Publisher Toplitz Productions and developer SpaceRocket Games have launched the Early Access version of "Permafrost Era" on Steam. The game was originally scheduled to release on October 9, but the team delayed the launch by several hours to address feedback and crash reports received during the second round of playtesting. Pre-launch adjustments included allowing key rebinding for movement, improving performance and co-op gameplay experience, and fixing localization content.
"Permafrost Era" is set in a long winter following consecutive disasters and the shattering of the moon. Players find themselves in a frozen world where civilization has collapsed, needing to hunt and craft items to cope with the harsh cold and scarcity of resources. The game supports single-player play and also offers online co-op for up to four players.
Players can also find and rescue dogs in the ruins. Once they become companions, dogs can scout the map, warn of dangers, and help carry items.
The initial Early Access version includes various biomes, items, building and crafting recipes, as well as side quests. The team plans for Early Access to last at least 12 months, with future expansions adding more biomes, quests, NPCs, and equipment, while continuing to optimize the game; an update roadmap has been published. The base game is available at a 20% launch discount, priced at 2,239 yen, with the offer running until October 24; there are also DLCs such as an official guide, recipe book, and novel.