Could someone get Hammond on the phone? It appears the dinosaurs are loose once again, and they’re stomping into our Steam libraries on October 7. That’s when dinosaur horror game Deathground launches in Early Access, according to developer Jaw Drop Games. The fierce co-op and solo survival game will feature a handful of missions, numerous terrifying dinosaurs, multiple playable characters, and custom loadouts, too!
What’s Included in Deathground Early Access?
When Deathground launches into Early Access on October 7, it will include:
- Two Bootcamp Maps (Solo tutorial and a test bunker)
- Three Distinct Missions
- Restore power to a volcanic energy plant
- Cleanse a toxic greenhouse
- Infiltrate a decaying enetics lab to recover assets
- Expanded Co-op
- Six Playable Characters
- Custom Loadouts
What’s New to Deathground Since Kickstarter?
It’s always surprising to hear about a successful Kickstarter story. I guess I’ve been burned one too many times by the concept, but I’m excited to see what the team at Jaw Drop does with the backing. Soon, we’ll find out. Here’s what’s new to the game since its Kickstarter founding:
- Expanded Co-op: Originally designed for 1–3 players, Deathground now supports up to four-player co-op, bringing more tactical variety and social play.
- Six Playable Characters: The roster of playable characters has doubled, growing from three to six. These include the Scout, Engineer, Survivalist and newly added Medic, alongside reimagined versions of two of the original Kickstarter characters: the Observer and Hunter.
- Custom Loadouts: Gear is no longer locked to specific characters. Tools like the Motion Detector, Hacking Device, Tranquilizer Rifle and Med-Kit can be equipped by any class, with more planned for future updates.
- Richer Missions and Environments: Beyond the originally promised three maps, Deathground now includes a tutorial, an interactive training range and environments enriched with narrative objects and lore-driven collectibles tied to achievements. Mission objectives are now also more complex, involving multi-stage interactions.
- Deeper Stealth & Survival Mechanics: Stealth has been enhanced with new hiding spots like lockers, barrels, vents, and natural cover such as tall grass. Movement refinements including slide, crouch toggle, peeking and lookback offer tactical control, while sound traps like broken glass raise tension and demand careful navigation.
- Smarter AI with Dynamic Behavior: Enemy AI has been overhauled with new behaviors and matching animations. For example, raptors can now drag players out of hiding and Compsognathus can stalk players through winding vent systems, creating constant tension.
- Defense mechanisms: Players can now fight back, though in limited supply, by throwing objects like bottles to distract or stun dinosaurs, or by using tranquilizers to briefly neutralize them.
Now is an excellent time to wishlist Deathground on Steam before it launches next week in Early Access. When it does, it will set you back $14.99, which is extremely generous of the studio!
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