Publisher Forward Gateway and developer Crosswind Crew have announced that the cooperative pirate survival game Crosswind will launch in Early Access for PC via Steam in 2026.

A newly released, action-packed trailer offers a first look at upcoming content for Early Access and beyond. Players will explore the Ashlands, a dangerous volcanic biome overrun by undead, and visit Tortuga, an outpost under siege. Other highlights include ship customization, top-deck battles with your crew, and the ability to recruit new allies for your voyages.
Originally unveiled as a free-to-play survival MMO, Crosswind has shifted to a paid multiplayer survival game with a focus on PvE — playable solo or with friends. The decision follows feedback from closed Alpha surveys, which guided the developers toward a more polished and focused experience.
The paid model also opens the door to potential features such as mod support and dedicated servers. Forward Gateway and Crosswind Crew plan to expand the game with new content, systems, and gameplay refinements throughout Early Access, shaped by ongoing player feedback.
