11 bit studios has exciting news for fans of their acclaimed city-building survival series: Frostpunk 1886, a comprehensive remake of the original Frostpunk, is slated for release in 2027. This announcement comes just over six months after the launch of Frostpunk 2, marking a significant milestone as the first game, released in 2018, will see its legacy revisited nearly a decade later.
Frostpunk places players in an alternate 19th-century world gripped by a volcanic winter, challenging them to construct and manage a city. Players must navigate resource allocation, make survival-oriented decisions, and explore the surrounding area for additional survivors and resources.
IGN's review of the original Frostpunk awarded it a 9/10, praising its unique blend of thematic elements and gameplay mechanics, albeit noting some occasional unintuitive aspects. Frostpunk 2, while slightly less well-received with an 8/10 score, was commended for its ambitious reimagining of the city-building mechanics, resulting in a larger, more politically and socially complex game.
Despite the focus on the new remake, 11 bit studios remains committed to supporting Frostpunk 2 with free updates, DLC, and a planned console launch. The transition from their proprietary Liquid Engine, used in both Frostpunk and This War of Mine, to Unreal Engine 5 for Frostpunk 1886, represents a significant technological shift. This move not only enhances the visual and gameplay experience but also introduces long-awaited mod support and the potential for future DLC.
Frostpunk 1886 is not just a visual update; it honors a critical moment in the game's universe with its title, reflecting the Great Storm's impact on New London. The remake promises new content, mechanics, laws, and an innovative "Purpose path," ensuring a fresh experience for both new and returning players.
11 bit studios envisions a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 will coexist and evolve, each offering a distinct yet complementary vision of survival in a harsh, frozen world. Alongside these projects, the studio is also preparing for the release of The Alters in June, further expanding their portfolio of engaging and challenging games.
