5 Wildly Successful Early Access Games With Full Releases Confirmed for 2026

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As a gamer, I’ve seen a lot of Early Access titles launch feeling really rough around the edges – like they’re missing important stuff or just don’t have enough to do. But every now and then, one comes along that’s surprisingly well-made! Those are usually the games everyone starts recommending right away, even though they aren’t technically finished yet. And it’s awesome because this year, a bunch of those really loved, polished Early Access games are finally getting their full releases!

It’s always great when a game that’s been available in Early Access finally launches its full version! Existing players get to see the finished product they’ve been following, and new players can jump in knowing the game has already been tested and enjoyed by others. That’s what’s happening with these five popular Early Access games, all releasing in full in 2026 – and a few are even coming to consoles for the first time.

5) Runescape: Dragonwilds

Dragonwilds entered Early Access more recently than many other games on this list, appearing unexpectedly in April 2025. Backed by the popular RuneScape franchise, it quickly became popular on Steam. Now, just over a year after its initial Early Access launch, Dragonwilds is preparing for its official 1.0 release. Several content updates during Early Access have made this RuneScape survival spin-off better than ever.

The full launch of this exciting open-world survival game is finally here! What makes it extra special is that it’s the first time a RuneScape game has been released on consoles. Dragonwilds will be available September 15th on PC (through Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2. With overwhelmingly positive feedback already from players on Steam, this is a game to keep an eye on if you enjoy RuneScape or open-world adventures – especially if you like dragons!

4) Palworld

Palworld quickly became popular when it launched in January 2024, though not without some controversy. Despite being called a clone of Pokemon – even leading to a lawsuit from Nintendo – the game has already gained a dedicated following during its Early Access period. With over 151,000 reviews on Steam and an overwhelmingly positive rating, it’s clear many players are enjoying it. Having played quite a bit myself, I understand why: the combination of building a base and collecting creatures is incredibly addictive.

After a successful two-plus years in Early Access, Palworld is officially launching its full version 1.0 on July 10th. A unique aspect of Palworld is that it’s already playable on consoles; the 1.0 release will simply bring a major update to PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One – no new platforms are being added. This update includes new creatures (Pals), areas to explore, a World Tree feature, and more story elements. Whether you’re a new player or returning after the Early Access period, July 10th promises exciting additions to the Palworld experience.

3) Enshrouded

Enshrouded, a popular fantasy survival RPG that started as an Early Access game in 2024, is finally preparing for its official full release. Players enjoy rebuilding the wilderness and creating their own kingdoms within the game. Following a large update to prepare for launch, the developers at Keen Games are now focused on completing version 1.0.

The full version of Ensrhouded, version 1.0, is scheduled to launch in August 2026 on PC (through Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. This is great news, especially for console gamers—like me—who enjoy RPGs. Right now, you can only play an early access version of the game on PC via Steam. So, version 1.0 will be a major update and will finally bring this popular fantasy survival RPG to PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

2) Fields of Mistria

I might upset some fans, but I believe Fields of Mistria could become the new top recommendation for farming simulation games, surpassing Stardew Valley. Since its release in early access on Steam in 2024, it’s gained a dedicated following by successfully blending magical girl themes with traditional farming gameplay. Even in this early stage, the game feels remarkably refined, and regular updates continue to add exciting new features.

NPC Studio has announced that Fields of Mistria will launch into Early Access on August 5th. The developers anticipate it will take around two years from this point to release the full version of the game. While Fields of Mistria works well with the Steam Deck, it won’t be available on consoles immediately. NPC Studio hasn’t dismissed the possibility of console versions in the future, but they want to perfect the PC edition first. The upcoming final content updates are sure to please fans and could establish Fields of Mistria as a leading farming simulation game.

1)Valheim

Valheim is likely the most well-known survival game currently available. It’s had a particularly long development process – first launching in Early Access in 2021 – but developers Iron Gate and Coffee Stain are finally releasing the full, version 1.0 game on September 9th. Remarkably, even after five years, Valheim continues to attract a large number of players on Steam.

Valheim is launching on PS5 when it officially releases in version 1.0, and it’s also coming to the new Switch 2. It’s already playable on Xbox Series X|S through the Game Preview program, meaning Valheim will be available on nearly all major gaming platforms. With a large and dedicated fanbase already excited for the full release, and many new console players ready to jump in, the 2026 launch of version 1.0 is expected to be a major event.

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2026-06-16 23:15