11 bit studios has exciting news for fans of their critically acclaimed city-building survival game, Frostpunk. They've announced Frostpunk 1886, a highly anticipated remake of the original game, set to launch in 2027. This announcement comes just over half a year after the release of Frostpunk 2, showcasing the studio's dedication to expanding their beloved franchise.
The original Frostpunk, which debuted in 2018, transported players to an alternate late 19th-century world gripped by a volcanic winter. Players are tasked with building and sustaining a city, managing resources, making tough survival decisions, and exploring the frozen landscape for survivors and essential items. This challenging setting, combined with its moral dilemmas, has captivated players worldwide.
IGN's review of the first Frostpunk awarded it a stellar 9/10, praising its unique blend of thematic ideas and engaging strategy gameplay. Frostpunk 2, while slightly less acclaimed with an 8/10, was appreciated for its expanded scale and deeper social and political complexity.
For Frostpunk 1886, 11 bit studios is harnessing the power of Unreal Engine 5, marking a significant shift from their proprietary Liquid Engine, which powered both Frostpunk and This War of Mine. This change allows for a more dynamic and expandable platform, fulfilling long-standing community requests for mod support and the potential for future DLC content.
The remake, titled Frostpunk 1886 to commemorate a crucial moment in the game's timeline—the Great Storm's descent upon New London—promises more than just a visual refresh. It will feature new content, mechanics, laws, and an entirely new Purpose path, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience even for seasoned players.
While Frostpunk 1886 is on the horizon, 11 bit studios continues to support Frostpunk 2 with free major content updates, a planned console launch, and additional DLCs. The studio envisions a future where both Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve in tandem, offering two distinct paths through the harsh, unforgiving world of Frostpunk.
In addition to their work on the Frostpunk series, 11 bit studios is also preparing for the release of another intriguing title, The Alters, expected in June. Fans of the studio can look forward to a rich and evolving gaming experience across these projects.