Frostpunk 1886 Remake Set for 2027, Developer Promises Ongoing Updates for Frostpunk 2

11 bit studios has exciting news for fans of their acclaimed city-building survival game, Frostpunk. They've just announced Frostpunk 1886, a comprehensive remake of the original game, set to launch in 2027. This announcement comes just over half a year after the release of Frostpunk 2, and nearly a decade after the debut of the first Frostpunk in 2018.

For this ambitious project, 11 bit studios is harnessing the power of Unreal Engine 5, aiming to push the boundaries of what's possible in the Frostpunk universe. Set in an alternate history of the late 19th century, Frostpunk challenges players to build and sustain a city amidst a global volcanic winter. Players must manage resources, make critical survival decisions, and venture beyond their city's borders in search of survivors, resources, and other vital items.

IGN's review of the original Frostpunk was highly favorable, awarding it a 9/10 and praising its unique blend of thematic ideas and gameplay elements, though noting some occasional unintuitive aspects. Frostpunk 2, while still well-received with an 8/10, was described as less intimate but more socially and politically complex than its predecessor due to a complete overhaul of its mechanics.

11 bit studios is committed to continuing support for Frostpunk 2 with free major content updates, a console launch, and additional DLC, while simultaneously working on Frostpunk 1886. The decision to move away from their proprietary Liquid Engine, which powered both Frostpunk and This War of Mine, reflects the studio's desire to build on a new, robust foundation that can carry the legacy of the first game forward.

Frostpunk 1886 is not just a visual upgrade; it's a significant evolution of the original game. Named after a crucial moment in the game's universe—the arrival of the Great Storm upon New London—it introduces new content, mechanics, laws, and an entirely new "Purpose path" that promises a fresh experience even for seasoned players. The switch to Unreal Engine also enables the game to become a living, expandable platform, fulfilling long-standing community requests for mod support and setting the stage for future DLC.

11 bit studios envisions a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve in parallel, each contributing to the enduring vision of survival against the backdrop of unrelenting cold. Alongside these projects, the studio is also preparing for the release of The Alters in June, promising a busy and exciting period ahead for fans of their work.