RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access launch, which came just weeks after the initial teaser. This article delves into the details of the early access release and what players can look forward to during this exciting phase.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream
Early Access Available Now!
RuneScape: Dragonwilds stunned fans with its surprise early access announcement. The game's developer, Jagex, revealed during an early access livestream on April 16 that Dragonwilds is now playable on Steam. This announcement came shortly after the game's first trailer was released, leaving fans both surprised and thrilled.
The game was initially added to Steam's wishlist on April 1, and its first gameplay teaser was shared on April 2. Although the concept of the game was introduced in 2022, it wasn't until late 2024 that Jagex began alpha testing signups for a "new survival game set in the RuneScape universe." The official reveal of RuneScape: Dragonwilds occurred on March 31, 2025.
Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026
Jagex estimates that RuneScape: Dragonwilds will see its official release in early 2026. The developers are committed to taking the necessary time to perfect the game, ensuring a complete and satisfying experience that players will enjoy repeatedly with friends.
Jesse America, Jagex's Executive Producer, emphasized that Dragonwilds offers a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for fans. He highlighted that the early access phase marks the beginning of a journey filled with regular updates, new content, and features. America 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 also shared the early access roadmap for Dragonwilds, outlining the exciting updates planned for players during this period. A highlight is the introduction of Fellhollow, a new region teetering between life and death, ruled by the soul-eater dragon Imaru. This region is influenced by the wild anima of Ashenfall and the cursed energy of the Underworld, and players will be joined by the iconic RuneScape character, Death.
New quests, lore, gear, and music will be introduced, along with new skills in magic, ranged, and farming. Additionally, players can expect new enemy types like Lesser Dragons, new dragon slayer gear, a hardcore mode, and a creative mode. While specific release dates for these updates haven't been set, Jagex assures ongoing improvements throughout the early access phase.
Early Access Rewards
Players who purchase Dragonwilds during its early access period will receive exclusive in-game rewards. According to the game’s Steam page, "Early Adopters" will be granted:
- 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. All updates during the early access phase will be free, though Jagex may offer paid DLC post-launch.