RuneScape: Dragonwilds took the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access launch, coming just weeks after its initial teaser. Dive in to discover all about the game's early access phase and what players can anticipate during this exciting time.
In a thrilling twist, RuneScape: Dragonwilds announced its early access release during a livestream on April 16. Developer Jagex shared that the game is now accessible for early access on Steam, a mere few weeks following its first trailer release.
The announcement left fans astounded, as the game had only recently become available for wishlisting on Steam on April 1 and showcased its initial gameplay teaser on April 2. Although the game was first mentioned 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 reveal as RuneScape: Dragonwilds happened on March 31, 2025, marking a significant milestone.
The developers have set their sights on an early 2026 release for Dragonwilds. They emphasized their commitment to delivering a polished and comprehensive gaming 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."
Jagex's Executive Producer, Jesse America, highlighted that Dragonwilds represents a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for the franchise's dedicated fans. He noted that the early access phase is merely the beginning of their journey, saying, "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."
Jagex also unveiled the roadmap for Dragonwilds' early access period, showcasing the exciting plans they have for players. The highlight of the upcoming updates is the introduction of a new region, Fellhollow, which exists in a state between life and death.
This unique region is dominated by the soul-eater dragon Imaru and 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 on this adventure, with new quests, lore, gear, and music, along with new skills in magic, ranged, and farming.
Additionally, the game will feature new enemy types like Lesser Dragons, new dragon slayer gear, a hardcore mode, and a creative mode, among other enhancements. Although specific dates for these updates haven't been disclosed, the developers have promised continuous improvements throughout the early access phase.
Players who purchase Dragonwilds during its early access period will be rewarded with exclusive in-game items. As detailed on the game’s Steam page, "Early Adopters" will receive:
RuneScape: Dragonwilds is currently available for early access on PC at a price of $29.99. Jagex has confirmed that the game's price will increase upon its full release. All updates during the early access period will be free, but future post-launch content might be offered as paid DLC.