3][b]UsePlayerUpdateJobs 3 still experimental[/b][/h3][p]This patch we've made a couple bug fixes and tweaks that should both reduce number of garbage allocated for creating tasks every frame (our fork of UniTask can now reliably pool internals) and improved scheduling of physics queries for our server-side player checks. We're going to be switching some of our servers for Jobs 3 mode and seeing how they run over next month. If it holds, we'll promote it to default.[/p][h3][b]Going forward[/b][/h3][p]Alongside above, we're also working on eliminating some of the bottlenecks that prevent us from more heavily relying on parallelization:[/p][list][*][p]The way our Pool is implemented causes a lot of contention on a singular lock - I'd like to ship an improvement in Jobs 3[/p][/*][*][p]We still have a lot of player state that's stored in a way that prevents us from converting to Burst code and having to run recaching logic every frame - it would be gradually completed in Jobs 3 and future modes[/p][/*][*][p]We need to find a way to make entity saving multithreading safe (which means no Unity API calling) - hoping to tackle for Jobs 4[/p][/*][/list][p]We're slowly getting to the point where player processing is not the slowest part of the server workload. I'd like to squeeze out as much benefit as I can while it's still worthwhile before moving to the next big server performance problem.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]DEEP SEA LOOT BALANCE[/h2][p][/p][p]We've reduced the amount of loot you can find in the Deep Sea.[/p][p][img src="https://files.facepunch.com/ashcoook/1b0311b1/rust_islands_20_1080.jpg"][/img][/p][p]Loot found in that side of the map was a little too generous compared to the other monuments and areas in the game.

However, Scientist boats will also have less guns overall.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]WINDOWS SERVER 2016 EOL ANNOUNCEMENT[/h2][p][/p][p]We are currently in the process of upgrading to Unity 6. This means Windows Server 2016 / Windows 8 and older will no longer be supported. The minimum required version will be Windows Server 2019 / Windows 10 Version 21H1 (Build 19043) or newer.[/p][p]From our metrics none of our players are still on Windows 7 or Windows 8, so we aren't concerned about that. However, we suspect some server hosts are still running Windows Server 2016. If you run a Rust server, consider this the first and final notice that you need to upgrade to at least Windows Server 2019 by the end of the month.[/p]

Occasionally, raiding a base in Rust can be more trouble than it's worth, especially if the owner of said base is stubborn and doesn't want all of their stuff stolen. Selfish really. Some players tend to take to the roof of their structure, out of harm's way, leaving me with very little recourse - until now.
Read the full story on PCGamesN: The latest Rust update is an absolute nightmare for roof campers, but I welcome it with open arms
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May's big Rust update adds new, rare workbench upgrades, if you can find them
Rust's Spring Clean update nerfs the shield meta and boosts early game energy
Rust's new boats just got a lot more customizable, with longer days to build them

If you play Rust then the mere sight of the words "horse shield" probably have you gnashing your teeth and cursing the cheap no-gooders who rely on it. The whole thing is very simple. Ride a horse, equip a shield, and players on-foot have almost no chance against you...
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WindrosePRAGMATAMOUSE: P.I. For HireCrimson DesertForza Horizon 6Slay the Spire 2EA SPORTS FC™ 26Ready or NotRustREPLACED* excluding free to play gamesView top 100 on SteamDB

Original story:..
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The Rust April update is here, and after a couple of months spent deploying and refining its massive Naval overhaul, Facepunch Studios is getting back to something a little simpler. Don't let that fool you, however, because the 'Spring Clean' patch notes are still packed with welcome additions. These include the new Water Wheel, which could prove a great power solution in the early game, and a nerf to the troublesome shield meta that has become increasingly dominant in the survival game of late.
Read the rest of the story...
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Rust's new boats just got a lot more customizable, with longer days to build them
The Rust Naval update is just the start of an exciting year, as Facepunch promises to keep "evolving" with a new roadmap
Rust director makes a public '25 million' offer to buy axed Amazon MMO New World, because "games should never die"

Not content with adding one kind of sea power to Rust in February's Naval Update, Facepunch studios has introduced a whole other way to exploit the oceans in its latest patch for the survival game. The Spring Clean update adds a bunch of small but significant changes to the game, but the one that immediately caught my eye was the addition of water wheels...
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