I’ve been spending countless hours diving into the latest 99 Nights in the Forest update, and let me tell you – the new Brute and Explorer classes are absolute game-changers! After testing both classes extensively across dozens of runs, I’m excited to share everything you need to know to master these new additions and decide which one fits your playstyle perfectly.
The latest update to 99 Nights in the Forest introduced a revolutionary class system, and the Brute and Explorer are the first two playable classes that completely transform how you approach survival. These aren’t just minor tweaks – they’re fundamentally different philosophies that can make or break your 99-night journey.
The Brute is your frontline tank, designed to absorb punishment and control enemy aggression. If you’ve ever found yourself struggling with horde nights or feeling too squishy in combat, this class might be your salvation. Starting with the unique Brute Shield, you’re immediately equipped to handle the forest’s most dangerous threats.
The Explorer, on the other hand, is the ultimate scout and resource gatherer. If you love mapping out the world, finding hidden treasures, and setting your team up for success with abundant resources, this class will feel like it was made specifically for you. Starting with Compass and Map blueprints, you’ll never be lost again.
I’ll be honest – I was skeptical about the class system at first. I thought, “Why fix what isn’t broken?” But after my first run as a Brute, I was completely hooked. There’s something incredibly satisfying about standing your ground against overwhelming odds, watching as enemies futilely attack your shield while your teammates pick them off from safety.
Then I tried the Explorer, and wow – it completely changed how I approach the early game. No more wandering aimlessly or missing crucial resources. The expanded map radius alone has saved me countless hours, and the ability to see chests through walls? That’s not just helpful – it’s practically cheating (in the best way possible).
What really excites me is how these classes encourage teamwork. In my most successful runs, I’ve paired a Brute and Explorer together, creating a perfect synergy where the Explorer gathers resources and the Brute protects the team. It’s this kind of strategic depth that keeps me coming back to 99 Nights in the Forest night after night.
The Brute class is relatively accessible, costing 50 Diamonds from the Class Shop. Here’s how I recommend getting those diamonds quickly:
Level-Up Requirements for Brute:
The Explorer class is a bit more expensive at 80 Diamonds, but for good reason – the utility it provides is incredible:
Level-Up Requirements for Explorer:
Level 1 – Immovable Object:
Pro tip: Use your taunt strategically – don’t just spam it. Wait for multiple enemies to group up, then taunt to maximize its effectiveness.
Level 2 – Intimidating Presence:
This is where the Brute really starts to shine. The damage reduction makes a huge difference in prolonged fights, especially during horde nights.
Level 3 – Juggernaut:
The Charge Attack is game-changing. Use it to knock back enemies that are overwhelming your team, and save the Shockwave for emergency situations when you’re completely surrounded.
Level 1 – Scouting Prowess:
The expanded map radius alone makes this class worth it. Combine this with the speed boost from clearing fog, and you’ll map the entire area in record time.
Level 2 – Survivalist Instinct:
This ability is underrated. It allows you to explore much further from base without worrying about starvation, which is crucial for efficient resource gathering.
Level 3 – Treasure Hunter:
X-Ray Vision feels almost like cheating in the best way. No more missing hidden chests, and the faster opening speed means you can loot and move quickly, reducing your exposure to danger.
After testing various team compositions, I’ve found that the Brute and Explorer create one of the most powerful synergies in the game. Here’s how to maximize this combo:
Early Game Strategy:
Mid Game Strategy:
Late Game Strategy:
Based on my extensive testing, here’s my detailed comparison:
| Aspect | Brute | Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Team play, defensive strategies | Solo play, resource gathering |
| Cost | 50 Diamonds | 80 Diamonds |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Easy |
| Late Game Value | Essential for horde nights | Less impactful but still useful |
| Solo Viability | Challenging but viable | Excellent |
| Team Impact | High (defensive anchor) | High (resource provider) |
Choose Brute if:
Choose Explorer if:
The Brute and Explorer work well with other classes too. Here are my favorite combinations:
The Perfect Trio: Brute + Explorer + Ranger
Defensive Fortress: Brute + Explorer + Base Defender
Mobile Strike Team: Brute + Explorer + Assassin
The Brute and Explorer classes were introduced as part of the major class system update. Here are the key changes that came with their release:
New Features:
Balance Changes:
Known Issues:
A: Absolutely! In my experience, both classes pay for themselves in terms of survival rate and resource efficiency. The Brute is especially valuable for team play, while the Explorer’s utility makes solo runs much more manageable.
A: Yes, you can purchase and switch between classes freely, but you’ll need to level up each class separately. Your progress is saved per class.
A: The Explorer is generally better for solo play due to its self-sufficiency in resource gathering and mapping. However, skilled players can make the Brute work solo as well.
A: Definitely! They enhance existing strategies rather than replacing them. The Brute makes defensive strategies more viable, while the Explorer improves rushing and exploration strategies.
A: Based on the game’s update pattern and the class system foundation, it’s very likely we’ll see more classes in future updates.
After spending weeks testing both the Brute and Explorer classes, I can confidently say they’ve revitalized 99 Nights in the Forest in the best way possible. The strategic depth they add, combined with their unique playstyles, makes every run feel fresh and exciting.
Whether you choose to be the unbreakable wall that protects your team as a Brute, or the master scout who ensures everyone is well-equipped as an Explorer, you’re in for a completely new experience. And honestly? The best approach might be to master both classes and switch based on your team’s needs.
The forest is more dangerous than ever, but with these new tools at your disposal, surviving all 99 nights has never been more achievable – or more fun. So what are you waiting for? Get out there, pick your class, and show the forest what you’re made of!
