RuneScape: Dragonwilds Surprises Fans with Early Access Launch

RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by storm with its unexpected early access release, just weeks after its initial teaser. Dive in to discover what this early access phase entails and what players can anticipate in the coming months.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream

Early Access Available Now!

In a thrilling announcement, RuneScape: Dragonwilds has launched into early access. Jagex, the developers behind this eagerly awaited game, revealed during their April 16 livestream that Dragonwilds is now accessible on Steam. This comes as a surprise considering the game was only recently opened for wishlisting on April 1, with its first gameplay teaser dropping on April 2. While the game was first teased back in 2022, it wasn't until late 2024 that Jagex invited players to sign up for alpha testing of a "new survival game set in the RuneScape universe." The official unveiling of RuneScape: Dragonwilds occurred on March 31, 2025, setting the stage for this unexpected early access launch.

Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026

Jagex has set their sights on an early 2026 release for Dragonwilds, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a polished and engaging experience. Jesse America, Jagex's Executive Producer, highlighted that Dragonwilds represents a fresh take on the RuneScape universe, tailored for both long-time fans and newcomers. "Our early access phase is just the beginning," America stated, "We plan to continually update the game with new content and features, taking player feedback into account to craft an unforgettable open-world survival crafting experience."

Early Access Roadmap Revealed

Jagex has shared an exciting roadmap for the early access phase of Dragonwilds, showcasing upcoming content and features. Among the highlights is the introduction of Fellhollow, a haunting new region governed by the soul-eater dragon Imaru, influenced by the anima of Ashenfall and the cursed energies of the Underworld. Players will explore this area alongside the iconic RuneScape character Death, engaging in new quests, uncovering lore, and acquiring new gear and skills in magic, ranged combat, and farming. Additionally, players can look forward to battling new Lesser Dragons, utilizing dragon slayer gear, and experiencing new game modes like hardcore and creative modes. While specific release dates for these updates remain undisclosed, Jagex assures continuous enhancements throughout the early access period.

Early Access Rewards

Those who dive into 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 a Pioneer’s Scarf, a Pioneer’s Tapestry, a Pioneer’s Cape, and two exclusive pieces of music from the game. Currently, Dragonwilds is available for early access on PC at $29.99, with Jagex confirming a price increase upon the game's full release. All updates during the early access period will be free, though future post-launch content may be available as paid DLC.