The Bat Cave update in 99 Nights in the Forest introduces one of the most dangerous areas in the game. With new enemies, tighter environments, and a blind but aggressive Bat Entity, entering the cave unprepared can end your run quickly. This guide breaks down how to access the cave, what you need before entering, and how to survive once you’re inside.
Preparing Before Entering the Cave
Going into the cave without planning is a fast way to lose gear. Before heading in, make sure you have the following:
- Weapons Bring a weapon with good durability. The Katana, Chainsaw, or a strong Axe will help clear cultists faster. Lightweight weapons like daggers struggle against larger groups.
- Food and Healing The cave doesn’t offer easy resources. Bring berries, cooked meat, or storage packs filled before entering.
- Light Source Even though some sections brighten during the day, parts of the cave remain dark. A flashlight or lantern helps you navigate easier.
- Crafting Items Extra fuel and wood allow you to upgrade your camp before returning. The cave is dangerous enough that you may need stronger defenses afterward.
Optional but Helpful
- Map
- Compass
- Extra armor
- Throwables like dynamite or kunai
Going in with these items increases your chances of making it out alive.
How to Find the Bat Cave
The Bat Cave is marked on the updated in-game map after the new patch. If you haven’t crafted a map yet, gather wood and paper resources first. Once the cave icon appears, follow the marker and prepare before entering. You’ll find the entrance marked by rock formations and cave symbols. Interact with the prompt to begin your descent.
What to Expect Inside the Cave?
Once inside, the tone changes immediately. Visibility drops, echoing footsteps appear, and the layout becomes tighter. As you progress, you’ll face:
Cultist Variants
These enemies are stronger than the surface cultists. Some hit harder, while others have higher health pools. Avoid fighting multiple at once when possible.
The Bat Entity
This is the main threat in the cave. Here’s what you need to know:
- It is blind.
- It reacts to sound and movement.
- When it screams, hide or stop moving.
Running during a scream makes you easy to detect, and the bat will chase aggressively.
Navigating Safely
Move slowly and use corners to break line-of-sight. Rushing through the cave almost guarantees detection. Some areas include crystals and sealed passages, hinting at future updates. If you get spotted, retreat and regroup. The cave layout includes narrow passages you can use to dodge enemies or create temporary safety.
Key Areas and Interactions
During exploration, you’ll find:
- Crystal formations that cannot be mined yet without a better tool.
- Shrines and statues offering buffs like reduced rain chance.
- Blocked tunnels marked for future content.
- Custom cave map areas that adjust as you move deeper.
These features suggest the cave system will expand further in upcoming updates. Once you’re done exploring or low on resources, backtrack to the entrance. The game prevents re-entry while others remain inside, so be ready to commit once you start.
So, Never enter the cave at night in the overworld unless you’re fully prepared. Bring spare materials and food if you plan to clear the entire area. Use hiding spots when the bat screams instead of trying to fight. The Bat Cave is one of the toughest locations added to the game so far. With patience, resources, and caution, you can explore it without losing progress. More sections are locked behind future patches, so expect additional cave systems and mechanics in upcoming updates.