10 Early Access Games That Are Worth Playing Right Now

Key Takeaways

Palworld is a captivating survival crafting game with addictive gameplay and boss battles.
Hades 2 is a polished story-driven rogue-lite with satisfying meta-progression and beloved characters.
Dark and Darker is a tense Extraction Shooter with monsters, fantasy classes, and rewarding gameplay.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades under my belt, I must say that this list of gaming titles has certainly caught my eye (and ear). Each game offers something unique and engaging, catering to various tastes and playstyles.

Experiencing Early Access titles can be hit-or-miss, as you may encounter numerous games that fail to meet expectations, and it takes patience to discover the hidden gems. However, this doesn’t imply that Early Access is inherently flawed; rather, there’s a risk of investing in projects that ultimately won’t fulfill their promises.

Here’s a list of ten exciting Early Access games that are worth checking out before their full 1.0 versions are released. Give them a try!

10 Palworld

A Shining Example

10 Early Access Games That Are Worth Playing Right Now

In January 2024, the game titled Palworld made a massive impact on the gaming community. Although some noted its resemblance to Pokemon, its gameplay mechanics were distinctly unique.

In simpler terms, “Palworld” is a captivating game that combines survival and crafting elements. It includes aspects like managing hunger and constructing bases. Building up a team of Pals to assist in managing your settlement becomes quite addictive, while boss fights serve as a means to monitor your progression.

In a striking fashion, Pocket Pair has crafted an expansive, open-ended universe that invites exploration. Buried within this realm are numerous hidden gems for those who enjoy the thrill of discovery.

Although Palworld has a few rough spots, that’s not uncommon for games tagged as Early Access. Since its release, it has received several updates like Raids, and it seems there’s no end in sight to the fresh content being added.>

9 Hades 2

A Sequel To A Masterpiece

Hades 2 is a gorgeous story-driven rogue-lite and sequel to the beloved Hades from 2020.

The voice acting in this game is outstanding, just as you’d expect from a fully-fledged release. If you’ve played the first one, you’ll find yourself comfortable with Hades 2. There are already quite a few significant improvements.

The detail put into meta-progression is quite impressive, along with the fresh fighting techniques. Additionally, some beloved characters from the fanbase grace our screens, while the newly introduced ones enrich the Hades mythology wonderfully.

Despite not typically venturing into sequels, Supergiant Games demonstrates its capability for the challenge with the early access release of what appears to be _Hades 2_.

8 Dark and Darker

Extraction Shooter Meets D&D

The market for Extraction Shooter games is overflowing with developers trying to become the successor of Escape from Tarkov.

Dark and Darker significantly alters the Extraction Shooter format, introducing creatures, magical classes, and enchantments to the gameplay.

Venturing into dark, ominous caves carries an air of tension and danger, but the promise of exceptional rewards lures you into taking chances. The exhilaration of surviving a raid with your comrades against insurmountable odds is unparalleled, a sensation that only the daring can truly savor. The flexibility to create a character beyond generic soldiers offers a refreshing twist.

In keeping with its genre, Dark and Darker proves to be mercilessly challenging. For those prepared to persevere through the initial learning curve, this unique addition offers much to appreciate.

7 Project Zomboid

An Unrivaled Zombie Survival Sim

Project Zomboid is recognized as a game that’s spent the most time in Early Access, having been technically playable since 2011 and continuously expanding over the years.

In simpler terms, Project Zomboid is an intense zombie survival game, but I should clarify that “survival” here implies frequent deaths. You’ll find many inventive methods of becoming a victim of the relentless zombie horde in this game.

In this game, the path you take matters more than reaching the end point. The players have numerous options to handle each situation, ensuring that no two playthroughs are identical.

To truly challenge your survival abilities after an apocalypse, no game surpasses the unique experience offered by “Project Zomboid“.

6 Bodycam

Blurring The Lines

The unique graphical design of the Bodycam received attention during its debut on Early Access in June 2024, making headlines.

This game is fundamentally a first-person shooter, but it presents a unique perspective through a camera attached to the player’s body. The visuals are so lifelike that they seem almost real, and the game “Bodycam” provides an immersion level unparalleled in the first-person shooter genre.

As I delve into this game, I find myself adjusting to the unique camera angles, fluid movements, and intense combat sequences. Yet, this fresh perspective in shooter games is a breath of fresh air, something not experienced frequently.

