Hytale brings Minecraft-style building and Skyrim-like RPG elements in Early Access this week

Hytale, a Minecraft-inspired open-world RPG from Hypixel Studios, enters Early Access on January 13, 2026. The Early Access build will include Exploration Mode, Creative Mode, and modding support, with additional modes planned during the Early Access period.

Hytale, a long-awaited indie RPG from Hypixel Studios, will launch in Early Access on January 13, 2026. The game is described as a standalone open-world sandbox with fantasy RPG elements inspired by Minecraft and reminiscent of Skyrim-style exploration. Hypixel Studios was acquired by Riot Games in 2020, then experienced a cancellation in 2025 before the original founders negotiated a return to the project's earlier engine and vision. Developers say the Early Access release is intentionally cautious and may still show bugs as work continues. Key details: - Early Access release date: January 13, 2026. - Developer and publisher: Hypixel Studios; the studio was previously acquired by Riot Games in 2020 and later resumed the project after a 2025 cancellation. - Included at launch: Exploration Mode, Creative Mode, and modding capabilities. - Additional content such as mini-games and Adventure Mode are planned to arrive during Early Access. - Pre-purchase options are being offered in three tiers: Standard, Supporter, and Cursebreaker, with varying in-game benefits. - Developers caution that some parts of the game "will feel behind" at launch and ask for early community involvement from modders and creators. Summary: Hytale moves into Early Access on January 13, 2026, giving players immediate access to exploration, creative building, and modding tools while the team continues development. Developers say the Early Access period will be extended and that further modes and updates are expected over time. Undetermined at this time for a full release date or final feature set.