"Frostpunk 1886 Remake Set for 2027, Developer to Update Frostpunk 2"

11 bit studios has exciting news for fans of the Frostpunk series with the announcement of Frostpunk 1886, a remake of the original game set to launch in 2027. This announcement comes just over six months after the release of Frostpunk 2, marking a significant milestone nearly a decade after the first Frostpunk game debuted in 2018.

For this ambitious project, 11 bit studios is harnessing the power of Unreal Engine 5, moving away from their proprietary Liquid Engine, which was used for both the original Frostpunk and This War of Mine. The shift to Unreal Engine 5 is expected to elevate the gaming experience significantly, offering enhanced visuals and new possibilities for gameplay.

Set in an alternate history during 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 explore beyond their city's borders in search of survivors, resources, and other vital items.

IGN's review of the original Frostpunk praised its unique blend of thematic elements and gameplay, awarding it a 9/10. We stated, "Frostpunk deftly mixes a variety of thematic ideas and gameplay elements into an engaging and unique, if occasionally unintuitive, strategy game." Frostpunk 2, while receiving a slightly lower score of 8/10, was lauded for its expanded mechanics and deeper social and political complexity, though it was noted to be less intimate than its predecessor.

11 bit studios has assured fans that they will continue to support Frostpunk 2 with free major content updates, a console launch, and additional DLCs, even as they work on Frostpunk 1886. The studio emphasized that Frostpunk 1886 is not just a visual update but a comprehensive reimagining of the original game. It will feature new content, mechanics, laws, and a new "Purpose" path, promising a fresh experience for both new and veteran players.

The use of Unreal Engine 5 will also enable Frostpunk 1886 to become a living, expandable platform, fulfilling long-standing community requests for mod support and the potential for future DLCs. 11 bit studios envisions a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve together, each offering unique paths through the harsh, morally challenging world of Frostpunk.

In addition to the Frostpunk series, 11 bit studios is also working on another title, The Alters, set to release in June.