The Most Anticipated Early Access Releases in the Coming Months

5 April 2025

Are you ready to dive into the world of fresh, exciting games? The next few months are shaping up to be an absolute feast for gamers, with several jaw-dropping early access titles launching soon. If you’re a fan of trying out games while they’re still in development (and who doesn’t love being the first to spot a hidden gem?), then buckle up, because this roundup is tailor-made for you.

In this post, I’ll walk you through some of the most highly anticipated early access releases that have the gaming community buzzing with excitement. From immersive RPGs to adrenaline-pumping survival games, there’s a little something here for every type of gamer. So, grab your headphones, adjust your chair, and let’s dive into what’s coming next!

Why Early Access Games Are So Popular

Before we get to the good stuff, let’s take a second to appreciate why early access games are such a big deal. Playing an early access game is like getting a sneak peek behind the curtain—it’s raw, unpolished, and bursting with potential. Plus, you get to be part of the development journey! Your feedback often shapes the game’s future, so you’re not just playing; you’re contributing.

Think of it as the gaming equivalent of tasting cookie dough before it’s baked. Sure, it’s not finished, but that doesn’t mean it’s not delicious. And sometimes, it’s downright fun to experience the quirks and imperfections before everything is smoothed out.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into the early access games everyone’s raving about.

1. Palia

Release Date: TBA 2023
Genre: Cozy MMO

If you’ve been craving a relaxing social experience with cozy vibes, Palia is right up your alley. This multiplayer game blends elements of life simulation with exploration, crafting, and community building. Imagine if Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley had a love child, but with the added bonus of a vibrant shared world.

What makes Palia stand out is its focus on relationships and storytelling. You can build a home, decorate it to your heart’s content, and even forge bonds with an ever-growing cast of charming NPCs. Whether you're planting crops, fishing by a serene pond, or throwing a virtual dinner party with friends, this game promises to be the ultimate chill-out experience.

2. Hades II

Release Date: Early Access Planned for Q2 2024
Genre: Rogue-lite Action

If you loved the fast-paced action and razor-sharp dialogue of Hades, then you’re in for a treat. Supergiant Games is back with Hades II, the sequel to their critically acclaimed hit. This time, you’ll step into the shoes of Melinoë, the Princess of the Underworld, as she takes on Chronos, the Titan of Time.

Expect more of what made the first game so addictive: tight combat mechanics, a gorgeous art style, and a captivating story inspired by Greek mythology. But don’t think for a second that it’s just a rehash. The developers have promised new weapons, upgrades, and characters to meet in this sprawling underworld adventure.

3. Nightingale

Release Date: TBA 2023
Genre: Survival RPG

Picture this: you’re trapped in a Victorian-inspired fantasy world filled with towering monsters, mysterious ruins, and magical portals. That’s the premise of Nightingale, a survival RPG that lets you gather resources, build settlements, and explore interconnected realms teeming with danger and wonder.

What’s got everyone excited? The ability to craft Realm Cards, which influence the biomes and challenges you’ll encounter while exploring. It’s like rolling the dice every time you step through a portal. Oh, and did I mention you can play it solo or team up with friends? If you love survival games and unique world-building mechanics, Nightingale is a must-watch.

4. Dark and Darker

Release Date: Early Access (Ongoing, With Updates)
Genre: PvPvE Dungeon Crawler

Darkness, danger, and desperation—that’s what Dark and Darker promises to bring. This hardcore dungeon crawler combines Player vs. Player (PvP) and Player vs. Environment (PvE) elements in a brutal, high-stakes setting. You and your friends delve into dungeons filled with deadly traps, ferocious monsters, and other players hungry for your loot.

What sets Dark and Darker apart is its ruthless gameplay. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about outsmarting others. Think of it as Escape from Tarkov meets Dungeons & Dragons. If you’re someone who loves high-risk, high-reward gameplay, this is the one to keep an eye on.

5. Sea of Stars

Release Date: August 29, 2023 (Early Access Available)
Genre: Turn-Based RPG

Calling all fans of classic turn-based RPGs! Sea of Stars is a love letter to the golden age of gaming, with stunning pixel art, a gripping story, and a nostalgic yet fresh combat system. Developed by the team behind The Messenger, this game blends retro aesthetics with modern design sensibilities.

In Sea of Stars, you’ll play as two heroes harnessing the power of the sun and moon to fend off an ancient evil. Whether it’s the breathtaking visuals, the witty writing, or the emotional soundtrack by Chrono Trigger composer Yasunori Mitsuda, this game is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of old-school RPGs.

6. Frostpunk 2

Release Date: Late 2023 (Early Access TBD)
Genre: City Builder/Strategy

The original Frostpunk was a gut-wrenching journey into the harsh world of survival city-building, and its sequel aims to double down on that experience. Set 30 years after the events of the first game, Frostpunk 2 challenges players to manage a society on the brink of collapse, all while making morally gray decisions that could make or break your city.

With new mechanics, a larger map, and even tougher choices, Frostpunk 2 is designed to test your strategic and emotional limits. What will you sacrifice to survive when survival itself is the only thing that matters?

7. Silica

Release Date: Early Access Ongoing
Genre: FPS/RTS Hybrid

Ever wanted to play a game that seamlessly combines first-person shooting with real-time strategy? That’s exactly what Silica brings to the table. Set on a barren alien planet, you’ll either command armies as a strategic overseer or jump into the fray as a boots-on-the-ground soldier.

The blend of genres is what makes Silica so intriguing. You can switch between micromanaging your troops and blasting enemies in fast-paced FPS combat. It’s like having the best of both worlds, and it’s perfect for players who like to mix brains with brawn.

8. Roots of Pacha

Release Date: TBA 2023
Genre: Farming Sim

Rounding out our list is Roots of Pacha, a prehistoric farming simulator where you build a civilization from scratch. Think of it as Stardew Valley, but set in the Stone Age. You’ll gather resources, domesticate animals, and even discover new technologies to advance your tribe.

What makes this game stand out is its collaborative gameplay. Whether you’re exploring caves or throwing festivals, Roots of Pacha offers a multiplayer mode where you can build alongside friends. If you’re a fan of laid-back farming sims with a unique twist, this one’s for you.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright

And there you have it—some of the most anticipated early access releases on the horizon! Whether you’re into cozy farming sims, brutal dungeon crawlers, or expansive RPGs, there’s no shortage of amazing games to look forward to. Early access is a chance to not only play games before anyone else but also to help shape their development into something truly special.

So, which of these games are you planning to check out? Do any stand out more than others? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear what games you’re hyped about!