Eldegarde is ready to take its final step out of Steam Early Access — and the full 1.0 launch is shaping up to be one of the most exciting RPG releases of early 2026. The fantasy extraction RPG from Notorious Studios officially launches on January 21, 2026, bringing new modes, new classes, and a more refined experience shaped closely by its players.
With its mix of PvE, PvP, and tense extraction mechanics, Eldegarde blends old-school fantasy adventures with modern competitive design — and it’s about to welcome a much wider audience.
From Early Access Success to Full Release
Originally known as Legacy: Steel & Sorcery, Eldegarde entered Steam Early Access in February 2025. Over the months that followed, the game steadily built a passionate community thanks to its high-risk, high-reward extraction gameplay and hand-crafted fantasy world.
Notorious Studios spent the past eleven months polishing the experience, listening to community feedback, and developing new content ahead of the full launch. The studio confirmed that January’s release won’t just flip a switch — it will expand the game meaningfully.
Players will see:
- New class additions like the Paladin
- Updates to the Wizard and other core archetypes
- New maps and encounter designs
- Smoother progression and clearer onboarding
All of this feeds into one goal: making Eldegarde’s extraction RPG gameplay more welcoming without losing its edge.
What Makes Eldegarde Different?
A Classic Fantasy Setting with Modern Systems
Eldegarde drops players into a world filled with knights, monsters, and mysterious crypts — but every run matters. You explore, loot, survive, and extract. Lose focus, and the treasures you gathered may never leave the dungeon.
Players can choose iconic fantasy roles such as Warrior, Rogue, and Wizard, each with playstyles suited for different strategies. Whether battling AI-controlled enemies or clashing with rival adventurers, every expedition blends tension and discovery.
New PvE Mode Opens the Door for More Players
One of the biggest additions arriving with the 1.0 launch is Eldegarde’s dedicated PvE mode. This option lets players learn the game’s systems, maps, and combat at their own pace — without worrying about being ambushed by other players.
It’s perfect for newcomers who want to enjoy the world, as well as returning players looking to sharpen their skills before jumping into full PvPvE runs.
Notorious Studios describes it as something akin to a “mini-MMO” mindset — still adventurous and cooperative, but more approachable than the original hardcore experience.
Built by Veterans, Shaped by the Community
Notorious Studios was founded by former Blizzard developers, including Chris Kaleiki, whose credits include World of Warcraft expansions such as Wrath of the Lich King and Mists of Pandaria. That pedigree shows in Eldegarde’s emphasis on world-building, class identity, and social play.
Throughout Early Access, the team worked closely with its community, quickly iterating based on feedback and sharing development insights. According to Kaleiki, Early Access proved invaluable — allowing Eldegarde to evolve in ways that resonated deeply with players.
The final version will feature multiple ways to engage with the world: PvE, PvP arenas, dungeons, and a social hub where players can gather before venturing back into danger.
When and Where to Play Eldegarde
Eldegarde officially launches on Steam on January 21, 2026. Players who already own the Early Access version can upgrade to the full 1.0 release at no additional cost.
Until launch day, the game remains available in Early Access — making now the perfect time to dive in, experiment with builds, and prepare for what’s ahead.
A Studio Focused on Worlds Built for Players
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Notorious Studios operates as a globally distributed team. With backgrounds on major titles like World of Warcraft, Diablo, and Overwatch, the studio emphasizes player-driven experiences and worlds that grow alongside their communities.
Eldegarde represents that vision — a fantasy extraction RPG that adapts, evolves, and continues to reward experimentation.
Final Thoughts: Why Eldegarde Should Be on Your Radar
With its January 2026 launch, Eldegarde isn’t just wrapping up Early Access — it’s stepping into a bigger identity as a flexible fantasy RPG that welcomes both competitive thrill-seekers and story-minded explorers.
If you’re looking for a fantasy extraction RPG that mixes strategy, tension, and cooperative adventure, Eldegarde deserves a place on your wishlist.
Stay tuned — this world is only just opening its gates.
