That was quick. After announcing an October launch window for Deathground, Jaw Drop Games has now finalized the Early Access launch for October 7. The Early Access launch will feature two bootcamp maps (a solo tutorial and a bunker where players can test gear), as well as three distinct missions set in diverse environments. Players will tackle varied objectives, from restoring power in a volcanic energy plant, to cleansing a toxic greenhouse, and infiltrating a decaying genetics lab to recover vital assets.
For those not in the know, Deathground is a solo and co-op survival horror title where players face off against AI-powered dinosaurs in abandoned research facilities overrun by prehistoric threats. Built in Unreal Engine 5, the game blends stealth, tension and squad-based tactics in intense, replayable missions. Regardless of solo or team play, survival depends on teamwork, quick thinking and raw instinct.
While faithful to its original vision since its successful Kickstarter five years ago, Deathground has undergone an evolution since its initial inception, thanks to community feedback and Jaw Drop Games’ commitment to deeper, replayable survival gameplay.
Those changes include:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Deathground launches into Early Access on Steam at an initial price of $14.99. A limited-time launch discount will also be available for the first two weeks.
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