# Gear Up Einstein! demo update adds Crossroads and Divergence systems

> **Key takeaway:** The free Linux demo of co-op strategy roguelite Gear Up Einstein! has been updated with new Crossroad and Divergence systems, reworked bosses, and leaderboards ahead of its November 6 Early Access launch.

**Published:** 2026-10-20T14:29:56+00:00 
**Source:** Linux Game Consortium 
**Category:** open-gaming 
**Canonical URL:** https://fosswire.org/news/gear-up-einstein-demo-update-adds-crossroads-and-divergence-.html 

## Summary
No Deadlines Studio released a major update to the Gear Up Einstein! demo on Steam for Linux, Mac, and Windows. The co-op strategy roguelite adds the Crossroad system with five branching paths per run, the Divergence system that introduces anachronistic gear and enemies, reworked final boss and elite foes, new era-specific combat rules, passive skills, and leaderboards. The demo is part of Steam Next Fest running October 19-26, with Early Access launching November 6. The game supports solo play, local and online co-op for up to three players, and crossplay between Steam and Itch.io.

## What's new in the demo update
- **Crossroad system**: Five branching paths per run, each leading to era-themed events with loot or combat modifiers
- **Divergence system**: Time distortion introduces gear and enemies from other eras, with Crossroad events also affected
- **Reworked encounters**: Final boss redesigned, elite foes updated, new combat rules per era
- **Progression additions**: New passive skills for squad-wide buffs, expanded item pool, harder-hitting gadgets
- **Social features**: New leaderboards (reset October 19), Spectator Mode, GIF combat replays
- **Co-op support**: Solo, local co-op, or online with two friends; crossplay between Steam and Itch.io
- **Platform status**: Linux demo live now; Steam Deck support not yet confirmed

## Why it matters
The update gives Linux players a substantial free demo to evaluate ahead of Early Access, with crossplay support helping sustain a multiplayer player base across Steam and Itch.io.