11 bit studios has unveiled Frostpunk 1886, a highly anticipated remake of the original Frostpunk game, slated for release in 2027. This announcement comes just over six months after the launch of Frostpunk 2, showcasing the studio's commitment to expanding its beloved franchise. With the original Frostpunk having debuted in 2018, the upcoming remake will mark nearly a decade since the first game's release.

Set in an alternate history of the late 19th century, Frostpunk is a city-building survival video game where players must construct and sustain a city amidst a global volcanic winter. The gameplay involves managing scarce resources, making tough survival decisions, and venturing beyond the city to find survivors, resources, and other essential items.

IGN's review of the original Frostpunk awarded it a stellar 9/10, praising its blend of thematic depth and engaging gameplay, albeit noting some unintuitive elements. In contrast, Frostpunk 2 received an 8/10, commended for its revamped mechanics and increased social and political complexity, though it was felt to be less intimate than its predecessor.

Despite the focus on the new project, 11 bit studios remains committed to Frostpunk 2, promising ongoing updates, including free major content, a console launch, and additional DLCs. The shift to Frostpunk 1886 comes as the studio moves away from its proprietary Liquid Engine, which powered both Frostpunk and This War of Mine, to the more advanced Unreal Engine 5. This transition is aimed at enhancing the game's foundation and fulfilling long-standing community requests for mod support and future expandable content.

Frostpunk 1886 is not merely a visual upgrade; it introduces new content, mechanics, laws, and an exciting new Purpose path, ensuring a fresh experience for both new and veteran players. The title honors a crucial moment in the Frostpunk universe, the Great Storm that struck New London, setting the stage for this challenging survival narrative.

11 bit studios envisions a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve in tandem, each offering unique paths of survival in the unforgiving cold. In addition to these projects, the studio is also preparing for the release of The Alters in June, promising fans a diverse range of gaming experiences.