Build settlements in the iconic era of the Wild West, expand your territory and help the developers with your feedback
Oberhaching, Germany, September 2, 2026 – Saddle your horses, prepare your provisions and ride over to the Steam product page for the upcoming city builder Wild West Pioneers. Now is the chance to get a glimpse into the story-rich world of life in the frontier, as you lead settlers into unknown territory and establish settlements. Development team EmpireCraft Studios and German indie publisher Toplitz Productions jointly announce todays start of the last open playtest, before the anticipated title will be released into Early Access on PC on September 25, 2026.
Interested players can still sign up and with a little bit of luck will be able to play a specially prepared version of the game before its official release date.
Watch the Let’s Play Video on YouTube
With playtime limited at two hours, the open playtest is available until September 14 and gives you a glimpse into the mechanics and features of Wild West Pioneers. It also provides players a rare chance to give the development team direct feedback about their experience, which is also one of the cornerstones of the further development leading up to the release and beyond.
About the game:
Wild West Pioneers is a city-builder, where every sunset brings a new adventure. From timber to gold, from makeshift homes to bustling towns, you have to manage production and care for your people. Follow a story full of dangers while exploring the unforgiving frontier. Giddyup, Partner!
- Going West
As the leader of a group of pioneers, you are responsible for guiding your people as you expand into the untamed Wild West. Find the perfect places to establish new settlements and turn them into a home for you and your settlers. - Life’s Adventure
Everyone has a reason to head west: debt, heartbreak, hope, or… gold fever. But why did your father never come back? Beneath the struggle to build new settlements lies a personal journey to find him and keep the promise you made. - Exploring the Frontier
The West is called Wild for a reason. The frontier you’re about to explore is full of surprises, adventures and opportunities just waiting to be seized. Send your Scouts to discover new locations that you can explore, and chart your course westward! - Cities Full of Life
Settlers come west in search of a better life. Food and shelter may be enough at first, but a thriving town needs more. Keep your people satisfied, earn their trust, and they may help turn your settlement into a true jewel of the Frontier. - Your own Journey
The journey through the Frontier is yours to shape. There’s always something worth pursuing. Choose which goals to follow, decide how to spend your rewards, and grow the town in the way that feels right.
The open playtest for Wild West Pioneers is available now on Steam. Head over to the official product page to apply and wishlist the game. The game will be released in Early Access on PC via Steam, GOG.com and Epic Games Store on September 25, 2026. More information can be found on the respective store pages. Join our official Discord server to get the latest information on not only Wild West Pioneers, but all the upcoming titles from Toplitz Productions.
About EmpireCraft Studios
EmpireCraft Studios is a game development company established in 2024. The studio brings together a team of seasoned developers who have previously worked on titles like Aztecs – The Last Sun. EmpireCraft Studios specializes in creating city-building games with survival elements. With a strong foundation in the genre, the studio aims to deliver immersive and challenging experiences that blend strategic city management with survival mechanics, appealing to both hardcore and casual players.
About Toplitz Productions
The German-Austrian publisher, whose name originates from the mysterious Toplitz Lake in the heart of Austria, develops and publishes games with “heart & soul” for all platforms. The company consists of a healthy mix of experienced industry veterans and young talents, all of whom are passionate gamers. They enjoy working with creative developers on many exciting titles, such as those from the “Dynasty” and “Giant” series.
