RuneScape: Dragonwilds caught everyone off guard with its early access launch just weeks after the initial teaser. Here's what to know about the early access release and what players can look forward to during this phase.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds Early Access Livestream

Early Access Available Now!

RuneScape: Dragonwilds delivered a surprise early access announcement. In a livestream on April 16, developer Jagex revealed the game is now playable via early access on Steam, only a few weeks after its debut trailer.

Fans were stunned—the game had just opened Steam wishlists on April 1 and shared its first official gameplay preview on April 2. Players first learned about the project back in 2022, but Jagex didn't begin alpha signups for a "new survival game set in the RuneScape universe" until late 2024. The official unveiling as RuneScape: Dragonwilds happened on March 31, 2025.

Estimated Official Release Date in Early 2026

The team estimates Dragonwilds will launch fully in early 2026. "We are taking the time to perfect every detail, ensuring players enjoy a complete and rewarding experience they’ll want to return to with friends," they explained.

Jagex Executive Producer Jesse America emphasized that Dragonwilds offers a fresh type of RuneScape adventure made for longtime fans, noting that early access marks only the beginning of development.

He added, "Throughout Early Access, we’ll roll out regular updates with new content and mechanics, while staying closely tuned to community feedback to shape an iconic open-world survival crafting game loved by loyal RuneScape fans and newcomers alike."

Early Access Roadmap Revealed

Jagex also shared an early access roadmap, offering a look at planned updates. A major highlight is Fellhollow, a mysterious realm suspended between life and death.

This region is governed by Imaru, a soul-devouring dragon influenced by Ashenfall’s wild anima and the Underworld’s cursed energy. Players will be joined by Death, a familiar RuneScape figure. Expect new quests, lore, equipment, and music, as well as skills for magic, ranged combat, and farming.

Additionally, the game will introduce Lesser Dragons as a new enemy type, dragon slayer gear, hardcore and creative modes, and more. While specific release dates for each update aren't set, the developers confirmed ongoing enhancements throughout early access.

Early Access Rewards

Players who buy Dragonwilds during early access will receive exclusive in-game items. According to the Steam page, "Early Adopters" get:

　●　Pioneer’s Scarf
　●　Pioneer’s Tapestry
　●　Pioneer’s Cape
　●　Two music tracks from the game

RuneScape: Dragonwilds is now available in early access on PC for $29.99. Jagex confirmed the price will rise at full launch. All early access updates will be free, though paid DLC may be released after the official launch.