RuneScape: Dragonwilds took the gaming community by surprise with its early access launch, just weeks after its first teaser. Dive into the details of the game's early access release and what players can look forward to during this phase.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream
Early Access Available Now!
RuneScape: Dragonwilds stunned fans with a surprise early access announcement. The developers at Jagex revealed during a livestream on April 16 that the game is now accessible on Steam, a mere few weeks following its initial trailer release.
The excitement was palpable as the game had only opened for wishlisting on Steam on April 1 and showcased its first gameplay teaser on April 2. While the game was first hinted at in 2022, it wasn't until late 2024 that Jagex invited players to sign up for alpha testing of a new survival game within the RuneScape universe. The game's official reveal as RuneScape: Dragonwilds came on March 31, 2025.
Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026
Dragonwilds is slated for a full release in early 2026, as per the developers' estimates. Jagex aims to perfect the game, ensuring a comprehensive and enjoyable experience that players will want to return to repeatedly.
Jagex's Executive Producer, Jesse America, emphasized that Dragonwilds offers a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for both long-time fans and newcomers. He highlighted that the early access phase marks the beginning of their development journey, promising regular updates and community-driven enhancements.
He stated, "Throughout Early Access, we’ll be updating the game regularly with new content and features, while listening closely to the community to deliver an iconic open world survival crafting game that is loved equally by our biggest RuneScape fans and new players alike."
Early Access Roadmap Revealed
Jagex has shared the early access roadmap for Dragonwilds, outlining the exciting updates planned for players. A 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 accompanied by the iconic RuneScape character Death as they explore new quests, lore, gear, and music, along with new skills in magic, ranged, and farming.
The game will also 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, Jagex assures continuous improvements and enhancements.
Early Access Rewards
Players who purchase Dragonwilds during its early access phase will be rewarded with exclusive in-game items. As detailed on 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 at $29.99. Jagex has confirmed that the price will increase upon the game's full release. All updates during the early access period will be free, with potential paid DLCs planned for post-launch content.
