11 bit studios has officially announced Frostpunk 1886, a new project that revisits the original Frostpunk experience with a major technological and visual upgrade. The game is being rebuilt in Unreal Engine, marking a shift from the studio’s now-retired Liquid Engine. This announcement signals the studio’s intention to maintain and grow the Frostpunk universe alongside the upcoming Frostpunk 2, which is also being developed in Unreal Engine 5.
The developers are not just aiming to remaster the original title. Instead, Frostpunk 1886 is positioned as an expanded and reimagined experience. The goal is to enhance the foundation of the first game by introducing new mechanics, updated visuals, and fresh content while preserving the core gameplay elements that made the series popular.
The timeline of Frostpunk 1886 takes players back to the critical moment of the Great Storm in 1886, which plays a pivotal role in the story of Frostpunk. This reimagined version will feature new technologies, events, and buildings. Players can also expect the introduction of a brand-new Purpose path, joining the established Faith and Order systems that define how societies evolve in the harsh, frozen world.
A significant development for long-time fans is the confirmation of mod support. This is a highly requested feature and is expected to expand community engagement by allowing players to create and share their own content. According to the studio, the capabilities of Unreal Engine will enable broader possibilities for user-generated content and post-launch updates, including downloadable content (DLC).
The studio emphasized that Frostpunk 1886 is not a replacement for the original game, but rather a companion title that aims to offer a deeper and more flexible survival experience. The survival of the citizens of New London remains the central theme, but with new paths and mechanics that offer players different strategies and outcomes.
In terms of release, 11 bit studios has set a launch window for 2027. The company also mentioned plans to shorten the time between releases moving forward. This new project is seen as part of a larger commitment to more frequent development cycles.
More details on Frostpunk 1886, including gameplay footage and developer insights, are expected to be shared in the second half of 2025. With this announcement, 11 bit studios continues to build on the legacy of Frostpunk, aiming to reach both veterans of the original and newcomers drawn to its blend of city-building and survival strategy.
