Vintage Story Update 1.22.0 Brings Fishing and Metalworking to PC in 2026

Vintage Story, the survival game developed by Anego Studios, has received a major content expansion with the release of update 1.22.0. While many players often compare the title to Minecraft, Mojang’s Bedrock Edition, or similar block-based survival games, Vintage Story distinguishes itself through a focus on technical survival mechanics and realistic simulation. The 1.22.0 update introduces significant changes, including a full fishing system, a forge rework, and new mechanical power components, solidifying its position as a unique entry in the genre for PC users.

Vintage Story 1.22.0 Patch Notes and New Features

The latest update for Vintage Story is substantial, focusing on both environmental interaction and industrial progression. According to the official patch details, the core of this update revolves around the implementation of a fully functional fishing system and a complete overhaul of the existing metalworking processes.

The development team has added over 20 species of freshwater fish to the game. These fish require large bodies of water to spawn, and their behavior has been updated to include fleeing mechanics when attacked. Certain species, such as piranhas, pike, and sheatfish, are now capable of attacking the player if they are cornered or if the player is injured.

How the Fishing System Functions

To engage with the new fishing system, players must craft a fishing pole using sticks or bamboo. Casting the pole launches a bobber that floats on the surface of the water, signaling when a fish has been hooked. The system also introduces a bait mechanic; while fishing is possible without bait, using items like earthworms or custom-cooked stink baits significantly increases the catch rate. Players can obtain earthworms using a "Worm Grunter," with the frequency of worms linked to local temperature and rainfall variables. Furthermore, fish populations in specific locations can be depleted, forcing players to travel to different areas to find specific species.

Beyond simple harvesting, the update adds a taxidermy feature. Players can preserve dead fish and place them on mounts for display. This process requires zinc sulfate and crushed sphalerite, adding another layer of material management to the game's survival loop.

New Metalworking Mechanics in Vintage Story 2026

The forge rework is another highlight of the 1.22.0 release. The forge model has been updated, and the metalworking process now includes more complex tool management. Tongs now possess durability, with one point subtracted for every item picked up. To mitigate this, players can craft metal tongs, which offer significantly higher durability compared to the standard wooden versions. Additionally, bellows have been added, allowing forges to reach higher temperatures necessary for advanced smelting.

The update also introduces a grinding wheel, which serves as a tool for improving the quality and effectiveness of existing equipment. These changes are part of a broader expansion of the game's industrial capabilities, which now also include the ability to build waterwheels and utilize new mechanical power upgrades.

Additional Content and Game Improvements

Beyond the primary systems mentioned above, the 1.22.0 update includes a wide array of quality-of-life changes and new items:

• Combat Additions: Iron and steel spears have been added to the game's weapon roster.
• Environmental Mechanics: A new snow shovel mechanic has been implemented for better terrain management during winter cycles.
• Exploration: New trader outposts have been added to the game world, providing more opportunities for resource exchange.
• Harvesting: Killed fish now float to the surface as collectible items rather than sinking, simplifying the gathering process.

For those tracking the evolution of the game, this update represents one of the most extensive lists of features added to the project since the 1.21 patch. At In Game News, we continue to monitor these developments. You can find more information in our PC gaming news coverage or explore our archives for our survival games reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in Vintage Story update 1.22.0?
Vintage Story update 1.22.0 introduces a comprehensive fishing system with 20 species, a forge rework, new metalworking mechanics, waterwheels, and various quality-of-life additions like snow shoveling.

How does the new fishing system work in Vintage Story?
Players use a craftable fishing pole to cast a bobber into large bodies of water, waiting for a signal to reel in fish; the system includes bait mechanics, fish depletion, and taxidermy for display.

What are the new metalworking mechanics in Vintage Story 2026?
The update adds a forge rework featuring durable metal tongs, bellows for higher temperatures, and a grinding wheel used to improve the quality of tools.