This paper examines the iterative design choices in Among Us version 2023.7.12i, released in mid-2023. Focusing on the introduction of the Fungle map and the removal of visual tasks on that map, we analyze how environmental design and task restructuring impact player behavior, trust dynamics, and impostor strategy. Using comparative gameplay analysis against previous versions (v2022.x), this paper argues that v2023.7.12i represents a shift from casual chaos to structured, information-poor deduction, increasing cognitive load on Crewmates while empowering Impostors through environmental noise.
Since its resurgence in 2020, Innersloth’s Among Us has become a primary text for studying social deception in synchronous multiplayer environments. Version 2023.7.12i marks a pivotal update, introducing the tropical Fungle map, a unique "no visual tasks" rule, and the "Mushroom Mixup" mechanic. This paper asks: How do the spatial and rule-based changes in v2023.7.12i alter the fundamental information asymmetry between Crewmates and Impostors? Among Us v2023.7.12i
A new environmental hazard: the "Mushroom Mixup" randomizes player positions across the map. This directly sabotages tracking strategies. A Crewmate following a suspected Impostor may suddenly find themselves across the map, breaking the temporal chain of evidence. This paper examines the iterative design choices in
[Your Name/Institution] Date: [Current Date] Since its resurgence in 2020, Innersloth’s Among Us
The most radical change: on Fungle , common visual tasks (e.g., Shields, Trash, MedBay scan) are disabled. In previous versions, a visual task could provide a "hard clear," breaking the game’s information asymmetry. v2023.7.12i eliminates this, ensuring that all task completion is purely declarative (verbal report). This elevates the importance of meeting logic and behavioral analysis over mechanical confirmation.
| Metric | Polus (v2022) | Fungle (v2023.7.12i) | |-------------------------------|---------------|-----------------------| | Avg. time to first report | 42 sec | 58 sec | | Hard clears (visual tasks) | 2.4 per game | 0.0 per game | | Impostor win rate | 48% | 63% | | "Trust" statements in chat* | High frequency | Low frequency |