The term “Bodycam” might be a risky choice since it’s uncertain if the game will maintain its audience. This is one of the appeals and challenges of Early Access, where both positive and negative outcomes can occur.

5 Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor

Rock And Stone!!!

It’s generally agreed that among cooperative indie games, Deep Rock Galactic stands out as one of the finest, offering a narrative that has plenty of room for further development.

In a new twist, Deep Rock Galactic:Survivor transforms the series into an action-packed, side-scrolling shooter style reminiscent of Bullet Hell games like Vampire Survivors. The original’s loyal fans will appreciate the witty dialogues and nods to the source material, along with its user-friendly gameplay.

As a fellow enthusiast of Bullet Heaven, I can confidently say that you’ll find yourself captivated by its polish and the fulfilling progression cycle it offers!

Interestingly enough, the game “Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor” is designed for solo play. However, if you’re fond of the genre, this top-tier, single-player title is definitely worth considering for your gaming library.

4 Arena Breakout Infinite

An Accessible Extraction Shooter

As a gaming enthusiast diving headfirst into the Extraction Shooter realm, there’s no denying that Escape From Tarkov rules the roost. But if you’re yearning for a fresh face in this crowded scene and a worthy adversary to Battlestate Games’ titan, let me guide you towards an exciting newcomer.

As a devoted enthusiast, I can’t help but express my exhilaration over Arena Breakout Infinite – an unrelenting first-person shooter that pushes me to the brink of ecstasy and despair in equal measure. The heartache of losing a precious stash of superior gear is palpable, yet it’s swiftly overshadowed by the triumphant high when I emerge victorious.

There’s an abundance of equipment and weapons at your disposal, yet the game mechanics seem remarkably simplified.

Moving on, it’s worth mentioning that Arena Breakout Infinite is quite efficiently designed, and there are plans for a console launch once the Early Access phase concludes.

Although the game “Arena Breakout Infinite” can be played without cost, it employs certain monetization strategies that may not appeal to all players. It’s risk-free to give it a try, but its monetization approach might not suit everyone.

3 Death Must Die

Vampire Survivors Meets Hades

In the bustling landscape of the Bullet Heaven genre, many successful games have emerged. However, amidst the vast ocean of new arrivals, there are also numerous games that may quickly fade from memory.

Death Must Die breaks the norm by featuring a captivating ensemble of voice actors.

Similar to the engaging experience of top-tier Bullet Heaven games, the sequence of advancement offers an incredibly rewarding sensation. Death is a constant occurrence, but it motivates the pursuit of the following improvement or achievement, with fresh objectives consistently within reach.

Characters’ backstories are remarkably detailed, leaving you eager to interact with every resident in your camp following each unsuccessful bid to outwit Death.

2 Door Kickers 2: Task Force North

A Tactical Title Laced With Complexity

In essence, “Door Kickers 2: Task Force North” is primarily a military simulation game, yet it offers a bird’s-eye view perspective. You command your team from the overhead position, engaging in missions such as high-value target extractions and hostage rescue scenarios.

In your gaming experience, consider using tactics that work in the real world when attacking enemy bases. Hastily charging through doors without proper preparation will likely result in losses. Instead, it’s advisable to proceed systematically.

For this purpose, you’re able to halt the action whenever you need, to assess your strategic moves. You have numerous opportunities to tailor your team, and strategizing your attacks becomes quite engaging and hard to resist.

At first glance, Door Kickers 2 might seem unimpressive, but once you dive in, it delivers an exceptional, immersive experience. It’s incredibly rewarding when your strategies succeed, and it offers a breath of fresh air in a genre often confined to a first-person viewpoint.>

1 Phasmophobia

A Lesson In Group Hysteria

Phasmophobia is a nerve-wracking cooperative horror game where you collaborate to determine which supernatural being is causing chaos in numerous haunted sites. It’s widely recognized as the scariest game on this list and is considered one of the top horror games currently available.

In this scenario, you possess a variety of resources at your command, and it takes unwavering courage to accomplish the task. The game Phasmophobia demonstrates an exceptional ability to create chilling horror, and it also communicates with your microphone.

If you’ve got the courage, feel free to engage with the entity. Solving this mystery is going to require everyone to put on their thinking hats.

Phasmophobia delivers an extraordinary mix of fear, suspense, and sleuthing. If you have a sturdy heart, it’s an experience that will stay with you, especially when played with the right company.

2024-09-11 15:09