We can think of a couple of medieval-style sandbox MMOs that are all about open world FFA PvP and carving out a name from the hide of your enemies and whatnot, but now there’s a new title promising this kind of gaming experience. Meet Renown, a new sandbox heading to early access on Monday, September 22nd, that invites players into its gritty world of “chaos, craftsmanship, and combat.” And then probably stab you in the neck for having the gall to look at it.

“Renown throws up to 100 players into sprawling, open-world servers where survival is earned through strategy and strength. Players will gather resources, build powerful strongholds, and lead their clans in brutal, skill-based combat against rival factions. Every wall built, every alliance formed, and every sword swing could tip the balance of power.”

This one appears to lean pretty heavily into its gankbox nature, calling itself a world with “little oversight” as players build fortifications and town, craft siege engines, and attempt to capture points of interest and resources. The game also heralds its skill-based combat, with a major focus on melee and the wielding of classic arms.

Following a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2024, developer RDBK Studios has been hard at work with alpha tests, demos, stress tests, and various updates leading up to early access. As for how long this portion of development will run, the studio does state it intends to be in early access “for 12-18” (???) but is also non-committal, stating that it “isn’t just on hitting a release date but on building something that can grow with the community.” Caveat emptor and all that.