The long-running medieval life simulation series is returning to its roots as The Guild 1 Remake: Europa 1410 prepares for its Steam Early Access launch on September 17, 2026. Developed by Ashborne Games and published by THQ Nordic, the title has recently seen a rebranding from its original title, “The Guild – Europa 1410,” to clearly signal its status as a full Unreal Engine 5 remake of the 2002 classic.
Interest in the title has remained high, with The Guild 1 Remake surpassing 300,000 Steam wishlists as of September 2026.
What to Expect at Early Access Launch
The initial Early Access version focuses on establishing the core gameplay loop of the economic and social simulation. Players will begin their journey in the 15th century, managing a dynasty through trade, politics, and social maneuvering. At launch, the game will feature six playable environments, including five historical cities and a dedicated tutorial area:
- Graz
- Kuttenberg
- Nuremberg
- Freiburg
- Wrocław
- Landsfort Herle (Tutorial Town)
To establish their family legacy, players can choose from eight starting professions that cover a range of medieval industries. These include the Smith, Tailor, Joiner, and Stonemason for manufacturing; the Innkeeper for hospitality; and the Priest, Alchemist, and Perfumer for more specialized social and scientific roles.
In a nod to the original game’s legacy, the German version of the remake features the return of Aart Veder as the narrator, a move aimed at providing continuity for long-time fans of the franchise.
The Road to 1.0: Post-Launch Roadmap
The Early Access period is intended to be a collaborative phase where the “Road to 1.0” will be shaped by ongoing player input. THQ Nordic and Ashborne Games have already outlined several key milestones that will be added to the game during its development cycle.
The primary addition currently planned for the roadmap is a multiplayer mode, which was a staple of previous entries in the series. Beyond social play, the developers intend to expand the scope of the simulation with additional maps and expanded professions.
By utilizing Unreal Engine 5, the remake aims to deliver a significantly higher level of visual fidelity than its predecessors while maintaining the intricate social systems the series is known for. While a specific timeline for the full 1.0 release has not yet been finalized, the roadmap indicates that the focus will remain on stabilizing these core features and expanding the variety of economic paths available to players.
