RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access launch, just weeks following its initial teaser. Dive into the details of this early access release and discover what's in store for players during this exciting phase.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream
Early Access Available Now!
RuneScape: Dragonwilds made headlines with a surprise announcement during its early access 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 released.
The gaming community was taken aback as the game had only recently opened for wishlisting on Steam on April 1 and showcased its first official gameplay teaser on April 2. Although the game was first hinted at 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 game's official unveiling as RuneScape: Dragonwilds occurred on March 31, 2025.
Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026
Jagex has set sights on an early 2026 release for Dragonwilds. The developers emphasized their commitment to delivering a polished and engaging 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 revisit with friends time and again."
Jesse America, Jagex's Executive Producer, highlighted that Dragonwilds represents a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for both dedicated fans and newcomers. He noted, "Throughout Early Access, we'll be updating the game regularly with new content and features, while closely listening to the community to craft an iconic open-world survival game that resonates with all players."
Early Access Roadmap Revealed
Jagex unveiled an exciting early access roadmap, outlining the upcoming updates for Dragonwilds. 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, with the iconic RuneScape character Death guiding players through new quests, lore, gear, and music. Players can also look forward to new skills in magic, ranged, and farming.
The game will also introduce Lesser Dragons as a new enemy type, along with dragon slayer gear, a hardcore mode, and a creative mode. While specific release dates for these updates remain undisclosed, Jagex promises continuous enhancements throughout the early access period.
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 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 post-launch content available as paid DLC.