Romestead – a survival RPG townbuilder set in a fallen Rome – is releasing into early access next month.
During the Triple-i showcase, it was announced that Romestead will launch into Steam Early Access on May 26. The title from developer Beartwigs and published by Three Friends (a publisher formed by Minecraft and Valheim developers) was one of the biggest Steam Next Fest games during the February 2026 event, with over 250K wishlists and a number 10 most–played spot. The game tasks players with rebuilding Ancient Rome from rubble, and allows up to eight players to rebuild together.
Of course, it may have the stylings of a cozy Stardew Valley-like pixel art title, but unfortunately, it won't all be chilled out, as the game features "legendary beasts that roam these lands," with the early access launch including a brand new volcanic biome in the world with "two legendary foes slumbering within." However, it being Ancient Rome and all, you can worship the gods to gain offerings from them that may make your life a bit easier.
The early access launch also promises "more helpful citizens" compared to the demo, with the likes of a carpenter being able to take on tasks to build up your settlements. Frankly, I'm not the biggest fan when it comes to the cozy genres, but I have to say the combination of an Ancient Rome setting and the promise of bosses to beat up does have me eyeing up this one. Thankfully I won't even need to wait that long before it arrives in early access next month.
