DREADMOOR 400k Wishlists Milestone and Open Playtest Update

DREADMOOR reached 400,000 Steam wishlists alongside announcing an Open Playtest running September 10 to 14 with reworked quests and new fish.

Angler fishing from the pier at sunset in DREADMOOR during the Open Playtest
DREADMOOR - Early Access Release Date Reveal Trailer (bqVmZJbd5YU, 0:58)

Wishlist Milestone

DREADMOOR surpassed 400,000 wishlists on Steam ahead of its upcoming playtesting phase. The developer expressed appreciation to players who followed development, submitted feedback, and joined earlier testing sessions.

Harbour pier setup showing the new pier fishing mechanic
DREADMOOR - Early Access Release Date Reveal Trailer (bqVmZJbd5YU, 1:00)

Playtest Schedule

The Open Playtest runs from September 10 to September 14 on Windows PC through Steam. Access is open to all users without a non-disclosure agreement, permitting streaming and video capture. Prior save games cannot be carried over, requiring participants to start fresh save files. Playtest progress will not transfer to subsequent demos or the full release. Minimum system specifications list an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600 with 8 GB of RAM. Recommended requirements indicate an Intel Core i5-12400F or AMD Ryzen 5 5600 alongside 16 GB of RAM.

Mutated fish school displaying bioluminescent visual effect at night
DREADMOOR - Open Playtest Trailer (SH8uLNwNXSI, 0:06)

Quest Rework

The quest sequence has been restructured to connect objectives more smoothly and teach core mechanics. Additional repairable structures are positioned throughout the environment for exploration. Anglers can now cast lines directly from the harbour pier with an introductory tutorial. Level updates include revisions to the area surrounding Betsy and the Dry Dock, improvements at the Throat gates, and a new exploratory island. Expanded character dialogue and radio messages support the updated mission progression.

Fishing Additions

The update introduces two fish species designated as the Shovelnose and the Gleamer. Mutated fish schools are now slightly more common at night across the Submerged Lands. Mutated fish schools now have their own unique visual effect, making them easier to distinguish from regular fish schools. An in-game bug reporting button allows players to submit issues directly during testing.

Sources & References

  • Steam announcement "Celebrating 400k wishlists and Open Playtest (10-14 September)" (2026-09-04)