Hytale release date: How to get early access explained

It's been a rough development for Hytale, but the once-Minecraft server turned standalone game finally has an early access release date.

After more than a decade of development, even being cancelled at one point, Hytale has managed to retain a rather dedicated fanbase who cannot wait to get their hands on it.

So, when does Hytale release? What can you expect from the game? Here's what you need to know.

When is the Hytale early access release date?

Hytale releases into early access on 13th January 2026 on PC.

The game was officially cancelled in June 2025, with publisher Riot Games closing developer Hypixel Studios.

In November 2025, however, Hypixel founder Simon Collins-Laflamme confirmed that he had re-acquired the rights to Hytale, and that a number of developers had been re-hired with the intent of continuing development.

How to get Hytale early access explained

Unlike many early access PC titles, Hytale will not be released on Steam during early access.

Instead, players can pre-purchase the game via the official Hytale website, with three different editions available, each with their own perks.

Alongside early access, the Standard Edition includes a username reservation, as well as several armour sets, and costs $23.99 – there is no regional pricing, so you'll have to pay whatever the conversion is into your currency.

The Supporter Edition ($41.99) and Cursebreaker Edition ($83.99) both include everything available in the lower tiers, as well as extra armour sets, and exclusive Supporter and Cursebreaker Capes to flaunt your support.

Why is Hytale not on Steam?

As confirmed by creator Collins-Laflamme, Hytale is not coming is because Hytale remains in a fairly rough and ready state, stating on X in December 2025 that "everything is wrong with the game".

Collins-Laflamme has been open about the state of the game, making sure that players are aware that Hytale is far from a finished product.

A message on the Store page of the Hytale website reads warns players to "expect bugs and changes as we work towards a full release".

It also notes that the game is currently "missing key accessibility features such as controller support".

So, Hytale will likely come to Steam in the future, but not until it's in a strong enough state.

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