The Cartel Arrives: Schedule 1 Releases Massive Update for August 2025

The indie simulation game Schedule I, which has captivated a massive audience on Steam since its launch in March 2025, has just received its highly anticipated “Cartel Update” for August 2025. This significant update, now available on the beta test branch, is a direct result of a community-wide vote that took place in June, where players overwhelmingly chose to introduce a rival cartel to the game’s open world. The update, labeled as v0.4.0, is a major step forward in the game’s development, adding a new layer of challenge and depth to the drug empire-building experience. This is far more than just a minor patch; it’s a fundamental change to the game’s core loop, designed to keep veteran players engaged and to make the criminal underworld of Hyland Point feel more dynamic and dangerous than ever before.

For months, fans have been building their drug empires in the gritty world of Schedule I, but the endgame has been a point of contention for some. With the “Cartel Update,” developer TVGS is directly addressing this feedback. The update introduces the “Benzies family,” a powerful rival cartel that will challenge players’ dominance in the streets of Hyland Point. This new faction is not just a cosmetic addition; it introduces a range of new mechanics, including cartel-player deals, ambushes, and even dealer robbings. Players will now have to contend with a new “cartel influence” level in each region, which they must lower to a certain threshold before they can progress to the next area. This new progression system, along with a host of other additions, makes the late-game experience more complex and rewarding, offering a fresh challenge for even the most established kingpins.

Key Features of the Cartel Update

The v0.4.0 update is packed with new content and improvements, demonstrating the developer’s commitment to community-driven development. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant additions:

• The Benzies Family: The introduction of a rival cartel changes the entire dynamic of the game. Players will have to navigate a new series of interactions with the Benzies, including both tense negotiations and violent conflicts. This adds a much-needed sense of competition to the game’s sandbox.
• New Questline and Property: The update features a new storyline centered around the Benzies family. Completing this questline will unlock the ability to purchase “Hyland Manor,” a new high-end property that serves as a reward for players who can successfully contend with the rival cartel.
• Updated Progression System: The new “cartel influence” mechanic fundamentally changes how players unlock new regions. No longer a simple matter of progression, players must now strategically manage their influence in a region before they can expand their empire. This adds a new layer of strategic depth.
• New Weapon and Vehicle: The update adds a new “pump shotgun” and a new vehicle called the “Hotbox.” These new tools will be essential for players who want to survive the increasingly hostile environment of Hyland Point.
• Improved AI and Gameplay Tweaks: The update includes numerous quality-of-life improvements, such as smarter NPC AI that can now use ranged weapons and predict future target positions. Other tweaks include the ability to pickpocket unconscious or dead NPCs and a refactoring of various minor scripts.

Why This Update Is a Game-Changer

The “Cartel Update” is a perfect example of a developer listening to its community and delivering on its promises. The game, which already saw massive success at launch, now has a renewed sense of purpose and a clear path for future development. By introducing a rival faction, TVGS has created a more reactive and unpredictable world, a crucial element for any long-term simulation game. The update not only provides a fresh challenge for veteran players but also sets the stage for future content, with other community-voted options like a “Police Expansion” and a “Shrooms Update” potentially on the horizon. The ongoing development of Schedule I is a testament to the power of community involvement and a sign that the game is far from over. This August 2025 update is a major milestone, a bold step toward making Schedule I one of the best and most comprehensive drug-dealer simulation games on the market.