RuneScape: Dragonwilds has taken the gaming community by surprise with its early access launch, which came just weeks after its initial teaser. Here's everything you need to know about the game's early access release and what you can look forward to during this exciting period.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream

Early Access Available Now!

RuneScape: Dragonwilds made headlines with a surprise announcement for its early access release. During the early access livestream on April 16, developer Jagex revealed that the game is now available for early access on Steam, just a few weeks following its first trailer.

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. While players were introduced to the concept 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 came on March 31, 2025.

Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026

The developers have set their sights on an early 2026 release for Dragonwilds. They 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."

Jagex Executive Producer Jesse America highlighted that Dragonwilds offers a fresh take on the RuneScape experience, tailored for the franchise's dedicated fans. He noted that the early access phase marks the beginning of their development journey.

He added, "Throughout Early Access, we’ll be updating the game regularly with new content and features, while actively listening to the community to craft an iconic open-world survival crafting game that resonates with both our loyal RuneScape fans and newcomers."

Early Access Roadmap Revealed

Jagex has unveiled the early access roadmap for Dragonwilds, giving players a glimpse of what's to come during this phase. A major highlight is the introduction of a new region called Fellhollow, a mystical land caught between life and death.

This region is under the dominion of the soul-eater dragon Imaru, influenced by the wild anima of Ashenfall and the cursed energy of the Underworld. Players will embark on this journey with the iconic RuneScape character Death, exploring new quests, lore, gear, and music, alongside new skills in magic, ranged combat, and farming.

Additionally, the game will introduce Lesser Dragons as a new enemy type, dragon slayer gear, a hardcore mode, and a creative mode, among other exciting updates. While specific release dates for these updates remain undisclosed, the developers have promised continuous improvements throughout the early access period.

Early Access Rewards

Players who purchase Dragonwilds during its early access period 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 a price of $29.99. Jagex has confirmed that the game's price will increase upon its full release. During the early access phase, all updates will be provided free of charge, though the developers may introduce paid DLC post-launch.