Early Access Games with the Strongest Communities

26 April 2025

Gaming has always been about more than just high scores and epic boss fights—it’s about people. Whether you’re reminiscing about couch co-op nights or spending countless hours on Discord talking strategy, communities are the heartbeat of our gaming experiences. Some games, especially in their early access phase, have managed to build fiercely loyal and passionate communities that help shape the game's future. These are the games where players don't just play—they belong.

In this article, we’re diving into the early access games that boast the strongest communities. We’ll look at the titles where players rally together, share experiences, and genuinely feel like part of something bigger. If you’re tired of going solo or just want to find a game with a thriving fanbase, strap in. Let’s do this!

What Makes an Early Access Game Shine?

Before we jump into the list, let’s quickly talk about what makes an early access game thrive. Early access is like walking a tightrope. Developers need to keep players engaged while continually improving the game. But here’s the kicker: it’s the community that often carries these games. People form mini-societies, bring up fresh ideas, and even create memes that go viral. When an early access game fosters collaboration, respect, and creativity, it transforms into something much bigger than itself.

1. Baldur’s Gate 3

It’s hard to talk about early access games without mentioning Baldur’s Gate 3. From the moment Larian Studios announced this epic RPG, fans of the Dungeons & Dragons universe flocked to it. Think of it as a digital tavern where adventurers come to share stories and strategies.

The community became an integral part of the game’s development, providing feedback on bugs, combat mechanics, and storytelling. Players even created guides and fan art that elevated the game’s popularity. Larian listened to its fans and polished the game into what some people call a modern masterpiece. If you’re looking for a game with a rich narrative and die-hard fans who’d adopt a Mindflayer as a pet, this one’s for you.

2. Valheim

Remember when Valheim exploded onto the scene? Yeah, that Viking survival game where you chop trees, sail longboats, and battle mythical creatures. It didn’t just come out of nowhere; it came with a roar—and a massive community that hasn’t quieted down since.

What makes the Valheim community so special? Collaboration. Players band together to build intricate castles, share crafting tips, and conquer bosses. It’s like being part of a giant Viking clan. Whether you’re into solo adventures or having chaotic fun with friends, this game has a spot for everyone. Plus, the memes about Vikings getting crushed by falling trees? Absolute gold.

3. Phasmophobia

Feel like screaming with (or at) your friends? Look no further than Phasmophobia. This ghost-hunting simulator became a phenomenon thanks to a few key factors: its spooky gameplay, hilarious jump scares, and, most importantly, its incredible community.

From the moment you step into a haunted house, you’re in for a shared experience. Players swap horror stories, argue about who’s responsible for bringing the spirit box, and laugh at each other’s terror. The game’s solo developer has worked tirelessly with feedback from the community, leading to constant updates and new content. If hunting ghosts sounds better when you’re surrounded by like-minded fans, you’ll want to grab your EMF reader and dive in.

4. Among Us

Okay, this one’s technically out of early access now, but let’s be real—it blew up during its early days. Developers at Innersloth had no idea their simple multiplayer game of deception would turn into a cultural moment. But it did, all thanks to its brilliant community.

Whether you’re accusing your best friend of being “sus” or watching streamers yell at each other, Among Us created one of the friendliest—and funniest—gaming spaces. Players shared strategies, created custom game modes, and even turned Among Us into a platform for digital meetups. If you ever wanted proof that a game’s success can hinge on its fans, Among Us is Exhibit A.

5. Hades

Supergiant Games struck gold with Hades, a roguelike dungeon crawler that had players hooked even in early access. What set it apart wasn’t just the fast-paced combat or stunning visuals—it was the fans.

The Hades community became a massive force, providing constant feedback to the developers, writing fanfiction, and creating jaw-dropping fan art. Seriously, just look up Hades art on Pinterest—you’ll be floored. Gamers rallied together to discuss storylines, dissect gameplay strategies, and basically shout from the rooftops about how much they loved playing as Zagreus. The devs responded in kind by polishing the game to perfection, turning an already great game into a masterpiece.

6. Grounded

If you’ve ever dreamed of being shrunk down to the size of an ant (hello, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids vibes), Grounded is your jam. Obsidian’s survival game puts players in a backyard filled with giant bugs, towering grass blades, and endless adventure. But what made this game truly magical in early access? The community.

Players worked together to share base-building tutorials, discover hidden mechanics, and, let’s face it, scream in terror at wolf spiders. (Can we talk about how terrifying those things are?) The game thrives on cooperation, and the community took that to heart. Whether you’re teaming up with friends or chatting with fellow “tiny people” online, Grounded feels like a shared survival experience.

7. Project Zomboid

Some games come and go, but Project Zomboid has been quietly building one of the strongest gaming communities out there. This isometric zombie survival game isn’t flashy, but it’s packed with depth—and it’s the kind of game that rewards long-term commitment.

The community around Project Zomboid has turned it into a hub for survival enthusiasts. There are forums overflowing with tips, YouTube channels dedicated to gameplay strategies, and countless mods that keep the experience fresh. Whether you’re learning how to avoid infection or building your dream zombie-proof base, this community has your back. If you love games that encourage creativity and problem-solving, this might be your next obsession.

8. Satisfactory

Who knew factory building could be so addictive? Satisfactory took the early access world by storm with its blend of creativity, resource management, and exploration. But the real MVP? The community.

Players came together to showcase insane factory designs, troubleshoot production inefficiencies, and create sprawling worlds that look like something out of a sci-fi film. The devs at Coffee Stain Studios actively engage with their fans, leading to a collaborative relationship that’s rare in the gaming world. If you’re someone who loves tinkering with machines—or just appreciates watching others do it—Satisfactory has a home for you.

Why Strong Communities Matter in Early Access Games

Here’s the deal: early access games are more than just unfinished projects. They’re ecosystems—places where players and developers connect to create something extraordinary. Games with strong communities feel alive in a way that standalone titles often don’t.

Why? Because these communities care. They help shape the game’s future, provide constructive feedback, and create moments that stick with you long after you’ve logged off. When you find the right game with the right group of people, it’s a match made in gaming heaven.

Final Thoughts

Finding an early access game with a great community is like finding a bonus level in real life. It’s not just about the gameplay—it’s about the people you meet, the laughs you share, and the memories you create. Whether you’re into hunting ghosts, building factories, or battling zombies, there’s a game (and a community) out there waiting for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into one of these incredible early access games and be part of something amazing. Who knows? You might just find your new gaming family.