The latest update for Dead by Daylight, version 9.4.0 PTB, brings an exciting array of new content that players can explore from January 6 to January 13, 2026. Central to this update is the introduction of a new Killer, The First, alongside two new Survivors, Dustin Henderson and Eleven, significantly enhancing the 2v8 gameplay experience.
The First possesses unique abilities, including a Vine Attack that creates an area effect, affecting Survivors who gain a Worldbreaker token. The character also features two primary skills: The Upside Down, which allows rapid traversal across the map, and Undergate, letting Survivors return to the map while gaining extra tokens. As Survivors accumulate enough Worldbreaker tokens, they can interact with Grandfather Clocks scattered throughout the map to accelerate the Worldbreaker timer.
Each new Survivor comes equipped with distinct perks. Dustin’s abilities focus on changing toolbox functions into med-kits, enhancing cooperative gameplay through shared generator repairs. Eleven features aura-revealing skills that allow her to gain unique bonuses during critical moments, thus encouraging teamwork.
Moreover, the update introduces major gameplay enhancements, including Visual Terror Radius improvements and cooperative healing adjustments that increase the number of Survivors healing together from two to three. New maps such as Groaning Storehouse and Rotten Field add to the diversity of environments players can navigate.
Bug fixes and system improvements have also been implemented, targeting audio, bot behavior, visual glitches, and UI stability to ensure a smoother gaming experience. For testing players, the PTB grants full access to unlocked characters, perks, and items, enabling them to evaluate the new mechanics thoroughly.
As the gaming community dives into this substantial update, the anticipation for future gameplay evolves. With such diverse content and improvements, Dead by Daylight continues to engage its player base while elevating the overall experience. The introduction of new mechanics and characters not only revitalizes gameplay but also fosters an environment of teamwork and strategic planning. The 2v8 format, which enables an even more collaborative approach, is set to bring fresh excitement to sessions and is a promising evolution for the title.