RuneScape: Dragonwilds Launches in Surprise Steam Early Access Release

Jagex has officially launched RuneScape: Dragonwilds into Steam Early Access without prior notice, surprising fans of the iconic franchise. The new title, an open-world survival crafting experience rooted in the RuneScape universe, is now available on Steam for £24.99 GBP / $29.99 USD / €29.99 EUR.

The game was first revealed a few weeks ago, with developers promising a Spring Early Access release but without confirming a specific date. Today’s unexpected release was accompanied by a statement from Jesse America, Executive Producer at Jagex, who emphasized the team’s excitement and the importance of community feedback in shaping the game:

"We’re so excited to surprise players with our Early Access launch today and invite them to discover the magical world of RuneScape: Dragonwilds right now. We’ve been working hard to develop an entirely new type of RuneScape experience that ignites fans’ passion, creativity and love for questing. And this is just the start of our development journey. [...] Our community is at the heart of everything we do at Jagex and we look forward to seeing how they shape RuneScape: Dragonwilds throughout our Early Access journey."

Initial feedback from players has been positive, with an average review score of 79% on Steam at the time of writing. Jagex also outlined an ambitious Early Access roadmap, which includes ongoing improvements to combat mechanics, performance, multiplayer systems, lighting, weather, tutorials, and difficulty balancing. Players can also expect the addition of new magic, ranged, and farming skills, expanded base building mechanics, and modes like Hardcore and Creative.

Crucially, new content will be rolled out throughout Early Access, including a major new region called Fellhollow. Described as a zone suspended between life and death, Fellhollow introduces players to Imaru, a twisted dragon overlord, and a host of undead adversaries. Longtime RuneScape fans will also be pleased to hear that Death, a familiar character from the franchise, will guide players into this eerie new territory.

This launch marks a bold new chapter for the RuneScape franchise, offering both nostalgic appeal and a fresh survival-based gameplay direction for veteran and new players alike.

Have you tried RuneScape: Dragonwilds yet? What are your first impressions of the survival crafting mechanics in the world of Gielinor? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.