The coolest story-based survival sandbox will enter Early Access on PC shortly before gamescom 2026

There is no escape from the cold. In the aftermath of a cataclysmic event known only as “The Shattering”, the whole Earth has been swallowed by ice, snow and constant sub-zero temperatures. What remains of humanity clings to survival. Challenge the overwhelming odds and prove that you have the skills and the resolve not only to survive in these unforgiving conditions, but to bring the splintered factions of society back together again. It is time to show your resilience and overcome the Permafrost. How long will you last in the white hell?

Your chance to face the cold in this sub-zero story-based survival sandbox is almost here. Development studio SpaceRocket Games and German publisher Toplitz Productions unveiled a new trailer for Permafrost at this year’s Summer Game Fest Green Games Showcase, which is focusing on games that reconnect us with nature, spark hope for the future and remind us what’s worth protecting.

Not only does the fresh video impress with new gameplay footage, but it also announces August 21, 2026 as the Early Access release date on PC for the highly anticipated survival game, whose demo gathered more than 300,000 downloads during its run at Steam Next Fest.

Players ready to become the protagonist Rook, a tech-savvy engineer able to build and craft tools from scraps, don’t have to wait that long, though. They can start looking for their long-lost friend Icarus and try to overcome the frozen wastelands, predatory wildlife and hostile factions vying for supremacy in the upcoming playtest. The date for the playtest will be announced soon, but interested players can head over to the official Steam product page already to register. With a bit of luck they will not only be able to enter the frozen landscape before the official release date, but also help the development team with their invaluable feedback. And don’t forget to tell your friends, because you can brave the cold not only solo just with your trusted dog at your side, but also in co-operative multiplayer for up to 4 survivors.

Permafrost will be available on PC in Early Access on Steam, GOG.com and EGS on August 21, 2026. More information can be found on the store pages. Join our Discord to get the latest news about Permafrost as well as the other exciting titles from Toplitz Productions.