RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access launch, coming just weeks after its initial teaser. This article delves into the details of the early access release and outlines what players can look forward to during this exciting period.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream
Early Access Available Now!
RuneScape: Dragonwilds made headlines with its surprise early access announcement. On April 16, during a livestream, developer Jagex revealed that the game is now accessible in early access on Steam, a mere few weeks following the release of its first trailer.
The announcement came as a shock to fans, especially since the game had only recently been opened for wishlisting on Steam on April 1 and showcased its first gameplay teaser on April 2. While the game was first announced in 2022, it wasn't until late 2024 that Jagex initiated alpha testing signups for what was described as 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 has set their sights on an early 2026 release for Dragonwilds. The development team emphasized their commitment to crafting a comprehensive and engaging experience, stating, "We want to spend the time to get everything right to make sure that our players get a complete, satisfying experience that you’ll want to revisit with friends again and again."
Jesse America, Jagex's Executive Producer, highlighted that Dragonwilds represents a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, designed to appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers. He added, "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 an exciting roadmap for Dragonwilds' early access phase, detailing upcoming content and features. A highlight is the introduction of a new region, Fellhollow, a mystical area 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, and players will be accompanied by the iconic RuneScape character Death.
Players can anticipate 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, and both hardcore and creative modes. While specific release dates for these updates remain undisclosed, Jagex assures ongoing enhancements to the game.
Early Access Rewards
Early adopters of 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
Currently, RuneScape: Dragonwilds is available for early access on PC at a price of $29.99. Jagex has confirmed that the price will increase upon the game's full release. Throughout the early access period, all updates will be free, with the possibility of paid DLC post-launch.
