11 bit studios has officially announced Frostpunk 1886, a full remake of the critically acclaimed original Frostpunk, set to launch in 2027. Built using Unreal Engine 5, this reimagining marks a major evolution for the beloved city-building survival game that first launched in 2018. With over half a decade having passed since the original and just months after the release of Frostpunk 2, the remake promises both nostalgic depth and modern innovation for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Frostpunk immerses players in a gritty, alternate-history late 19th century, where a catastrophic volcanic winter threatens all of humanity. As leader of the last city on Earth—New London—you must construct and manage a metropolis powered by coal, make morally complex decisions to maintain order, and send out scouts into the frozen wasteland to find survivors, resources, and hope. The game’s intense atmosphere and ethical dilemmas earned it a 9/10 from IGN, which praised its “engaging and unique” strategy experience.

While Frostpunk 2 expanded the world with deeper political mechanics—earning an 8/10 from IGN—the upcoming Frostpunk 1886 returns to the roots of the franchise with a fresh vision. The title references a key turning point in the game’s lore: the moment the Great Storm engulfs New London. This isn’t just a graphical upgrade—it introduces new gameplay mechanics, expanded law systems, and most notably, an entirely new Purpose path, ensuring even veteran players will discover something novel.

By rebuilding the original in Unreal Engine 5, 11 bit studios unlocks powerful new possibilities. The remake will support community mods for the first time—a long-requested feature previously limited by the old Liquid Engine, which is no longer under development. It also lays the groundwork for future DLCs, making Frostpunk 1886 not just a revival, but a living platform designed to grow alongside its community.

Importantly, the studio confirms ongoing support for Frostpunk 2, including free major updates, console releases, and additional DLC. Fans can expect both titles to evolve in parallel—one pushing forward with political complexity, the other refining the raw survival essence that started it all.

In addition to Frostpunk 1886, 11 bit studios is preparing for the June release of The Alters, further showcasing the studio’s commitment to innovative storytelling and strategic gameplay across multiple projects.