Stressful city-builder sequel Frostpunk 2 releases in July, and there's a beta to warm you up next month
11 Bit Studios' sequel is a day one Xbox Game Pass PC launch
Frostpunk 2's release date has finally been revealed for July 25, and you can pre-order for beta access next month.
Earlier today Xbox held its Partner Preview showcase, where Frostpunk 2 finally unveiled its PC release date of July 25. You can see the full release date trailer for the strategy survival sim sequel just below, and if you pre-order the game before it releases, you'll get access to the Frostpunk 2 beta when it rolls around some time next month
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Right now, Frostpunk 2 has only been confirmed for a PC release, which might not be a surprise if you were a fan of the original game, which first launched on PC before coming to Xbox and PlayStation systems later on. However, the good news is that Frostpunk 2 will be included for everyone with an Xbox Game Pass PC subscription at launch.
The trailer also reveals that Frostpunk 2 will be getting three bits of post-launch DLC, which could well place is in new scenarios to survive, if the first game's DLC instalments are anything to go by. All three of these DLC packs will be included if you purchase the Digital Deluxe Edition of Frostpunk 2.
Additionally, the Digital Deluxe Edition will also grant you access to Frostpunk 2's story mode 72 hours before the full game launches, which should be on July 22. You'll also get a digital novella called 'Warm Flesh' before the full game launches, which apparently ties into the overarching narrative of Frostpunk 2.
That novella could well help bridge the gap between the first game and Frostpunk 2. The original city-builder had you preparing for winter storm to end all storms, and if you survived, you'd basically beaten the game's story mode. This time, Frostpunk 2 is more concerned with how humanity picks up the pieces after said apocalyptic storm, and you're once again in charge of a city with mouths to feed and people to house.
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Read our full Frostpunk 2 preview for a look at how the sequel's expanded survival systems will make your life in charge a true headache.
Check out our upcoming PC games guide for a look ahead at all the games Frostpunk 2 will be competing with when it launches in late July.
Hirun Cryer is a freelance reporter and writer with Gamesradar+ based out of U.K. After earning a degree in American History specializing in journalism, cinema, literature, and history, he stepped into the games writing world, with a focus on shooters, indie games, and RPGs, and has since been the recipient of the MCV 30 Under 30 award for 2021. In his spare time he freelances with other outlets around the industry, practices Japanese, and enjoys contemporary manga and anime.
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