RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access launch, just weeks after its initial teaser. Dive into the details of this thrilling early access release and discover what's in store for players during this phase.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream
Early Access Available Now!
RuneScape: Dragonwilds made waves with a surprise announcement of its early access release. During an engaging livestream on April 16, developer Jagex revealed that the game is now accessible for early access on Steam, a mere few weeks after its first trailer was unveiled.
The gaming community was taken aback as the game only opened for wishlist on Steam on April 1, and showcased its first official gameplay teaser on April 2. Initially introduced to the public in 2022, it wasn't until late 2024 that Jagex began alpha testing signups for this "new survival game set in the RuneScape universe." The game's official unveiling as RuneScape: Dragonwilds occurred on March 31, 2025.
Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026
The developers are targeting an official release for Dragonwilds in early 2026. They emphasized their commitment to delivering a polished and comprehensive experience, stating, "We want to spend the time to get everything right to ensure our players enjoy a complete, satisfying experience that they'll want to return to with friends time and again."
Jagex Executive Producer Jesse America highlighted that Dragonwilds represents a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for the franchise's dedicated fanbase. He noted that the early access phase is merely the beginning of their development journey.
He further elaborated, "Throughout Early Access, we’ll be regularly updating the game with new content and features, all while closely engaging with the community to craft an iconic open world survival game that resonates with both our long-time RuneScape enthusiasts and newcomers."
Early Access Roadmap Revealed
Jagex has also shared the early access roadmap, outlining the exciting updates planned for players during this period. A key highlight is the introduction of a new region, Fellhollow, a mystical land caught between life and death.
Governed by the soul-eater dragon Imaru, this region is influenced by the wild anima of Ashenfall and the cursed energy of the Underworld. Players will be joined by the iconic RuneScape character Death in this adventure, which promises new quests, lore, gear, music, and skills in magic, ranged, and farming.
Additionally, the game will feature new enemy types such as Lesser Dragons, new dragon slayer gear, a hardcore mode, and a creative mode. While specific release dates for these updates are not set, the developers have promised continuous enhancements throughout the early access phase.
Early Access Rewards
Players who purchase Dragonwilds during its early access phase will be rewarded with exclusive in-game items. According to the game's Steam page, "Early Adopters" will receive:
- Pioneer’s Scarf
- Pioneer’s Tapestry
- Pioneer’s Cape
- 2 pieces of music from the game
RuneScape: Dragonwilds is currently available for early access on PC for $29.99. Jagex has confirmed that the price will increase upon the game's full release. During the early access period, all updates will be provided free of charge, with potential future post-launch content offered as paid DLC.
