Eldegarde: The Fantasy Extraction RPG Arrives January 2026
Notorious Studios announces the official 1.0 launch of Eldegarde, the fantasy extraction RPG, for January 21, 2026 on Steam. The game, originally titled Legacy: Steel & Sorcery, exits its successful Early Access period with a full rebrand. This launch introduces a dedicated PvE mode and new character classes, finally delivering the complete multiplayer experience shaped by eleven months of community feedback.
Early Access Evolution and Community-Driven Rebrand
The game first launched into Steam Early Access in February 2025. It quickly built a dedicated player community. Developer Notorious Studios, led by Blizzard veteran Chris Kaleiki, used this period to refine core systems based on direct player input. Consequently, the studio added new maps and classes like the Paladin. These changes steadily evolved the game’s vision.
The final step in this journey is a full rebrand to Eldegarde. This name now represents the game’s entire world. This change reflects the expanded scope of the 1.0 release. The update now includes varied experiences like PvE dungeons, PvP arenas, and a social hub. Therefore, the game aims to function as a “mini-MMO” alongside its hardcore extraction roots.
New 1.0 Features and Developer Vision
The headline addition for the 1.0 launch is a full PvE mode. This is a direct response to community requests. The mode allows more casual players to explore the pulp fantasy world. They can learn intricate combat mechanics and master maps without the constant threat of other players. It provides a crucial onboarding path into the game’s challenging universe.
Players can still dive into the classic PvEvE extraction experience. They choose from iconic classes like Warrior, Rogue, or Wizard. They battle monsters, knights, and rival players across verdant fields and deep woods. Their goal is to secure incredible loot and escape alive. Founder Chris Kaleiki stated the team is incredibly excited for the 1.0 launch. He emphasized that Early Access allowed them to shape the game alongside its dedicated community.
