The frantic message lit up my screen: “Dinosaurs in Zone 4!” A collective cheer rippled across the Discord server—something had clearly changed. Hypixel Studios didn’t waste any time, because the first Hytale early access patch is already here.
Pre-Release Update #1 went live moments ago. The patch applies automatically when you launch the game, and it’s packed with changes based on player feedback. It’s like the devs were watching over our shoulders as we explored the early version.
Keep reading for everything that’s new in Hytale.
Hytale Patch Notes: Dinosaurs Arrive in Pre-Release Update #1
The following information details the changes from the January 16, 2026, update.
Combat & Balance
- Melee hits are more reliable.
- Burn/Lava now tuned; water clears burns.
- Fire creatures are now immune to fire.
- NPC/combat and exploit fixes implemented.
Crafting & Items
- Backpacks are easier and cheaper to craft.
- Benches pull resources from a larger chest radius (2x).
- Hide-to-leather processing is faster (-10s).
- Food/farming balance has been adjusted.
- Dropped-item physics are now fixed.
- Torches can now be placed while dual-wielding (except with swords).
Audio & VFX
- New/updated mining and ore sounds added.
- Particles improved for ore breaking, eating, memories, and potions.
- Small visual/positioning fixes implemented.
UI / Performance / QoL
- FOV safeguards and high-FOV fixes.
- Faster chunk loading at high view distance.
- Pre-release/version warnings.
- Better lag handling and small keybind/UI updates.
World & NPCs
- Improved Zone 4 atmosphere/spawns (sewers/volcanic areas).
- Villages/outposts/dungeons repaired.
- Environmental damage reworked.
- Earlier sleep time (-1h30m).
- Loot/animation fixes and minor interaction tweaks.
- Dinosaurs added to Zone 4!
Customization & Misc
- New face/hair options (unavailable until release build) + cosmetic fixes.
- A cute, secret new NPC added for creatives and modders.
Commands / Server / Stability
- Teleport/give/whitelist/ban improvements.
- Networking/auth updates and stability fixes.
The patch notes lack specific numbers in some areas, but the changes generally seem positive. It’s a rising tide lifts all boats situation. For instance, I noticed quite a few players asking this question:
Will Hytale Have Mod Support?
While full mod support details are still under wraps, the addition of a secret NPC specifically for “creatives and modders” in this patch is a strong signal. It suggests Hypixel Studios is actively laying the groundwork for extensive modding capabilities. Think of it as a promise whispered in the wind – we’ll have to wait and see how it develops.
How Will Combat Work in Hytale?
This update offers a promising start. The adjustment for more reliable melee hits is welcome. The changes for burn and lava, alongside fire immunity for fire creatures, add layers of tactical depth. Continued refinement of combat will be critical to the game’s long-term appeal. If Hypixel Studios continues to improve at this pace, Hytale could be a very different game within a year.
When Will Hytale Be Released?
Patience, young padawan. Hypixel has stayed tight-lipped on the release date, but if this first patch is any indication, the team is listening intently to feedback. The game will be ready when it’s ready. But you can sign up for beta access. It might be worth a shot.
The community reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, so log in and see how Hytale feels now. Is this the Minecraft killer everyone has been waiting for?