11 bit studios has exciting news for fans of the Frostpunk series, announcing Frostpunk 1886, a comprehensive remake of the original game slated for release in 2027. This announcement comes just over six months after the launch of Frostpunk 2, marking a significant milestone nearly a decade after the debut of the first Frostpunk in 2018.
The Polish developer is harnessing the power of Unreal Engine 5 for this ambitious project, aiming to elevate the gaming experience to new heights. Frostpunk, set in an alternate late 19th-century world engulfed by a volcanic winter, challenges players to build and manage a city, make critical survival decisions, and explore the surrounding areas for resources and survivors.
IGN's review of the original Frostpunk awarded it a stellar 9/10, praising its blend of thematic depth and engaging gameplay, despite some occasional unintuitive elements. Frostpunk 2, while slightly less acclaimed with an 8/10, was recognized for its innovative rethinking of the ice-age city-building mechanics, introducing greater social and political complexity.
As 11 bit studios continues to support Frostpunk 2 with free major updates, a console launch, and planned DLCs, the studio is also committed to advancing the legacy of the original game with Frostpunk 1886. The decision to move away from their proprietary Liquid Engine, which powered both Frostpunk and This War of Mine, to Unreal Engine 5, reflects their dedication to providing a richer, more dynamic experience.
Frostpunk 1886 is not merely a visual upgrade; it promises new content, mechanics, laws, and an exciting new Purpose path, ensuring a fresh experience for both newcomers and seasoned players. The shift to Unreal Engine also enables the inclusion of long-awaited mod support and the potential for future DLCs, transforming the game into a living, expandable platform.
11 bit studios envisions a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve in tandem, each offering unique yet complementary visions of survival in an unforgiving world. Alongside these developments, the studio is also preparing for the release of The Alters in June, further expanding their portfolio of thought-provoking games.
For fans of the Frostpunk universe, the journey through the harsh, morally challenging landscapes continues to promise new depths and exciting possibilities.
