The beta contains approximately 40 percent of the experience, with even more maps, factions and a campaign coming at launch.

The beta for 11 bit Studios’ Frostpunk 2, available by pre-ordering the Deluxe Edition, is now live. Alongside it, the developer has released a new gameplay deep dive discussing the larger scale of the sequel and the challenges players will face. Check it out below.

The first game saw humanity united under the oppressive cold of a post-apocalyptic world. However, after surviving, other interests take centre stage. 11 bit Studios chose to focus on the societal aspect more, as you’ll deal with different ideals, oversee a Council as The City’s Steward and meet the demands of various factions. Satisfying everyone isn’t easy, though

An increased scale means time plays out through weeks and months, and instead of constructing singular buildings, you bring entire districts to life. The beta provides access to a version of Sandbox Mode called the Utopia Builder Preview, which comprises 40 percent of the experience. Players can expect more factions, maps, colonies and a “robust” narrative campaign at launch.

Frostpunk 2 launches on July 25th for PC and is available on day one with PC Game Pass. It’s also launching later for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S (alongside Xbox Game Pass).