Sakhal is gaining popularity in the community as a new DayZ map. Can the first major update live up to expectations?
With the new Sakhal DLC, Bohemia Interactive has introduced an exciting new chapter to official DayZ content.
While PC players have long enjoyed access to a variety of modded maps, including jungle, snow, and desert terrains, console players were limited to just two official maps.
Now, joining Chernarus and Livonia, a third official DayZ map has been added – Sakhal, available for around 25€.
Sakhal 1.26 – What’s new?
Sakhal focuses on the harsh challenge of surviving in an unforgiving cold. Quickly finding warm clothing, fire, and food is essential to staying alive.
The map features diverse survival opportunities, with villages offering unique loot spots and fire pits.
Along the way, you’ll encounter wildlife, infected, and, of course, other players.
Geothermal Factory
The geothermal power plant is a major landmark on @DayZ's #Sakhal. But how does it work? What's the building with the big fans for? Where do all the pipes lead? Follow this thread, so you can impress your friends with engineering facts the next time you visit. (1/10) pic.twitter.com/bBzZNKExSU
— Karel Moricky (@KarelMoricky) November 22, 2024
At the heart of the map lies the geothermal factory. Previously an underwhelming area with sparse military loot and barren design, Bohemia Interactive has revamped it based on community feedback.
Now, with visual improvements, this zone is positioned to become a key area of interest.
South-Eastern Coast
One persistent issue in DayZ Frostline is wet clothing—a familiar nuisance for players.
On the winter map, however, it’s a critical hindrance, with icy swims often leading to hypothermia.
The latest update introduces additional landmasses along the southern coast, simplifying ice crossings and reducing the risk of hypothermia.
Loot & Player Spawn Fixes
Large buildings in DayZ have long been infamous for their lack of loot. Players often leave massive structures empty-handed after minutes of searching.
Bohemia has addressed this by adding more loot points for valuable items like food and weapons, even in larger buildings.
Players will also find items spawning on boxes, pallets, and shelves, a feature previously seen only on modded community maps.
High vantage points like harbor cranes and lighthouses now offer better loot chances.
Additionally, new spawn points for freshies have been added along the southeastern coast, bringing variety to early-game routes.
Loot & Player Spawn Fixes
Other tweaks include faster thawing of frozen food, improved boat sound effects, and fixes for items spawning beneath objects.
High-end military loot in the Sakhal Bunker has been rebalanced, and the glow plug now requires completing the science mission to acquire.
Have you tried out the new updates yet? What do you think of the changes? Share your thoughts in the comments!