Illuvium has launched Deathmatch, a competitive autobattler mode where players field units called Challengers in 10-player free-for-all matches with permadeath mechanics. The mode currently runs under a single active format called SKIRMISH, which offers two entry tiers: FREE Mode at no cost and STANDARD Mode requiring a 100 Skulls entry fee. Challengers can be permanently removed from circulation depending on placement, revive outcomes, and mode-specific rules, while combat is fully automated once a match begins.

What Changed

• A new competitive mode called Deathmatch has been introduced, structured as an automated autobattler with no player inputs after combat starts.
• Players select a Challenger and choose a starting battlefield position before the match begins.
• Challengers can be permanently removed from circulation depending on match placement, revive outcomes, and mode-specific rules.
• Two currencies power the mode: Skulls, which are withdrawable and pegged to 0.01 USD each, and Bones, a non-withdrawable utility currency.
• FREE Mode is positioned as a way to use weaker or duplicate Challengers, with Bones earned in return and high elimination risk by design.
• STANDARD Mode introduces a progressive Jackpot system funded by non-winning matches, with a 1 percent trigger chance per match.
• Future Deathmatch expansions may include larger-scale battles, team-based formats, clan systems, base building, expanded Omega ability systems, and expanded visual evolution systems, though no dates are given.

Dates and Rollout

• The Deathmatch mode announcement was published on June 2, 2026.
• SKIRMISH is described as the only active Deathmatch game mode currently available, with additional formats planned for the future.

Numbers and Rules

• Each match involves 10 players in a single free-for-all format.
• Challenger power is capped between 10 and 50 base power, with the TPI Genetic Modifier providing up to 100 percent bonus scaling on top of that limit.
• STANDARD Mode requires a 100 Skulls entry fee, approximately 1 USD, and distributes 900 Skulls as match rewards.
• In FREE Mode, only first place is guaranteed survival. Second and third place have a 50 percent revive chance. Fourth through tenth place are permanently eliminated unless the first blood rule applies.
• The Jackpot resets to 1,000 Skulls when triggered, with each non-winning STANDARD match contributing 70 Skulls to the pool.
• The first blood rule applies across both modes: the Challenger that scores first blood is always revived regardless of final placement.

Source: Illuvium Deathmatch announcement